University of Notre Dame Tours

University of Notre Dame which includes wildflowers, a church or cathedral and a garden
University of Notre Dame featuring a garden
University of Notre Dame featuring cycling
University of Notre Dame showing heritage architecture
University of Notre Dame which includes a church or cathedral, a park and heritage architecture

Experience a day in the life of a student at one of the prettiest campuses in the United States. Admire iconic landmarks and experience the passion of a football match.

Pay a visit to the University of Notre Dame for a glimpse into student activities at an esteemed educational institute. Discover architectural masterpieces, sacred shrines and a stunning football stadium set amid a campus of tree-shaded lawns.

Founded by Reverend Edward Sorin in 1842, the University of Notre Dame was governed by the priests of the Congregation of Holy Cross until 1967. Among its notable alumni are NASA astronauts, football coach Knute Rockne and politician Condoleezza Rice.

Start your tour of the glorious 1,250-acre (506-hectare) campus at the Eck Visitors Center. Here you can browse museum exhibits, watch a video about the university’s history and sign up for a free guided campus tour.

Alongside striking lecture and residence halls is a collection of monumental landmarks. Check out the Golden Dome, which towers above the Main Building, and then visit the neo Gothic-style Basilica of Sacred Heart.

Adjacent to the basilica is the Grotto of Our Lady Lourdes, a replica of a sacred shrine located in the French town of Lourdes.

Millard Sheets’ huge Word of Life mural is affectionately called Touchdown Jesus because its image of Jesus with raised arms resembles a football referee signaling a touchdown.

Notre Dame features some excellent arts and performing arts centers, including the Snite Museum of Art. Watch concerts, movies and theater shows at DeBartolo Performing Arts Center and Washington Hall. Hang out with students at the campus bars, cafés and pubs.

Pockets of greenery and natural beauty sit scattered around the campus and offer places for students to unwind. Among them is the Irish Green, Knott Knoll, St. Joseph Lake and St. Mary’s Lake.

If visiting between September and November, purchase tickets for a Notre Dame Fighting Irish football game. Take your seat among thousands of fans at Notre Dame Stadium and help cheer the team to victory.

University of Notre Dame is just 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) north of South Bend. There’s a visitor parking lot where charges are applicable after the first hour. Eck Visitors Center is open daily.

Plan a trip to see University of Notre Dame

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Staybridge Suites Elkhart by IHG

Staybridge Suites Elkhart by IHG

3 out of 5
per person
Nov 6 - Nov 9
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to South Bend (SBN)
8.6/10 Excellent! (544 reviews)
Loved how spacious the room was. The pool was nice but it was not easy getting in and out. I had to swipe my card multiple times and the doors to get outside were not working. You had to place a rock in the doorway to enter back in. The staff was very nice and there was quite a variety for breakfast. Other than the pool issues, it was very nice!

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

Doubletree Hotel South Bend

Doubletree Hotel South Bend

4 out of 5
Downtown South Bend
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Nov 6 - Nov 9
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to South Bend (SBN)
7.6/10 Good! (1,004 reviews)
This Doubletree is going through a much needed renovation. When it gets done it will probably be nice but until then not so great.

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2025

Brand New Luxury Townhouse Steps To Notre Dame Fire Place Fire pit 1418

Brand New Luxury Townhouse Steps To Notre Dame Fire Place Fire pit 1418

2 out of 5
Wooded Estates
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Nov 6 - Nov 9
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Los Angeles (LAX) to South Bend (SBN)
No reviews

Popular places to visit

Basilica of the Sacred Heart showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture as well as a small group of people

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

A dazzling series of stained-glass windows adorn this Gothic Revival-style church set on the campus of the University of Notre Dame.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes which includes a garden

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

Join devotees at a replica of a sacred French cave, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared before St. Bernadette Soubirous.

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

Snite Museum of Art

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Snite Museum of Art during your trip to Notre Dame. Attend a football game in this family-friendly area.

Snite Museum of Art

Hesburgh Library

After visiting Hesburgh Library, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Notre Dame. Attend a football game in this family-friendly area.

Hesburgh Library

Notre Dame Stadium

Catch an event at Notre Dame Stadium during your trip to Notre Dame. Attend a football game in this family-friendly area.

Notre Dame Stadium

Joyce Center

Catch an event at Joyce Center during your trip to Notre Dame.

Joyce Center

Best Lodging Options Near University of Notre Dame

Wingate by Wyndham South Bend/Notre Dame

Wingate by Wyndham South Bend/Notre Dame

3 out of 5
52890 State Rt 933 N, South Bend, IN
Wingate by Wyndham South Bend/Notre Dame
The Inn at Saint Mary's

The Inn at Saint Mary's

3.5 out of 5
53993 Indiana State Route 933, South Bend, IN
The Inn at Saint Mary's
Morris Inn

Morris Inn

4 out of 5
1399 Notre Dame Avenue, South Bend, IN
Morris Inn
Baymont By Wyndham South Bend

Baymont By Wyndham South Bend

2.5 out of 5
215 South Dixie Way, South Bend, IN
Baymont By Wyndham South Bend
Motel 6 South Bend, IN - Mishawaka

Motel 6 South Bend, IN - Mishawaka

2 out of 5
236 N Dixie Way, South Bend, IN
Motel 6 South Bend, IN - Mishawaka
Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame

Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame

3.5 out of 5
1140 E Angela Blvd, South Bend, IN
Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame
La Quinta Suites by Wyndham South Bend Notre Dame Area

La Quinta Suites by Wyndham South Bend Notre Dame Area

3 out of 5
52554 STATE ROAD 933, South Bend, IN
La Quinta Suites by Wyndham South Bend Notre Dame Area
Ivy Court Inn & Suites

Ivy Court Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
1404 Ivy Court, South Bend, IN
Ivy Court Inn & Suites
Doubletree Hotel South Bend

Doubletree Hotel South Bend

4 out of 5
123 N Dr. Martin Luther King BLVD, South Bend, IN
Doubletree Hotel South Bend
See all 837 properties in University of Notre Dame
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of Notre Dame

Experience the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the University of Notre Dame by enjoying thrilling football games and various sports events. Explore the beautiful campus and its wildlife, which adds a unique charm to the area. With plenty of activities to engage in, you'll find something for everyone, making your visit both exciting and memorable.

Food and drinks

Indulge in sweet treats at South Bend Chocolate Factory, located 4 miles from Notre Dame. For a lively atmosphere, enjoy drinks at Scotty's Brewhouse, or savor wines at nearby Gravity and Hickory Creek Wineries, both offering romantic settings 18-19 miles away.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Heritage Square Shopping, just 4 miles from the University of Notre Dame, offering a variety of family-friendly shops. University Park Mall, located 3 miles away, has a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, visit Round Barn Winery, 19 miles away, for unique gifts.

Recreation

Notre Dame Stadium, located 0.4 miles away, offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. The Compton Family Ice Arena, 0.7 miles away, provides thrilling ice skating and entertainment. For outdoor lovers, the Warren Golf Course, just 0.9 miles away, invites you to enjoy a relaxing day on the greens.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of East Race Waterway, only 2 miles away, where you can enjoy exhilarating water sports amidst stunning scenery. For speed enthusiasts, South Bend Motor Speedway, located 7 miles away, offers adrenaline-pumping motor racing. Try Elkhart Tactical Laser Tag, 13 miles away, for an exciting adventure activity!

Nightlife

In South Bend, Four Winds Casino offers thrilling gaming and romantic vibes just 5 miles from Notre Dame. South Bend Civic Theater, 2 miles away, presents engaging cultural performances perfect for families. For a fun adventure, head to Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center, located 3 miles away, ideal for family entertainment.

Find the best attractions near University of Notre Dame

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or family-friendly activities, the area around the University of Notre Dame offers a variety of attractions. You can explore scenic lakes, beautiful parks, and nearby national and state parks. Don't miss the Notre Dame Basilica, the vibrant Heart of Notre Dame, and the nearby Saint Mary's College for a well-rounded experience that showcases the area's eco-friendly charm and rich history.

  • St. Mary's College: A picturesque historic campus just a mile from Notre Dame, St. Mary's College offers a blend of academic excellence and beautiful Gothic architecture. Visitors can stroll through its serene gardens and enjoy the vibrant cultural atmosphere of this women's college.
  • Studebaker National Museum: Located two miles away, this museum showcases the rich automotive history of the Studebaker family. With engaging exhibits and classic cars, it’s a fun, family-friendly attraction that highlights local culture and innovation.
  • Century Center Convention Center: This versatile venue, also two miles from campus, hosts various events and conferences. Its modern facilities and business-oriented vibes make it an excellent place for networking or attending events while enjoying the scenic views of the St. Joseph River.

Best time to go to University of Notre Dame

Visitor numbers around University of Notre Dame is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit University of Notre Dame can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University of Notre Dame falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University of Notre Dame falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February26.8°F (-2.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December32.4°F (0.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of Notre Dame

To save money while visiting the University of Notre Dame, plan your trip during the cheaper months of March or December to January. Explore free activities like the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and Four Winds Casino South Bend. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities for additional savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Don't forget to check for good availability and price guarantees to ensure the best deals.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of Notre Dame are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to customize your travel experience by allowing you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can organize your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel stay at the University of Notre Dame with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.