In this Ann Arbor travel guide, we will explore What to See and Do in the Ann Arbor area, Why to Visit, and How to Get Around. We'll also touch on the best times of the year to visit and other helpful tips. So, let's get started!
Let's start with what's nearby: Hudson Mills Metropark is only a few miles away, and it's a great place for fly fishing and skiing in the winter.
There's also a disc golf course, athletic fields, and tennis courts. If you like the outdoors, Hudson Mills Metropark is a great place for you to relax and unwind.
About Ann Arbor
West of Detroit, Michigan lies the Midwestern city of Ann Arbor. It's home to the sprawling University of Michigan. Known for its research and education programs, the University of Michigan is a great place to visit if you're in the area. It also features a world-renowned museum of art, featuring works from around the world and over several centuries. The city also offers a number of science-focused attractions, including the Museum of Natural History and the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. Both of these museums are great for kids.
Throughout the years, Ann Arbor has seen rapid growth and development, resulting in a booming population. The city's economy has changed over the years, shifting from a manufacturing base to a service and technology base. This shift in the city's economy is evident in its downtown area, where former staple-goods stores have been replaced with eateries, coffee shops, bars, and specialty shops.
The city's history dates back to the 1820s, when its founders settled the area. They bought the 640 acres from the U.S. Land Office and named the town after their wives, both named Ann. This name was later given to the city's bur oak trees. The town became the seat of Washtenaw County in 1827.
Why Go to Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, Michigan is a beautiful college town filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Despite its college atmosphere, it is also a great destination for both families and singles. While many of its attractions cater to college students, the downtown area is bustling with independent bookstores, street art, and historic theaters. The town's youthful, creative vibe is a welcome change from the stereotypical university town. In addition, it is consistently listed as one of the most livable cities in America.
While Ann Arbor is known for its University, it also has a vibrant arts scene, with world-class museums and galleries, a vibrant theater scene, and music ensembles. The University of Michigan Museum of Art is one of the top attractions in town, showcasing a wide range of art. Its permanent collection is also well-regarded, and it has an extensive American Art collection.
While Ann Arbor is home to many parks, the city also boasts a beautiful river that winds through the city. Visitors can view the river in three different ways: walking in the Nichols Arboretum, biking on the Border-to-Border Trail, or taking a trip down the river.
Best Time to Go
The Best Time to go to Ann Arbor depends on your preferences, but May and September are ideal for outdoor activities. The weather in this region is moderate and comfortable, and you can take advantage of the abundant festivals. Some of the city's best attractions include the Huron River, Michigan Stadium, and the Matthaei Botanical Garden. Throughout the year, rainfall is evenly distributed.
If you're a fan of college football, visit the University of Michigan Football Stadium, otherwise known as "The Big House." This is the largest college football stadium in North America. The stadium is near several other great spots, including Crisler Center, Haymaker, Fraser's Pub, and Conor O'Neill's. There are also a number of locally owned shops and restaurants in the area, including Literati, Thistle & Bes, and Ten Thousand Villages.
Ann Arbor is well known as a foodie city. While there are a few chains that cater to foodies, Zingerman's Deli is an institution. A line may stretch around the corner at lunchtime - don't be surprised if you have to wait for your turn. Sava's Café, located on Main Street, is another option for a delicious meal or a delicious cup of coffee.
Best Restaurants
Ann Arbor, Michigan has established itself as a foodie's paradise with its diverse food scene. There are upscale restaurants as well as more casual options. The city also boasts a number of cocktail lounges and student hangouts. This article explores some of the best dining experiences in Ann Arbor.
Located just outside the University of Michigan, the Jerusalem Garden offers authentic Middle Eastern and Lebanese food. A chicken shawarma sandwich and golden French fries are two of the highlights of the menu. Guests can also enjoy wine tastings at this restaurant once a month. The atmosphere is intimate, and a variety of wines are available.
Another excellent dining option is the new Mexican cantina, Isalita. This trendy and sophisticated restaurant in Ann Arbor is a great way to impress your parents. There's no need to bring a full meal, as this casual establishment offers free meals once a semester for students.
Things to Do
Ann Arbor is a city of arts and culture, and you can find a variety of unique things to do in Ann Arbor. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and its downtown is full of unique shops, restaurants, and museums. One of the top places to see in the city is the University of Michigan Museum of Art, which exhibits a wide range of artwork from around the world. The permanent collection is also highly regarded, and includes a large number of works by American artists.
Another top activity is a visit to the Ann Arbor Cat Cafe. This unique venue serves up free tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. It also has several popular events, such as yoga with the cats, and a family "mewvie" night. We also enjoyed the Ann Arbor Cat Cafe's Trivia Night, which was a huge hit! This non-profit venue puts on a variety of events throughout the year and supports local causes, including homelessness and hunger.
Another place to visit in Ann Arbor is the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. With its signature exhibits such as the Climbing Wall, The World Around You, and Magnet exhibits, there is something for everyone here. The museum also offers special events throughout the year, so it's worth checking out the museum's events calendar.
Neighborhoods to Know
There are a few neighborhoods in Ann Arbor that you should know about before you move to the area. The Foxfire subdivision is one of them. Located on the northeast side of the city, off Dhu Varren between Nixon Road and Pontiac Trail, it's close to the University of Michigan's north campus, the Crisler Center, the Yost Ice Arena, and the Ann Arbor Golf Course. It also offers convenient access to downtown Ann Arbor's conveniences.
Chelsea is a great place to spend the day. This neighborhood sits just west of downtown Ann Arbor, and is home to some of the best restaurants and award-winning theaters in the area. You can explore this neighborhood's history on Main Street, which is lined with historical plaques and outdoor public art sculptures. In addition, you'll find local boutiques and independent producers in this neighborhood, including Bumble's Dry Goods and Chela's Restaurant & Taqueria.
Another neighborhood to explore in Ann Arbor is the Northside, which is a bit sleepier and has a mix of modern and historic homes. This area is close to downtown and has a special STEAM-focused elementary school. If your children are creative or engineering-oriented, you should consider sending them to this school.
Weather
Ann Arbor has a temperate climate, and the best time to visit is from May to September. The summer months are bustling with events and festivals. Summer weather is also great for outdoor activities. During the American Downtown Festival, visitors can enjoy food, art, music, and crafts. The city's average temperature is a comfortable 26 degrees Celsius in July.
The city of Ann Arbor is located in Michigan. It is served by the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. If you're flying to Ann Arbor, you can check out the weather forecast for a 14-day period. You can also view the average weather by month in Ann Arbor. This information can help you plan your trip. It can also help you determine what kind of clothes to pack, as the weather can change based on the season.
Winters in Ann Arbor are cold, with lows in the mid-twenties, and highs in the mid-thirties. In fact, January can reach as low as 19 degrees, with the average high of 31 degrees. However, the warmer months, like April, bring temperatures in the 60s.
