No trip to Madison is complete without a visit to the Memorial union. When I was attending school here, we would often go down and listen to the bands (some of which were well known touring bands) and have a beer on the classic patio. The view of the water, and the people watching here is perfect. Now, this said, there is more to the union than the patio (or the silly sorority and frat kids). Oh, hey, when it is nice out they get the grills going and you can buy brats too.
Der Rathskeller is a great place to hang out - especially the side rooms with the cool murals on the walls. Sure the food is student centered and meal plan approved (I think) but it gets better every year - so while there is junk food, there is better stuff as well. The Paul Bunyon room is a personal favorite, and is one of the spaces that is being restored. There is in fact a whole plan to restore the union's many rooms. Sadly parts of Der Stiftskeller's murals will be moved (whatever that means). Some of the plans will make parts of the union look like an airport terminal or corporate lobby. But most of what they plan to do looks pretty cool.
At least they still have German meatballs and currywurst. Where else in the USA can you get currywurst. I read also that this was the first student union to allow beer! Way to go Wisconsin.