Exploring the Vibrant Heart of Ann Arbor
Welcome to Ann Arbor, a city that seamlessly blends the energy of a university town with the tranquility of green spaces. Whether you’re a foodie, a football fan, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, Ann Arbor has something to offer.
Dive into the University of Michigan campus, where historic buildings, scenic walking trails, and river views await. Don’t miss the lively atmosphere of college events, concerts, and libraries.
Ann Arbor hosts the largest juried art fair in the nation every July—the Ann Arbor Art Fair. Explore nearly 1,000 artists’ creations across 30 downtown blocks. The Ann Arbor Summer Festival keeps the spirit alive year-round with concerts, dance, and circus performances.
Discover the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Nichols Arboretum, and Gallup Park. These free outdoor spaces offer walking trails, gardens, and serene riverfront views. In winter, embrace snow sports or cozy up by a fireplace.
Ann Arbor’s walkable downtown boasts shopping, dining, and nightlife. Experience the Midwestern hospitality that makes this city special.
At the Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association, our membership includes a wide selection of quality-assured lodging, from boutique inns to small hotels to traditional bed and breakfasts. Our membership is vast and wide across the beautiful state of Pure Michigan. As we highlight different areas of the mitten state in different travel articles like this one, we love to include tips from our innkeepers. After all, they know all the best places to dine, shop and explore! Follow along so you can learn how to live like a local when visiting the beautiful college town of Ann Arbor and the sister town of Ypsilanti.
Best Things to Do in Ann Arbor-tips from our Michigan B&B Innkeepers
1. Tour the University of Michigan’s campus.
When exploring the University of Michigan’s campus in Ann Arbor, there’s more to discover beyond football and its beautiful campus. Immerse yourself in art and culture by visiting The Museum of Art (free, open Mon. – Sat.), which showcases diverse collections. Also worth visiting is the Museum of Natural History (free, open Tues. – Sun.), which offers insights into our planet’s history and biodiversity. Admire the stunning architecture of the Law Quad. Peek into the Law Library, which feels like something out of Hogwarts. Listen to sweet sounds at Hill Auditorium. It’s a historic venue known for its acoustics and world-class performances.
2. Explore the Matthaei Botanical Gardens
This captivating 350-acre site offers natural beauty, education, and ecological resilience. Explore unique outdoor spaces featuring diverse plant collections, seasonal blooms, and themed gardens. Wander through bonsai displays, medicinal plants, and native flora. Embark on nearly three miles of scenic trails that wind through lush landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking tranquility, the trails offer a peaceful escape. Step into the multi-climate conservatory—a haven for exotic plants worldwide. Experience tropical warmth, desert aridity, and lush greenery all under one roof. Adjacent to Matthaei, the Nichols Arboretum offers captivating collections, diverse natural areas, and scenic trails. It’s an adventure waiting to unfold.
Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or appreciate the beauty of nature, Matthaei Botanical Gardens invites you to connect with the living world. (Free. Parking tips: City of Ann Arbor metered street parking is located on Washington Heights and on Observatory. Street meter parking charges apply Monday through Saturday, 8 am to 6 pm, except Sundays and holidays. Visitors may park in the UM blue lot M28 on Washington Heights for free after 5 pm weekdays and on weekends.)
3. Take A Brew Tour
You’re in for a treat regarding breweries in Ann Arbor and the neighboring town of Ypsilanti. Here’s a taste of what each has to offer:
Corner Brewery (Ypsilanti) – Part of the Arbor Brewing Company, Corner Brewery is a cozy spot to enjoy craft beers. Their tap list is ever-changing, so you’ll always find something new to try. Don’t miss their mainstay beers like the Euchre Pilsner, Strawberry Blonde, and Buzzsaw IPA. Plus, they offer food options and to-go beer.
Unity Vibration (Ypsilanti)—If you’re into kombucha and wild ales, Unity Vibra is your spot. They specialize in organic kombucha beers and sour ales. It’s a unique and refreshing experience for beer enthusiasts.
734 Brewing Company (Ypsilanti)—A local favorite, 734 Brewing offers a variety of beers, from IPAs to stouts. Its welcoming atmosphere and community vibe make it a great place to unwind.
Ypsi Alehouse (Ypsilanti) – Known for its historic charm, Ypsi Alehouse serves up classic brews alongside seasonal specialties. Try their house-made beers and enjoy the friendly ambiance.
Arbor Brewing Co—Corner Brewery (Ann Arbor)—This iconic brewery offers a diverse tap list, including its signature Sacred Cow IPA and Liquid Vinyl Russian Imperial Stout. The Law Quad architecture adds to the experience.
So whether you’re sipping by the Huron River or exploring Ann Arbor’s vibrant streets, these breweries have something for every beer lover.
4. Catch a football game in the stadium
When it comes to game-watching fun in Ann Arbor, few places are as iconic as the University of Michigan Football Stadium, affectionately known as the Big House. Attending an event at this colossal stadium, the largest in North America, or catching a game at the nearby Crisler Center should definitely be on every visitor’s bucket list.
When watching a Michigan football game in Ann Arbor, you’re in for a spirited experience. If you cannot get tickets, consider watching with fans at a local bar or pub. Here are some of our favorites: Here are some great bars and pubs where you can catch the action:
Brown Jug: Named after the Michigan vs. Minnesota football trophy, this historic pub has been around since the 1930s. It’s a hugely popular spot for Wolverine fans to gather and cheer on the team. Arrive early—it’s table-poaching central here!
Haymaker: Enjoy the game at Haymaker, where the maize and blue spirit runs high. They’ll have fun drink specials and a lively atmosphere.
Fraser’s Pub: Fraser’s is another classic choice. Grab a seat, order your favorite brew, and immerse yourself in the game-day excitement.
Conor O’Neill’s: This Irish pub offers a cozy setting and a great selection of beers. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Hamlin Pub: With multiple locations in the area, Hamlin Pub ensures you won’t miss a single play. Enjoy big drafts, pub grub specials, and a view of the game from almost every seat.
Remember, these spots fill up quickly, so arrive early to claim your spot and soak in the Wolverines’ energy!
5. Paddle Magic: Kayaking Adventures in Tree Town
- Argo Canoe Livery- offers canoe, single kayak, double kayak, raft, stand-up paddleboard, and tube rentals on the Huron River. You can enjoy stillwater paddling in the two-mile Argo Pond or a 3.7-mile river trip down the scenic Huron River. Argo Canoe Livery is a perfect choice for both novice and experienced paddlers.
- Gallup Park Livery- offers canoe, kayak, paddleboat, and rowboat rentals on the Huron River. You can explore the beautiful Gallup Pond or take a river trip down the Huron River.
- Skip’s Huron River Canoe Livery & Outfitters- Skip’s provides access to the most scenic stretch of the Huron River. They offer full-service canoe, kayak, and tubing rentals. You can enjoy a family-friendly adventure down the river without the hassle of dams, lakes, or portages.
The Huron River is a calm waterway with a few riffles, sections of drops, and pools that are fun for both beginners and watersports enthusiasts.
6. Check out the views from these fantastic hiking trails
These hiking trails offer breathtaking views throughout the year, whether of wildflowers blooming in spring or fantastic sheets of ice in the winter. Bring your camera!
- Bird’s Hill Trail- a beautiful loop through the woods on the outskirts of Ann Arbor (a favorite from Innkeeper Sarah at the Burnt Toast Inn)
- Nichol’s Arboretum Trail- Discover this 2.7-mile loop trail popular for birding, hiking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
- Furstenberg Nature Area and Gallup Park Trail Loop—This 3.0-mile loop trail is popular for birding, hiking, and biking.
- The Matthaei Botanical Gardens Trail is a paved hiking and biking path that connects the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens with a network of trail systems throughout the area. The trail provides an important non-motorized link from the botanical gardens to Washtenaw County’s Parker Mill Park to the south, with connections to the regional Border-to-Border Trail, the local Gallup Park pathway, and beyond.
7. Explore the Festivals & Farmer’s Markets
8. Eat Good Food
Ann Arbor boasts a vibrant dining scene with diverse options to satisfy every palate. Here are some notable restaurants you might want to explore:
- Black Pearl Gardens- offers a seafood and martini bar experience with fresh and flavorful dishes. Try their shrimp scampi, clam chowder, or unique lobster mac and cheese.
Fleetwood Diner-Diner serves classic diner food with Ann Arbor-inspired highlights. Don’t miss their popular Hippie Hash and chocolate chip pancakes.
Mani Osteria & Bar- offers wood-fired pizzas, handmade kinds of pasta, and signature antipasti. Try their Tartufo pizza or fresh pasta dishes.
Gandy Dancer-Housed in the beautifully restored 1886 Michigan Central Depot at 401 Depot St, Gandy Dancer is known for creative seafood, steaks, and pasta. The salmon on a cedar plank is a standout.
Innkeeper Sarah also had these suggestions that are close to her inn.
“I have two lovely shops just around the corner from the Burnt Toast Inn. One is Jefferson Market, and the other is The Argus Store, a Farm to Shop store. Also, I must mention three wonderful ice cream shops minutes from my inn. Washtenaw Dairy, which is most likely at least 40 years old. Then there is The Blank Slate, which has exotic, wonderful, in-house flavors. There are always long lines, and they are so popular. Then, there is Kilwin’s chocolates and ice cream shop up the street on Liberty.”
9. Enjoy the music scene in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor’s music scene is as diverse as it is vibrant! Whether you’re into folk, rock, jazz, or indie tunes, you’ll find something to groove to. Here are some favorites:
The Ark is a nonprofit venue dedicated to folk, roots, and ethnic music. It hosts both well-known and up-and-coming artists.
Blind Pig- A local favorite, the Blind Pig offers a mix of genres, from rock to electronic. It’s a great spot for discovering new acts.
University Musical Society (UMS)- UMS brings world-class performers to Ann Arbor, spanning music, dance, and theater. Their events create uncommon and engaging experiences.
Kerrytown Concert House- An intimate venue for performing arts, Kerrytown hosts diverse music concerts and art exhibitions.
Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra- With over 90 years of history, the symphony orchestra enriches the city’s cultural life. Catch their captivating performances!
And don’t miss the Ann Arbor Summer Festival in June and July! From outdoor concerts at Top of the Park to indoor shows on the Main Stage, it celebrates arts, culture, and community.
Some of Sarah’s favorites also include the Blue Llama and Live.
Now that you want to start packing your bags for a getaway to the vibrant city of Ann Arbor, the next question is where to stay. We have you covered and can recommend three remarkable bed and breakfasts. Each has its own character and amenities. Each innkeeper is filled with information on how to enjoy Ann Arbor & Ypsilanti. Book your stay today.
Best Places to Stay in Ann Arbor
Baxter House Bed and Breakfast
Stunning, light-filled architecture, an endearing and quiet location in the popular Kerrytown neighborhood, a caring host, and hearty, homemade breakfasts make the Baxter House a special bed and breakfast experience. Parents visiting their kids at the University of Michigan or attending a game will find this a perfect home base, only a little over a mile away.
The innkeeper has created a haven for travelers with comfortable common areas, reading nooks, porches, and beautiful gardens. Those who appreciate old-world craftsmanship will be amazed at the wood features throughout the inn and the geometric placement of windows, which allow natural light to permeate the inn.
The inn also has a convenient two-bedroom apartment with a cozy fireplace living room and a full kitchen with a private entrance. This makes perfect accommodations for those staying in Ann Arbor for an extended time.
For more information and to book your stay, check out Baxter House here
Burnt Toast Bed and Breakfast
Enjoy the comfort of a charming bed and breakfast in the Old West Side neighborhood of Ann Arbor. You could not find a better location to have a peaceful night’s sleep while within walking distance of Ann Arbor’s best farm-to-table restaurants, locally owned shops, and, best of all, close to the University of Michigan Ann Arbor football field. The inn has five quaint guest rooms and an artsy Ann Arbor vibe! Each guest room has been thoughtfully curated with the family’s treasures. Guests frequently gather in the kitchen to chat with Sarah or to relax in the inviting parlor or on the porch.
For more information and to book your stay, check out Burnt Toast here.
The Newton of Ypsilanti Bed and Breakfast
A charming, upscale boutique inn just a few blocks from downtown Ypsilanti. The Newton offers three upscale guest rooms on the second floor. Choose from the Barnard Suite, which features a king-size bed and sitting room; the Newton Suite, which has two bedrooms, including a queen bedroom and a room with two bunk beds that connect to a living room; and a large suite, including a king bedroom and private living room. The inn is a perfect centerpiece for celebrating a special occasion and traveling with friends or family. Allison, the innkeeper, is also a professional chef and can arrange private dinner celebrations. For more information and to book your stay, check out Newton of Ypsilanti here
About the Michigan Bed and Beakfast Association
The Michigan Bed & Breakfast Association represents some of the finest quality-inspected boutique inns, small hotels, and bed and breakfast establishments in Michigan. Our unique and charming bed and breakfast accommodations offer warm and professional hospitality and provide memorable vacations, getaway weekends, non-traditional business lodging in well-known cities and resort towns, and the beautiful and less-traveled countryside. Our goal is to spread the word about each inn and highlight all the wonderful experiences that are sometimes less known.
