Madison WI Ice Cream Shop

star star star star star_half

4.1

Daily Scoop in Memorial Union in Madison, WI

Savor legendary Babcock Hall ice cream with oversized scoops, lakeside views, and wallet-friendly prices—just steps from beautiful Lake Mendota!

attach_moneyattach_money

View Details

Savor legendary Babcock Hall ice cream with oversized scoops, lakeside views, and wallet-friendly prices—just steps from beautiful Lake Mendota!
Local area information

If you’re on the UW-Madison campus and craving a true slice of Badger life, the Daily Scoop in Memorial Union is about as classic as it gets. This isn’t your average ice cream stand—here, you’ll find Babcock Dairy ice cream, a local legend that’s been winning hearts for generations. Whether you’re a student, a parent in town for a campus tour, or just someone who loves a good scoop with a lake view, this place delivers a quintessential Madison experience.

What really sets the Daily Scoop apart is its unbeatable combination of Babcock Dairy ice cream (made right on campus), generous portions for about $6, and the chance to eat it all while hanging out on the iconic Memorial Union Terrace overlooking Lake Mendota. It’s a local ritual—especially on sunny days.

Location & Contact

Address: 800 Langdon St #1324, Madison, WI 53706, USA

Phone: (608) 262-5959

Website: Official site

Parking: Parking is honestly one of the trickiest parts. There’s no dedicated lot for the Union, and street parking is limited—especially during the school year or big campus events. Your best bet is to use nearby city garages (like the State Street Campus Garage) or metered street parking if you get lucky. Many locals just walk, bike, or hop on Madison Metro Transit, which drops you close by.

Accessibility: The Memorial Union is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators. Restrooms are accessible and kept in good shape, and there’s both indoor and outdoor seating that works for most mobility needs.

What's the Deal

Best for

Students, families, campus visitors, and anyone craving local ice cream with a view

Time needed

15–30 minutes (longer if you grab a Terrace chair and enjoy the lake)

Budget range

$4–$7 per serving (two scoops around $6; portions are generous)

Worth knowing

Students with Wiscard get 10% off food; lines can be long on warm days—try weekday afternoons for a quick treat

What's the Food Scene Like

What Sets This Restaurant Apart

The Daily Scoop isn’t just about ice cream—it’s about nostalgia, local pride, and sharing a genuine campus tradition. The real draw here is the Babcock Dairy ice cream, made right at UW-Madison’s own dairy. This isn’t something you’ll find in grocery stores nationwide; it’s a treat that’s been part of the campus culture for decades. The flavors rotate, but you’ll always find classics like Orange Custard Chocolate Chip and Badger Blast, plus seasonal specials that keep regulars coming back.

The Offering

Signature items/services:
- Babcock Dairy Ice Cream: Over a dozen rotating flavors, including favorites like Orange Custard Chocolate Chip, Badger Blast, Blue Moon, and Union Utopia. A two-scoop serving is about $6 and is seriously generous.
- Ice Cream Cones & Cups: You can choose a classic cone or a cup—great for kids or if you want to mix flavors.
- Hand-Packed Pints: Take-home pints are available for those who want to bring the campus vibe home.
- Student Discount: UW students get 10% off food purchases with Wiscard.
Quality highlights:
- Ice cream is made fresh on campus at the legendary Babcock Dairy Plant.
- Staff are usually knowledgeable about flavors and happy to offer samples or answer questions.
- Portions are known for being generous, so you’re getting solid value for the price.
Range & variety:
- Flavors rotate frequently, with a mix of classics and limited-time options.
- Some flavors are labeled gluten-free, but those with strict allergies should ask about cross-contamination.
- Hand-packed pints and cones/cups available; no sundaes or elaborate toppings—this place is all about the ice cream itself.
Seasonal/special offerings:
- Look for special flavors around holidays and university events.
- The menu and hours may shift slightly in summer or winter, so it’s smart to check the website if you’re coming out of season.

The Experience

The laid-back, campus-centric vibe means you’ll see everyone from students with laptops to families with toddlers, all enjoying their ice cream together. On a warm day, the line can snake out the door, but the payoff is grabbing a spot on the Memorial Union Terrace—those colorful chairs and the lake view really do live up to the hype. There’s a cheerful, bustling energy, especially when the weather’s good or there’s a big campus event.

Service reality: Expect friendly, efficient counter service. Staff are generally quick and know their flavors. If you have dietary questions, they’ll do their best to help, but cross-contamination can be an issue for some allergies—always speak up if you have a concern.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

Arrival process: Walk in and join the line (it can get long during peak times). There’s a clear menu board up front, and staff are happy to offer flavor samples.
Space & layout: The Daily Scoop is inside the Memorial Union, steps from the main entrance. There’s indoor seating, but most people head outside to the Terrace if the weather’s nice.
Interaction style: It’s classic counter service—order, pay (lots of payment options, including Apple Pay and Wiscard), grab your scoops, and find a spot to sit. Service is friendly but fast-paced when it’s busy.

Important Considerations

Strengths & Considerations

Key Strengths: Legendary Babcock ice cream, unbeatable campus and lakefront location, generous portions, and a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere that feels authentically Madison.

Things to Keep in Mind

Parking is a challenge—plan for a walk or take public transit if you can.
Lines can be long during warm weather, weekends, and campus events, so patience is sometimes required.
There aren’t a ton of dietary accommodations—if you have severe allergies, double-check before ordering.

Overall, the Daily Scoop is a must-try for anyone wanting the full UW-Madison experience, but it’s best enjoyed when you’re not in a rush and can savor both the ice cream and the iconic setting. If you’re looking for tons of gourmet toppings or a quiet, out-of-the-way spot, this probably isn’t your scene—but for classic campus vibes and a sweet treat, it hits the mark.

FYI (For Your Information)

Timing & Logistics

Best times: Weekday afternoons (especially after lunch but before dinner) are usually less crowded • Peak periods: Expect long lines on sunny weekends, during graduation, or Badger football Saturdays • Seasonal notes: The Terrace is at its best in summer, but gets packed—early evenings offer a great sunset view and a little more elbow room

What You Need to Know

Booking/Access: Walk-ins only; no reservations or call-ahead. Just show up and get in line.
Payment & Costs: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Wiscard (with student discount), Union Gift Card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay all accepted. Two scoops run about $6; hand-packed pints are available for a few bucks more.
Facilities & Amenities: Indoor and outdoor seating (Terrace is the big draw), accessible restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly access throughout the Memorial Union. No dedicated parking—use nearby garages or transit.
Preparation: Dress is super casual—think shorts and sandals in summer. No need to bring anything special, but a hat and sunglasses help if you’re planning to hang out on the Terrace.

Insider Tips

Local knowledge: Many locals time their visit for sunset on the Terrace—it’s a classic Madison moment. If you want to try a unique flavor, ask staff what’s rotating in that week. And if you’re a student, don’t forget your Wiscard for a 10% discount.

Managing Expectations

What works well: The view, the ice cream, and the lively campus energy—especially in spring and summer.
Potential limitations: Crowds and parking, plus limited allergy accommodations.
How to optimize: Go during off-peak hours, come with friends or family to share a table, and be ready to soak up the atmosphere.

Timing Considerations

Madison’s seasons really shape the Daily Scoop experience. In spring and summer, the Terrace is a magnet for students and locals, and the whole area buzzes with energy—so expect crowds and occasional lines out the door. Early fall is also gorgeous, especially on game days. In winter, hours may be shorter and outdoor seating is limited, so check the website before you go. If you want a quieter vibe, visit on a chilly day or during mid-afternoon on weekdays.

The Local Food Culture

The Daily Scoop is more than a place to grab dessert—it’s a local institution that captures the heart of campus culture. For students, it’s a reward after exams or a social staple during spring and summer. For locals and alumni, it’s a nostalgic spot that brings back memories of sunny days on the Terrace and late-night study breaks. Tourists love it for the “real” Madison experience—it’s where you’ll see the campus community in action, mixing with visitors from all over.

Community-wise, the Daily Scoop and the Memorial Union Terrace are where people gather for concerts, movies, and lakeside sunsets. It’s not just about ice cream—it’s about being part of a tradition that’s been going strong for generations. If you want to feel like you belong in Madison, this is the place to do it. The vibe is welcoming, lively, and a little quirky—just like the city itself.

Final Assessment

Overall Recommendation

Bottom Line: If you want to experience the best of UW-Madison’s campus life, the Daily Scoop delivers on all fronts: legendary local ice cream, a laid-back atmosphere, and one of the best spots in town to soak in lake views and campus energy. Just be ready for a wait if you hit peak times and don’t expect fancy toppings—this place is all about classic flavors and the simple joy of a great scoop.

Best For

Students and Badger alumni reliving campus memories
Families looking for a relaxed, kid-friendly treat
Visitors who want to try authentic, locally made ice cream in a one-of-a-kind setting

If you’re after a true taste of Madison (literally and figuratively), the Daily Scoop is a can’t-miss stop. Plan ahead for crowds, grab a spot on the Terrace if you can, and don’t forget to check out what’s new on the flavor board. It’s the kind of place that turns a simple ice cream run into a lasting memory.