In the spring of 1958, a group of local residents recognized the need for a private social and recreational club to serve the Iowa City area. Those residents formed a corporation and developed plans for the facility. In autumn of that same year, the group purchased land next to Finkbine golf course on Melrose Avenue. Groundbreaking and construction of the building began in March 1959. The vision was realized by late summer, and the University Athletic Club formally opened on September 1, 1959, with 269 local members and 261 non-resident members.

In the years to follow, the East Banquet Room, the Iowa Room, and tennis courts added a new dimension to membership at the University Athletic Club.

Today, the UAC features a dining room and lounge, seven private dining rooms, four tennis courts, a children's wading pool and as of 1998, a new 6-lane, Olympic-style swimming pool available for competitive and recreational swimming, remodeled locker room and shower facilities, a fitness room housing cardiovascular exercise equipment, and a casual, poolside dining area featuring a bar and a la carte dining.

Throughout the year, functions such as holiday brunches, theme parties, ladies' luncheons, children's parties, summer evening barbecues, pre-game and post-game buffets, winter shrimp peel buffets and special dinners bring members together to socialize and enjoy the UAC. Reservations for these events are required. Members receive a monthly newsletter from the Club which includes information concerning coming events.

With the construction of the new, Olympic-style swimming pool, the UAC recognizes both the recreational swimmer, out for fun in the sun, as well as the more serious, exercise-minded lap swimmer. Ramps make the pool handicap accessible and there is a children's wading pool for our youngest members. Sunbathers can stretch out on towels or in the lounge chairs on the pool deck, and those wanting to escape from the hot, Iowa sun can cool their heels at one of the many patio tables with umbrellas.

Swimming lessons from experienced teachers can be arranged through the pool manager, and a youth swim team is organized every year by the current Board of Directors member heading the swim committee.

Locker rooms are accessible from the pool deck, as well as from inside the Club. Locker rentals can be arranged for a day or for the season.

For the hungry and thirsty pool goer, the UAC offers a poolside dining area with snacks, sandwiches, bar service, as well as other a la carte items. To liven up those sultry nights, members share in a series of Friday poolside cookouts. At the University Athletic Club, it's easy to find your place in the sun - or the shade.

From the most competitive tennis player to the occasional serve and volleyer, the UAC's four, lighted, outdoor tennis courts are sure to please. The Club's pro gives private lessons and organizes group events throughout the warm months. Courts can be reserved by calling the Club office, otherwise availability is on a first come, first serve basis.

The University Athletic Club lies next to Finkbine golf course. Easy access to the course makes the Club a perfect place to add dinner or drinks to a day on the links with a business associate or friend. The UAC extends the regular charging privileges to those members wishing to sign for their green fees, pro shop purchases, as well as any food or drink.

After a long day at the pool, a vigorous set of tennis or an afternoon at the links, members can still show up fresh for dinner, after a shower in the newly remodeled men's and women's locker rooms.