University of Notre Dame Tours and Activities

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


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.

Popular places to visit


Top University of Notre Dame Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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
Morris Inn

Morris Inn

4 out of 5
1399 Notre Dame Avenue, South Bend, IN
Morris Inn
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
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
Ivy Court Inn & Suites

Ivy Court Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
1404 Ivy Court, South Bend, IN
Ivy Court Inn & Suites
Larkspur Landing South Bend

Larkspur Landing South Bend

2.5 out of 5
52709 Indiana State Route 933, South Bend, IN
Larkspur Landing South Bend
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott South Bend at Notre Dame

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott South Bend at Notre Dame

2.5 out of 5
1220 East Angela Boulevard, South Bend, IN
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott South Bend at Notre Dame
Comfort Suites University Area Notre Dame - South Bend

Comfort Suites University Area Notre Dame - South Bend

2.5 out of 5
52939 IN SR 933, South Bend, IN
Comfort Suites University Area Notre Dame - South Bend
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
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

When visiting the University of Notre Dame, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere during game weekends, where American football takes centre stage. Beyond sports, explore the surrounding wildlife and engage in various outdoor activities. The campus itself offers stunning architecture and peaceful gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don't miss out on the unique experiences that blend tradition and excitement at this iconic university.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is University Park Mall, located 4.8km from the University of Notre Dame, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Round Barn Winery and Six Span Plaza, located 19 and 29.0km away, respectively.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of Notre Dame Stadium, a vibrant sports venue perfect for catching a game. Enjoy ice skating at Compton Family Ice Arena, where fun and adventure await. For a leisurely day, tee off at Warren Golf Course, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of kayaking or white-water rafting at East Race Waterway, located 3.2km from Notre Dame. For tennis enthusiasts, Leeper Park Tennis Center, 1.6km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere. For motor racing fans, South Bend Motor Speedway, 11.3km distant, promises an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Nightlife

Catch a show at South Bend Civic Theater, only 3.2km from the campus, for a cultural night out. For some family fun, visit Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center, 4.8km away, or enjoy a romantic film at Cinemark South Bend Movies 14, just 3.2km from Notre Dame.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near University of Notre Dame

At the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana, visitors can enjoy a mix of urban parks, historic university buildings, and event venues. Key attractions include the stunning campus, the iconic Notre Dame Stadium, and various family-friendly outdoor activities. Whether you're wandering the grounds or immersing yourself in the vibrant student atmosphere, there's plenty to see and do for a memorable experience.

  • Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes: This serene shrine, located a mere 322m from the University, offers a peaceful retreat with its reflective atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, perfect for contemplation and prayer.
  • St. Mary's College: Situated 1.6km away, this historic college boasts beautiful architecture and a rich heritage. You can immerse yourself in its cultural vibes while exploring the picturesque campus.
  • Studebaker National Museum: Just 3.2km from Notre Dame, this engaging museum showcases the fascinating history of the Studebaker automobile. It's a great spot for families and car enthusiasts alike, featuring interactive exhibits and classic vehicles.

Best time to go to University of Notre Dame

The best time to visit University of Notre Dame is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February26.8°F (-2.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
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 HighAverage
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
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 CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of Notre Dame

For a budget-friendly trip to the University of Notre Dame, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Tuesdays. Use Expedia’s search tool to find the best deals by adjusting your budget and filtering for eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for savings through package deals, and look for airport shuttles to cut transport costs. Always compare prices to ensure you secure the lowest rates available, and take advantage of free campus activities to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of Notre Dame are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of Notre Dame is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around University of Notre Dame is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your results from the lowest to the highest prices to easily find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll discover a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your University of Notre Dame hotel accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.