Michigan Union

Michigan Union is a seven-story building located at the intersection of State Street and University Avenue containing gathering spaces, dining facilities, offices, and meeting rooms. The structure serves as a central hub with multiple facilities that support the campus community.

The building was constructed in 1917 on the site of Professor Thomas Cooley's former home. Early decades of operation included restrictions that reflected the social attitudes of that period.

The entrance displays two figures representing different aspects of student life: one embodies athletic pursuits while the other represents academic pursuits. These sculptures symbolize how student life balances between physical activity and intellectual work.

The building houses eight dining options where visitors can find various food choices and eat into the late evening hours. It is centrally located on campus and easily accessible on foot.

The courtyard floor is paved with approximately 38,000 pieces of end grain wood forming varied patterns throughout the space. Some furniture in the building was created from wood salvaged from the former bowling lanes.

Location: Michigan

Location: Ann Arbor

Architects: Irving Kane Pond

Floors above the ground: 7

Address: 530 S. State Street

Website: https://uunions.umich.edu/union

GPS coordinates: 42.27520,-83.74120

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42