Memorial Gymnasium

The historical Memorial Gymnasium (or Mem Gym) opened in 1924 and is the primary gym on central Grounds. As the home of the varsity volleyball and wrestling teams, Memorial Gymnasium has a unique feel from our other facilities. In addition to a comprehensive array of fitness equipment, Mem Gym features an indoor wooden running track, combative/boxing room, and support to the numerous outdoor fields and courts in the area.

The University's Architectural Commission, with supervising architect Fiske Kimball, designed the building in 1921-24 as a memorial to the 2,700 University students and alumni killed in World War I. To fund the project, the state granted $50,000, President Alderman raised $100,000, and students contributed $150,000. Upon its completion, it was the third largest gymnasium in the eastern United States. Mem Gym was used for registration, concerts and basketball competitions until University Hall opened in 1965. In 1940 President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave a historic speech at Memorial Gymnasium denouncing Italy's declaration of war on France. This historic structure was granted landmark status in the Virginia Landmarks Registry in 2004.

Address: 210 Emmet St South, Charlottesville, VA
Phone: (434) 924-6204

Facility Features

• Cardiovascular training equipment, free weights, and strength training machines
• 3-court gymnasium (basketball, volleyball)
• Indoor walking/running track (1/12 mile)
• Multipurpose group exercise room
• Combative room (heavy bags, speed bag)
• Dry sauna (men’s & women’s)
• Day locker
• Semester locker rentals
• 3 lighted outdoor basketball courts
• See the MEM's accessibility features

It is our intention to make as many healthy activities available without compromising the safety of students or staff. The continued success is a shared responsibility among all of us to be informed and work together for the safety of our community.

• Masks are now optional in all IM-Rec rec centers. 
• Open rec basketball, family rec hours and the saunas are open again.
• Hand sanitizers and fitness wipes are available throughout the centers to keep self and equipment sanitized.
• If you show symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home.

Reserve Group Space

Parking Information

Parking is available along University Avenue, as well as the Culbreth Garage (Zone 5513), Central Ground Parking Garage (Zone 5515) and Emmett Ivy Garage (Zone 5514).

Between 7:30am and 5pm Monday-Friday, you must use ParkMobile to pay for your parking.  You can download the ParkMobile app, text “PARK” to 77223*, or call ParkMobile at (877) 727-5758.