Los Angeles vs. South Bend: A Tale of Two Cities
While both Los Angeles and South Bend share a fervent passion for USC and Notre Dame football, this tale of two cities couldn’t be more different. LA, the sunny Southern California capital of the Good Life (population 19 million), is the Goliath to South Bend’s David, a small Midwestern town (population 102,000) in Northern Indiana, irrevocably connected to its rich and storied Catholic university.
In the spirit of the classic Trojans vs. Fighting Irish rivalry, we’re putting the city of South Bend against LA.
Architecture, Attractions, and History
South Bend
This Northern Indiana gem thrives on the University of Notre Dame, its principal attraction and a noteworthy architectural and historical achievement. Founded in 1842, it ranks as Indiana’s second-biggest tourist site after the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and is also considered one of the prettiest college campuses in America.
Los Angeles
The billion-dollar Getty Center is one of many attractions in the LA area. With a fantastic art collection that primarily focuses on pre-20th century European art, Richard Meier’s cutting-edge architecture rests on two naturally occurring ridges above the city, featuring extensive gardens and sweeping city views, presenting numerous wonderful experiences in one location.
Score: LA 1, South Bend 0
Food, Drink, and Nightlife
South Bend
Indiana may not be a culinary haven, with the breaded and fried pork tenderloin as its primary claim to fame. However, South Bend has a few notable dining spots. The football crowd often frequents Rocco’s Pizzeria, but the standout choice for dining and drinks is Crooked Ewe Brewery, a fantastic microbrewery offering eclectic elevated pub grub right on the St. Joseph’s River.
Los Angeles
The City of Angels epitomizes glamour, with an extensive array of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options. It is impossible to recommend just one establishment, but the fabulous Mercado La Paloma, located near USC’s campus, serves a variety of cuisines from LA’s culinary arsenal. For a taste of classic LA cool, the mid-century Dresden lounge in Los Feliz is a must-visit.
Score: LA 2, South Bend 0
Natural Features
Los Angeles
Although primarily perceived as a concrete jungle, LA is rich in mountains, canyons, parks, and natural attractions more diverse than many non-Los Angelenos realize. Nestled within the city, the Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens boasts 120 acres of exquisite themed gardens in Pasadena.
South Bend
When it comes to natural attractions, locals might joke that the cowhide used to make footballs is South Bend’s best claim to fame. Aside from that, there aren’t many natural landmarks, except for the unique Studebaker Living Tree Sign in Bendix Woods County Park. This 840-acre green space was the site of the first controlled automotive testing grounds established by the Studebaker company in 1926. Its ‘sign’ consists of 8,000 red and white pines stretching half a mile, earning it a Guinness World Record as the longest living advertising sign.
Score: LA 3, South Bend 0
Lodging, Cost, and Walkability
Los Angeles
Being a premier tourist destination, lodging in Los Angeles is diverse, yet few places exude Hollywood charm like the Chateau Marmont on Sunset Blvd. Known for hosting countless celebrities and infamous for the tragic death of John Belushi, it embodies the glamour of the city. However, bear in mind that LA can be an expensive destination and pedestrian-friendly navigation is not its strong suit.
South Bend
Accommodations in South Bend tend to be modest, primarily comprising chain hotels. However, the charming Oliver Inn, an 1886 Queen Anne-style B&B, stands out for its delightful hosts, Alice and Tom Erlandson. Located just 2.7 miles from the football stadium, the downtown area and university campus are significantly more walkable (and considerably cheaper) than their LA counterparts.
