Memorial Union is located on the south shore of Lake Mendota on the campus of the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

On the lakeshore to the north of the building is the Terrace, a popular outdoor space overlooking the lake.

[1] The exterior of the main wing was designed by University Architect Arthur Peabody.

Opened on October 5, 1928,[1] the facility is operated by the Wisconsin Union, a membership organization.

A chunk connecting the theater to the main building was demolished and rebuilt in order to allow for a new elevator and to address accessibility issues.

A new underground loading dock was built under the park, allowing direct connection to the basement kitchens and storage areas.

The interior renovation included the dining areas, basement kitchen, Rathskeller, Great Hall, Main Lounge, and Tripp Commons.

Outside the main building is the Memorial Union Terrace, a stone outdoor dining and recreation area on the shore of Lake Mendota.

It is a popular spot among students and local residents for socializing because of the backdrop of the lake, with its view of sailboats, and the sound of live music, usually free to the public in the evening.

The largest is Der Rathskeller, a German-style beerhall with elaborate murals, where political debates and card or board games are common among students over a beer.

[14] A catering department serves conferences, events for the university, and weddings of Union members, and the annual Tudor Dinners.

The park is an art gallery and museum displaying the accomplishments of Badgers throughout the 17 decades of the university.

Beneath the park is an underground loading dock, which serves the Union as well as the adjacent Red Gym, Pyle Center, and Alumni House.

The main lounge is flanked by the Hamel Browsing Library on the left and the art gallery on the right.