University of Wisconsin students have recognized the versatility of the Memorial Union, voting it the best building on campus. The union won hands down over runner-up Grainger Hall, demonstrating its popularity — especially over buildings where class is actually held.
Its proximity to Lake Mendota is a nice feature and offers distractions like dangling feet off the pier, watching the rowing team and enjoying kayaks and sailboats during the warmer months. Of course, because the vote took place during Wisconsin's freezing winter, it must be assumed that the Union topped the vote for reasons other than the stellar lake view in spring and summer.
Students enjoying the Union goodness are sure to take advantage of Babcock ice cream, a favorite treat campus-wide. Choices for food at Memorial are not limited to ice cream; warmer food is offered by the Rathskellar and the Lakefront on Langdon.
Clearly, students are also looking to be entertained. Venues are not few at the union, which boasts performance and movie theaters, a game room featuring Dance Dance Revolution, a stage on the Terrace and quiet spots to relax, chat and play chess.
Above all, the Terrace is no doubt the highlight of Memorial Union. Warm nights at the Union feature this lakefront veranda littered with students drinking pitchers and rocking out to bands and vocalists performing for open-mic night.
Though runner-up Grainger Hall boasts comfortable seating and spectacular bathrooms, it cannot compete with the glory that is Memorial Union.