Irish Express Plus: Notre Dame vs. Syracuse in South Bend
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the day involves mostly seated travel and light walking at the stadium.
Overview
Join the Irish Express Plus for a game day experience like no other—starting at a craft brewery in Chicago and culminating with the thrilling Notre Dame vs. Syracuse football game in South Bend. Enjoy open bars, snacks, and non-stop excitement!
Irish Express Plus • Notre Dame vs. Syracuse
All Ages • November 22nd, 2025 • Transportation Included!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience game day like never before with "The Chicago Way to Game Day." Start your morning at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery with a hearty breakfast and a pint, then enjoy a lively coach ride to Notre Dame with an open bar. Celebrate the game and return to Chicago with snacks and drinks!
The Chicago Way to Game Day
Irish Express Plus Details
Trip Itinerary based on 3:30pm ET Kick Time at ND
(Exact timing may vary due to traffic, game duration, etc.)
8:00am - 9:00am CT - Check-in at Guinness Open Gate Brewery and Enjoy a Breakfast sandwich with a Pint of Guinness or Beermosa 9:00am - 9:30am CT - Load onto busses 9:30am - 11:30am CT/12:30pm ET - Travel on Coach with Open Bar to ND
Exactly 1 Hour after game ends - Coaches Depart South Bend ~6:30pm - 9:00pm ET - Travel on Coach with Snack & Open Bar to Chicago ~8:00 PM CT - Bus Arrives back at Guinness Open Gate Brewery
What to Know
- Coaches depart from Guinness Open Gate Brewery (OGB) in Chicago's Fulton Market neighborhood. Doors open ONE HOUR prior to Departure time for check-in. If you selected a ticket that includes brunch, please allow time to check-in and eat & drink prior to boarding.
- PLEASE NOTE - No Outside Food or Beverage allowed at Guinness Open Gate Brewery. Additionally, food will not be available for purchase.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Brewery Breakfast
Get the most out of the experience by arriving on time to enjoy the full breakfast and brewery tour.
Dress in Layers
South Bend’s weather can vary, so bring layers to stay comfortable during travel and game time.
Keep Your Tickets Handy
Ensure you keep your game tickets and boarding passes easily accessible to avoid delays.
Hydrate Before and During
Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if consuming alcoholic beverages on the shuttle.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Red-tailed hawks
History
Notre Dame’s campus has centuries of rich history as a premier Catholic university with a longstanding football tradition.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to balance large event crowds with campus preservation and local environmental sustainability.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You’ll do some light walking around the brewery and stadium, so comfy shoes are important.
Weather-Appropriate Jacket
A warm jacket is key for cooler seasons to stay comfortable during tailgating and the game.
fall specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day, particularly if you’re enjoying the brewery’s offerings.
Small Backpack or Bag
Convenient for carrying essentials, snacks, and extra layers during the trip.