Visiting Ann Arbor
5 Fun Things to Do in Tree Town
Ann Arbor is the fifth largest city in Michigan with a population of roughly 120,000. It's a college town with several nicknames, among them Tree Town, The People's Republic of Ann Arbor, and A2 (please don't call it AA; that's already taken). There is a lot to do in this vibrant city! Here are 5 of the best to keep visitors busy.
1. Visit a bookstore.
Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room in Ann Arbor
Does the smell of books make you giddy? The feel of the pages beneath your fingertips? Ann Arbor is home to several independent bookstores with both new and used books, including one of the country’s few remaining LGBT+ and feminist bookstores, Common Language.
The Ann Arbor Book Society publishes a map that can be accessed on their website or picked up from any of the bookstores listed on it. Most of the bookstores are located in the downtown area and are within easy walking distance from one another. The few that aren’t are located a short drive away.
2. Check out the University of Michigan’s campus.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan and Ann Arbor have a symbiotic relationship. Established in 1817 in Detroit, UM moved to Ann Arbor in 1837 and today has just under 45,000 students. It’s a vibrant campus with some gorgeous architecture.
The Diag is a large open space in the heart of central campus, getting its nickname from the “diagonal” paved shortcuts that run between buildings, including a large path that connects the State and Liberty section of downtown and the South University neighborhood. Both regions have many shops, restaurants, and the Michigan and State Theaters, so the Diag is a popular walk that shows off UM’s campus and some splendid architecture.
The reading room at the Law Library is like something out of Harry Potter, and Hill Auditorium was designed by the firm of Albert Kahn, the “Architect of Detroit.”
3. Go to a museum.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Speaking of the University, it has some excellent museums! There are the Exhibit Museum of Natural History, Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, University of Michigan Museum of Art, and Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry just to name a few. Admission to the museums is free, but donations are suggested.
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is fun for all ages! Open seven days a week (minus certain holidays), admission for adults and children is $12.50, unless you are a member or a member of a reciprocal museum. After 5 PM on Thursdays, admission drops to $5.
On weekends, you can explore the Washtenaw County Historical Society’s Museum on Main Street or the Kempf House Museum and soak up some history.
4. See a movie.
Lobby of the Michigan Theater, Ann Arbor
There are two historic theaters in downtown Ann Arbor, both located at the corner of Liberty and State streets, the Michigan Theater and the State Theatre. And yes, they do spell theater/theatre differently from one another, which isn't confusing at all.
The beautiful Michigan Theater still has its fully operational Barton Theatre Pipe Organ, originally installed in 1927, one of the few such organs still in its original location, which is often played before shows. (In addition to movies, the Michigan Theater also hosts musical acts, comedians, and speakers.)
The restored State Theatre screens art house, classic, cult favorite, and modern popular films. Tickets range between $7 and $10 depending on time of day.
5. Connect with nature.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens Gateway Garden
East of downtown is the Nichols Arboretum, known as simply the Arb to locals. The Arb is 123 acres of gardens, forest, and open spaces popular to picnickers, joggers, walkers, painters, and anyone just looking to hang out in nature. One side borders the Huron River, popular for kayaking and playing in to beat the summer heat. In winter, people also go sledding. The Peony Garden is world renowned with visitors from all over the globe during peak blooming season.
On the northeast side of Ann Arbor is the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 300 acres of gardens, trails, and a conservatory that is popular year round. Matthaei is a favorite locale for weddings and other special events.
Run by the University of Michigan, admission to both the Arb and Matthaei is free, but there is a charge to park at Matthaei.
About the Creator
Crysta Coburn
Crysta K. Coburn has been writing award-winning stories her whole life. She is a journalist, fiction writer, blogger, poet, editor, podcast co-host, and one-time rock lyrics writer.
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