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Union Family

September 22, 2013 by admin

image_Terrace_chairs_clairemelin_01When our family moved to Madison, we met many new friends. When conversations turned to ‘what to do in Madison’, most of these friends recommended going to the UW Memorial Union (the Union). Guess what?  They were right!  The Union is a great place to visit!

Situated on the shores of Lake Mendota, on the State Street end of the University of Wisconsin campus, the Memorial Union is a beautiful building with many things to do and see. We were initially hesitant to visit the Union, because it seemed like it was a student thing, a student place.  While many students congregate there, you will find you are not the only non-students enjoying all the Union has to offer.

One of the things we like best is to go to the Union for lunch at der Ratheskeller.  Der Ratheskeller features a number of delicious sandwich and soup options, along with what may well be the Best french fries on the planet.  Meals are inexpensive and filling– we usually have leftover fries and such to bring home.  No one in our family complains when it is announced that we’ll be eating at the Union.  On Badger and Packer game days, you’ll see the game on a giant screen TV while you eat.  At night you can listen to open mikes, or local bands perform on the small indoor stage. IMG_0416

After lunch, we like an ice cream or shake from the Daily Scoop.  The Scoop features UW’s famous Babcock Hall ice cream, and the Blue Moon shakes are a favorite of ours (but all the flavors are excellent.

Apart from all the eating, do explore the building and grounds.  Upstairs, you’ll find student art galleries and study spaces, as well as offices of community/ campus organizations like the Hoofers.

The Terrace is not to be missed.  With seating for hundreds (in the classic Union Terrace chairs!), the Terrace offers a beautiful place to eat, while people and bird watching on the lakeshore.  We’ve met friendly fisherman, charming foreign exchange students, and beautiful dogs and parrots on the Terrace.  Frequently, we like to dip a toe in the water and watch the ducks swim about.  During warm weather, the Terrace also features several additional places to please the palate- including the Brat Stand.  The Terrace concert series brings nationally known acts to play free of charge, so watch the calendar for a fun free show to attend!

Don’t be scared off from the Union!  It shouldn’t be missed.IMG_0276


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