Things To Do
in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, located in the state of Michigan, is a vibrant college town known for being the home of the University of Michigan. The city boasts a rich cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues. Ann Arbor is also famous for its diverse dining options, lively farmer's markets, and outdoor recreational areas including parks and nature reserves.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy the city's welcoming atmosphere, charming downtown area, and numerous community events throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market to grab fresh produce and local goods. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café with baked goods and a warm cup of coffee.
Spend the afternoon at the University of Michigan Museum of Art, where you can appreciate diverse collections. Afterwards, stroll through the beautiful campus and stop by the iconic Michigan Stadium.
In the evening, have dinner at one of Ann Arbor’s many excellent restaurants offering a range of cuisines. Catch a live music performance or a show at a local theater for some nighttime entertainment.
Begin with a peaceful yoga session at a local studio to energize your day. Follow it up with a healthy breakfast at a smoothie bowl place.
Take a leisurely walk at the Nichols Arboretum to enjoy the scenic gardens and natural beauty. Pack a picnic lunch and relax under the trees.
Enjoy a calm dinner at a spot known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Wind down with a good book at one of the cozy local bookstores or cafés.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to the University of Michigan, providing a vibrant college-town atmosphere.
- A strong arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and music festivals.
- High quality of education and healthcare services.
- Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, ideal for recreation and relaxation.
- Diverse dining options and a strong local food culture.
- Community-oriented with many events and activities throughout the year.
- Cost of living can be relatively high compared to other cities in Michigan.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during the academic year.
- Winters can be harsh, with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited diversity in certain neighborhoods.
- Housing market can be competitive, making it difficult to find affordable options.
Best Activities in Ann Arbor
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and gardens at Nichols Arboretum, offering scenic views of the Huron River.
Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the picturesque Huron River, which offers opportunities to observe local wildlife and natural scenery.
Play a round of golf at the pristine University of Michigan Golf Course, known for its challenging layout and scenic surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ann Arbor with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ann Arbor
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful architecture and gardens make for stunning photo opportunities
Scenic trails, bridges, and blooming flowers offer picturesque views
Picturesque park with scenic river views and wildlife photography opportunities
Great views of downtown Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan campus
Food in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, often served on rye bread. A must-try at Zingerman's Delicatessen.
Must-Try!
Moist and flavorful zucchini bread made from locally grown zucchinis available at the Ann Arbor Farmers' Market. A popular treat among locals and visitors.
Savor delicious Polish dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as potato and cheese, at Amadeus Restaurant. A delightful dish with a touch of Eastern European flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A collective of food carts offering diverse cuisines such as Korean, Mexican, and Mediterranean. Perfect for grabbing a quick and flavorful meal on the go.
A bustling market offering an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more. A great place to explore local flavors and find unique ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ann Arbor, it's important to be mindful of personal space and to respect the physical boundaries of others, especially in public spaces and in lines.
Ann Arbor is known for its diverse and progressive community. It's important to be open-minded, respectful, and inclusive of different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles.
It's respectful to observe and appreciate local customs and traditions, whether it's attending community events, trying local cuisine, or participating in cultural celebrations.
Safety
Tipping in Ann Arbor
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ann Arbor, it is customary to tip service staff in restaurants, bars, and other service-oriented establishments. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill, but customers may adjust this based on the quality of service received.
Payment in Ann Arbor is widely accepted in various forms, including credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses and restaurants in the area will accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities. Expect crowded tourism and higher hotel prices due to events like the Ann Arbor Film Festival.
Ideal for outdoor events, festivals, and warm weather activities. Expect vibrant street fairs, concerts, and an energetic atmosphere.
Great for enjoying the colorful foliage, attending the Ann Arbor Art Fair, and cooler weather. Expect peak tourism during the art fair and college football games.
Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, holiday events, and exploring cozy indoor spaces. Expect colder temperatures and occasional snowfall.
Ann Arbor at Night
Hiking in Ann Arbor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route that allows hikers to explore the banks of the Huron River, offering various trails and outdoor activities along the way.
A beautiful park with trails that run along the Huron River, featuring picnic areas and a variety of outdoor recreation options.
A large natural area with several miles of hiking trails, providing a peaceful escape into nature with forested areas and wetlands.
Located a short drive from Ann Arbor, this park offers a mix of hiking trails and scenic landscapes, including woods and wetlands.
A lovely area with trails that offer views of the Huron River and opportunities for hiking through diverse ecosystems.
Aiports
How to reach Ann Arbor by plane.
Located approximately 25 miles east of Ann Arbor, DTW is the primary airport serving the Detroit metropolitan area and is one of the busiest international airports in the United States.
Situated about 280 miles southwest of Ann Arbor, O'Hare is a major international airport and one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a key hub for numerous airlines.
Approximately 120 miles southeast of Ann Arbor, CLE is a significant international airport serving the Cleveland, Ohio area and offering various domestic and international flights.
Located around 250 miles north of Ann Arbor, YYZ is Canada's largest and busiest airport, providing a wide range of international flight options.
About 290 miles southwest of Ann Arbor, MDW is an international airport serving the Chicago area, primarily for low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Ann Arbor, encompassing individuals of European descent.
A significant demographic group that includes individuals of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian descent.
A demographic group that primarily includes individuals of African descent.
Individuals of Spanish-speaking origin, which may include various races.
Individuals who identify with more than one race.
Indigenous peoples of North America.
Individuals with origins in the Pacific Islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Ann Arbor, particularly due to the University of Michigan Wolverines football team, which has a storied history and a passionate fan base.
Another prominent sport in Ann Arbor, with the University of Michigan Wolverines basketball team being a significant part of the community and hosting numerous games at the Crisler Center.
Soccer has been rapidly growing in popularity in Ann Arbor, with local clubs and youth programs contributing to its appeal, along with the success of the University of Michigan soccer teams.
Ice hockey is well-received in Ann Arbor, particularly with the University of Michigan Wolverines men's ice hockey team, which competes at a high level and draws devoted fans.
Baseball enjoys support in Ann Arbor, with local youth leagues and collegiate baseball contributing to the sport's presence in the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ann Arbor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ann Arbor offers numerous eateries that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, with creative plant-based dishes available at many restaurants and cafes, including The Lunch Room and Seva.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a range of gluten-free offerings at various establishments, such as Silvio's Organic Pizza and Gratzi, which provide dedicated gluten-free menus.