Bordered by train tracks to the north and the St. Joseph River to the south, River Park is an established neighborhood unafraid of change. It saw its heaviest development between 1920 and 1960, with houses of many styles filling the streets. Though upward progression slowed and turnover rates increased around the turn of the century, the neighborhood is back on the rise with improvement proposals from the city. Home to many renters, the area is a choice for investors and first-time homebuyers. "The proximity to Notre Dame is still pretty good, but the homes aren't as expensive as other neighborhoods nearby," says Sharon McDonald, a Realtor with RE/MAX 100 who has been selling in the area for 19 years. "It's also close to Bethel University and Indiana University South Bend, so many students and faculty live there." A growing shopping strip, a historic zoo, and every option for getting around have swung River Park back into an upward trajectory.
Home to Indiana’s oldest zoo
Most notable in the area is Potawatomi Park. Named after a Native American tribe that once inhabited the region, the park is home to playgrounds, walking trails and an amphitheater. The community pool closed a few years ago, but the city has introduced a splash pad to the park to keep kids cool during the summer. With a day pass, visitors can explore the Potawatomi Conservatories or the Potawatomi Zoo, Indiana's oldest zoo. "It's so cute and great for kids," McDonald says. "A little train runs around the perimeter, and guests can feed the giraffes lettuce." At the southwest corner of the neighborhood is Veterans Memorial Park. Mature trees on grassy rolling hills shade a pavilion and playground behind a baseball diamond illuminated in the evenings. The East Bank Trail and Northside Trail, each 3 miles long, converge in River Park, just south of the baseball diamond. Passing under train tracks, pedestrian bridges and highways, the trails follow along the curves and banks of the St. Joseph River.
Residents of River Park can be found snapping photos of the exotic animals at Potawatomi Zoo.
River Park is most known for being the home of Indiana University South Bend.
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Sidewalks and main streets receiving updates
Sidewalks line every street in town, but their condition varies greatly. Though roots and cracked slabs are common, proposals are in place to improve conditions with the help of Together South Bend's River Park neighborhood plan. The plan also aims to reduce traffic and speeding along the main thoroughfares like Mishawaka Avenue and Logan Steet. Bus stops and designated bike lanes are along a few roads, making it easy for residents to choose their mode of transportation when commuting to work. Employers downtown, Notre Dame and Indiana University South Bend are all under 3 miles away. The nearest hospital is downtown, and South Bend International Airport is 6 ½ miles northwest.
A range of styles from the middle of the 20th century
Except for two apartment complexes along Northside Boulevard, the neighborhood has single-family and multi-family homes. Small cottages and bungalows on tightly gridded streets range between $75,000 and $200,000. Rock and brick retaining walls elevate them from flooding that occasionally fills streets and parks after a storm. Size varies slightly from house to house, but the style and condition often reflect their price. "There are quite a few rentals in the area, and unfortunately, some homes have fallen into disrepair," says John Brady, a broker at Weichert Realtors who has been selling in the area for 35 years. Because of their relatively low cost, "They're great homes for first-time homebuyers," Brady says. Privacy fences enclose small yards, but homes near the river and north of Adams High School offer more square footage and larger yards to match their footprints. Regularly in better condition, these American Foursquares, Colonial Revivals and ranch-style homes with prairie inspiration are more expensive. Ranging between $250,000 and $500,000, they are removed from the rest of River Park and often referred to as an extension of the neighboring area, Sunnymede.
Rows of bungalows sit closely together throughout River Park.
Colonial revival homes can be found throughout River Park.
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Gathering at the local coffee shop
East Mishawaka Ave runs through the neighborhood, acting as the main shopping strip for residents. Salons, laundry cleaners, clinics and bait shops have stood since the late 1980s, when the neighborhood was still rising. In more recent years, Family Dollar and Gospel Center Missionary Church have joined the area. Thyme of Grace offers "Upscale Eclectic Dining," where appetizers, salads and sandwiches are served on a bed of lettuce with edible flowers. Patrons can sip lattes on mismatched leather chairs and couches inside The Well Coffee House. Hosting performances, game nights and craft nights, the establishment acts as a community center as much as a coffee shop. Four miles north, grocery stores, national retailers and fast-food chains are along Grape Road.
International Fuse is a locally owned sports bar in River Park.
International Fuse is highly recommended by the locals of River Park.
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Elementary programs with Notre Dame
In the neighborhood, and less than a mile and a half away from every home, is Nuner Fine Arts Academy. Rated a C by Niche, the elementary school has multiple partnerships with Notre Dame to promote cultural immersion and learning with art. Jefferson Intermediate Traditional School is also rated a C, and Adams High School is rated an A-minus. In addition to a comprehensive athletics program, the high school has more than 15 extracurriculars for students to get involved in.
Nuner Fine Arts Academy located in River Park and boasts a C rating on Niche
Most students in River Park attend Jefferson Intermediate School.
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River Park Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in River Park, South Bend sell after 27 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in River Park, South Bend over the last 12 months is $154,700, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming Updated 3-Bedroom Home with Modern Touches. Welcome to this adorable and fully updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home that combines comfort, style, and convenience. Step inside the brand new kitchen, featuring sleek new cabinets, a pristine countertop, and appliances including a range, dishwasher, and microwave – perfect for cooking and entertaining. The full bathroom has been beautifully
This property is ideally situated just minutes from the city's top attractions. You'll enjoy all the modern conveniences you need, with electricity, city water, and municipal sewer all available right at the road. This lot is zoned Residential.The property is just a short drive from the nearest gas station, making it easy to fill up your tank and hit the road. And with a drive time of
Character abounds in this River Park bungalow just blocks all the new restaurants on Mishawaka Avenue and the South Bend and Mishawaka Riverwalks. Your own Secret Garden in private back yard with deck and beautifully landscaped back yard. Hardwood floors. Stainless steel appliances including 5 burner Frigidaire stove. Impeccably remodeled bath. Large formal dining room with window seat. Large
Triplex in the heart of River Park neighborhood. This property features two 1 bed/bath units and one 2bed/1bath unit and a garage in the rear for storage. property has hard wood floors and a nice sized back yard. Currently 2 of 3 units are leased. Tenants pay for electric, owner pays for water/trash. Seller hold an Indiana Real Estate Broker license.
Fresh, clean, and move-in ready! This River Park ranch offers 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, and a detached 2-car garage. Inside, you'll find updated flooring, fresh paint, neutral colors, and a bright, inviting layout. The kitchen offers generous cabinet and counter space along with stainless steel appliances, while the updated bathroom features stylish finishes and a tiled tub surround. Outside,
Investors Welcome! Charming 2 bedroom 1 bath home. Eat-in kitchen, living room with fireplace, main floor laundry, fenced in backyard and detached garage. Being sold AS-IS. Home is occupied, Tenant’s rights apply.
Welcome home to: 753 S. 32nd Street! Adorable home sits on a corner lot in River Park with BRAND NEW SIDEWALKS! Two bedrooms with NEW CARPET, UPDATED BATHROOM with ceramic tile, NEW LAMINATE FLOORING in living room, NEWER WATER HEATER, FURNACE & ROOF are 10 years old, ALL NEW WINDOWS IN THE PAST 5 YEARS TOO! You will love spending time outside on either your LARGE FRONT PORCH or YOUR SHADED AND
Desirable River Park Cutie! 3 nice sized bedroom and 2.5 baths! The enclosed front porch is a warm welcome to this fully rehabbed home ready for it's new owners. All new flooring throughout. A remodeled kitchen with new cabinets, tile backsplash, and appliances to stay. First floor bedroom. Full bath on the 1st floor with laundry hookup for convenience. Spacious guest rooms upstairs with an
Charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offering a great opportunity for a first-time homebuyer. This cozy property features comfortable living space and plenty of potential to make it your own. Priced to sell quickly—schedule your showing today!
Completely remodeled and full of charm, this adorable 1-bedroom home proves great things come in small packages! Featuring stylish updates throughout, this move-in ready home offers low-maintenance living with a cozy feel. The fenced backyard is perfect for furry friends, gardening, or simply enjoying your own private outdoor space. Whether you’re looking for your first home, downsizing, or an
Welcome home to this beautifully renovated 2-bedroom ranch where practically everything is NEW! Step inside to discover a fresh, modern interior featuring new flooring, fresh paint, updated kitchen, updated bathroom, new fixtures, and thoughtful improvements throughout. This move-in-ready home offers comfortable one-level living with a functional layout and inviting living spaces. Whether you’re
Looking for a home that offers peace of mind? This charming 2-bedroom home has been thoughtfully updated and is move-in ready! Recent improvements include a new roof, new windows, new water heater, a beautifully remodeled kitchen, and professionally serviced HVAC system. The refinished hardwood floors add warmth and character, while the neutral décor provides the perfect canvas for your personal
Welcome to Riverwalk Commons!Looking for super convenient housing? Riverwalk Commons is the perfect choice, located directly across from Indiana University South Bend (IUSB). While we primarily cater to students, we welcome all renters who want the convenience of being just steps away from campus, dining, shopping, and entertainment.At Riverwalk Commons, we’ve created a community
Act Fast! Move In Special! Move in and enjoy a limited time rent incentive. Apply by September 11th to qualify. Ask us for details today, don't miss out! Restrictions apply. Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home for rent in South Bend featuring inviting living areas ready for your personal touch. The kitchen is equipped with an oven range and large refrigerator with storage for daily
Featuring a charming and spacious 4-bedroom home, nestled in the heart of South Bend at 525 South 29th Street, this delightful rental offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With a generous 1,527 square feet of living space, this residence provides ample room. The welcoming interior boasts a full bath and a practical half bath for added convenience. The versatile layout ensures plenty
This conveniently located 1-bedroom apartment in River Park is ready for you to move in! Close to Martins and Lincolnway, near the River Walk and IUSB, you don't want to miss this apartment! This conveniently located 1-bedroom apartment in River Park is ready for you to move in! Close to Martins and Lincolnway, near the River Walk and IUSB, you don't want to miss this apartment!
Recently Remodeled 1-Bedroom Home – $950/Month | Accepting Section 8926 S 33rd St, South Bend, IN 46615Welcome home to this recently remodeled 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home in South Bend. This property offers a comfortable living space along with a large yard, basement, and front porch.The kitchen comes equipped with a stove and refrigerator, making move-in simple and
This bright one-bedroom, one-bathroom upstairs apartment is located in the desirable River Park neighborhood. It features an eat-in dining room, a living room with original hardwood floors, and plenty of storage throughout. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, and the city bus route.Water is included in the rent, and the tenant is responsible for electricity. Move-in requires
This update home features lots of rooms for everyone to spread out. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms with a full bath. The first floor contains a bonus room (bedroom, office, family room) with a 1/2 bath, living room/sitting room, dining room and updated kitchen. The Michigan style basement is freshly painted to store items and hook up a washer/dryer. Don't forget the large spacious yard and detached 2
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