Check Out the Wisconsin Union’s Coolest Campus Cafés
The University of Wisconsin–Madison can feel overwhelming at times due to the sizable campus and large student population. As a first-year student, I often felt lost among all the confusing buildings, longing for a space to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee in between class.
Luckily, I stumbled across the Robin’s Nest in the School of Human Ecology and found a small space of comfort amongst my hectic schedule. The Robin’s Nest was very convenient for that one semester. However, classes changed, and I was left wondering if other pockets of peace hidden around campus existed.
Thanks to the Wisconsin Union’s on campus cafes, there are many. I explored each cafe on campus and made a list of my favorites. Check one out the next time you’re craving a snack between classes.
Chazen Café, Chazen Museum of Art
There are many incredible cafes across campus, but I would be lying if I didn’t say the Chazen Café is my favorite. Being a journalism and art history major, the Chazen Café lays right in between all of my classes, and I find myself stopping there a minimum of two times a day. The interior is both cozy and bright, with floor to ceiling windows that curate the perfect light. The café serves Peet’s coffee and house-made freshly baked pastries and on-the-go sandwiches. And, don’t forget the outdoor seating in the warmer months, the perfect sunshine spot.
Crossroads Café, School of Education
Does the walk up Bascom Hill ever feel too exhausting? Good thing Crossroads Café is located right in the middle of the tedious campus hike. Crossroads Café caught my attention not only because of the location, but also the spacious seating with a peaceful outdoor terrace. The School of Education has tall windows that face north towards the greenery and nature of Lake Mendota, creating a serene space to relax or get work done. Either way, with the beautiful light, comfy seating and, as always, the delicious food and beverage from the Badger Cafe, Crossroads Café is a vital spot on campus.
Robin’s Nest, School of Human Ecology
Like I mentioned above, the Robin’s Nest cafe is the perfect combination of design, fuel, and comfort. The surrounding space blends into the seating area through exhibited work and design installations. This space is almost too good to be true. The School of Human Ecology (SoHE) is a trip away from State Street or other local commercial areas, making this cafe a hidden gem of snacks and comfy seating. If you have classes near SoHE, I highly recommend fitting this stop into your schedule. The space can get crowded but often stays very quiet and peaceful as students and staff move about the space.
Badger Market in Engineering, Engineering Hall
I stumbled upon this cafe for the first time this semester, and it might just be my new favorite study spot. The study space, decorated with floral light fixtures and large work tables allows for group collaboration or solo studying. Either way, the space looks out on Engineering Drive and up Henry Mall, modeling the beautiful buildings of Agriculture Hall and various historical brick buildings. Personally, space and feeling is a huge factor when getting work done and the Badger Market in Engineering Hall checks all the boxes.
Badger Market in Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine
Talk about a pocket of peace and an essential cafe for the western part of campus. Badger Market in Veterinary Medicine, located on the second floor, is a bright space that includes booth and table seating. Lakeshore is a beautiful part of campus, and the Badger Market creates a space of familiarity on this large campus. And if you’re lucky, you might run into a furry friend on his or her way to a vet visit.
These are just a few Wisconsin Union-run cafes across campus. Check out the full list here.
