Bartels Hall serves as home to most of Cornell's 36 Division I varsity teams, which play in the Ivy League and the Eastern College Athletic Conference. To the west, Lynah Rink is known for some of the most ardent supporters of men's ice hockey in the United States. To the east, facilities in the Friedman Strength and Conditioning Center help varsity athletes stay in shape.

Besides hosting indoor soccer tournaments, basketball games, and fencing matches, Bartels Hall hosts an annual fashion show by textiles and apparel majors and large dinners during Reunion Weekend.