Ann Arbor Michigan: 21 FUN Things to Do! Must-See Destinations, Museums, Kerrytown, Favorite Restaurants, Architecture, and Scenic Hiking Trails
Article: Ann Arbor Michigan: 21 FUN Things to Do! Must-See Destinations, Museums, Kerrytown, Favorite Restaurants, Architecture, and Scenic Hiking Trails
Ann Arbor Michigan is one of my favorite towns to explore! Here's why you need to visit this vibrant collage town! There are so many fun things to do, Ann Arbor restaurants to enjoy, and parks to wander. Oh, and Ann Arbor is part of our 7 Day Michigan Itinerary!
- You can soak up the rich history of the city by ogling the fantastic architecture within the gorgeous University of Michigan campus.
- Visit exciting Ann Arbor museums
- See a gorgeous Ann Arbor Botanical Gardens
- Indulge in outstanding Ann Arbor restaurants and best places to eat!
- Explore everything this exciting city has to offer! We've got you!!
Let's GO!!!
But First, Ann Arbor Fun Facts!
- One of the most known facts about Ann Arbor is that it is home to the University of Michigan. Nicknamed "The Big House", the University of Michigan's football stadium is the largest football stadium in the United States. Plus, did you know it is the second largest stadium in the world?
- The University of Michigan Wolverines play at the 107,500-seat stadium drawing loyal fans from the students, community and alumni. Try to catch a game this fall for one heck of a good time!
- As of 2022, the population of Ann Arbor is 119,875 making it the 5th largest city in Michigan.
- The University of Michigan is Ann Arbor's largest employer, accounting for nearly 10 percent of the work force. Makes sense as the University of Michigan has 35,000 students! The majority of remaining jobs are split between manufacturing, health care, automotive, information technology, and biomedical research fields.
- Here's another interesting fact: 77% of Ann Arbor residents hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher. That means there's a bunch of smart cookies running around Ann Arbor!
Did You Know? There is an Incredible Dam, Scenic Walking Trails, Bridges Over Water, and Must-see Museums in Ann Arbor?
Our Top 9 Favorite Ann Arbor Restaurants
Here are a few of our favorite Ann Arbor restaurants and places to eat! Check them out!
1. Zingerman's Roadhouse in Ann Arbor
Zingerman's Roadhouse - 2501 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor, MI
So, Chris and I just experienced all that is Zingerman's Roadhouse...twice. Let me just say, the experience was 5 stars. Not only was the food quality excellent but the servers were beyond friendly and the atmosphere was very homey. Read More About Our Exceptional Experience!...
2. Gandy Dancer in Ann Arbor MI
Gandy Dancer: 401 Depot St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Gandy Dancer is an elegant restaurant within a beautifully restored 1886 Michigan Central Depot. Getting a table along the long expanse of windows at the back of the restaurant is treat! Plus, if you are lucky enough, you can watch the Amtrack trains passby!
This stunning architectural landmark and restaurant is definitely worth the visit! There area several dining areas within the restaurant so you will definitely find a spot that fits your needs!
I ordered the fish tacos below and loved them. Chris, across from in the photo below, ordered chicken topped with artichokes and mushrooms with a side of mashed potatoes. YUMMY!
3. Blue Tractor BBQ and Brewery in Ann Arbor
Blue Tractor BBQ and Brewery, Ann Arbor
Blue Tractor BBQ and Brewery - 207 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI
First off, try not to lick the pic above, it will muck up your screen...and won't be nearly as satisfying! This bbq place in Ann Arbor ROCKS!
We LOVED the ribs and the sauce so much we bought two bottles!! One of the sweet and one mustard! The ribs were tender, the fries were really crispy and yummy and I also ordered the root vegetables. YUMMY!
I also loved that they source their food locally. It's awesome to support local farmers and merchants!
4. Adventura in Ann Arbor
Adventura Restaurant Mural
Adventura - 216 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI
Can you say tapas, paella, wine & cocktails served in a really cool contemporary space? They are known for their amazing churros with dipping sauce! OMG! So good!
5. Savas - Incredible Atmosphere and Fresh Ingredients
Savas - 216 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI
We really enjoy the atmosphere, very friendly service and super fresh food at Savas. Their ingredients are locally sourced as much as possible, which I love. I try to eat here during the Art Fair! We think this restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Ann Arbor!
Update: I've since eaten here three times and have never been disappointed! It's a great spot for drinks and dessert or lunch like I had below! Once with Chris and another time with a friend!
6. Detroit Street Filling Station in Ann Arbor
Detroit Street Filling Station - 300 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
My friend Elizabeth and I greatly enjoy eating outside at the Detroit Filling Station in the fall...temps are cooler and the trees are changing! It's steps from the Wednesday and Saturday farmers market and Kerrytown markets.
Loved my Lumberjack Salad! I eat very light while traveling and this vegetarian dish was perfect.
I like that you can place your order (and tip) by phone right at the table and pay with Apple Pay! We really enjoyed the Lumberjack salad and Pad Thai.
7. Cupcakes and Coffee Drinks at Bakehouse 46
SO, my friend Jenny and I ALWAYS pop into Bakehouse 46 during the Ann Arbor Art Fair. I think we have enjoyed cupcakes in this location for the past 7 years! It's a great place to get coffee drinks, yummy sweet cupcakes and sit for a bit to cool off.
This luscious bakery is also located in Rochester Hills! Chris and I enjoyed an apple cider and donuts while enjoying the Christmas lights this past November.
8. Totoro Japanese Restaurant on S. State Street in Ann Arbor
Location: 215 S State St #2031, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
If you love fast fresh sushi, we enjoy eating at Totoro. The service is very friendly, you can cool off on a hot summer day and enjoy fresh meals.
9. Black Pearl Seafood and Martini Bar
Location: 302 South Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
You gotta check out the Black Pearl Seafood and Martini Bar's craft cocktails and wine list. I love that they utilize locally-sourced ingredients as often as possible in their dinner menu. Black Pearl Seafood and Martini Bar's Harvest Salad is my always my go-to and if I'm feeling feisty I'll order their Atlantic Misoyaki Salmon or Fish Tacos. It's all so yummy. They are in a perfect location during the Ann Arbor Art Fair.
8 Fun things to do in Ann Arbor Michigan
There are so many hiking trails, museums, parks, farmers markets and fun things to do in Ann Arbor!
1. Ann Arbor Art Fair
Ann Arbor Art Fair - held every July (grab the date here), my friend Jenny and I have been going to this art fair for at least 15 years. We never miss it, no matter if it's raining or 105 degrees. Which it usually is. I have never been hotter in my life than at the Ann Arbor Art Fair. But it's worth it to see and buy the best art in the Nation all in one place!
Keep Reading: More About the Ann Arbor Art Fair!
2. Go for a Scenic Walk at Barton Dam
Barton Dam is a lovely place to go walking, see the dam and enjoy quiet moments along the river. The University of Michigan Rowing team also practices in this area, so if you are lucky enough, you can see them pass under this bridge!
There is free gravel parking near the dam.
Let's GO! I love that the entire pathway is paved. There is a small gravel parking lot at the Barton Nature Area and then walk the 1 mile round trip to the dam.
You will pass over bridges that are lovely in the summer and fall!
Climb Several Stairs to The Top of the Dam For Incredible Views!
At the top of the dam you can see the high difference of the lake and the river on each side of the dam. We are guessing about 30 feet difference!
Also, once you reach the top of the dam, there is a scenic path along the lake! What a fun thing to do in Ann Arbor Michigan!
3. Take Some Selfies at Graffiti Alley on Liberty Street
Graffiti Alley - Liberty Street, Ann Arbor.
If you are a lover of good graffiti like I am, you need to check out the graffiti alley on Liberty street in Ann Arbor. I spent some serious time there photographing all the colorful graffiti. Read More...
4. Golf, Walk and Play at Hudson Mills Metropark
Hudson Mills Metropark - 8801 N Territorial Rd, Dexter, MI 48130
This 1,549-acre outdoor space rocks! Not only does it have an 18-hole, par-71 golf course but it also has two 24-hole disc golf courses! The Metropark has basketball, volleyball, softball and soccer fields.
Golf not for you? How about a 3-mile loop paved hike-bike trail? In addition, the five-mile West River Trail connects to the Hudson Mills loop so you can bike or hike to downtown Dexter where you can catch dinner or some entertainment.
Other amenities include several picnic shelters that can be rented, children's play areas, a canoe camp, a group camp and shuffleboard courts.
If you are looking for winter entertainment, Hudson Mills Metropark offers groomed cross-country ski trails There is an entry fee per vehicle.
Tip: Walkers, bicyclists, and inline skaters can enjoy free access to all Metroparks by entering through the park roads and hike/bike trails.
5. Argo Cascades
Argo Cascades - Love tubing, rafting and kayaking? Ann Arbor offers a chance to get on the Huron river during a beautiful spring or summer day. The most popular river trip is a 3.7 mile course that travels through the heart of the city.
Boat rentals are available through Argo Park Livery at 1055 Longshore Dr., Ann Arbor, MI. Boat rentals begin in May.
6. Kerrytown Ann Arbor
Kerrytown Markets: 407 N 5th Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Kerrytown Market & Shops features a wide selection of specialty markets, unique gift shops, cooking classes, groceries, food markets and dining. It's definitely a fun indoor space to wander for a couple of hours!
7. Ann Arbor Farmers Market
Ann Arbor Farmers Market: 315 Detroit Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is held year round for produce, gifts, flowers and goods.
May-December: Saturdays & Wednesdays 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
January-April : Saturdays 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
8. Explore Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum
Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum - 1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI
The University of Michigan's Matthaei Botanical Gardens includes botanical gardens, natural areas with beautiful trails and a wetland boardwalk. Be sure to check out the several research-quality habitats. The River Landing is a great spot to enjoy your lunch while watching canoes pass, wildlife or just enjoying the beauty of the river.
Visiting in the winter? Something is always blooming year-round at the botanical gardens and arboretum. There are events throughout the year and children's program. Definitely check it out and plan for 2-3 hours for your visit.
9. Walk and Photograph Kensington Metro Park!
Kensington Metropark is located 25 miles north of Ann Arbor. Kensington Metropark...a place that will blow your mind! This park has plenty to see with nature trails and friendly wildlife, Click here to see why you need to go!
Our Favorite 3 Ann Arbor Museums
There are some fantastic museums in Ann Arbor, Michigan! It's some of the best things to do in Ann Arbor!
1. Ann Arbor Art Museum
University of Michigan Museum of Art
The University of Michigan Museum of Art - 525 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
This awesome museum displays works from around the globe and spanning centuries.
University of Michigan Museum of Art
At 94,000 sq ft, the University of Michigan Museum of Art is one of the largest university art museums in the United States. We had a fantastic time during our visit!!
University of Michigan Museum of Art
University of Michigan Museum of ArtIsn't this room incredible? I could move right in!
2. Kelsey Museum of Archeology
The Kelsey Museum of Archaeology is a museum of archaeology located on the University of Michigan central campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Kelsey Museum of Archeology: 434 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
The Kelsey Museum of Archeology is an incredible museum to visit. Plus, it's free!
3. University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History: 1105 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
This incredible museum is Free to visit!
There's so many areas of interest within the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History! So many fossils, dinosaurs, microorganisms and interactive areas within the museum. You will love it, I promise!
University of Michigan Hospital
University of Michigan Hospital
University of Michigan Hospital - I know it's a little weird that I listed a hospital, but unfortunately, things happen while traveling Michigan that require serious medical attention. It's best to be prepared.
My husband and I have both personally experienced accidents or medical care requiring extended hospital stays and evaluations in which we requested the expert care of the doctors at the University of Michigan Hospital. Read More of my detailed account...
Famous People From Ann Arbor
BONUS! I couldn't resist providing incredibly useful facts that will most definitely enrich your life...such as, famous/well known people that were born or went to school in Ann Arbor!
- Ann Coulter (politics, U of M law school graduate)
- Bill Ford (previous CEO for Ford Motor Company)
- Former President Gerald Ford-(Ann Arbor was his hometown!)
- Bob Seger (musician, Pioneer High School grad)
- Bob Woodruff (ABC Nightly News anchor, U of M graduate)
- Cherry Chevapravatdumrong (writer for the hit show, Family Guy, grew up here)
- Iggy Pop (musician, grew up here!)
- James Earl Jones (actor-Darth Vader, U of M grad. (Chris is very excited about this!)
- James Gaines (editor of Time magazine, U of M graduate)
- Jim Abbott (major-league baseball player, U of M graduate)
- Jim Buckmaster (CEO of Craigslist, born and raised here)
- Kenny G (musician, he really needs no introduction)
- Kelly Johnson (Engineer, U of M graduate) Started Skunk Works, contributed to F-117, U2, and Blackbird family of aircraft
- Larry Page (co-creator of Google, U of M graduate)
- Lucy Liu (actress, U of M graduate. HUGE fan!)
- Madonna (U of M student)
- Mike Wallace (journalist, U of M graduate)
- Selma Blair (actress, U of M grad)
- Taproot (band heralding from Ann Arbor)
- Tom Brady (awesome football player, U of M grad)
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