When South Bend fills up for a home game weekend, skip the hotel chaos and discover Copper Top Ridge — one of the most relaxing Notre Dame places to stay, about 45 minutes from campus.
Nestled in the woods near Lake Michigan, Copper Top Ridge combines the excitement of Fighting Irish football with the comfort of a modern cottage retreat.
✨ The Property: Comfort, Space, and Style
About 45 minutes from Notre Dame, Copper Top Ridge gives you room to breathe after the game — a modern cottage retreat tucked among the trees, with thoughtful amenities that make a football weekend feel like a true getaway.
- Private hot tub beneath the stars
- Fire pit with Adirondack seating (firewood provided)
- Full kitchen with oversized island for brunch + tailgate prep
- Sleeps up to 8; cozy living room with 65″ TV
- Quiet, wooded setting ~45 minutes from Notre Dame Stadium
Modern Cottage, Immersed in Nature
Tucked among the trees on 3 private acres, the home blends quiet seclusion with easy access to New Buffalo and Notre Dame. Morning coffee on the deck; stargazing by night.
Private Hot Tub Beneath the Stars
Slip into the spa after the game. Plush robes provided; quiet, wooded backdrop; crisp Michigan skies overhead.
Chef-Friendly Kitchen & Oversized Island
Prep brunch or tailgate spreads with modern appliances, plenty of counter space, and island seating for the whole crew.
Cozy Living Room for Game Replays
Low-slung couch, live-edge coffee table, electric fireplace, and a 65″ TV—your comfy base for highlights and late-night movies.
Patio Dining & Electric Grill
Serve up burgers under the clear-roof pergola, then step down the grand staircase into a spacious backyard framed by forest and creek.
Warm, Seasonal Design Details
Thoughtful touches—like the autumn mural and Edison lights—bring a modern cottage warmth to every room.
Lake Erie Bunk Room & Laundry
A cozy and functional space that keeps everyone comfortable and organized. The Lake Erie Room features twin bunk beds perfect for kids or extra guests, plus a full laundry area with a large washer and dryer — ideal for extended stays or beach trips.
Sleep Spaces for Up to 8
Four bedrooms with cozy lighting and quality linens. The Lake Superior Suite features an en-suite with double sinks and rain shower.
Private, Wooded Setting
Deer and cranes wander the edges of Squaw Creek. It feels a world away—yet you’re minutes to downtown New Buffalo.
🗓️ Book Your Notre Dame Weekend
🚌 Getting to Notre Dame on Game Day
Being about 45 minutes from campus means you can enjoy the full Notre Dame experience — without the South Bend congestion or hotel prices.
🚐 Private Shuttle + Pop-Up Tailgate — Grapes & Grains Tours
Our trusted partner, Grapes & Grains Tours, offers full-service game-day packages for Copper Top Ridge guests, including:
- Round-trip transportation to and from Notre Dame
- A pop-up tailgate experience on campus (Feeling Grazey charcuterie, tailgate setup, coolers)
- Fleet options from a Cadillac Escalade to a 14-passenger luxury Sprinter
Reserve early — home-game weekends book fast!
🚗 Drive & Park
Take I-94 and US-31 for a scenic ~45-minute drive. Arrive 2–3 hours before kickoff to secure your parking spot. We provide coolers and folding chairs so your tailgate setup is ready to roll.
🚖 Rideshare
Uber and Lyft are available in the South Bend area, though post-game surges are common — schedule your pickup in advance for smooth travel.
🍇 A Perfect Notre Dame Gameday Itinerary
Morning Departure: Luxury TransportationCruise through Michigan wine country with your Grapes & Grains driver handling the details while you sit back and enjoy the ride. Start the day relaxed and arrive ready to cheer. |
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Pre-Game Tailgate: Charcuterie & SpiritKick off the day with a Feeling Grazey gourmet charcuterie spread — an elevated twist on classic tailgating. Pair it with a refreshing Teeling Irish Whiskey Highball:
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The Big GameExperience the magic of Notre Dame Stadium — the chants, the traditions, and the electric energy of game day. |
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Evening Return: Pizza & BonfireAfter the game, head back to the quiet comforts of Copper Top Ridge. Gather around the fire pit under the stars and relive the day’s best plays. |
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🍂 Extend Your Stay Beyond Game Day
Plan a longer weekend and explore more of Southwest Michigan:
🏈 The Complete Experience
From private transportation and pop-up tailgates to cozy nights in the hot tub, Copper Top Ridge offers everything you need for the ultimate Notre Dame places to stay experience.
🗓️ Book Your Notre Dame Weekend
FAQ: Notre Dame Weekends at Copper Top Ridge
How far is Copper Top Ridge from Notre Dame Stadium?
How many people can stay? What’s the layout?
Do you allow tailgating or parties on-site?
Is transportation to the game available?
provides round-trip shuttle service and optional pop-up tailgate at Notre Dame. Book early for home game weekends.