Help! FIrst time coming..need lots of input

I am thinking of coming to Notre Dame from NJ the 25-28 of September for the football game. Here are my questions. If anyone could help I would deeply appreciate it.

1. Can I fly into a different airport other than the South Bend? Is there anything in close distance? I can get into Chicago for 250, but don%26#39;t know how far that is. (The South Bend flight will be 500 each right now!)

2. What about a train? Any suggestions?

3. How far are you from Chicago or even Lake Michigan? I am thinking of spending a day or two there as well. Is there anything touristy that I should plan to see in this area?

4. Finally, Is it silly to look at a hotel in between South Bend and Chicago? I was thinking it might be cheaper and allow me to see both South Bend and Chicago.

Thank you for all of the help. I am totally lost when it comes to the area so any help will be greatly apprectiated. Thanks!

Help! FIrst time coming..need lots of input

CHicago O%26#39;hare or Midway are other options. As far as getting to South Bend you have either rental car, Coach USA(bus) or the South Shore railroad.

Hotel rooms are not cheap on football weekends and you may have trouble finding availability for some games unless you travel farther away from South Bend.

Help! FIrst time coming..need lots of input

You could take the Amtrak train from New Jersey to South Bend, Indiana.

I would suggest flying into Midway airport in Chicago. Midway is a Southwest airlines hub, so, the flight cost is reasonable. I would rent a car. Car rental is very reasonable (check out priceline). Midway is about 2 hours from Southbend an is right outside of downtown Chicago. You could then stay downtown Chicago (there are a ton of things to do in Chicago) or drive and stay in the Valparaiso/Chesterton area of Indiana your first night. Valparaiso/Chesterton are right on your way to South Bend about an hour from Chicago and an hour from South Bend. I would definately check out the Indiana Dunes state park (right on beach/great hiking trails) which you could do easily if staying in Valpo/Chesterton as it is right off the interstate.

If you are looking for cheaper lodging the night of the game, look at staying right off the interstate in LaPorte, Indiana or again, in Chesterton, Indiana. LaPorte is about 1/2 hour from Southbend. Feel free to ask whatever questions you have......I like here so I am very familiar with things.

Alissa