The South Shore Railroad, the last electric passenger train in the nation, offers daily round-trip service to downtown Chicago. Amtrak passenger trains also serve South Bend. United Limo operates a convenient bus service connecting the Chicago airports to the Notre Dame campus. The passage of seasons is clearly marked in Northern Indiana. Winter tends to be cold and snowy.
Spring is rainy and on the cool side, punctuated with balmy days.
Summer is sunny, hot, and humid. Warm clothing, including coats, boots, and sweaters, is needed for the cooler months. South Bend has several shopping malls where clothing appropriate to the season may be purchased for reasonable prices. Chicago stores, too, are easily accessible. Learning English During the school year and in the summer session, the Department of English offers English classes for nonnative speakers.