Coffman Memorial Union

Coffman Memorial Union is a four-story building that sits near the Mississippi River at the south end of Northrop Mall on the University of Minnesota campus. It houses the University Bookstore, a food court, postal services, computer labs, and student administrative offices.

The building opened in 1940 as a memorial to former University President Lotus D. Coffman. Architect Clarence H. Johnston Jr. designed it using the Stripped Classicism style.

The building contains dedicated spaces where students from different backgrounds gather and share experiences with one another. These centers serve as everyday meeting places that help students find community on campus.

The building is accessible through multiple entrances and connected by stairs and elevators across all floors. Plan your visit for quieter times if you want to avoid crowds in the main dining and retail areas.

The basement level contains a bowling alley and a music performance club where students gather in the evenings. These recreation spaces give the building a social character beyond its administrative functions.

Location: Minneapolis

Official opening: 1940

Architectural style: Stripped Classicism

Elevators: 4

Website: http://coffman.umn.edu

GPS coordinates: 44.97270,-93.23540

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:07