Alumni Park

A Lakeside Campus Gem

Tucked between Memorial Union and the Red Gym on UW-Madison's campus, Alumni Park is a charming 1.3-acre green space that stretches from Langdon Street all the way to the shores of Lake Mendota. Though it only opened in October 2017, the idea for this special spot actually appeared in campus master plans way back in 1908. Quite a long time from concept to creation!

Celebrating Badger Excellence

Stroll through the park and you'll discover over 50 outdoor exhibits and artworks that honor the achievements of UW-Madison graduates. More than 120 alumni have their stories woven throughout the space, showing what it means to be a "Badger" and how these graduates have influenced Wisconsin and beyond.

Take your time exploring - there are lesser-known parks tucked among the grassy areas, including various statues that reward the curious visitor. Don't miss the popular badger statue, which has become a favorite photo spot for pretty much everyone who visits.

A Green Oasis by the Water

With over 34,000 square feet of green space, the park offers plenty of room to breathe. The thoughtful landscaping includes more than 7,800 trees, shrubs, grasses, flowers, and perennial plants that create a natural retreat right on campus.

Some standout features include an 80-foot long Badger Pride Wall decorated with whimsical university-themed artwork, a sleek granite water fountain, and of course, those gorgeous views of Lake Mendota. On warm days, the lake breeze makes this spot particularly refreshing - a wonderful escape from summer heat or classroom stress.

More Than Just a Pretty Space

Alumni Park combines elements of an outdoor art gallery, museum, and tribute space. It's designed to be both a pleasant place to relax and an educational experience that honors UW-Madison's rich history and traditions.

The Wisconsin Alumni Association led the park's development as a project from university graduates and supporters.

Finding Your Way

Right next to the park, you can find One Alumni Place, a helpful visitor center where you can grab maps and information about both the park and the broader campus.

The park welcomes everyone - no matter if you're an alum reliving college memories, a current student between classes, or a visitor exploring Madison's highlights.

Around the Corner

When hunger strikes, several restaurants near Alumni Park offer good food and drinks. The nearby Memorial Union Terrace is another popular spot with additional dining options and its own vibrant atmosphere.

If you're driving, note that street parking is available at metered spots nearby, however there's a two-hour limit - usually enough time to explore the park at a comfortable pace.

The Alumni Park Experience

This peaceful retreat gives you space to sit by the lake, watch sailboats drift by, and simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustle. Most visitors spend about 30 minutes exploring the exhibits and soaking in the atmosphere.

What makes Alumni Park special is its versatility - it works just as well for quiet reflection with a book as it does for meeting friends. It's a popular spot on campus, especially during evenings and weekends, balancing social activity with moments of tranquility.