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SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — With Spring Break in full swing – March 31 to April 4 for many southwest Michigan schools and April 7 to April 11 for South Bend-area schools – families across Michiana are finalizing their plans. While some are jetting off to destinations like Orlando, Phoenix, or Cancun in search of sun and sand, others are choosing to stay local and take advantage of the many fun, affordable experiences available right here at home. 

At South Bend International Airport (SBN), spring travel is already in full swing. 

“Daily averages are exceeding 2,000 airline passengers,” said Julie Curtis, vice president of marketing and air service development at SBN. “Many families are heading to warm-weather destinations for beach days and outdoor adventures.” 

Still, plenty of families are opting for a spring break close to home. For parents who need to work, have budget constraints, or simply prefer a more relaxed and convenient alternative to an elaborate getaway, local options offer numerous opportunities to create a memorable and fulfilling spring break experience. 

Michiana’s community centers, museums, parks and other attractions have stepped up with a wide range of spring break programming. From creative arts and science to outdoor exploration and animal encounters, families can find activities to fit every age, interest, and budget. 

Spring Break Adventures Close to Home 

YMCA of Greater Michiana Spring Break Camps 

For families seeking an active and engaging week, the YMCA of Greater Michiana is once again offering its popular Spring Break Camps at its Benton Harbor-St. Joseph, Niles-Buchanan, and South Bend locations. Each day is packed with swimming, sports, arts and crafts, STEM activities, and outdoor fun. 

“Our Spring Break Camps provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to stay active, make new friends, and discover new interests while school is out,” said Maycie Wise, Youth Development Director at the YMCA of Greater Michiana. “For working parents, it’s also a convenient and reliable childcare solution that’s both fun and enriching.” 

At the South Bend location, campers can also try their hand at rock wall climbing and archery—offering unique experiences not found in a typical day camp.

While space is limited in Benton Harbor-St. Joseph and Niles-Buchanan, the YMCA O’Brien Center in South Bend still has openings for children ages 4 through 8th grade during the week of April 7–11. Families can choose from full-week or daily options. Financial assistance is available, and the YMCA accepts CCDF vouchers and Vivvi childcare credits. 

More details and registration: ymcagm.org/Spring-Break 

Potawatomi Zoo: Spring Break Camp & Special Hours 

Animal lovers can spend the week at Potawatomi Zoo’s Spring Break Camp in South Bend, where hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes experiences, and close encounters with the zoo’s residents make for a wild and educational week. The zoo will also be open for extended hours, giving families more flexibility to visit and enjoy time together outdoors. 

City and County Parks 

For a low-cost, high-reward spring break, local parks across Michiana offer endless opportunities. Whether it’s hiking, biking, playing on a new playground, or enjoying a picnic under blooming trees, these spaces provide a refreshing break from screens and schedules. 

– Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve 

Just outside Niles, Fernwood Botanical Garden is a perfect spot for families to unplug and explore. With themed activities, nature trails, and engaging exhibits, it’s a peaceful retreat where kids can connect with nature and parents can enjoy the beauty of spring. 

More Local Options: 

Don’t overlook other great staycation options, like your neighborhood library, which may offer spring break crafts, story times, or family movie days. Local museums often feature hands-on exhibits or special programming during school breaks, and community theaters may offer kid-friendly shows or creative workshops. Some businesses even run special spring break promotions to attract local families. 

Whether you’re looking to keep the kids active while you work or simply hoping to enjoy time together without the hassle of travel, Michiana is full of spring break possibilities. With a little planning and an open mind, families can create lasting memories—right here in their own backyard.

With Spring Break in full swing — March 31 to April 4 for many southwest Michigan schools and April 7 to April 11 for South Bend-area schools — families across Michiana are finalizing their plans. While some are jetting off to destinations like Orlando, Phoenix, or Cancun in search of sun and sand, others are choosing to stay local and take advantage of the many fun, affordable experiences available right here at home. 

At South Bend International Airport (SBN), spring travel is already in full swing. 

“Daily averages are exceeding 2,000 airline passengers,” said Julie Curtis, vice president of marketing and air service development at SBN. “Many families are heading to warm-weather destinations for beach days and outdoor adventures.” 

Still, plenty of families are opting for a spring break close to home. For parents who need to work, have budget constraints, or simply prefer a more relaxed and convenient alternative to an elaborate getaway, local options offer numerous opportunities to create a memorable and fulfilling spring break experience. 

Michiana’s community centers, museums, parks and other attractions have stepped up with a wide range of spring break programming. From creative arts and science to outdoor exploration and animal encounters, families can find activities to fit every age, interest, and budget. 

Spring Break Adventures Close to Home 

YMCA of Greater Michiana Spring Break Camps 

For families seeking an active and engaging week, the YMCA of Greater Michiana is once again offering its popular Spring Break Camps at its Benton Harbor-St. Joseph, Niles-Buchanan, and South Bend locations. Each day is packed with swimming, sports, arts and crafts, STEM activities, and outdoor fun. 

“Our Spring Break Camps provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to stay active, make new friends, and discover new interests while school is out,” said Maycie Wise, Youth Development Director at the YMCA of Greater Michiana. “For working parents, it’s also a convenient and reliable childcare solution that’s both fun and enriching.” 

At the South Bend location, campers can also try their hand at rock wall climbing and archery—offering unique experiences not found in a typical day camp.

While space is limited in Benton Harbor-St. Joseph and Niles-Buchanan, the YMCA O’Brien Center in South Bend still has openings for children ages 4 through 8th grade during the week of April 7–11. Families can choose from full-week or daily options. Financial assistance is available, and the YMCA accepts CCDF vouchers and Vivvi childcare credits. 

More details and registration: ymcagm.org/Spring-Break 

Potawatomi Zoo: Spring Break Camp & Special Hours 

Animal lovers can spend the week at Potawatomi Zoo’s Spring Break Camp in South Bend, where hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes experiences, and close encounters with the zoo’s residents make for a wild and educational week. The zoo will also be open for extended hours, giving families more flexibility to visit and enjoy time together outdoors. 

City and County Parks 

For a low-cost, high-reward spring break, local parks across Michiana offer endless opportunities. Whether it’s hiking, biking, playing on a new playground, or enjoying a picnic under blooming trees, these spaces provide a refreshing break from screens and schedules. 

– Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve 

Just outside Niles, Fernwood Botanical Garden is a perfect spot for families to unplug and explore. With themed activities, nature trails, and engaging exhibits, it’s a peaceful retreat where kids can connect with nature and parents can enjoy the beauty of spring. 

More Local Options: 

Don’t overlook other great staycation options, like your neighborhood library, which may offer spring break crafts, story times, or family movie days. Local museums often feature hands-on exhibits or special programming during school breaks, and community theaters may offer kid-friendly shows or creative workshops. Some businesses even run special spring break promotions to attract local families. 

Whether you’re looking to keep the kids active while you work or simply hoping to enjoy time together without the hassle of travel, Michiana is full of spring break possibilities. With a little planning and an open mind, families can create lasting memories—right here in their own backyard.