Visiting Ann Arbor is a unique yet fun experience. From historic museums to towering delicious sandwiches handcrafted at delis, the city has a bit of everything for you to try. In this roundup, we list a few establishments you HAVE to try before your A2 visit ends. For those who have never visited Ann Arbor, mark these exclusive experiences on your bucket list. Â
The Big House
Ann Arbor is synonymous with University of Michigan football, and no place better represents our commitment to the sport like Michigan Stadium, aka The Big House, a gridiron cathedral recognized as the largest college stadium in the US and the third largest stadium in the world. With a capacity of over 100,000, it is home to the 2024 National Champions and reflects every bit of our team’s 145-year history. For visitors, this is a must-visit for sports fans.Â
Michigan Museum of Art
Ann Arbor is a town highlighted with historic monuments and structures, and no place better captures that historic aura than the U-M Museum of Art. Whether you want to experience handwoven art pieces crafted by local creatives or see art collections that pre-date the 1200s, for first-time visitors, this museum is a must-see attraction with hours worth of information and stunning art displays to marvel at while you explore the city. Â
The Nichols Arboretum
Nature lovers rejoice, as no visit to the city is complete without stopping by The Nichols Arboretum. Also known as The Arb, this garden holds over 10,000 flowers and features over 30 acres of plants, flowers, and other magnificent beauties in bloom. Visit The Arb, and you will understand why Ann Arbor is nicknamed Tree City. Stroll through the fields and enjoy the colorful flowers and bountiful trees that travel as far as the eye can see.
The Blind pig
Who doesn’t love live music? During your visit, A must-stop visit is the popular music venue The Blind Pig. Artists from Bo Diddley to Mac Miller have graced the stage, and you may catch an established superstar or a local artist on the rise. The one thing you can count on is that you will have a great time.Â
Nickels Arcade
Historic Nickels Arcade was built in 1917 and continues to be a must-see attraction in Ann Arbor today. Whether you are going to see the aesthetically pleasing décor or visit one of their many shops like clothing store One DNA and dessert shop Bon Bon, anyone visiting Ann Arbor must experience the wonder of walking through this iconic structure and its residents of businesses.Â
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Address: 212 S 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone: (734) 996-9080
A night of laughter at the Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase ensures a great time. From their rotating roster of nationally recognized comedians to fun open-mic nights, you can end your cityscape adventure with a visit to this laugh factory.Â
Blank Slate Creamery
Make your visit a little sweeter with a stop at one of Ann Arbor’s premiere dessert shops. Blank Slate features over 30 different flavors of ice cream to enjoy, and in between your visit to museums and gardens, take a moment to indulge in a sweet-treat adventure. No visit to Ann Arbor is complete without a stop at Blank Slate, one of the city’s must-try restaurants.Â
Bill’s Beer GardenÂ
Are you looking for delicious brews and other alcoholic beverages? During your visit, take a moment to enjoy one of these smooth beverages at Bill’s Beer Garden, an outdoor drinking establishment with over 30 drinks available. The beauty of this bar, along with the drinks, is its location, a completely outdoor environment for you to have a drink with others in a unique backyard community. Enjoy a drink with friends, soak up the sun, and relax on your A2 adventure.Â
Kerrytown District Association
The heart of downtown Ann Arbor is a bustling area with unique businesses to explore between the Main Street and State Street districts. On your visit, one must-stop area is the Kerrytown district, which blends small-town community charm with standout restaurants like Miss Kim, creative shops like Spun, and the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. For first-time visitors, this district provides a scope of how diverse, fun, and unique the city of Ann Arbor can be.Â
Ann Arbor is highlighted with unique attractions and experiences that every visitor should try or visit. From the Nickels Arcade to The Nichols Arboretum, there’s a charm everyone must see to appreciate Ann Arbor.Â
Antonio Cooper is a freelance journalist from Detroit, Michigan. His coverage of music festivals and interviews with local celebrities appeared in The E-Current Magazine, The Detroit Metro Times, XXL Magazine, RichMagDigital, The Ann Arbor Observer, and Pop Magazine.
