Right where you need us.
When we asked our members to describe us in one word, the most popular answer was convenience. Consider the benefits of working out on campus: we’ll be ready for you before class or work, during your lunch break, in between meetings, and on your way home.
Click on a facility name or image below to view hours of operation, amenities, photos, and more.
Quick Links
BUILDINGS
Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center
Named for lead donors Jim (’77) and Sue Bakke. It features spaces to support wellbeing, a recreational pool, 8 courts, ice rink, a climbing & bouldering wall, sports simulators, studios, an indoor jogging track, a rooftop fitness area, and over 29,000 square feet of fitness space.
Nicholas Recreation Center
Named in honor of the late Ab Nicholas, his wife Nancy, and their family, the Nick is home to 30,000 square feet of fitness space, 8 courts, 5 studios, an Olympic size pool, and more.
Nielsen Tennis Stadium
Located on the Lakeshore side of campus across from the UW Hospital, Nielsen Tennis Stadium is here to serve all of your tennis and squash needs.
OUTDOOR SPACES
Near West Fields
2100 Observatory Drive
The Near West Fields, a turf complex on the west side of campus, are open daily. Fields are closed on home football game days and will close for the season at the end of November, weather dependent.
Cole Recreation Area
601 Elm Drive
Sand volleyball, tennis, and basketball courts on Observatory Drive, near Cole Residence Hall and across the street from Steenbock Memorial Library.
University Bay Fields
1275 University Bay Drive
Located on the far west side of campus, north of the UW Hospital and northwest of the Nielsen Tennis Stadium.
Fitness Trail
Take your workout outside with 9 functional training stations along Lakeshore Path.
UW-Madison Pier at Memorial Union
The Union Pier is staffed by Recreation & Wellbeing lifeguards.