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An Ann Arbor street in winter

Ann Arbor—often abbreviated as AA or A2—is a picturesque city surrounding the University of Michigan. It has a strong bent toward the arts, and an attractive and pedestrian-friendly downtown. Visitors enjoy the city's wonderful sidewalk cafe dining, unique shops, lots of bookstores, and abundant cultural opportunities.

Ann Arbor is in Michigan 35 miles (56 km) north of the Ohio border and 45 miles (72 km) west of Detroit, near where the furthest exurban fringes give way to country and small towns. In 2019, the city had a population of about 120,000 people, and thousands of visitors come to town for football games and various festivals.

Understand

Ann Arbor
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See Ann Arbor's 7 day forecast
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Looking across S. University Street at the outside of the Law Quadrangle

Ann Arbor is centered on the University of Michigan. The U of M campus intermingles with downtown, and the whole area is walkable, though day buses run between the campuses and the central business district. Toyota, General Motors, Ford, Thomson, Google, and Domino's have a major presence in the area. The university is well known for its medical school complex.

Farther out, the city fades into urban sprawl (a mall and business parks in the south), then countryside dotted with towns, and to the east, Detroit suburbs. Bus routes beyond the city limits, except in the direction of Ypsilanti, are lacking; you'll want a car or bike unless you have several hours to spare. On some autumn Saturdays, transport is difficult as 100,000-odd people pour in for university football games.

Ann Arbor, or Tree town, is, as one might expect, full of trees; they line the streets, and in summer from the air, or year-round in Google Earth, all that can be seen is a green swath with a few buildings sticking out. (In the early 20th century, after having leveled the forest that once occupied the area, the city instituted an aggressive tree-planting program that's since borne fruit.)

The city was founded in 1824 as "Annarbour", named after the two founders' wives (Ann Allen and Mary Ann Rumsey) and an arbor of burr oak trees on the village site (although some have theorized that the name arose from an arbor of roses or grapes).

Like most of Michigan, summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures occasionally hitting 90 °F (32 °C), but averaging in the mid 80s. Winters are fairly normal for the lower Great Lakes region, which enjoys 4 seasons. It starts to be chilly in late October and it begins to warm up again in mid-March (but the occasional early April snowfall is not unheard of!) Average winter temperatures are generally in the range of 30 °F (−1 °C) and in January temps can dip below 20 °F (−7 °C), or even lower if it's windy. Summers can get quite hot; in July and early-August it can hit high into the 90s with high humidity.

Downtown is a solid block of restaurants and art galleries. The university hosts cultural events, and venues such as the Michigan Theater host first-run independent films and high-profile music groups. Several good independent bookshops are located here, and the Ann Arbor Art Fair draws over half a million visitors each summer.

Get in

Map
Map of Ann Arbor

By car

Ann Arbor is bounded by I-94 (between Detroit and Jackson) on the south and west, US-23 (between Flint and Toledo, Ohio) on the east, and M-14 (which leads to Detroit's western suburbs and I-96) on the north. From Toledo and other points south of Ann Arbor, take US-23 north; from Detroit, the airport, and points east, take I-94 west (or I-96 west to M-14 west); from Chicago and points west, take I-94 east; from the north, take US-23 south. There is ample paid parking downtown, but very little is on the curb (most is in parking garages). An option is to use the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) park and ride lots, which lie on the outskirts of Ann Arbor. There are five such lots with free parking around the city, and bus service to each.

By plane

The nearest major airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW IATA), about 25 minutes away. The best way to get to downtown Ann Arbor is the Michigan Flyer (see below), but there are also several shuttle services (also below) that offer pre-booked trips for $30-35 one-way and $55-60 round-trip, with the cost per person decreasing as the size of the group increases, that will take you to any location in Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas. Uber will also pick up and drop off between Ann Arbor and Detroit airport, and can be much cheaper than a cab, $25-30 each way. There are quite a lot of airport shuttle services[dead link], but the following will give you a place to start:

By train

See also: Rail travel in the United States
  • 2 Ann Arbor station, 325 Depot St. daily, 7AM-midnight; ticketing is available from 7:15AM-11:30PM. The station is within walking distance of downtown, just beyond the Kerrytown district. You can also take bus route 1 to downtown, and there are usually taxis waiting outside the station. Ann Arbor station (Q4766212) on Wikidata Ann Arbor station on Wikipedia (updated Oct 2023)
  • Amtrak also runs thruway bus connections to the Toledo station for connections further east on the Lake Shore Limited (Boston & New York) and the Capitol Limited (Washington DC).

By bus

  • Greyhound, Amtrak Station, Ann Arbor (Amtrak Station, 325 Depot St), ☏ +1 734 662-5511. M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa Su 9AM-4:30PM. The bus station is at the Amtrak Station. Detroit is a little over 1 hour away via bus; a one-way ticket costs $7–8, round-trip is $13–15. Chicago is 5 to 6½ hours away; a one-way ticket is $34–37, round-trip is $65–70. (Tickets booked in advance are much cheaper.). (updated Jan 2022)
  • Megabus, toll-free: +1-877-462-6342. Service available to Ann Arbor from Chicago and Toledo; fares start at $1. Buses arrive and depart at the University of Michigan's State Street Commuter Park & Ride lot. The lot is on the west side of South State Street about 0.5 mile north of Eisenhower Parkway. The bus stop is on the east side of the parking lot between the entrance and exit. Take AATA route 36 (weekdays only) to campus and downtown. As of Jan 31, 2022, Megabus no longer operates to & from Ann Arbor.
  • Michigan Flyer, toll-free: +1-888-643-5637. Bus service from Detroit Metro Airport to East Lansing, MI via Ann Arbor. The main public transit connection between Michigan's two large state universities. Connects with the Ann Arbor Transit Authority 36 route at the Sheraton. 
  • D2A2, ☏ +1-517-333-0400. Express bus service between Ann Arbor and Detroit. 
  • Indian Trails, ☏ +1-989-725-5105. Bus service from the Blake Transit Center to St. Ignace via Jackson, Lansing, Mt. Pleasant, Gaylord, Petoskey, and Mackinaw City. 

Get around

Downtown Ann Arbor is not large, so it's easy to get around just by walking. In fact, free parking is almost nonexistent, especially when the town is full of students, so you'll probably prefer to walk anyway. Occasionally you'll find an unused parking meter; you'll have to feed it money between 8AM-6PM on weekdays and Saturdays, otherwise they're free. There are parking lots and buildings scattered around downtown; they're free on Sundays, otherwise you can generally expect to pay around 80 cents to $1 per hour.

The Greyhound Bus Station in Ann Arbor

By bus

  • Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA), 331 S Fourth Ave, ☏ +1 734 973-6500, +1 734 996-0400. M-F 6:30AM-11:30PM, Sa Su 8AM-7PM, depending on the route.. Provides bus service in and around Ann Arbor and downtown Ypsilanti. Adult fares for regular AATA routes are $1.50 each way (free for U-M faculty, staff and students), and the Link is free to ride. Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (Q4766233) on Wikidata Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority on Wikipedia (updated May 2010)
  • University of Michigan Buses. Most commonly used by students traveling between the different campuses to and from classes, run on weekday (full) and weekend (reduced) schedules year-round, except for Thanksgiving day Thursday and Friday, Christmas day, and New Year's day. The routes connect the North, Central, and South campuses. Free. 

By taxi

Ann Arbor has several reliable 24-hour taxicab companies. You can't hail a cab from the sidewalk, although there are certain spots in town where they often hang out waiting for passengers, notably in front of the Michigan Union on State Street, and the Federal Building on Liberty Street. Uber and Lyft both have a large presence in Ann Arbor and are often far cheaper than a traditional taxi, especially off-peak

See

Michigan Theater on East Liberty St.
  • 1 Downtown Ann Arbor. Most of the shops and restaurants line State, Liberty, and Main streets, with the quality becoming more upscale as you approach Main. The other popular student hangouts are along South University street. A few blocks north of downtown is the historic Kerrytown district, full of remodeled old homes and pleasant shopping. 
  • 2 Michigan Theater, 603 E Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 668-8397, +1 734 668-TIME (8463). A restored 1928 cinema, complete with two organs, one of them a vintage 1927 pipe organ. The theater shows mainly independent and foreign films, with special classic-film showings throughout the year. The organ is often played before performances, and during the Michigan Theater's special silent-film showings. The main auditorium also hosts other events throughout the year, particular musical groups and comedy shows, many fairly well-known. Michigan Theater (Q6837760) on Wikidata Michigan Theater (Ann Arbor, Michigan) on Wikipedia 
  • 3 State Theater, 233 S State St, ☏ +1 734 761-8667. An art-deco cinema from 1942, the State Theater works in conjunction with the Michigan Theater, and often plays films that have stopped showing at the Michigan. State Theatre (Q7603566) on Wikidata State Theatre (Ann Arbor, Michigan) on Wikipedia 
  • 4 The Ark, 316 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 761-1451. A nonprofit, intimate music club with 400 seats, which usually hosts folk/rock performers. Private club liquor license (membership required for liquor purchase). The Ark (Q7714251) on Wikidata The Ark (folk venue) on Wikipedia 
Michigan Stadium
  • 5 Michigan Stadium (The Big House), 1201 S Main St. Nicknamed the "Big House", the U-M stadium is the largest football stadium in America, with a seating capacity of 109,901. Home games are played in autumn on the well-known "Football Saturdays", when thousands of visitors clog the Ann Arbor streets to watch the Wolverines (or their opponents) play. Michigan Stadium (Q1640118) on Wikidata Michigan Stadium on Wikipedia (updated Nov 2018)
  • 6 The University of Michigan Law School Quadrangle (on South University Street between State Street and Tappan Street). The Law School's "Quad", nationally renowned for its serene environment and beautiful gothic-style architecture, is just south of the center of campus. Built in the early 20th century, the Quad consists of Hutchins Hall — the main law school building — the reading room and the U-shaped Lawyer's Club. The reading room (open to visitors) is an enormous cathedral-like building with stained glass windows featuring the colors of major universities in the US and around the world. The underground law library is naturally lit by enormous windowed shafts just beyond the Quad. The Quad is a grassy open space ringed by trees and seasonal flower beds. During the warmer seasons, students relax and toss the ball around, or sit and study in the Quad, making it an integral part of the Law School. Many locals consider the Law Quad to be the most beautiful part of Ann Arbor. 
  • 7 University of Michigan Diag (between N University Street and S University Street). The heart of the University of Michigan's Central Campus, the Diag is the main quadrangle around which most of the key buildings on campus are arranged. Its name comes from the primary walkway that runs from the northwest to southeast corners of the Diag. In the middle of the Diag, just in front of the graduate library, is a brick courtyard with a brass M in the center; according to student legend, if you step on the M during your first semester at the university, you are doomed to fail your first exam. The Diag is often used for demonstrations, booths or student fairs, and is a popular hangout in warm weather. The Diag (Q7730055) on Wikidata The Diag on Wikipedia 
  • 8 The Ann and Robert H. Lurie Tower (Lurie Tower), at the center of the North Campus of the University of Michigan. A 165-foot tall structure which houses an operational carillon. The tower is open to visitors when the bells are being played, with two floors accessible by elevator. The top floor allows the visitors to see the carillonneur playing, while the lower floor provides a view of the carillon bells, and a skyline view of the Ann Arbor area. The current operational hours are posted at the base of the tower. Lurie Tower (Q6704939) on Wikidata Lurie Tower on Wikipedia 
  • 9 Nichols Arboretum. It's in a secluded plot just east of the University of Michigan Hospital. "The Arb" is a favorite place to enjoy peace and quiet in a setting removed from the bustle and traffic of everyday Ann Arbor. The Arb has no signage, no parking lot of its own, nor any restroom facilities. What it has is an impressive peony garden, many different species of native trees, shrubs, and grasses, and the Huron River runs through it. A gem that's worth seeking out. Nichols Arboretum (Q7026551) on Wikidata Nichols Arboretum on Wikipedia 
  • Domino's Farms, US-23 and Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 930-4425. A large office park in a pastoral location, home to the world headquarters of Domino's Pizza. Visitors will go mostly for one of two attractions: 
    • 10 Ave Maria Fine Art Gallery, 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Dr, ☏ +1 734 930-2514. Tu-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 10AM-2PM, closed Su-M. The largest art gallery in Michigan, specializing in early 20th century and Old World art. 
    • 11 Domino's Petting Farm, 3001 Earhart Rd., ☏ +1 734 998-0182. M-F 9:30AM-4PM, Sa Su 10:30AM-5PM. 15 acres of land with farm animals from around the world, including rare and near-extinct species, like the French Poitou donkey (only 200 reportedly in existence), African watusi cow, Horned Dorset ram, and Tibetan yak. The barn was once part of a working 1925-era farm, but was opened as a petting zoo in 1984. Tours, hay rides and educational presentations available. $5 adults, $4.50 children and seniors. 
  • 12 Matthei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N Dixboro Rd. Just east of Domino's Farms, on Dixboro Road, Matthei Botanical Gardens is operated by the University of Michigan and open to the public. There are trails to stroll, a greenhouse to visit, and plantings to enjoy. Every spring, Matthei hosts a plant sale that is very popular with gardeners. Free. Matthaei Botanical Gardens (Q6789786) on Wikidata Matthaei Botanical Gardens on Wikipedia 

Public art

The Cube, taking a breather between spins

Ann Arbor has a number of public sculptures and murals that can be viewed both on campus and downtown. Of these, several are particularly well-known:

  • 13 The Cube, Maynard Street and E Jefferson Street (Regents Plaza north of the Michigan Union). A 15-foot-tall, 2400-lb glossy black cube created by Tony Rosenthal; there's a similar one in the East Village of New York City. The Cube spins on its axis when pushed. Although Tony Rosenthal cubes often appear identical, the late artist always varied design elements on each of his cubes. Alamo has a distinctive curve element whereas Ann Arbor is more geometric. Alamo (Q4705940) on Wikidata Alamo (sculpture) on Wikipedia 
  • 14 The Wave Field, Hayward Avenue (in the courtyard outside the Francois-Xavier Bagnoud building). Created by Maya Lin, the Wave Field is an earth sculpture, 90 feet by 90 feet square, consisting of a series of fifty grass waves in eight rows. 
  • 15 Alley mural, E Liberty Street, by the Liberty Square parking structure. The alley mural began as a one-man project in the 1980s and became a popular spot for graffiti artists. The city took the spot over in 1999 by hiring artist Katherine Tombeau Cost to paint over the original mural and graffiti with a new 5,000-square-foot mural. The graffiti artists haven't entirely relinquished their claim to it, meaning that Cost's mural has been partially defaced with large bubble lettering, but it's still an interesting (and out-of-the-way) sight. Be sure to seek out the "trippers'" bubble gum wall toward the back. During warmer weather, you'll often find musicians or dancers putting on solo performances in the alley entrance, hoping to glean donations. 
  • 16 Bookstore mural (corner of E Liberty Street and S State Street). Painted in 1984, when the corner location was still occupied by David's Books, this mural depicts the five authorial visages of Woody Allen, Edgar Allan Poe, Herman Hesse, Franz Kafka, and Anaïs Nin. 
  • Painted fixtures, throughout downtown. Fire hydrants and transformers, painted in bright colors by local artists and schoolchildren. 
  • Fairy Doors, throughout downtown. Keep your eyes near the ground for fairy doors-- miniature colorful doors through which fairies can enter local businesses. According to Jonathan B. Wright of urban-fairies.com, the doors began appearing around town in the early 1990s. 

Parks and gardens

A tree supports his fallen comrade in Nichols Arboretum

Ann Arbor has 147 city parks, ranging from less than a block wide to over 100 acres. Some of the more prominent ones include:

  • 17 Nichols Arboretum, 1610 Washington Heights, ☏ +1 734 647-7600. 8AM-8PM. "The Arb" comprises 123 acres of hilly woodland along the Huron River, with collections of North American plants interspersed throughout. Peony garden, prairie, constructed wetland and Appalachian plant collection. At night you can see all of Ann Arbor from the top of the hill. Nichols Arboretum (Q7026551) on Wikidata Nichols Arboretum on Wikipedia (updated Nov 2023)
  • 18 Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N Dixboro Rd, ☏ +1 734 647-7600. The grounds are open daily from 8AM-dusk. Conservatory and gift shop open Tu & Th-Sa 10AM-4:30PM, W 10AM-8PM, closed Mondays. A 300-acre site with outdoor display gardens, a 10,000 square feet (930 m2) conservatory filled with tropical plants, and miles of nature trails. Free (gardens), $5 (conservatory, but free on Fridays from noon-4:30PM). Matthaei Botanical Gardens (Q6789786) on Wikidata Matthaei Botanical Gardens on Wikipedia (updated Nov 2023)
  • 19 Gallup Park, 3000 Fuller Rd, ☏ +1 734 662-9319. A 69-acre park along the Huron River and Geddes Pond, and Ann Arbor's most popular recreation area. Walkways with pedestrian bridges over the water, two playgrounds, picnic areas, open fields, over 3 miles (4.8 km) of asphalt trails. Canoe, kayak and paddleboat rental (canoes can also be taken from the Argo Park livery, 1055 Longshore Drive, +1 734 668-7411, to the Gallup livery). Gallup Park (Q34879633) on Wikidata Gallup Park on Wikipedia 
  • 20 Buhr Park, 2751 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 971-3228. A 39-acre park with picnic areas, children's play area, softball diamond, soccer fields, outdoor tennis courts, 25-yard swimming pool, children's wading pool, outdoor ice arena for public skating and ice hockey, cross-country ski center, and snowmobile trails. Skate rentals available. Buhr Park (Q4986325) on Wikidata Buhr Park on Wikipedia 

Museums

A tornado demonstration in the Hands-On Museum
  • 21 Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E Ann St, ☏ +1 734 995-5439. Nine galleries with more than 250 interactive science demos and exhibits, on topics from physics to health to nature to mathematics. Kids will like it a lot; adults will be fairly entertained. $9 (donations gratefully accepted). Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum (Q4766219) on Wikidata Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum on Wikipedia 
  • 22 Artrain USA, 1100 N Main St, toll-free: +1-800-ART-1971 (278-1971). Check the website to see if the Artrain will be in town during your visit. A traveling art museum, housed in vintage rail cars, that tours the nation but is based in Ann Arbor. Each exhibition tours the country for three to four years, offering creative partnerships with local artists at each stop along the tour. 
  • 23 Cobblestone Farm Museum, 2781 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 994-2928, +1 734 973-7267. Tours offered 10AM-1PM on the last Saturday of the month, beginning in May. On-site gift shop open during tours or by appointment. An 1845 two-family home, notable for its façade made of cobblestones in herringbone rows, now restored and interpreted to give a view of past rural life in Washtenaw County. $2. Cobblestone Farm and Museum (Q5138811) on Wikidata Cobblestone Farm and Museum on Wikipedia 
  • 24 Kempf House, 312 S Division St, ☏ +1 734 994-4898. Tours offered 1PM-4PM on Sundays, September through December and March through June, or by appointment. A restored Greek Revival house museum from 1853; once home to Reuben and Pauline Kempf, prominent Ann Arbor musicians, now offering guided tours and a glimpse into Victorian life in Ann Arbor. $1. Kempf House Museum (Q55316808) on Wikidata Kempf House Museum on Wikipedia 
  • 25 Leslie Science Center, 1831 Traver St, ☏ +1 734 997-1553. Park open daily sunrise to sunset; Critter House open Su noon-3PM. 50 acres of fields, woods and prairie, featuring outdoor, hands-on and discovery-based educational programs. Features an environmentally-friendly Nature House; a Critter House with frogs, turtles, snakes, and rabbits; live birds of prey, including owls, falcons, kestrels, hawks, vultures, and a bald eagle; and a mile-long trail through the Black Pond Woods. Free (donations gratefully accepted). 
  • 26 Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, 1000 Beal Ave, ☏ +1 734 205-0555, . M-F 8:45AM-4:45PM (closed Federal holidays). The Gerald Ford Library collects and preserves the papers from Gerald Ford's presidency, including over 20 million pages of memos, letters, and personal papers. The collection also includes photographs, videotapes, audiotapes, and film. While these materials are by appointment only, there are free exhibits in the lobby on the life of President and Mrs. Ford, as well as a 20-minute film, narrated by President Ford. The Library hosts free evening events - author talks and programs by notable individuals. Free. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library (Q3026274) on Wikidata Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library on Wikipedia 
  • 27 Argus Museum, 525 West William St. Free. Argus Museum (Q14716063) on Wikidata Argus Museum on Wikipedia (updated Jan 2020)

University of Michigan Museums

Open to the public
An Australopithecus skull at the Natural History Museum
  • 28 University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (Exhibit Museum of Natural History), 1109 Geddes Ave, ☏ +1 734 764-0478. M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM. Exhibits on natural sciences and anthropology, including prehistoric life, Michigan wildlife, Native American and other cultures, and rock and mineral specimens. Free (donations gratefully accepted). University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (Q7895767) on Wikidata University of Michigan Museum of Natural History on Wikipedia 
  • 29 Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, 434 S State St, ☏ +1 734 764-9304. Tu-F 9AM-4PM, Sa Su 1PM-4PM, closed Mondays. Galleries featuring nearly 100,000 artefacts from Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Near Eastern civilizations. Free (donations gratefully accepted). Kelsey Museum of Archaeology (Q1738346) on Wikidata Kelsey Museum of Archaeology on Wikipedia 
  • 30 University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA), 525 S State St, ☏ +1 734 764-0395, +1 734 763-UMMA (8662). Building hours: daily 8AM-midnight; gallery hours: Tu-W 10AM-5PM, Th F 10AM-10PM, Sa 10AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM. Collections of African, American, Asian, European, and Middle Eastern art; modern and contemporary artwork; prints, drawings and photographs; and frequent rotating collections. Gift shop on-site. Free ($5 donation suggested). University of Michigan Museum of Art (Q2495870) on Wikidata University of Michigan Museum of Art on Wikipedia 
  • 31 University of Michigan School of Art and Design (Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design), 2000 Bonisteel Blvd, ☏ +1 734 764-0397. M-F 9AM-5PM. Exhibitions by art students and faculty in two galleries on North Campus: the Warren Robbins Graduate Center and the Slusser Gallery. Also check out their small downtown gallery "Work". Free. Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design (Q16975397) on Wikidata Stamps School of Art and Design on Wikipedia 
  • 32 Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry, 1011 N University Avenue (School of Dentistry, room G532). M-F 8AM-6PM. Over 10,000 artifacts focused on the history of dentistry, with particular interest in dental practice and technology in the United States and Michigan since the 18th century. Free. Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry (Q7522128) on Wikidata Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry on Wikipedia 
  • 33 Stearns Collection of Musical Instruments, 1100 Baits Dr, ☏ +1 734 764-0583. M-F 10AM-5PM. Housed in the School of Music, the Stearns Collection holds over 2500 pieces of historical and contemporary musical instruments from all over the world. Free. Stearns Collection of Musical Instruments (Q7605519) on Wikidata Stearns Collection of Musical Instruments on Wikipedia 
  • 34 Detroit Observatory, 1398 East Ann Street 48109, ☏ +1 734 764-3482, . The oldest astronomical observatory in Michigan and 2nd oldest building remaining on campus. Take a free tour of the observatory and learn how it set the stage for The University of Michigan to become a center of science and research. The telescopes at this observatory served to set time for the entire city and keep the trains running on schedule until the development of more reliable timepieces and telecommunications. free. Detroit Observatory (Q4159412) on Wikidata Detroit Observatory on Wikipedia 
Closed to the public

Several of the university's collections are hosted by institutions that are primarily research-oriented, and so generally don't have exhibits on permanent display. However, it may be possible to arrange to view the collections through contacting the curators.

  • 35 Herbarium, 3600 Varsity Dr, ☏ +1 734 764-2407, fax: +1 734 647-5719. Collections of algae, bryophytes, pteridophytes, gymnosperms, monocots, dicots, fungi and lichens. 
  • 36 Museum of Anthropology, 610 E. University Avenue, ☏ +1 734 764-0485, fax: +1 734 763-7783. Archaeological collections of pottery, flaked and groundstone tools, animal bones, ethnobotanical and sediment samples, and accompanying field notes, site and survey maps, photographs, and other relevant documents and records; ethnographic collections of pottery, basketry, textiles, wood, and many other materials; and extensive photographic collections. 
  • 37 Museum of Paleontology, 1105 North University Ave, ☏ +1 734 764-0489, fax: +1 734 936-1380. Collections of paleobotany, micropaleontology, invertebrate paleontology and vertebrate paleontology. 
  • 38 Museum of Zoology, 3600 Varsity Drive, ☏ +1 734 764-0476, fax: +1 734 763-4080. Collections of birds, fishes, insects, mollusks, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. 

Do

Packed stands at a Michigan football game
A Hockey game at Yost Ice Arena
  • Current, 212 E Huron Street, ☏ +1 734 668-4044. If you want to know what's going on in town, the best guide to the entertainment scene in Washtenaw County. There's information on music, films, dance and theatre events, poetry and novel readings, lectures, art exhibits and festivals, as well as restaurant reviews and general information about the town. If you're interested in the Ann Arbor arts scene, this should be one of the first things you pick up; one easy spot to find copies is outside the Michigan Theatre on E Liberty Street. 
  • Michigan Wolverines, ☏ +1 734 764-0247. Ann Arbor is a college town, and this fact is perhaps no more prevalent than on game day (particularly football where the stadium fills to the largest capacity in the entire nation). UM has one of the most accomplished and competitive athletic programs in the nation. No visit is complete without taking in at least one Michigan sporting event. The football program has won more games in its history than any other Division I FBS program, and sells out every game at "The Big House", capacity 109,901. The men's ice hockey program is a national powerhouse, winning an NCAA record 9 national championships, and packing a boisterous 6,377 sellout crowd into historic Yost Ice Arena. In 2010, the hockey team took its home leg of its annual rivalry with Michigan State (located in East Lansing) to Michigan Stadium, setting up a rink in the middle of the football field. The game drew a crowd of nearly 105,000 (turnstile count), setting an all-time record for the sport. Michigan also has a strong tradition in men's basketball, swimming, baseball, softball, field hockey, gymnastics, cross country and track. Other teams include women's basketball, golf, men's and women's lacrosse, rowing, soccer, diving, tennis, volleyball, water polo, and wrestling. Michigan Wolverines (Q3174102) on Wikidata Michigan Wolverines on Wikipedia 
  • Blue Karaoke, 404 W Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 302-3673. M-Th 6PM-4AM, F-Sa 5PM-5AM, Su 5PM-4AM. 9 private, sound-proofed rooms for groups of 2-30. Over 10,000 song selections in seven different languages. Reservations encouraged, especially for larger parties and weekend nights. $35-100 per hour. 
  • 1 Pinball Pete's, 1214 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 213-2502. Large video arcade featuring pinball machines, air hockey, pool tables, shot clock basketball and football, ticketed games, Dance Dance Revolution, and classic arcade games from the 1980s as well as popular new fighting games. 
  • 2 Planet Rock, 82 Aprill Dr, ☏ +1 734 827-2680. M-Tu, W F 3PM-10PM, Th 3PM-11PM, Sa 11AM-8PM, Su 10AM-6PM. Over 22,000 sq ft of climbing terrain, with 50-ft walls, a motorized climbing wall, three bouldering areas and adventure racing including rappelling. Day passes $15, climbing lessons $39-50. 
  • Zap Zone, 2809 Boardwalk St, ☏ +1 734 930-6670. M-Th 4PM-10PM, F 3PM-midnight, Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-9PM. Multi-level laser tag and an arcade. Laser tag $7, bumper cars $3. 
  • Canoeing. Popular in the area through the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. 
  • Kensington Beach. 20 minutes north of Ann Arbor. 
  • 3 Play the Bells in the Tower at Kerrytown, 407 N Fifth Ave (Next door to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market), ☏ +1 734 369-3107. Sa 10:30AM, W F noon. Play the charming melodies of the Kerrytown Chime — a seven ton, world class musical instrument made up of 17 bells in a tower. Choose from over 100 songs. Play by number. Kerrytown Market and Shops is one of the only places in the world where such an instrument is accessible to the public. It is easy and tons of fun for all ages. Free. 
  • 4 Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr, ☏ +1 734 213-1600. With three permanent indoor ice rinks under one roof, this is the perfect place to practice your hockey or figure skating skills, or just go for recreational skating. Ann Arbor Ice Cube (Q4766221) on Wikidata Ann Arbor Ice Cube on Wikipedia 
  • 5 University of Michigan Yost Ice Arena, 1000 South State St, ☏ +1 734 764-4600, fax: +1 734 764-4597, . Home to the university's collegiate ice hockey teams. Also specializes in hockey and figure skating programs for the general public. Yost Ice Arena (Q8056385) on Wikidata Yost Ice Arena on Wikipedia 
  • Ann Arbor Yoga and Meditation (Ema Stefanova, yoga therapist), ☏ +1 734 665-7801. Private yoga therapy by appointment for health and wellness. For full schedule of general classes,workshops, retreats and in-depth yoga studies visit website. 
  • Ann Arbor Bicycle Club, Downtown. 9PM-4AM. Ann Arbor Bicycle Club is a weekly bike cruise that happens from the early spring until the late fall. It is made up of many 'Townies' and U of M students. Enjoy the fresh night air an see the town from a different angle. On this pleasantly paced ride you will visit local parks and other public hangouts that most overlook. Bring your bike, bring your beer, and bring your friends. But don't bring yo' kids! Free. 
  • 6 Paint and Pour Underground, 220 S. Main Street, Basement level (Located off Liberty & Main, directly beneath Elmo's Main St. T-Shirts (blue awning)), ☏ +1 734 720-9777, . M-F 6-10PM, Sa Su 11AM - 10PM. Bring your favorite beverages and snacks to an art studio where an instructor will walk you, step-by-step, through replicating that day's featured painting. Classes run for approximately 2-3 hours with frequent sip breaks. You will leave with a painting that is uniquely yours. $25-55 per painter. 
  • 7 Contra dance, 1st and 3rd Saturdays: Pittsfield Union Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 2nd Saturdays: Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse Dr. Lesson at 7PM, dance 7:30PM-10:30PM. Ann Arbor is a regional center for contra dance, an easy-to-learn social folk dance with mixed European origins. $10 suggested donation. (updated Apr 2024)

Events

The Tempest at Shakespeare in the Arb
Part of the South University Art Fair
  • 8 Ann Arbor Film Festival, 203 E Ann St, ☏ +1 734 995-5356. Held during six days in late March at the Michigan Theater (603 E Liberty Street). The oldest festival of its kind in North America, showcasing over 100 independent and experimental films and videos annually, since 1963. Over 20 prizes are awarded to the best films. Passes are available for single screenings, single days, weekends or the entire week. Ann Arbor Film Festival (Q4766218) on Wikidata Ann Arbor Film Festival on Wikipedia 
  • University Musical Society, ☏ +1 734 764-2538. The University Musical Society annually presents a series of concerts by world-renowned artists at Hill Auditorium, the Power Center, the Michigan Theater, or Rackham Auditorium. Price varies according to performance. 
  • Hash Bash, University of Michigan Diag near State St and N University St. Held the first Saturday in April. The Hash Bash began when poet John Sinclair was jailed for marijuana possession, leading John Lennon and Yoko Ono to headline a protest rally in Ann Arbor in 1971. Beginning in 1972, it became an annual event to commemorate the occasion and support the reform of marijuana laws. The Hash Bash is a gathering point for thousands of cannabis aficionados from all around, with guest speakers in the Diag attracting large crowds. Given the nature of the event, you probably will see people smoking marijuana; those who do light up tend to take advantage of the difference in fines between the town ($25) and the university ($100 and possible jail time), which basically means that your punishment depends on which side of State Street you stand on. Vendors sell everything from hemp bracelets to "glass art" (actually pipes and bongs, but who's quibbling?), bongo drums are played, and people-watching can be an event in itself. Hash Bash (Q5678826) on Wikidata Hash Bash on Wikipedia 
  • Naked Mile, University of Michigan campus. Once held in mid-April at midnight on the last day of classes. A tradition at the University of Michigan which began in 1986, in which hundreds of students — traditionally graduating seniors, although in practice there's a broader spread — ran across campus naked, while spectators cheered them on, to celebrate the end of the school year. Although it is illegal, it was tolerated by local police until 1998, when they began attempting to strongly discourage continuation of the Naked Mile, fueled in part by concerns over outsiders videotaping the event and selling the recordings online. To avoid being arrested, students often run the Mile in body paint, underwear, or a day earlier than usual. 
  • Ann Arbor Book Festival, 311-315 S State St, ☏ +1 734 369-3366. Held in mid-May. First organized in 2004 to promote reading, heighten awareness of literacy challenges, and showcase the rich culture of the written word in Michigan and beyond. The festival features a bookstore crawl, antiquarian book fair, author readings, symposiums and panels on literacy and writing, tours of the U-M library conservation and preservation lab, and a street festival. 
  • African American Downtown Festival, E Ann St and N Fourth Ave, ☏ +1 734 769-0288, . 10AM-8:30PM. Held the first Saturday in June since 1995. Crafts, merchandise, food, live music. 
  • Taste of Ann Arbor, Main St. Held the first Sunday in June 11AM-5PM. Kiosks along Main Street offer people the chance to sample menu items from over 35 local restaurants. Also includes three stages of live music, dancing and more. Admission free, although tickets to trade goodies ($0.50 per ticket, or $10 for a sheet of 20, with most items ranging between 3-11 tickets apiece). 
  • Shakespeare in the Arb, 1610 Washington Heights, ☏ +1 734 647-7600. Shows begin at 6:30PM. Annual outdoor Shakespearean production since 2001, held on weekends in June. Roving performance requires the actors and audience to shift locations throughout the Arb from scene to scene. Previous productions have included A Midsummer Night's Dream, Much Ado About Nothing, As You Like It and Love's Labour's Lost. $15. Shakespeare in the Arb (Q20710033) on Wikidata Shakespeare in the Arb on Wikipedia 
  • Ann Arbor Summer Festival, 522 S Fourth Ave, Ste B, ☏ +1 734 994-5999. Held from mid-June to mid-July. An annual event since 1983 with different nightly indoor cultural performances: singers, musical bands, dancers, comedians, plays, and other acts including acrobats and animal handlers. 
  • TEDxUofM. Held annually since 2008, the student run satellite TED conference is an awesome showcase of what people associated with the University of Michigan have accomplished. Ticket prices vary and location changes every year. At TEDxUofM you'll be inspired, meet interesting people, and have great discussions. The event is generally held sometime in Spring. Free. 
  • Top of the Park, Ingalls Mall. Held from mid-June to early July. Nightly local and regional live bands, outdoor film screenings at 10PM, and concession booths from eight local eateries. Traditionally this event was held on the upper level of the Fletcher parking structure, next to the Power Center — hence the name — but it has been temporarily moved outside the Rackham School of Graduate Studies. In inclement weather, performances and films may be cancelled. Free. 
  • Ann Arbor Art Fairs, ☏ +1 734 994-5260, toll-free: +1-800-888-9487. One week in late July. W-F 10AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-6PM. Held throughout downtown, four juried art fairs that display and sell art: the original Ann Arbor Street Art Fair along N University; the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair along Main, Liberty, William and State; the State Street Area Art Fair; and the South University Art Fair. In practical terms, it's all one great big fair that takes about a full day to explore if you move quickly and don't look at every booth. Prices are generally rather high, as befitting an art show of this calibre, but there are definitely bargains to be found, as well as some less expensive non-juried booths that tag along for the ride. Loads of concessions, live entertainment, and booths with great sales from local businesses are scattered throughout. During the Art Fair, hotels are generally booked up and parking can be difficult to find, so book a room early (by February or March) and find a spot at one of the park-and-ride stops to catch a bus into downtown. Ann Arbor Art Fairs (Q4766214) on Wikidata Ann Arbor Art Fairs on Wikipedia 

Learn

the University of Michigan Diag
  • 1 University of Michigan, ☏ +1 734 764-1817. A highly-ranked research university with a strong athletics tradition, the University of Michigan has been located in Ann Arbor since 1837 and is deeply intertwined with the town, being one of the major employers in the area. It offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in social sciences, sciences, humanities and arts, engineering, law, business and medicine. The average student population is around 40,000, with about 5,000 faculty members. There are three campuses — North, Central, and South — with downtown Ann Arbor being adjacent to, and somewhat intermingled with, Central Campus. University of Michigan (Q230492) on Wikidata University of Michigan on Wikipedia 

Work

  • The University of Michigan and the infrastructure and support services for it are major employers in Ann Arbor.
  • Google, 112 S Main Street, 2nd floor, ☏ +1 734 332-6500, fax: +1 734 332-6501. Google opened the headquarters of AdWords, their advertising system, in the McKinley Towne Centre building in 2007. 
  • Thomson Reuters, 777 E. Eisenhower, ☏ +1 734 913-3000. Thomson Reuters is an information business for professionals. The healthcare division is headquartered in the 777 building as it's known locally. They employee over 1500 employees with in Ann Arbor between the healthcare and tax divisions, and are the third largest employer in Washtenaw county. The Tax and Accounting division headquarters are located 10 minutes west in Dexter, MI. 
  • Barracuda Networks, 317 Maynard St. Barracuda Networks, Inc. is a privately held company providing security, networking and storage products based on network appliances and cloud services. 

Buy

Bookstores

The book-laden halls of the Dawn Treader

It's been said that Ann Arbor has more bookstores per capita than any other town in the US – certainly a walking tour of downtown will take you past quite a few, although the number is beginning to slowly dwindle. The flagship Borders bookstore was here from 1971 until it closed in 2011.

  • 1 Common Language, 317 Braun Ct, ☏ +1 734 663-0036. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight, Su 11AM-7PM. The only gay-owned-and-operated bookstore in Ann Arbor, specializing in gay, lesbian, and feminist works, with books, magazines, gifts and cards. 
  • 2 Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room, 114 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 665-2757. Specializing in spirituality, psychology and integrative medicine. Also carries gifts, cards, jewelry, crafts, art, music, incense, ritual items, candles, aromatherapy, body tools, and yoga supplies. The tea room, on the second floor, is quite good, though not cheap. 
  • 3 The Dawn Treader, 514 E Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 995-1008. M-Th 11AM-8PM, F Sa 11AM-9PM, Su noon-5PM. A great place to browse – probably has the largest and widest selection of the downtown used bookstores. 
  • 4 Literati Bookstore, 124 E Washington St. General bookstore. Beautifully designed and trendy. Regularly hosts authors and poets for readings and other book related events. 
  • 5 Motte & Bailey, 212 N 4th Ave, ☏ +1 734 669-0451. Specializes in history. 
  • 6 West Side Book Shop, 113 W Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 995-1891. Used and rare books, maps, and photographs. A strong literary bent. 

Music

  • 7 Encore Records, 417 E Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 662-6776. M-Sa 10AM-8PM, Su noon-5PM. One of the best used record stores in the country. Staff have encyclopedic knowledge. 
  • 8 Underground Sounds, 255 E Liberty Suite# 249. M-Th 11AM-8PM, F Sa 11AM-9PM, Su noon-6PM. New records. They have the latest and keep their stock well up to date. 
  • 9 Wazoo Records, 336 1/2 S State St, ☏ +1 734 761-8686. M-F 10AM-8PM, Sa 10AM-6PM, Su noon-6PM. New and used CDs and vinyl. Small but very well-picked selection. 

Art and gifts

Multilingual UM T-shirts at Occasionally
  • 10 16 Hands, 216 S Main St (between liberty & washington on S Main St.), ☏ +1 734 761-1110. M-Th 10AM-6PM, F 10AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-6PM, Su noon-5PM. Offers handmade furniture, lighting, jewelry, wearables, housewares and gifts by artists throughout the United States. Custom orders welcome, greeting cards and free gift wrap. Many Michigan artists. 
  • 11 Dixboro General Store, 5206 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 663-5558. M-Th Sa 10AM-6PM, F 10AM-8PM, Su 11AM-5PM. One of the busiest country gift and furnishing stores in Michigan, located in a historic store in the village of Dixboro. Furniture, candles, collectables, garden decor, tabletops, bath and body supplies, home accessories, lighting, and edible goodies. 
  • 12 Four Directions, 329 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 996-9250. A great gift store offering jewelry, crystals, minerals, fossils, and gifts from around the world. Their jewelry is very pretty and generally at quite reasonable prices. If you want something local to the area, you can find samples of Michigan greenstone aka chlorastrolite (the state gem, from Isle Royale, which is fairly pricey), Petoskey stone (the state stone, usually found loose rather than in jewelry) and native Michigan copper (as bookends or free-flowing verdigris-encrusted sculptures). 
  • 13 Middle Earth, 1209 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 769-1488. SADLY, THIS STORE CLOSED (DUE TO OWNERS RETIRING) SEVERAL YEARS AGO. Wacky and kitschy gifts, home decor, handcrafted contemporary and fashion jewelry, fashion accessories, T-shirts, books, candy and toys. 
  • 14 Motawi Tileworks, 170 Enterprise Dr, ☏ +1 734 213-0017. M-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 10AM-3AM. Low-relief and polychrome tiles, using locally-produced clay and glazes, which can be purchased as individual art pieces or for installation. Guided tours available (free at 11AM every Thursday, or $5 per person for tours of 4 or more people by appointment). 
  • 15 Ten Thousand Villages, 303 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 332-1270. Su-M noon-5PM, Tu-Th 11AM-7PM, F Sa 11AM-9PM. A non-profit retail store staffed by volunteers, featuring fairly-traded handicrafts from around the world. 

Other

Nickels Arcade
  • 16 Downtown Home and Garden, 210 S Ashley St, ☏ +1 734 662-8122. M-Sa 7:30AM-7PM, Su 11AM-4PM. Gardening, greenhouse, cookware, and housewares, in a historic livery stable. 
  • 17 Morgan and York, Fine Wines and Specialty Foods (Big Ten Party Store), 1928 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 662-0798. M-Sa 9AM-9PM, Su noon-6PM. Known as the Big Ten Party Store until 2005, the name change better reflects the quality of the merchandise. Long popular with locals of discriminating taste, Morgan and York is one of the best spots in town to find a broad selection of wines, spirits, and beers, as well as cheeses, imported candies, and other quality foods. 
  • 18 Vault of Midnight, 219 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 998-1413. M-Sa 10AM-10PM, Su 11AM-8PM. Comic books, graphic novels, trade paperbacks, manga, action figures, board games, statues, DVDs, T-shirts, posters, art prints, stickers and toys. The store also hosts art exhibitions, signings, and regular board-game nights with a selection of in-house games. 

Shopping centers

  • 19 Kerrytown Market, 407 N Fifth Ave, ☏ +1 734 662-5008. Over 20 shops and restaurants, including a very nice produce and seafood market. 
  • 20 Ann Arbor Farmer's Market and Artisan Market, 315 Detroit St, ☏ +1 734 994-3276. Spring through Autumn, W Sa 7AM-3PM (Farmer's Market), Su 11AM-4PM (Artisan's Market). Local farmers bring fresh produce, baked goods, and plants to the Farmer's Market for sale at excellent prices, while the Artisan Market features the work of local craftspeople. 
  • 21 Nickels Arcade (between State St and Maynard St S of Liberty St), ☏ +1 734 995-7281. Shops and galleries housed in a historic indoor walkway with a glass atrium-style ceiling, built in 1915 and modelled after a European arcade. Nickels Arcade (Q54557540) on Wikidata Nickels Arcade on Wikipedia 
  • 22 Briarwood Mall, 100 Briarwood Cir, ☏ +1 734 761-9550. M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su 11AM-6PM. Over 125 shops and restaurants. Briarwood Mall (Q4965818) on Wikidata Briarwood Mall on Wikipedia 

Eat

Outdoor dining on Main Street

For a relatively small Great Lakes town, Ann Arbor has a large variety of cheap (and sometimes quirky) eateries (thanks in part to the large student population) such as pizza restaurants, quick Chinese food and lots of sandwich and wrap shops downtown. You'll also notice hot dog and tamale carts on many street corners, particularly in the summer, selling basic fare starting at $1 with complimentary toppings. As alternative to restaurants the regional supermarket Busch's have good salads and sushi.

One thing you won't see much of, however, at least on campus and in the downtown area, are popular nationwide fast-food chains. The impression is that Ann Arbor is proud enough of its small independent restaurants that it has no need for mass-produced french fries (although with rental costs rising in the downtown area, many local restaurants — and shops — are being ousted in favor of wealthier small chains, like Bruegger's and Great Wraps).

For the more refined palate, there's no shortage of fine dining. Between Ann Arbor's vibrant cultural life and its sizeable international population, there seems to be considerable demand for the fancy and the exotic. There are certainly a few restaurants in town that can empty your wallet singlehandedly, but don't let their reputations scare you away: at even the priciest restaurants, there are dishes that you can order for a more modest fee, if you just want to sample the atmosphere. During warmer weather, be sure to check out the eateries on Main Street that offer outdoor sidewalk dining. It's a popular alternative, especially for the locals who have just suffered through six months of winter, and even though you're sitting right by the street, it's more relaxing than you might expect.

If you're looking for an Ann Arbor specialty, the fragel — a raisin bagel that has been deep-fried and rolled in cinnamon sugar — seems to have originated here. Once available all over town, now you can only find them at the Bagel Fragel on Plymouth Rd or certain Paneras.

Budget

  • 1 Asian Legend, 516 E William St Ste A, ☏ +1 734 622-0750. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-10:30PM, Su 11AM-9PM. Taiwanese and Szechuan cuisine, with a separate menu of over 50 traditional Taiwanese dishes. The salt-and-pepper crispy chicken wings are one of their most popular dishes. $4-12. 
  • 2 Ayse's Courtyard Cafe, 1703 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 662-1711. M-F 11AM-2PM, Sa 11:30AM-3PM; M-Th 5PM-8PM, F 5PM-9PM; closed Su. Ann Arbor's only Turkish restaurant, offering soups, salads, pilavs, boreks, lamb, beef, chicken, and many vegetarian stews. $7-10. 
  • 3 Bagel Fragel, 3500I Washtenaw Ave, ☏ +1 734 929-2756, . 6:30AM–3:00PM daily. The only place left in town where you can buy fragels, a delicacy that was created at the (now defunct) Bagel Factory here in Ann Arbor. It's best to go early and get them piping hot. (updated Aug 2021)
  • 4 BTB Burrito, 810 S State St, ☏ +1 734 222-4822. Daily 11AM-4AM. Salads, nachos, burritos, chimichangas, quesadillas and tacos, made with fresh ingredients and fresh salsa. $3 regular-$9 giant. 
  • 5 Bubble Island, 1220 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 222-9013. M-Th 11AM-2AM, F Sa 11AM-3AM, Su noon-2AM. Hot and cold milk tea (black or green), calpico, Thai iced tea, coffee and frozen smoothies, with black or rainbow pearls, mango stars and lychee jellies. Drinks come in a variety of cream-based and fruit-based flavors, with the cream-based taro being especially popular. They also offer snacks like chicken wings, fried foods and mochi ice cream. Students often hang out in the lounge to play board games. $2-$5. 
  • 6 Cafe Felix, 204 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 662-8650. A French-style cafe with the best morning cappuccino in town. Food is great including the evening tapas menu and excellent wine and martini selections. Come sit and read, drink, and people watch. Breads and pastries, soups, salads, omelettes, crepes, gourmet sandwiches and main course croissants. $2–8.50 lunch, $4–9 tapas. 
  • 7 PFC Cafe (People's Food Co-op Cafe), 214 N Fourth Ave, ☏ +1 734 302-7032. M-Sa 7AM-9:30PM, Su 9AM-8PM. Next to the People's Food Coop, this is a vegetarian-friendly hot bar and salad bar and cafe featuring local, organic and fair trade items. The cafe section offers organic fair trade coffee, hot cocoa and hot or iced tea; cookies, cakes and pastries, and locally made sweets. The adjacent café offers soups, salads, hot main courses (by the pound), sandwiches. 
  • 8 China Gate, 1201 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 668-2445. Great food with fast service, and relatively inexpensive. $9. 
  • 9 The Original Cottage Inn, 512 E William St, ☏ +1 734 663-3379. The first pizza restaurant in Ann Arbor, established in 1948. Salads, subs and pasta as well. $6–10, $11–19 specialty. 
  • 10 Earthen Jar, 311 S Fifth Ave, ☏ +1 734 327-9464, fax: +1 734 327-9346. M-Th Sa 11AM-8PM, F 11AM-9PM, closed Su. This tiny restaurant is full of flavor and the only all-vegetarian Indian restaurant in town. Family recipes may surprise. Catering. salad bar $5/lb. 
  • 11 Exotic Bakeries, 1721 Upland Dr., ☏ +1 734 665-4430. M-F 11AM-8PM, Sa 11AM-6PM, closed Su. Featuring Syrian vegan, vegetarian and meat dishes, as well as cakes ($25) and traditional Middle Eastern sweets. $1 baked goods, $5 sandwiches. 
  • 12 The Fleetwood Diner, 300 S Ashley St, ☏ +1 734 995-5502. Daily 24 hours. Because it's Ann Arbor, there are many vegetarian options. You can't miss the shiny metal exterior, and will most likely leave with a story. Try the Hippie Hash, a mixture of potatoes, vegetables and cheese. Can be an interesting adventure at night. $4-7. 
  • 13 Jamaican Jerk Pit, 314 S Thayer St, ☏ +1 734 995-JERK (5375). M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-midnight, Sa 10AM-midnight, Su 11AM-7PM. Jamaican food including soups, salads, patties, seafood, sandwiches, jerk chicken and pork, and more. $5-9. 
  • 14 Jerusalem Garden, 307 S Fifth Ave, ☏ +1 734 995-5060. M-Th 10AM-9PM, F 10AM-9:30PM, Sa 11AM-9:30PM, Su noon-8PM. Palestinian-American owned restaurant very popular for its cheap but tasty falafel. Consistently voted the best Middle Eastern and best cheap eats in Ann Arbor for over a decade. $4-6 sandwiches, $8 combination plates. 
  • 15 Kang's, 1327 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 761-1327. M-Sa 9:30AM-8PM, closed Su. A popular restaurant among Korean students, serving traditional favorites along with some Japanese food. $6. 
  • 16 Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger, 304 S. Ashley, ☏ +1 734-663-4590. M-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su noon-8PM. Despite the official slogan ("Cheaper than food since 1953"), the food's great. Infinitely customizable within the burger-and-fries milieu (plus sandwiches, deep fried vegetables, etc.) Make sure to bring cash, as they may or may not be taking credit cards. They are also known for giving change in interesting denominations (i.e. two-dollar bills and fifty-cent pieces). $5-$10. 
  • 17 Le Dog = La Soup, 306 S Main St., ☏ +1 734 327-0091, +1 734 665-2114. M-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, closed weekends and intermittently during the winter. As the name suggests, they sell hot dogs, but the true star of the show is the rotating selection of 84 homemade soups, of which around 6 are available on any given day. Try the Tuscan squash with blue cheese, the curried winter melon, the pozole or the famous lobster bisque, which is only available on Thursdays and Fridays. Their fresh-squeezed lemon and orangeades are also delicious. $5-7 soup. 
  • 18 Madras Masala, 328 Maynard St, ☏ +1 734 222-9006. M-Th 11:30AM-3PM, F 11:30AM-3PM; M-F 5PM-10PM, Sa noon-10:30PM, Su noon-9:30PM. South Indian, Indo-Chinese and Moghlai dishes, with a daily lunch buffet. The Manchurian cauliflower is delicious, and they have a wide variety of dosas and uttappams. Try the rose milk. $10-12. 
  • 19 No Thai!, 1317 S University Ave, 226 N. Fourth Ave, ☏ +1 734 222-8080, +1 734 213-0808. M-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su noon-10PM. It has quickly become one of the most popular restaurants on campus. Pad Thai is excellent, so expect crowds during lunchtime and dinnertime on the weekends. $8 main, $4 sides. 
  • 20 No Thai!, 1745 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 663-8080, +1 734 213-0808. Fast and simple but good food. $8 main, $4 sides. 
  • 21 New York Pizza Depot, 605 E William St, ☏ +1 734 669-6973. M-Sa 10AM-4AM, Su 11AM-4AM. Considered by some to be the best pizza in town. Pizzas (including stuffed and Chicago-style), calzones, salads, subs, chapatis and main courses. Gets crowded 1:30AM-3AM on Th-Sa nights. The South U location is now closed. $7-$14, $10-22 specialty. 
  • 22 Pita Kabob Grill, 619 E William St, ☏ +1 734 622-8082. M-Sa 11AM-midnight, Su noon-8PM. Middle Eastern salads, sandwiches and traditional dishes at very reasonable prices (most sandwiches are under $6), and the owner is extremely friendly. Their vegetarian pitas are unusually diverse; try the makalee pita (cauliflower, potato, hummus, lettuce, pickles and garlic sauce) and the riz b-harr pita (spicy eggplant, potato, cilantro, garlic, rice, lettuce, tomato and pickles). $3-12. 
  • 23 Namaste Flavours (Raja Rani), 400 S Division St, ☏ +1 734 995-1545. Indian cuisine? 
  • 24 Ray's Red Hots, 629 E University Ave, ☏ +1 734-998-3647. M-F 11AM-8PM, Sa noon-8PM, Su noon-6PM. Dogs. 
  • 25 Rich JC, 1313 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 769-2288. M-F 10:30AM-8:30PM, Sa 11AM-8:30PM; closed Su. Korean food in a casual diner-style setting, and the only place in town where you can get pot bing su (a dessert of ice cream, shaved ice, tropical fruits, sweet beans, rice cake and flavored syrup) in warm weather. $5-9. 
  • 26 Agave Tequila Bar ((previously Sabor Latino)), 211 N Main St, ☏ +1 734 214-7775. M-W 11AM-11PM, Th F 11AM-3:30AM, Sa 9PM-3:30AM, Su 9AM-11PM. Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostadas, enchiladas, tamales, and other Latin American specialties. $2- 9. 
  • 27 Shalimar, 307 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 663-1500. Daily at 11:30AM. Typically cited by locals as the city's all-around best Indian food. Authentic Indian and Tandoori dishes, Indian and domestic beer served. Full bar. Carryout and catering available. 
  • 28 Michigan Creamery, 302 S State St., 1121 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 662-1700. ice cream 
  • 29 Mama Satto Sushi restaurant, 715 N University Ave, ☏ +1 734 213-3044. Very popular among university students. Good sushi at good prices; consequently there can be a wait at lunch. Nice selection of specialty rolls, always fresh. $2–10 maki. 
  • 30 Sushi Town, 740 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 327-8646. M-F 11AM-11PM, Sa 5PM-midnight, Su 5PM-10PM. Appetizers, soup, sushi and sashimi, with a broad selection of rolls and combos. Try the Florida Beach roll (tuna, mango and avocado wrapped with kiwi), the Dynamite roll (special california topped with cooked mixed seafood and spicy sauce), or create your own roll. $2-9. 
  • 31 Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea, 123 W Washington, also in Kerrytown Market, ☏ +1 734 769-2331. A fantastic collection of exotic teas and intricate coffees. Soothing atmosphere, free Wi-fi and great locations. $2-8.50. 
  • 32 Tio's, 401 E Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 761-6650. Daily 10AM-4AM. Appetizers, salads, breakfast dishes, nachos, burritos, fajitas, dinners, desserts, milkshakes, and other Mexican-American favorites. Popular with students for their low prices and late-night delivery. The store also stocks 300 varieties of hot sauce. $2-15. 
  • 33 Totoro, 215 S State St, ☏ +1 734 302-3511. Excellent downtown sushi restaurant, also serving tempura, a wide variety of udon, and bento. $2–11 maki. 
  • 34 Tomokun, 505 E Liberty St, Suite 200, ☏ +1 734-369-2602. Su-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F Sa 11:30AM-2AM. Korean BBQ. $6-13. 
  • 35 University Cafe, 621 Church St, ☏ +1 734 662-7162. M-F 11AM-9:30PM, Sa noon-9:30PM, closed Su. Claimed, by some Korean students, to be the best Korean restaurant in town, with a wide selection of favorites like bibimbap, oh moo rice, spicy main course, stews, noodles and ramen. $5-9. 
  • 36 Washtenaw Dairy, 602 S Ashley St, ☏ +1 734 662-3244. Daily 5AM-10PM. A popular local hangout, the shop carries fresh homemade doughnuts, hand-dipped shakes, malts and ice cream sodas, and over 30 flavors of Stroh's ice cream. It's been around since 1934. 
  • 37 Zamaan Cafe, 3580 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734-213-3350. Very good Middle Eastern food and surprisingly great fries too. (updated Dec 2016)

Mid-range

Regionally-renowned Zingerman's Deli
  • 38 Amadeus, 122 E Washington St, ☏ +1 734 665-8767. An Eastern European cafe with an emphasis on Polish and Hungarian food, and a Viennese patisserie. The pierogies and goulash are delicious, as are their homemade soups. It's best to go for lunch, when the food is practically identical but the prices are much lower. $9–21. 
  • 39 Bewon Korean Cuisine, 3574 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 332-1004. Simple restaurant in strip mall with good Korean food. 
  • 40 Blue Nile, 221 E Washington St, ☏ +1 734 948-4746. Ethiopian cuisine, with both meat and vegetable dishes served in their all-you-can-eat feast options. All meals are served with traditional bread called injera, and Ethiopian coffee and tea are also available. Try the honey wine. If you're on budget, ask for refills, do not order extra things. This place, though reasonable, gets expensive fast. $50 for 2. 
  • 41 Chia Shiang, 2016 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 741-0778. M-Sa 11:30AM-9:30PM, Su noon-8:30PM. Chinese, Taiwanese and Malaysian cuisine and dim sum, with a vast vegetarian and vegan menu. Lots of interesting dishes, like amazing sue rou (a soybean product), Shanghai-style vegetarian salad, stir-fried lima beans with mixed pickled vegetables, and laksa. $6-19. 
  • 42 Heidelberg Restaurant, 215 N Main St, ☏ +1 734 663-7758. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-2AM, Su 3PM-2AM. American and German specialties, including sauerbraten, rouladen, sausages, spaetzle, salads, pasta, sandwiches, beef, poultry and seafood. An upstairs club features nightly entertainment. $6-18. 
  • 43 Marnee Thai, 414 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 929-9933. M-Th 11:15AM-2:30PM 5:30-9:30PM, F 11:15AM-2:30PM 5:30-10PM, Sa 11:15AM-10PM, Su 5:30-9:30PM. A downtown branch of Lotus Thai, featuring a nearly-identical menu. Try the grilled seafood with herbs. 
  • 44 Mediterrano, 2900 S State St, ☏ +1 734 332-9700. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F 11AM-11PM, Sa noon-11PM, Su 10:30AM-9PM. Specializing in the cuisines of the Mediterranean, with appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, seafood, steaks, and regional Mediterranean main courses. Try their tortilla de camarones and Moroccan seabass fufarran. The complimentary taramosalata is excellent, and they're justifiably proud of their bright green extra-virgin olive oil, which you can also buy at the restaurant. $11-23. 
  • 45 Metzger's, 305 N Zeeb Rd, ☏ +1 734 668-8987. M-W 11AM-9PM, Th-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su 11AM-8PM. Traditional German cuisine since 1928. Appetizers, soups, salads, seafood, chicken, American main courses, wursts and platters, sandwiches, German side dishes, desserts, beers and spirits. Traditional German main courses include sauerbraten, rouladen, schnitzel, cabbage rolls and chicken livers. $7-24. 
  • 46 One Bowl Asian Cuisine, 1220 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 747-7006. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F 11AM-11PM, Sa 11:30AM-11PM, Su noon-10PM. Offers Chinese cuisine as well, but Vietnamese is definitely the reason to come here. Excellent dishes include the pho, grilled meat vermicelli, hot pots and the cilantro chicken. Be sure to try the Vietnamese-style coffee. $5-18. 
  • 47 Pacific Rim by Kana, 114 W Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 662-9303. M-F 11:30AM-2:30PM, M-Th 5PM-9PM, F-Sa 5PM-10PM, closed Su. It began as an upscale Korean restaurant called Kana, then the owners branched out into pan-Asian cuisine (largely Korean and Thai) and tweaked the name. Excellent food in a relaxing setting. Be sure to try the homemade, naturally-sweet hot ginger tea. $12-22. 
  • 48 Paesano's, 3411 Washtenaw Ave, ☏ +1 734 971-0484. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F 11AM-midnight, Sa noon-midnight, Su noon-10PM. Family-owned Italian restaurant featuring appetizers, salads, pasta, Italian main courses, desserts, and an award-winning selection of Italian wines. Try their rigatoni with country greens, sausage and hot peppers. $10-23. 
  • 49 Palio, 347 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 930-6100, toll-free: +1-888-456-DINE (3463). M-Th 5PM-10PM, F Sa 5PM-11PM, Su 4PM-9PM. Appetizers, salads, pasta, fish, meat and desserts. $12-25. 
  • 50 Red Hawk, 316 S State St, ☏ +1 734 994-40046. A contender for the best burger in town, Red Hawk also features a large variety of American classics, as well as a large beer selection. $8–15. 
  • 51 Saica Restaurant, 1733 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 769-1212. Good Japanese food. 
  • 52 Seoul Garden, 3125 Boardwalk Dr, ☏ +1 734 997-2121. M-F 11:30AM-10PM, Sa noon-10:30PM, Su noon-10PM. The only Korean place in Ann Arbor where you can have Korean-style galbi grilled at your table. Ban-chan (side dishes) are authentic Korean style, and group tables (4-60) available. Wider selection of food such as galbi, galbi-jjim, boiled mixed seafood, bulgogi, and tofu-kimchi. $12-25. 
  • 53 Seva, Westgate Shopping Center, ☏ +1 734 662-1111. M-Th 10:30AM-9PM, F 10:30AM-10PM, Sa 10AM-10PM, Su 10AM-9PM. With entirely vegetarian cuisine (and many vegan options, too), this is one of the best restaurants in Ann Arbor. Their creative dishes are inspired by Mexican, Italian, North African, Indian, Asian and American cuisine. Tons of options, some delicious offerings and generous portions, though the prices can be surprisingly high (such as $14 for grilled eggplant, steamed broccoli and brown rice with cilantro-peanut sauce). The butternut squash enchiladas are one of their best-sellers. $8-14. 
  • 54 Tuptim, 4896 Washtenaw Ave, ☏ +1 734 528-5588. Tu 5PM-9:30PM, W-Sa 11AM-9:30PM, Su noon-9PM, closed M. Housed in an old Long John Silver's, Tuptim quickly became a local favorite for its high quality Thai cuisine. $10-15. 
  • 55 Yotsuba, 2222 Hogback Rd, ☏ +1 734 971-5168. M-F 11:30AM-2PM 5PM-10PM, Sa noon-10PM, Su noon-9PM. Broad menu including an array of authentic appetizers, teriyaki and tempura main courses, donburi, udon, curry rice, noodles, sushi, ochazuke, nabemono and bento. $8-23 main, $3-13 maki. 
  • 56 Zingerman's Delicatessen, 422 Detroit St, ☏ +1 734 663-DELI (3354). Daily 7AM-10PM. Vanity Fair called it "the best deli in America." The prices are higher than at a typical deli, but so is the quality of the ingredients, although some people find the serving sizes to be small. Sandwiches, hot dogs, soups, salads, traditional Jewish favorites, breakfast foods and desserts. Baked goods, ice cream and chocolates are also available on the premises, and you'll enjoy browsing their world-renowned selection of gourmet groceries with the help of their very knowledgeable staff. Sandwich # 55, Gemini Rocks the House, comes highly recommended by locals, and is vegetarian so nobody should miss out. $5-14. 

Splurge

  • 57 The Chop House, 322 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 769-5960, toll-free: +1-888-456-DINE (3463). M-Th 5PM-10PM, F Sa 5PM-11PM, Su 4PM-9PM. Appetizers, soups, salads, steaks, chops, poultry and seafood. One of Ann Arbor's priciest restaurants, so many people only visit on their birthday, when their main course is free! If you just want a little something sweet, gourmet pastries and desserts are available in the adjacent La Dolce Vita for around $7 each (try the crème brûlée with fresh fruits). There's also a cigar lounge downstairs for sipping and smoking. $10-50 appetizers, $25-44 main. 
  • 58 The Earle, 121 W Washington St, ☏ +1 734 994-0211. Provincial Italian and French country cuisine. The escargots in puff pastry are delicious. $18–30. 
  • 59 The Gandy Dancer, 401 Depot St, ☏ +1 734 769-0592. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F 11AM-11PM, Sa 3:30PM-11PM, Su 10AM-2PM 3:30PM-9PM. Great seafood (check the buffet) in a former train station. Eat here and watch the tracks or, if you're broke (and you will be after the meal), walk along the tracks and watch the diners. 
  • 60 Gratzi, 326 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 663-6387, toll-free: +1-888-456-DINE (3463). Northern Italian cuisine, featuring no spices other than saffron. Rotating menu featuring appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables, pizza, pasta, risotto, fish, chicken and beef. $16–32. 
  • 61 Knight's Steak House, 2324 Dexter Ave., 600 E. Liberty, ☏ +1 734 665-8644. M-Sa 11AM-11PM; closed Su. The place where locals go for excellent steaks, prime rib and veal, along with salads, side dishes, seafood and desserts. $5-33. 
  • 62 Knight's Steak House, 600 E. Liberty, ☏ +1 734 665-8644. M-Sa 11AM-11PM; closed Su. The place where locals go for excellent steaks, prime rib and veal, along with salads, side dishes, seafood and desserts. $5-33. 
  • 63 Weber's Inn, 3050 Jackson Ave, ☏ +1 734 665-3636. M-Th 6:30AM-10PM, F 6:30AM-11:30PM, Sa 8AM-11:30PM, Su 8AM-9PM. Featuring prime rib, steaks, seafood and an award-winning wine cellar since 1937. Appetizers, soups, salads, main courses, pasta and desserts. Sunday breakfast brunch served from 9:30AM-1PM for $9.25. $14-35. 
  • 64 Zingerman's Roadhouse, 2501 Jackson Ave, ☏ +1 734 663-FOOD (3663). M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM, Su 10AM-9PM. Serving "really good American food", including regional specialties from around the country with an emphasis on down-home Southern food, spicy Southwestern and fresh Californian cuisine. Soups, salads, $16 burgers, sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, desserts and $8 cocktails. $10-$19 lunch, $10-27 dinner. 
  • 65 Sava's, 216 S State Street, ☏ +1 734 623-2233. 8AM-midnight. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks (particularly wine and cocktails); selections are primarily from European and American cuisine. Try the sweet potato fries for good value. $11-29 for main courses. (updated Jun 2017)

Drink

Pubs

The famously varied taps at Ashley's
  • 1 Arbor Brewing Company, 114 E Washington St, ☏ +1 734 213-1393. M-Sa 11:30AM-1AM, and Su noon-midnight. Happy hour is all day Monday, and Tu-F 4PM-7PM. Known to the pub faithful as ABC, this establishment has outdoor seating in the warmer months and a fabulous block party Oktoberfest celebration in the fall. ABC has good food (especially the nachos) and a good variety of unique brews. They also offer a selection of Belgian-style ales brewed onsite. ABC offers monthly beer tastings ($40), with a schedule posted on their website. 
  • 2 Ashley's Restaurant & Pub, 338 S State St, ☏ +1 734 996-9191. M-Sa 11:30AM-2AM, Su 11AM-midnight. A busy establishment with good food and an excellent assortment of beers (over 60 on tap). Ashley's is always a good time and worth the wait on the weekends. Sandwiches, wraps, pub pizzas and main courses. $7-14. 
  • 3 Babs' Underground Lounge, 213 S Ashley St, ☏ +1 734 997-0800. Tu-Sa 7PM-2AM, closed Su-M. A popular, low-key, secluded underground drinking establishment known for its cocktails. 
  • 4 Brown Jug, 1204 S University Ave, ☏ +1 734 761-3355. Daily 11AM-2AM. Early bird specials are from 2PM-5PM, happy hour 7:30PM-10PM. A popular hangout since 1938, the Brown Jug offers appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers, chicken and fish dinners, and pizza. Beware however that a lot of the food has been frozen. $5-16. 
  • 5 Casa Dominick's, 812 Monroe St, ☏ +1 734 662-5414. M-Sa 10AM-10PM, closed Sundays and closed during the winter months. A popular hangout south of campus next to the Business School and Law School, with lots of outdoor seating on the two porches or in the rear garden. Mostly Italian food, with pizza, pasta, subs and salads. The sangria, served in Mason jars, is very popular. Service can be hit-or-miss. 
  • 6 Casey's Tavern, 304 Depot St, ☏ +1 734 665-6775, . M-Sa 11AM-11PM (bar open until midnight F Sa), closed Sundays. Tavern near the Amtrak station. Soups, salads, snacks, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and main courses, with beers for $3.25-4.95. Very helpful wait staff who will gladly steer you away from items they don't recommend. $6-$12. 
  • 7 Conor O'Neill's, 318 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 665-2968. Daily 11:30AM-2AM. Food is served Su-Th 11:30AM-11PM, F Sa 11:30AM-midnight. Serving wine, beer, Irish coffee and other hot drinks. The menu is a mixture of pub food (burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads) and traditional Irish favorites (mussels, shepherd's pie, boxty, fish and chips, and more). The strawberry and rhubarb crumble is delicious. $6-10. 
  • 8 Good Time Charley's, 1140 S University, ☏ +1 734 668-8411. M-Sa 11AM-2AM, Su noon-midnight. A popular undergraduate hangout with a menu featuring breadsticks, pub food, salads, pizza, sandwiches and burgers. Popular for their bombs, Long Island iced teas and specialty drinks. $4-8. 
  • 9 Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, 120 W Washington St, ☏ +1 734 741-7325. M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight, Su noon-11PM. Features a number of their own brews. In addition to its brews, Grizzly Peak has excellent food and friendly wait staff. In the fall, Grizzly Peak and other area breweries host an Oktoberfest block party, and celebrate the season with drink specials and an Oktoberfest beer glass. American cuisine featuring pizza, burgers, ribs, fresh fish, pasta, sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts. The cheddar ale soup is not to be missed! $5-15 lunch, $10-20 dinner. 
  • 10 Jolly Pumpkin, 311 S. Main St., ☏ +1 734 913-2730. Belgian-style ales brewed in nearby Dexter, Michigan, are served here along with a seasonal menu. Vegan-friendly. 
  • 11 Melange Bistro, 314 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 222-0202. Asian-French fusion cuisine in a subterranean bistro and wine bar, with a separate sushi menu and an extensive wine and martini selection. Live music or DJs in the lounge W-Sa 10PM-2AM. On Mondays they host a movie night featuring salad, a main course and dessert, followed by a screening of a classic or contemporary film. Try the Pasta Va-Va. $5–30. 
  • 12 Old Town Tavern, 122 W Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 662-9291. Appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, southwestern main courses, rotating weekend main courses, and a broad selection of mixed drinks. Popular but non-rowdy watering hole for townies. $6–10. 
  • 13 Scorekeepers, 320 Maynard St, ☏ +1 734 995-0581. M-Th 5PM-2AM, F Sa 11:30AM-2AM, closed Su (except during NFL season). Food is served M-W until 10PM, and Th-Sa until midnight. Sports bar serving burgers, chicken and sandwiches. 
  • 14 Vinology Wine Bar and Restaurant, 110 S Main St, ☏ +1 734 222-9841. Seasonally-rotating menu with inventive small plates, specialty artisan cheeses, traditional main courses with a twist, and housemade desserts. Extensive wine list and full bar. Small plates $5-11, platters $9-16, main courses $14-29. 

Bars and nightclubs

  • 15 Blind Pig, 208 S First St, ☏ +1 734 996-8555. A popular local nightclub and concert venue since 1971, featuring local talent and occasionally larger acts. The 8 Ball Saloon, beneath the club, is open daily from 3PM, with pool tournaments Su-Tu and a darts tournament on Monday. Blind Pig Cafe (Q4926595) on Wikidata Blind Pig (venue) on Wikipedia 
  • 16 Necto, 516 E Liberty St, ☏ +1 734 994-5436. Doors open 9PM. Ann Arbor's hottest nightclub with DJs and live music, and nightly drink specials. Pride Friday at Necto is Ann Arbor's best LGBT party, every Friday night since 1984. $3-$8 cover. 
  • 17 Rick's American Cafe, 611 Church St, ☏ +1 734 996-2747. M-W 9PM-2AM, Th-Sa 7PM-2AM. Rick's holds a legendary reputation on campus, and it has been the most popular bar among University of Michigan upperclassmen for many years. While it doesn't get busy until around 11PM, expect the line to wrap around the side of the building to the end of the alley next door in the fall and spring. Though "cafe" is in the name, Rick's does not serve food, and instead is known for strong drinks such as the "mind probe" and the "shark bowl", as well as the best dance floor on South University. $5 cover. (updated Jul 2018)

Coffee, tea and chocolate

  • 18 Comet Coffee, 16 Nickels Arcade, ☏ +1 734 222-0552. M-F 7AM-8PM, Sa 8AM-8PM, Su 8:30AM-8PM. Highest-quality coffees from around the world, from a variety of specialty coffee roasters, prepared by expertly-trained baristas. Not one to miss for coffee lovers. 
  • 19 Crazy Wisdom Tea Room, 114 S Main St, ☏ +1 734-665-2757. M-Th 10AM-10PM, F Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 11AM-6PM. Local tearoom offering organic fair-trade locally-roasted coffee, chai, a wide variety of teas (black, green, white, red and herbal), and main courses from Seva. Offers periodic reading series and special events. $1.20-4.25. 
  • 20 Kilwins Chocolate and Ice Cream, 107 E. Liberty St, ☏ +1-734 769-7759. M-F 8AM-10PM Sa 10AM-11PM Su 11AM-10PM. Great chocolate, ice cream open seasonally next door. Rather expensive, delicacy chocolate. 
  • Mighty Good Coffee Roasting Co.. Specialty coffee roasting business. Four locations. 
  • 21 RoosRoast Coffee Works, 1155 Rosewood St Suite B (located off of S. Industrial, very close to the Michigan Stadium!), ☏ +1 734 222-9202, . M-Sa 7:30AM-6PM, Su 9AM-3PM. RoosRoast is an awesome local coffee roastery filled with art and love and home of the triple shot long pull! Specializing in Fair Trade and Organic coffees! Come try a cup of coffee or pick up some beans today! 
  • Socotra Coffee House, 3130 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 929 5672. Yemeni coffee shop with a wide variety of sweets available. 
  • 22 Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea, 604 E. Liberty, 407 N Fifth Ave., 123 W. Washington (in the Kerrytown Market and Shops), ☏ +1 734 622-0084. Coffees, teas, frozen drinks, hot chocolate, Italian sodas and juices, as well as soups, sandwiches, parfaits, quiche, pastries, sweets and desserts. Their ginger lemon tea is a popular choice. Also located at 123 W Washington Street, +1 734 769-2331, M-F 7AM-midnight and Sa Su 7:30AM-midnight. 
  • 23 TeaHaus, 204 N Fourth Ave, ☏ +1 734 622-0460, . M-Sa 10AM-7PM, Su 11AM-4PM. Over 160 classic black and green, oolong, white, rooibush, herbal, ayurveda, fruit, aroma and seasonal teas sold loose, as well as tea accessories. Tea tastings offered periodically. 
  • 24 YORK, 1928 Packard St, ☏ +1 734 662 0798, . Coffee shop, deli, and bar with indoor and outdoor seating and rotating food trucks 
  • 25 Zingerman's Next Door, 418 Detroit St, ☏ +1 734 663-5282. Daily 7AM-10PM. Coffees, teas, ice cream, chocolates and pastries from Zingerman's Bakehouse. 

Sleep

Map showing the hotel districts in Ann Arbor

There are four main hotel districts in Ann Arbor: near campus; in the southern part of town, where State Street meets I-94 (including Boardwalk St, Briarwood Cir and Victors Way); in the southeastern part of town, near the intersection of Washtenaw Rd and US-23 (including Carpenter Rd); and in the northeastern part of town, by the intersection of Plymouth Rd and US-23 (including Green Rd). There are also a few in the northwestern part of town, near the intersection of Jackson Ave and I-94. Accommodations tend to be the most expensive in the campus area, so unless you're here for a conference or business trip that's being paid for, you'll probably want to look further out.

Hotels in the campus area are within easy walking distance of downtown Ann Arbor and most of the attractions. The southeastern area is served by two AATA bus lines, route 4 (along Washtenaw) and route 22 (along Carpenter), and the northwestern area is along route 9. The other two areas aren't quite as well linked, although route 2 does go along part of Plymouth Rd, and the commuter 36 stops at Wolverine Tower, which is a short walk from the hotels along State and Boardwalk. However, you'll most likely want to use your car to get around if you're staying outside of downtown.

Budget

Bed and breakfast

  • 11 The Himalayan Lodge, 120 Eighth St (5 blocks W of Main St phone=), ☏ +1 734-369-3107. 1 room, with twin beds (or king together) and private bath. 1875 house on the West Side, about a 20-minute walk from campus. Customized adventure trekking in the Nepal Himalayas. Himalayan watchdog and vegetarian breakfast included. Innkeeper: Heather O'Neal. $98. 

Mid-range

  • 12 Candlewood Suites, 701 Waymarket Dr, ☏ +1 734 663-2818, toll-free: +1-877-226-3539. 122 rooms. Full kitchen, VCR and CD player, fitness center. On-site gift shop. $82–119. 
  • 13 Comfort Inn & Suites, 3501 S State St, ☏ +1 734 761-8838. 83 rooms. Indoor heated pool, whirlpool and fitness center. Free deluxe continental breakfast and USA Today, jacuzzi rooms available. $89–139. 
  • 14 Fairfield Inn, 3285 Boardwalk St, ☏ +1 734 995-5200. 110 rooms. Indoor heated pool and whirlpool. Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast. $69–99. 
  • 15 Hampton Inn, 2300 Green Rd, ☏ +1 734 996-4444. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: Noon. 130 rooms. Indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center. Complimentary hot breakfast and USA Today. Attached to Applebee's. $99+. 
  • 16 Hampton Inn South, 925 Victors Way, ☏ +1 734 665-5000. 149 rooms. Exercise gym, indoor pool, hot tub. Complimentary deluxe hot breakfast and to-go breakfast bags, and free USA Today. 
  • 17 Holiday Inn, 3600 Plymouth Rd, ☏ +1 734 769-9800. 223 rooms. Indoor/outdoor swimming pool, whirlpool, fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, restaurant and lounge. Complimentary local shuttle service and USA Today. $104. 
  • 18 Holiday Inn Express, 600 Briarwood Cir, ☏ +1 734 761-2929. 107 rooms. Indoor pool, whirlpool. Complimentary continental breakfast. Adjacent to Briarwood Mall. $88–104, $98–149 suites. 
  • 19 University Inn, 2424 E Stadium Blvd, ☏ +1 734 971-8000. 55 rooms, 20 with kitchenette. All rooms have a microwave oven and refrigerator or full kitchenette (with stove, oven and dishwasher, along with dishes, pots and pans). Complimentary continental breakfast. Lamp Post Plaza is adjacent for shopping. $95, $108 (kitchenette). 

Bed and breakfast

  • 20 Stone Chalet Bed & Breakfast, 1917 Washtenaw Ave, ☏ +1 734 417-7223. 11 rooms. An English gothic inn composed of a castle stone chalet house, a Frank-Lloyd-Wright-inspired church, a neo-gothic parsonage, and a coach house tearoom. All rooms have private bath and fireplace. Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast. (updated Sep 2017)

Splurge

  • 21 Bell Tower Hotel, 300 S Thayer St, ☏ +1 734 769-3010, toll-free: +1-800-562-3559. 66 rooms. A small European-style inn which has received the city's Award for Outstanding Historic Preservation. The Earle Uptown restaurant, serving French cuisine, is on-site. Complimentary continental breakfast, free valet parking. $149–173. 
  • 22 Courtyard Ann Arbor, 3205 Boardwalk St, ☏ +1 734 995-5900. 160 rooms. Breakfast buffet, lounge, indoor pool, whirlpool, exercise room. $124–149. 
  • 23 Graduate Ann Arbor, 615 E Huron St, ☏ +1 734 769-2200, toll-free: +1-800-666-8693. 208 rooms. Fitness center, outdoor pool, sauna, sundeck. Passes available to Central Campus Recreation Building gymnasium. Victors Bar & Restaurant and gift shop on-site. $179, $226 suites. 
  • 24 Sheraton Ann Arbor Hotel (Sheraton), 3200 Boardwalk St, ☏ +1 734 996-0600, toll-free: +1-800-848-2770. 197 newly renovated rooms all featuring refrigerator, microwave, and personal safe. Fitness center, indoor/outdoor heated pool, whirlpool, and Share Wine Lounge & Small Plate Bistro on-site. Features Ann Arbor's largest ballroom for weddings, conferences, expos, and more. $125. 
  • 25 Inn at the Michigan League, 911 N University Ave, ☏ +1 734 764-3177. 21 rooms on the fourth floor of the Michigan League. Complimentary breakfast voucher. $130–135 rooms, $225–230 suites. 
  • 26 Kensington Court, 610 Hilton Blvd, toll-free: +1-800-344-7829. 200 rooms. Exercise room, heated indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, Graham's Restaurant and Lounge on-site. Complimentary deluxe continental breakfast available for Executive Level. $109–164. 
  • 27 Residence Inn, 800 Victors Way, ☏ +1 734 996-5666. 114 rooms. Daily breakfast buffet with American favorites and Asian specialties, weekly catered dinner, evening socials M-Th, fitness center, pool and whirlpool. Complimentary grocery shopping. Studio, 1- and 2-bedroom suites available, with fully-equipped kitchen and optional fireplace. $139–169. 
  • 28 Weber's Inn, 3050 Jackson Ave, ☏ +1 734 769-2500, toll-free: +1-800-443-3050. 158 rooms. Pool and recreation area, exercise room, sauna, outdoor patio. Popular on-site Weber's Restaurant and Lounge. Complimentary continental breakfast. $120–170. 

Bed and breakfast

  • 29 Ann Arbor Bed and Breakfast (Ann Arbor Bed & Breakfast), 921 E Huron St (E Huron St at Fletcher), ☏ +1 734 994-9100, . Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM. 9 unique rooms with private bathrooms on the University of Michigan Central Campus by Power, Hill, League, and Rackham. Wireless & wired internet, public internet with printer, DVD/TV, on-site parking and a full, hearty breakfast. Coffee, tea, pop, water, and snacks anytime. Hot tub, kitchenettes, and extra beds and tables available. Innkeeper: Pat Materka. $129-229. 
  • 30 Burnt Toast Inn, 415 W William St, ☏ +1 734 662-6685. 4 rooms. Art and antiques gallery on-site. Complimentary continental breakfast. Adults only. $80–165 (single-person occupancy). 
  • 31 First Street Garden Inn, 549 S First St, ☏ +1 734 741-9786. 2 rooms. The home was built at the turn of the century in the Old West Side. Garden, full breakfast with homemade pastries. Innkeepers: Kathleen Clark and Michael Anglin. $100–130. 

Stay safe

Ann Arbor is generally a very safe town, though the usual rules about common sense (being aware of your surroundings after dark and knowing where you are going) apply here as they would anywhere. The only really common crimes in town are those that you find in any other university town. Theft is the biggie, as many university students who leave their bags unattended in the library or those who fail to lock their bikes can tell you. There's also the occasional mugging or sexual assault, but these tend to occur after dark, so if you're not wandering the streets at 2AM, you probably don't have anything to worry about. Having said that, wandering the streets at 2AM in downtown Ann Arbor is generally quite safe and not at all frightening; there are usually enough students out partying or hanging out with friends until the wee hours that you won't feel like a lone target, or like you're in a dangerous crowd. U of M Police, Ann Arbor Police, and the Washtenaw County Sheriff patrol regularly and are not difficult to find — indeed, alcohol violations such as drinking on the street from an open container are vigorously policed. There are emergency phones located all over campus.

Connect

Internet

Free wi-fi access is plentiful at local cafes.

  • 2 Digital Ops, 3990 Varsity Dr, ☏ +1 734 994-1595. Internet access and multiplayer gaming facility with mostly PC video games. The atmosphere is very friendly and social. 
  • 3 Ann Arbor District Library, 343 S Fifth Ave (Main Branch), ☏ +1 734 327-4200 (all branches). The main branch of the public library, located downtown a couple of blocks from Main Street, offers wifi and a couple dozen desktop computers for visitor use. Check in at the desk on the second floor. Ann Arbor District Library (Q4766217) on Wikidata Ann Arbor District Library on Wikipedia 

Cope

Radio stations

Four good public radio stations are within listening distance.

  • WCBN-FM Ann Arbor, 88.3 FM. Located in the basement of the Student Activities building at the University of Michigan you will find the studios of WCBN. The format is total freeform -- DJs have complete control over their shows -- which makes the broadcasts a mixed bag. The variety is stunning, though, from Sounds of the Subcontinent to emo to classic jazz to Noise Till Noon. They also broadcast a list of upcoming concerts around town at regular intervals.
  • WEMU, 89.1 FM. News, jazz and blues, with a tilt toward little-known fusion and crossover, from the campus of Eastern Michigan University. Consistent quality -- you'll either like almost all of it, or very little. News updates on the hour, and in the early morning and midafternoon.
  • WUOM, 91.7 FM. Talk radio from NPR and PRI.
  • WDET, 101.9 FM. News and music during the day; electronica-tinged underground music at night. Broadcast from Wayne State University in Detroit.

Newspapers

Go next

The rest of Washtenaw County has quite a few charming little towns and villages that you might enjoy visiting.

  • Ypsilanti is about 15 minutes east on I-94, but practically contiguous with Ann Arbor if you're driving down Washtenaw Avenue; four AATA bus routes travel from downtown Ann Arbor to downtown Ypsilanti.
  • Dexter is about 15 minutes west on I-94.
  • Saline is about 15 minutes south on US-23.
  • Chelsea is about 20 minutes west on I-94.
  • Manchester is about 30 minutes southwest on I-94 and MI-52.
  • Milan is about 30 minutes south on US-23.

If you'd rather get out of the county, there are some larger cities and towns a short drive away.

  • Dundee is about 30 minutes south on I-23. Most people go for the nearest branch of Cabela's, an enormous outdoor outfitter and hunting/fishing/camping store, but it also has a nice little downtown. A 20-minute drive from Dundee along MI-50 will bring you to Tecumseh, a charming village with a great downtown and some very nice restaurants, including a British imports shop with a quaint tea café.
  • Detroit is about 45 minutes east on either I-94 or I-96. If you're not visiting downtown Detroit, you might want to stop in some of the suburbs. There's a nice movie theatre and good restaurants (as well as the only IKEA in Michigan) in nearby Canton; Novi and Troy (home of the impressive Somerset Collection mall) are good for shopping; Hamtramck has a sizeable Polish population, and Dearborn is home to the largest Middle Eastern community in the United States, as well as the fantastic Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
  • Lansing is about 1 hour west on I-96. It's the state capital, and home to rival college Michigan State University.
  • Frankenmuth, which bills itself as "Michigan's #1 tourist attraction", is about 1 hour north on US-23. It's a great little tourist town with a Bavarian-style downtown, delicious all-you-can-eat fried chicken dinners, and a year-round Christmas store.
  • Toledo, Ohio is about 1 hour south on US-23. You'll pass several nice little villages on the way. In town, there's a great art museum, the world-class Toledo Zoo, and a neighborhood of old Victorian homes.
Routes through Ann Arbor
Battle Creek ← Jackson ←  W  E  → Dearborn → Detroit
Kalamazoo ← Dexter ←  W  E  → Ypsilanti → Detroit
Flint ← Brighton ←  N  S  → Jct W E → Milan → Toledo
END ←  W  E  → Jct E → Plymouth → Detroit via


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