THE HISTORIC MSU UNION BUILDING & GROUNDS
The MSU Campus and MSU Union celebrate over 100 years of rich history. However, as with many historic buildings, accessibility can be limited.
ACCESSIBILITY ACROSS BOTH SHOWS:
- ACCESSIBLE PARKING: Reserved and monitored ADA parking is available along Abbot Road and in nearby lots.
- ADA-COMPLIANT WALKWAYS: Wide, level, sidewalks and pathways provide adequate space for mobility devices.
- HIGH CONTRAST SIGNAGE: All event signage is printed in high contrast for greater visibility.
- SENSORY SENSITIVITIES: Amplified sound and smells are not permitted. Several quiet spaces are available throughout the building.
- DEPENDENT SAFETY SYSTEM: Guardians with dependents who may wander can participate in our safety protocol - details below.
- PRIVATE HEALTH ROOMS: Available for Nursing mothers and medical needs (see details below).
- AND MORE...
MOBILITY ACCESS
- All entrances to the MSU Union include short stairways. The accessible ramp entrance is located near the West entrance along Abbot Road.
- The ground and first floors are split-levels; ramps are available near the staircases.
- Three elevators serve all levels:
- West Elevator (near accessible entrance): Access to the ground through second floor, including upper and lower split levels.
- East Elevators: Reach all floors, but only the upper ground and first floor levels.
- See map of MSU Union (link to booth map)
- Snow removable is a priority along accessible pathways.
- Please note: Restroom doors do not have automatic openers. If you need assistance, visit any informational booth.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS
- Permanent building signage includes braille.
- Show-specific signs are not currently available in braille.
- All event materials and signage are printed in high contrast for better visibility.
- Information Booths are available to assist with navigation and locating vendors.
COOLING
- Due to crowds, the MSU Union cooling system may be challenged. The facilities team works diligently to maintain a cool comfortable environment.
- Cooling & Rest Areas are located:
- First Floor: Reflection Court near Sparty's Market
- Second Floor: Southeast Hallway
- MSU Police and EMS are on-site and available if needed.
NURSING MOTHERS, PRIVATE HEALTH ROOMS, AND RESTROOMS
- Private Health Rooms are located in the lounge adjacent to the first-floor women's restrooms. Each room includes a nursing chair and sharps container.
- Keys to access these rooms are available at the Welcome Desk on the first floor.
- Restrooms are available on every level an include ADA-compliant stalls.
- Unisex/Family Restrooms are located on Ground and Fourth Floors.
- Again, please note: No automatic door openers at this time. Staff are happy to assist.
REFLECTION AND PRAYER
- A quiet reflection & prayer space is available on the third floor east hallway, near the entrance to the women's restroom. A second location is available on the forth floor north hallway, inside, but separate from, the unisex restroom.
- A ablution station is located in the forth floor reflection & prayer space.
ACCESSIBLE PARKING
More details are available on our Getting to the Show & Parking Info page.
SAFETY
AT-RISK DEPENDENTS
Guardians are encouraged to:
- Have a recent photo and take note of the dependent's clothing.
- Ensure their dependent can recite the full name of their guardian, or use a contact wristband (available at all Information Booths). These wristbands help us quickly identify at-risk individuals during emergencies.
- If you become separated, please contact an information booth or patrolling MSUPD officer immediately.
SEVERE WEATHER
- In the event of severe weather, please follow the instructions from staff and emergency personnel.
- The designated shelter-in-place locations are the interior ground floor and first floor hallways of the MSU Union.
MSU ALERTS
We highly encourage all guests to sign up for MSU Alerts.
If you have additional accessibility concerns or questions, please don't hesitate to emails us at uab@msu.edu.