Memorial Union Terrace

It's home to Madison's iconic sunburst chairs. One of the first places University of Wisconsin- Madison students fall in love with the city. Lake Mendota's most happening docking spot. Memorial Union Terrace is one of the top things to see when visiting Madison. 

 

This nearly 100-year-old icon sits proudly on the UW campus (and even has its own Bucky statue) but you don't have to be a student or staff member to enjoy. The terrace is welcome to anyone at anytime (during Wisconsin Union hours of course) and is the prime location to sit back with your favorite people, enjoy a beer and take in the incredible lakeside views. The terrace chairs are set out in Spring and stay out through Fall (open and close dates weather dependent).

Things to do on the Terrace

Whether you're looking to kick back or get up and groove, the terrace has something for you.

There are several food and drink spots in the Union making it easy to grab a bite, including from Madison icons Essen Haus and Babcock Dairy, which features ice cream and other dairy treats made right on campus. 

For those looking for an adventure, you can hop into Lake Mendota for a dip; rent a kayak, canoe or paddle board; or round out your day sailing the five lakes by docking your boat. 

Live events are held weekly throughout the season. Check out what's coming up next.

Events at the Terrace

Wisconsin Healthy Communities Summit

Join the Wisconsin Bike Fed and Wisconsin Office of Outdoor...

Free Live Music: Open Mic Night

Join us every Wednesday night! At Open Mic Night, presented...


Want more Memorial Union Terrace?

Dive into the history, things to do, and overall vibes of this Madison Icon.