1520 Tripp Circle | Madison, WI 53706-1214 | Map
238 residents | Mixed coed floors | Single and double rooms
Opened 1926 | Named after Charles Kendall Adams
Historic Adams Residence Hall was constructed in the 1920s and still remains one of the most attractive campus buildings thanks to its European-inspired architecture. Part of Adams is home to the International Learning Community (ILC) and Language Immersion Houses. These communities introduce residents to other world cultures through activities and programs. If you are considering a study abroad experience during your time on campus, joining the ILC is a great way to prepare.
Adams is located across the street from Carson’s Market (one of five dining markets on campus), and a block away from Steenbock Library and many classroom buildings, which makes it a great location for all students. Sandwiched between Lake Mendota and Observatory Hill, there are also plenty of outdoor spaces to utilize for biking, running, and tossing around a frisbee with floor mates. Comprised of mostly single rooms, Adams is a great option for students wishing to have their own space but also be a part of a tight-knit community.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Building Features
- Nearest Dining: Carson’s Market
- Classroom: Lower Level, Leopold Residence Hall
- Academic Advising: First Floor, Dejope Residence Hall
- Hall Desk: Lower Level, Carson Gulley Center
- Kitchen: Gatehouse
- Laundry: Lower Level, Noyes House and First Floor, Faville House
- Music Practice Room: Lower Level, Carson Gulley Center
- Carpeting in Resident Rooms: No
- Air Conditioning in Resident Rooms: No
- Room Rate: Mid
- Neighborhood: Lakeshore
- Bathrooms Shared By: Floor
Dimensions
- Singles: ~ 13′ 8″ x 9′ 10″
- Doubles: ~ 10′ 1″ x 8′ 8″ and 13′ 6″ x 11′ 4″
- Recommended Carpet Size: 7′ x 12′
- Space Under Lofted Bed: Futon/loveseat up to 79″ wide fits under bed
- Lockable Drawer: 32″ x 18.75″ x 3.5″
- Mattress: 36″ x 80″
Room Guides
- Adams Hall Overview (PDF)
- Adams Floor Plan (PDF)
- Adams Lofting Guide (PDF)
- Adams Heating Guide (PDF)
Events in Adams Hall
Each residence hall has many events that occur throughout the year. Below are some of the events and activities that residents have enjoyed in previous years:
- Christkindlmarket Chicago Trip
- Brewers Game Trip
- TAS (Tripp-Adams-Slichter) Olympics
- American Players Theatre Trip
- Bonfire and S’Mores
- Outdoor Movie Nights
- Celebration of International Holidays and Festivities
Find Out More
Communities in Adams
International Learning Community (ILC)
(Part of Adams Residence Hall)
Discover global cultures and international studies, including nine immersive language houses.

Room Types
Single
- Features: Closet, bed, bookcase, desk, desk chair, refrigerator
- Typical Dimensions: 13′ 8″ x 9′ 10″ (rooms vary in size)
Double
- Features: Two rooms separated by a door, built-in shelves, closet, two beds, two bookcases, two desks, two desk chairs, refrigerator
- Small Room Typical Dimensions: 10′ 1″ x 8′ 8″ (rooms vary in size)
- Large Room Typical Dimensions: 13′ 6″ x 11′ 4″ (rooms vary in size)
*Typical room dimensions shown. Rooms vary slightly.
Virtual Tours
Please note: the rooms below were photographed before all rooms in Adams had their furniture updated.
Photo Gallery
Rates
The rates listed below are per resident and reflect the projected annual room & board rates in Adams Residence Hall for a new student for the 2021-22 academic year. For a full listing of residence hall rates and what is included, visit our Billing & Rates page.