Ann Arbor stands out as a spirited college town with an energy that’s both intellectual and artistic. Home to the University of Michigan, it’s famous for its tree-lined streets, charming downtown, and flourishing arts scene. The city blends Midwestern friendliness with cosmopolitan flair, making it inviting to visitors from all walks of life.
Main attractions range from the dazzling University of Michigan campus—featuring the iconic 'Diag' and the impressive Law Quad—to the picturesque Nichols Arboretum. Ann Arbor’s museums, such as the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History, are not only top-tier but often free to enter. The city’s walkable downtown bustles with indie bookstores, inventive eateries, and farmers’ markets, while Kerrytown adds an extra dose of local charm.
The culture of Ann Arbor is shaped by its student population and progressive values. On weekends, street musicians, local festivals, and art fairs animate the city. The culinary scene is diverse, with everything from acclaimed breweries to quirky bakeries and global cuisine. Locals are passionate about football Saturdays at Michigan Stadium, turning the city into a sea of maize and blue.
Getting around Ann Arbor is easy whether on foot, by bike, or using the free university bus system. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in the historic district to cozy bed and breakfasts. Food lovers can sample everything from locally roasted coffee to Korean barbecue and vegan treats. Downtown is compact, so most attractions are accessible without a car.
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summers bring outdoor concerts and festivals, while winter is quieter but full of cozy cafes and cultural events. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, plan your visit outside big university event weekends like graduation or football games.
Main attractions range from the dazzling University of Michigan campus—featuring the iconic 'Diag' and the impressive Law Quad—to the picturesque Nichols Arboretum. Ann Arbor’s museums, such as the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History, are not only top-tier but often free to enter. The city’s walkable downtown bustles with indie bookstores, inventive eateries, and farmers’ markets, while Kerrytown adds an extra dose of local charm.
The culture of Ann Arbor is shaped by its student population and progressive values. On weekends, street musicians, local festivals, and art fairs animate the city. The culinary scene is diverse, with everything from acclaimed breweries to quirky bakeries and global cuisine. Locals are passionate about football Saturdays at Michigan Stadium, turning the city into a sea of maize and blue.
Getting around Ann Arbor is easy whether on foot, by bike, or using the free university bus system. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in the historic district to cozy bed and breakfasts. Food lovers can sample everything from locally roasted coffee to Korean barbecue and vegan treats. Downtown is compact, so most attractions are accessible without a car.
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summers bring outdoor concerts and festivals, while winter is quieter but full of cozy cafes and cultural events. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, plan your visit outside big university event weekends like graduation or football games.
Expected Weekly Budget
$900-$1300 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Stroll through the University of Michigan campus
- Visit the Ann Arbor Farmers Market in Kerrytown
- Explore the Nichols Arboretum trails
- Browse bookstores and boutiques on Main Street
- Tour the University of Michigan Museum of Art
- Sample local craft beers at area breweries
- Catch a show at the Michigan Theater
- Enjoy live music at The Blind Pig
Notable Sites
- University of Michigan Law Quad
- Nichols Arboretum
- Michigan Stadium (The Big House)
- University of Michigan Museum of Art
- Kerrytown Market & Shops
- Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
- Matthaei Botanical Gardens
- Michigan Theater
General Advice
Ann Arbor is best explored on foot, with most attractions centered downtown and on the University of Michigan campus. The city is lively year-round, but particularly so during school semesters and local festivals. Embrace the local culture by stopping at independent cafes, visiting a farmers market, or joining community events. If you want to rent a bike or use public transportation, both are accessible and affordable.
Security & Safety
Ann Arbor is generally a safe city, but it’s still wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night around more secluded campus areas or parking lots. Keep your valuables secure, lock your car, and avoid leaving belongings in plain sight. During busy event weekends, be especially mindful of your bags in crowded spaces to prevent opportunistic theft.
Travel Tips
- Downtown parking can be challenging during peak hours and events—use parking structures or public transit when possible.
- Try local favorite eateries like Zingerman’s Deli for a classic Ann Arbor experience.
- Many museums are free but closed on certain Mondays—check schedules in advance.
- Book accommodations early if visiting during fall football season or the Ann Arbor Art Fair.
- Weather can be unpredictable; bring layers for variable spring and fall temperatures.
- If visiting with children, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is a hit with families.
- Sample locally brewed beers and check for seasonal brewery events.
- Farmers markets are busiest Saturday mornings—arrive early for the best selection.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in September 2023
Ann Arbor’s downtown was such a cool mix of shops, restaurants, and music venues. I loved strolling around the University of Michigan campus—the Law Quad was like something from Harry Potter. Parking was a bit tricky, but otherwise a great city to explore.
Stayed in June 2024
We spent a week in Ann Arbor for the Art Fair and it really exceeded my expectations. The food scene is legit—had everything from classic delis to great Ethiopian food. Our teens especially liked the Hands-On Museum. Definitely coming back.
Traveled here in October 2023
Fall colors at Nichols Arboretum were stunning. The only downside was the crowds on football Saturday—almost impossible to get a table anywhere. Otherwise, loved the relaxed vibe.
Visited in March 2024
A city that feels both energetic and welcoming. I was here for a conference but squeezed in a film at the Michigan Theater and coffee at a local café. Very walkable and felt safe even late in the evening.
Traveled here in July 2023
Visited with my husband and 10-year-old son. He loved the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. We found great vegetarian options everywhere we went!
Visited in May 2024
Came to see friends studying at the university. Campus architecture is beautiful, and the art museum was surprisingly impressive for a city this size. It rained a couple days but there were plenty of indoor spots to hang out.
Stayed in December 2023
Downtown Ann Arbor was magical with holiday lights. The shopping was fun and we discovered an amazing bakery in Kerrytown. Very chilly, so pack warm clothes if visiting in winter!
Visited in April 2024
I enjoyed the multicultural restaurants and spent half a day exploring used bookstores. The jazz nights at some bars were a highlight. Wish the weather had been a bit warmer.
Traveled here in August 2023
Was here alone for a weekend and felt totally at ease wandering around. The farmers market was lively and full of delicious local produce. I just wish public transport ran later at night.
Stayed in May 2023
Beautiful in the spring! We spent hours at the Nichols Arboretum and stumbled upon an outdoor music event. Some shops close early during the week, so plan ahead.
Visited in February 2024
Ann Arbor surprised me with how much there was to see. The art museum and botanical gardens were fantastic, and people were genuinely friendly. Had the best sandwiches at Zingerman’s!
Visited in November 2023
Came for a football game. The stadium atmosphere is wild, but downtown was packed and a bit noisy for my tastes. Enjoyed the craft beer scene though.
Traveled here in May 2024
My friends and I did a brewery tour and weren’t disappointed. So many local beers to try and friendly bartenders everywhere. Uber was easy to grab when it started raining.
Visited in June 2023
Great city for a family trip. Took my kids to the Hands-On Museum and then walked along the river trails. Only wish we’d stayed longer—so much we didn’t get to.
Visited in March 2024
Art everywhere! I caught a gallery opening and some live music. Ann Arbor is easy to navigate and there's always something going on.
Traveled here in January 2024
Despite the cold, I found the city vibrant and full of character. Warmed up with fantastic ramen and bookstore browsing. Will revisit in warmer weather.
Stayed in October 2023
We loved the quirky shops in Kerrytown and all the unique coffee spots. The university campus is huge—plan enough time to wander around. Super bike-friendly city too!
Visited in July 2024
Ann Arbor during summer is lively with open-air concerts and street festivals. Parking was a hassle, but once parked it’s very walkable. Ate at some fantastic international restaurants.
Traveled here in April 2024
Joined some friends at the Michigan Theater for a classic film—such a beautiful venue. Can definitely see why people love living here. Plenty to see, even if you don’t care about football.
Visited in August 2023
The student vibe makes the city fun, but some places get really packed at night. I spent loads of time at the art museum. Overall, a pretty chill destination with lots to do.
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