Ackerman Union

Can you imagine a bowling alley inside a student union? Ackerman Union at UCLA was once home to just that. This bustling hub, officially opened on April 3, 1961, was much more than a place to grab a coffee. Ackerman Union, named after William C. Ackerman, the then-student union executive director and UCLA’s first head tennis coach, was envisioned as a modern haven for Bruins. The multi-story building pulsed with student life. It boasted billiards, a TV lounge, meeting areas, and that incredible 10-lane bowling alley. Students could grab a bite in numerous dining areas or relax in the coffeehouse. The Ackerman Grand Ballroom hosted larger events, from movie nights to concerts featuring iconic artists like Jimi Hendrix and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. While some of the recreational spaces, like the bowling alley, have since been repurposed to accommodate growing student needs, Ackerman Union still thrives as a central hub. Today, it offers a diverse range of services, including the UCLA Store, a post office, banks, a pharmacy, and thirteen restaurants. Need a quick coffee? Bruin Buzz on A-Level has you covered. Looking for a study break? The Bruin Fun Zone, also on A-Level, offers table tennis, foosball, and even arts and crafts. Ackerman Union at UCLA has evolved over the decades, adapting to the ever-changing needs of the student body. It remains a vital part of the UCLA experience, a testament to its original vision as a dynamic center for student life.