<p>Can anyone tell me what the neighboring town of South Bend is like? Is anything (i.e., restaurants, shops, bars) in waking distance from the campus? Is there enough to do in South Bend? Are the residents of SB friendly toward ND students? My son is applying but he only attended an information session in our town. If accepted, he will visit before he makes his decision. </p>
<p>The city isn’t huge, but there is plenty to do. Within walking distance, there are plenty of shops and restaurants at Eddy Street Commons - Chipotle, Urban Outfitters, Hotbox Pizza, etc. There are plenty of buses available throughout the city, which can go to the University Park mall on Grape Road. Grape Road has plenty or restaurants along with entertainment like go carting, bowling, movies, etc. While South Bend isn’t the most lively city, there still is stuff to do. With the ability to drive after freshman year or get a ride with a friend who has a car, there are other surrounding cities such as Mishawaka, Elkhart, or Niles that have plenty of stuff to do. The residents of South Bend are generally really friendly towards ND students, they find them to be very smart. Notre Dame is the gem of South Bend for most residents. </p>
<p>Are you a student or parent of student at ND?</p>
<p>While there is definitely a “Notre Dame bubble” of sorts, there is still lots of things off campus. Lots of places to eat on Eddy Street, and the Linebacker Lounge (popular bar) is close too. There’s a shuttle bus that can take you to the mall. Be forewarned, South Bend has rough patches, and it is important for students to be aware of their surroundings (especially at night). Btw, I’m a current student.</p>
<p>@coffeegal I am a senior in high school and live near campus. I did an internship on campus for the past two years, have a legacy, some of my family members work on campus, and some of my close friends attend ND. If you have any questions about it, please feel free to ask me! :)</p>