The Reinhart Blog
Your Ultimate Guide to Saline, Michigan
Saline, Michigan is tucked just 10 minutes southwest of Ann Arbor. Originally founded in 1832, the city was built on agriculture — like many Southeast Michigan communities — and still offers a small town atmosphere with agriculture history.
Today, the city also boasts one of the best public school systems in the state, which includes students participating in the Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic. Keep reading to learn more about this impressive extracurricular band!
With these nationally recognized schools, 12 beautiful community parks, countless local businesses and educational museums, this is an ideal community for people of all ages. Below, we dive into a handful of those local restaurants, businesses, attractions and events to share our love for Saline, Michigan. Enjoy!
The Essential Eateries
Matty J’s Bakery and Cafe
Photo courtesy of Matty J’s Bakery and Cafe
MJ Malone and her sidekick Matty J are the powerhouses behind Matty J’s Bakery and Cafe. Driven by a passion for real food, the cafe menu balances healthy options with tasty flavors using locally produced ingredients to offer seasonal treats you’ll love. Check out the menu to find out what breads, sandwiches and cookies you can get today.
Carrigan Cafe
101 S Ann Arbor St #107 | Facebook
At Saline’s Carrigan Cafe, it’s all about local. The beans are sourced from Coffee Express in Plymouth and the treats are sourced from places like Ed’s Bread, Guernsey Dairy and Rumi’s Passion Bakery. Stop by to say hello to Tobin the teddy bear, warm up with a mug of coffee, and you’ll soon learn why this is a neighborhood favorite!
Dan’s Downtown Tavern
Offering a laid back, neighborhood bar setting, Dan’s Downtown Tavern has been a Saline favorite for years. Their menu features comfort foods and one of the largest craft beer selections in town.
Oscar’s Sports & Grill
Oscar’s is a place for locals and for sports fanatics to come together in one of the area’s friendliest and coziest bars. The food is prepared fresh, the hi-def TVs are always on, and the staff is ready to welcome you as a regular!
Sweet Leilani’s
Photo courtesy of Sweet Leilani’s
Sweet Leilani’s Petite Sweets and Desserts strives to prove that tasty treats don’t have to be filled with sugar and guilt-inducing ingredients. While supporting local farmers and producers, they craft seasonal desserts and mouth-watering foods served inside their charming bakery and cafe.
Bridgewater Bank Tavern
Tucked in Bridgewater Township between Saline and Manchester, Bridgewater Bank Tavern boasts a lively atmosphere and delicious, homemade food. Owned by two sisters, you’ll find Sauerkraut dinners on Mondays, a regular Friday Fish Fry, bar food classics and Michigan microbrews on tap!
Brecon Grille & Pub
Named for Saline’s sister city, Brecon, Wales, this English-style pub is the local go-to spot for traditional pub fare, upscale entrees, impressive wines, and Michigan lagers and ales. So next time you’re craving a bit of Welsh food — think Bangers and Mash or Fish and Chips — make a stop here.
Mark’s Midtown Coney Island
Mark’s Midtown Coney Island is a well-known local chain around Ann Arbor. Though they have three locations around Washtenaw County, their story started right here in Saline on Michigan Ave. These doors opened in 1985 and the rest is history.
Things to Do
Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic
Photo courtesy of David Morin via Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic
This nationally recognized band is made up of Saline High School students who present music ranging from American folk to Celtic traditions and everything in between. The band began in 1994 and has since grown into one of the country’s most impressive extracurricular programs. Check out the schedule to find out when you can catch a show!
Rentschler Farm Museum
Operated by Saline Area Historical Society, this farm museum consists of four acres, a frame house and 11 outbuildings, all of which have been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2013. Originally a homestead of the Rentschler family, you can now learn about the history of our agricultural community.
Saline Farmers Market
This year-round farmers market is a growers-only market, meaning you’ll find local vendors who have grown everything they’re selling. During the summer months, you’ll find the outdoor market in downtown Saline and during the winter, it moves inside Liberty School. Follow the market on Facebook for regular updates on special events, produce and more.
Saline Depot Museum
Another museum maintained by Saline Area Historical Society, the Depot Museum represents Saline’s growth and integration into the larger economy of the region. Stop by to see the historic freight house, telegraph and passenger facilities in person.
Stony Lake Brewing Co.
Husband and wife team Jerry and Heidi founded Stony Lake Brewing Company in 2014. Named after their favorite place on earth and inspired by their favorite microbreweries, they offer big beers with an emphasis on American Ales and fresh clean flavors, as well as hard ciders, wines and select sodas.
Salt Springs Brewery
Photo courtesy of Salt Springs Brewery
Named for Saline’s ancient, historic salt springs, this hometown brewery is housed in a beautiful, 116-year-old former church. Undoubtedly one of the most impressive settings in Southeast Michigan, you can enjoy true-to-style ales, wine and cider alongside locally-sourced food with stunning stained glass as the backdrop.
Saline Sculpture Walk
Saline is an art-filled community and one of the best ways to experience that is the self-guided Saline Sculpture Walk. Made up of 11 works created by four artists, the route covers about one mile in and around the city. Because a majority of the works are located downtown, you can pick up your Sculpture Walk brochure at City Hall or other local, downtown businesses.
Coleman’s Farm and Corn Maze
In the fall, Saline is a festive haven for lovers of apple orchards, donuts, cider and corn mazes. One of the area’s beloved destinations is Coleman’s Farm and Corn Maze, a family-owned and operated farm offering a pumpkin patch, farm animals, fresh donuts and cider, and hayrides.
Other stops on the festive tour include Lutz Orchard and Windy Ridge Orchard and Cider Mill in Saline, Alber Orchard & Cider Mill in Manchester, Wiards Orchards and Country Fair in Ypsilanti, and Wasem Fruit Farm and Talladay Farms in Milan.
City Parks
There are 12 parks and open spaces maintained by the city which provide our families and residents with more than 190 acres of outdoor area for play and picnics. Below, we’ve highlighted a handful of the largest parks inside the city limits.
Curtiss Park
Covering 50 acres of outdoor space, Curtiss Park is the second largest park in Saline. Described as four parks in one, the park features two tennis courts, a baseball field, playground equipment, picnic areas, a rentable pavilion, wooded trails and walking paths, access to the Saline River, nature areas, an observation deck over the river, restrooms, and access to the Max Adler Interpretive Trail.
Mill Pond Park
The largest of Saline’s parks, Mill Pond is the home of the community’s dog park. This off-leash, fenced area covers one acre and provides access to the pond for pups who love the water. In addition to this attraction, the park offers an enormous play structure, a boat launch on the 20.5-acre pond, a rentable pavilion, access to fishing on the Saline River, nature trails and so much more.
Tefft Park
As the home of Saline Recreation Center, Tefft Park is a unique gem in the parks system. The outdoor area offers 40 acres which house four softball fields, Miller Field, four tennis courts, two sand volleyball courts, a five-hole Disc Golf course and the Rotary Pavilion. During the winter months, you can even ice skate on the skating pond!
Wilderness Park
One of our favorite places to walk amongst nature, Wilderness Park boasts an impressive trail system covering 22 acres. Whether you’re looking for a hike, a place to bird watch, the perfect picnic setting, or a charming trail to walk your dog, try out Wilderness Park!
Annual Events
Saline Memorial Day Parade | May
Each year, the Saline community comes together to honor our nation’s fallen heroes. This patriotic, family-friendly event is a must for all residents and visitors.
Summer Movies in the Park | June – August
Presented by Saline Parks and Recreation, Summer Movies in the Park provides an opportunity for families and residents to come together and enjoy free, family-friendly movies by starlight. In addition to the movie, you can enjoy music, concessions, games and even an overnight campout!
Saline Celtic Festival | July
Photo courtesy of Saline Celtic Festival
The Saline Celtic Festival originally began as a one-day festival but has grown in popularity to include a full weekend of entertainment. Today, the event includes highland dance competitions, ancient Celtic athletic competitions, kids activities at Wee Folks Island, living history, jousting, sheep herding dog demonstrations, and so much more!
Saline Summerfest | August
Taking over the streets of downtown Saline, Saline Summerfest is a hometown celebration like none other. Each year, the event promises even more food, fun, music and memories with all the local flare we’ve come to love.
US 12 Garage Sale | August
During the second week in August, US-12 Heritage Route becomes home to Michigan’s longest garage sale. The Saline stretch will feature sales of antiques, collectibles, furniture, dishware, fresh garden produce, homemade jams and jellies, live entertainment, and so much more!
Saline Community Fair | August
Scott Feldkamp on Trophy Buck | Photo courtesy of Saline Community Fair
Rounding out the summer, Saline Community Fair provides days of fun for local families. Events include tractor pulls, a car and tractor show, the USA Auto Cross Enduro Derby, carnival rides, fair foods, and more!
Oktoberfest | September
This fall celebration brings the spirit of Germany to downtown Saline. In celebration of the community’s sister city relationship with Lindenberg, Germany, you can enjoy traditional and modern music, a festive bier garten, a corn hole tournament, weiner dog races and so much more.
Saline Christmas Parade | December
The community of Saline welcomes the winter holidays with a huge, festive parade and celebration. Beginning with the lighting of the Christmas tree, you can enjoy festive music, cookies from Benny’s Bakery and hot cocoa and coffee from Carrigan Cafe.
Did you fall in love with Saline?
If you want to find your permanent home in Saline, click here to see homes for sale in the area.
9 Weekend Getaway Hotels on Lake Huron
With a surface area of 23,007 square miles, Lake Huron is the second-largest of the Great Lakes and the third largest freshwater lake in the world. It sits between Michigan and Canada and covers nearly the entire east coast of our state. Thanks to its size, its islands, its unforgettable sunsets, and its sandy beaches, Lake Huron has become one of the best getaways in the region — whether you’re looking for a family vacation or a romantic escape.
To help you plan your waterfront stay, we rounded up several of the shore’s best inns, bed and breakfasts, hotels, resorts, and cottages. All have access to beaches, sunsets, waterfront fire pits and experiences you’ll come back for again and again.
The best Lake Huron getaways include:
Huron House Bed & Breakfast | Oscoda
Located on the beach of Lake Huron between Tawas and Oscoda Michigan, Huron House is an award-winning, luxury, lakeside escape. Your customizable stay can include in-room massage packages, a signature breakfast delivered to your room, romantic moon rises over the beach, majestic Great Lakes freighters passing in the night, and a private hot tub under the stars. To learn more about the amenities, rooms and rates, check out the website and book your stay!
Grand Hotel | Mackinac Island
Photo courtesy of Grand Hotel
This landmark, family-owned hotel on Mackinac Island offers a coastal resort atmosphere and eight eateries, including an ice cream parlor, a sushi restaurant and a tea room. Open throughout the warm summer months, you can enjoy packages suitable for a romantic escape, a family vacation and everything in between. Packages this summer include Summer Wine Appreciation Weekend, the Grand Hotel Lilac Festival Package, the Grand Princess and Superhero Package, and more.
The Inn at Stonecliffe | Mackinac Island
A beloved getaway on Mackinac Island, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers historic charm and beauty, featuring on-site dining, an outdoor pool and jaw-dropping views of Mackinac Bridge. The story of Stonecliffe begins at the turn of the 19th century with Irish immigrant and original owner Michael Cudahy. Throughout its more than 100 years, the property has preserved all of its history, grace and elegance. Learn more and book your stay on the website.
Purple Martin Inn | Rogers City
Located on the shores of Lake Huron and nestled in the quaint community of Rogers City, Purple Martin Inn is owned and operated by Cindy Vezinau who turned this laundromat into one of the region’s most charming inns. Boasting a tranquil beach atmosphere and unforgettable waterfront sunsets, it’s the perfect choice for romantic getaways of all kinds. And, when you stay at this inn, a portion of the funds are donated to the local non-profit, Purple Martin for Kids!
Grand Lake Resort | Presque Isle
Photo courtesy of Grand Lake Resort
Grand Lake Resort is locally owned and operated and has been one of the region’s premier getaways since the 1950s. The property offers 200 feet of frontage on Grand Lake, which is located immediately west of Lake Huron. When you book your stay, you can choose from 15 different suites or the luxurious, 900-square-foot cottage. Check out the options here and get ready for your waterfront escape!
Gold Coast Family Cottages | Oscoda
Open year-round, Gold Coast Family Cottages is suitable for a summer beach vacation, a fall color tour, a winter wonderland and a spring escape. Located right on the sandy shores of Lake Huron, the single building offers four separate units each with a full kitchen, two bedrooms, a bathroom and a relaxing living room.
The Enos Homestead Inn | Cheboygan
Photo courtesy of The Enos Homestead Inn
Situated on 170 acres in the Black River area of Cheboygan, The Enos Homestead Inn is a turn of the century, remodeled farmhouse nestled between Mullett Lake, Black Lake and the enormous Lake Huron. Unique for its farm atmosphere and because it’s surrounded by nature, this getaway will leave you refreshed, relaxed and in love with countryside charm.
Presque Isle Lodge | Presque Isle
Originally built in 1920, Presque Isle Lodge has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2008 and is located directly across from Grand Lake in a scenic, wooded setting. Today, the Spencer family owns and operates the lodge. Offering nine cozy, lodge-style rooms, an outdoor theater and wedding packages, it’s a getaway unlike any other.
Oakapiney Beach Cottages | Ossineke
Located on four acres along 200 feet of pristine, sandy beach, Oakapiney Beach Cottages offers five cozy and rustic cottages. Each accommodation boasts a knotty pine interior, one or two bedrooms, showers, and a full kitchen. Though you’re asked to bring your own sheets and towels, the beach firepit, jaw-dropping sunsets, beach vacation and luxury setting are provided with every stay.
Do you have a favorite getaway?
If you have a go-to lakeside escape, give them a shoutout in the comments below!
The 15 Essential Ann Arbor Area Events to Attend July 2018
July is the height of summer heat, fun and celebration in Ann Arbor. To celebrate, our communities are coming together for outdoor events, concerts, games, festivals and so much more.
To help you make this a month to remember, we rounded up our top 15 local happenings — from the recurring concerts that will get you on your feet, to the annual festivals you don’t want to miss, and everything in between!
For even more summer fun, check out 21 Summer Fairs and Festivals in the Ann Arbor Area You Don’t Want to Miss which includes events happening through August.
Arts + Culture
Sonic Lunch | Ann Arbor
June 7 – August 30, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor
Since 2008, Sonic Lunch has been bringing free, outdoor concerts to the streets of downtown Ann Arbor every summer. Suitable for all ages, the 2018 concert series kicked off on June 7th and continues through July with shows on July 5th, 12th and 26th. All shows begin at 11:30 a.m. and you can see the full lineup here.
Michigan Elvisfest | Ypsilanti
July 6 – 7, various times | Historic Depot Town
Showcasing some of the best professional Elvis tribute artists in North America, Elvisfest offers fun for fans and music lovers of all ages. With the purchase of your ticket (ranging in price from $20 to $60) you can enjoy kids activities, a classic car show, local food vendors, an adult beer tent, raffles and more.
Rolling Sculpture Car Show | Ann Arbor
July 13, 2 – 10 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor
The 24th Annual Rolling Sculpture Car Show is returning to Main, Liberty and Washington Streets in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor this July. The event itself is free and open to the public and all cars are welcome to exhibit for a pre-registration fee of $20. On the day of the show, guests will enjoy 300 exotic, antique, classic and one of a kind cars, live music from Hot Rod DJ, Surfer Joe, and family activities provided by The Ann Arbor District Library.
Saline Celtic Festival | Saline
July 13 – 14, various times | Mill Pond Park
The Saline Celtic Festival originally began as a one-day festival but has grown in popularity and fun to include a full weekend of entertainment. Today, the event includes Highland dance competitions, ancient Celtic athletic competitions, kids activities at Wee Folks Island, living history, jousting, sheep herding dog demonstrations, and so much more!
Art In The Park | Plymouth
July 13 – 15, various times | Downtown Plymouth
Art In The Park is celebrating its 39th year in 2018 by welcoming over 400 artists from around the country. These professionals and hobbyists will be offering paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, fiber, woodwork, glass, photography, folk art and so much more. And all the art comes along with live entertainment and food to create Michigan’s second largest art fair!
Ann Arbor Art Fair | Ann Arbor
July 19 – 22, various times | Downtown Ann Arbor
Kicked off by the Townie Street Party on Monday, July 16th and hosted in conjunction with the State Street Art Fair, Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair and Ann Arbor’s South University Art Fair, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair has grown into quite the event. All around town, you’ll find stage performances, street performers and street painting, an art activity zone, a youth art fair, and even more.
Sounds & Sights Festival | Chelsea
July 26 – 28, various times | Downtown Chelsea
This weekend festival began over three decades ago and has grown to be one of the best summer events in the region. Over two days and three nights, you can experience live music, an indie art market, kids’ entertainment, a classic car show and more in historic downtown Chelsea.
Community Celebrations
Ypsilanti’s Independence Day Parade | Ypsilanti
July 4, 11 a.m. | Historic Depot Town
Honor and celebrate the July 4th holiday with one of the area’s favorite, patriotic traditions: Ypsilanti’s Independence Day Parade. This 90-year tradition is Michigan’s oldest parade and will fill the streets of Depot Town with community fun and plenty of red, white and blue!
Hot Air Jubilee | Jackson
July 20 – 22, various times | Ella Sharp Park
Offering free admission and just $5 parking on-site, Jackson’s Hot Air Jubilee is a full weekend of hot air balloons, entertainment, carnival rides and food. Along with several balloon launches scheduled throughout the festival, you can explore the Ella Sharp Museum, dance to the live DJ, play in Kids Kingdom and so much more! Check out the full schedule here.
Sports
Firecracker 5K and Mile Fun Run | Ann Arbor
July 4, 7:55 – 9:45 a.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor
On the morning of July 4th in downtown Ann Arbor, racers will take off from the intersection of Fourth and Liberty — the most patriotic intersection in town. The main race is a 3.1 mile course through downtown, but the event also offers a Mile Fun Run and a Kids’ 100-Meter Dash for children 8 years and under. Get all the details and register online here.
Jackson Highland Games | Jackson
July 28, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Ella Sharp Park
The second annual Jackson Highland Games is returning to Ella Sharp Park on July 28th. This full day of fun and games will include traditional athletic events like tug-o-war, the caber toss, track and field events, and Highland dance competitions.
International Champions Cup | Ann Arbor
July 28, 3 p.m. | Michigan Stadium
This month the International Champions Cup is coming right here to Ann Arbor. Set in The Big House, Manchester United out of Manchester, United Kingdom and Liverpool FC out of Liverpool, United Kingdom will face off for a global championship opportunity. Get tickets before they sell out and you’ll even have the chance to enjoy the Champions Lounge or the Premium Suite.
Food + Drink
Manchester Chicken Broil | Manchester
July 19, 4 – 8 p.m. | Alumni Field
Each year on the third Thursday of July in Manchester, the largest chicken broil of its kind comes to town! Benefiting local public schools, community parks, libraries and civic causes, your $9 – 10 ticket includes a dinner of chicken, locally famous coleslaw, a roll with butter, potato chips, radishes and a beverage, as well as live music entertainment and a classic car show.
Michigan Summer Beer Festival | Ypsilanti
July 27 – 28, various times | Riverside Park
The oldest of the Michigan Brewers Guild’s four annual festivals, the 21st Annual Summer Beer Festival will host more than 100 local breweries sampling more than 1,000 different craft beers. Guests can also enjoy live music from Michigan bands and food available for purchase!
Picnic at German Park | Ann Arbor
July 28, 4 – 11 p.m. | German Park
The German Park Recreation Club hosts three picnics every summer and this month’s event is set for July 28th from 4 – 11 p.m. For an admission price of just $5 per person, you can enjoy German culture, food, beer and more! Feel free to bring the whole family but no one under 21 years of age will be admitted without a parent or guardian.
Happy July!
The 10 Best Places for Ice Cream in Ann Arbor, Michigan
We’re strong proponents of eating ice cream year-round, but with summer months on the horizon, our cravings are getting even stronger. Luckily for us, we live in one of the state’s best places for ice cream!
To help satisfy your cravings, we rounded up Ann Arbor’s best places to enjoy ice cream. From the local spots producing ice cream by hand to the trendy newcomers serving up fresh creations — there’s something on our list everyone will love. Enjoy!
1. Blank Slate Creamery
Photo courtesy of Blank Slate Creamery
The ice cream at Blank Slate Creamery is homemade using fresh, all-natural ingredients which has resulted in numerous rankings as the top ice cream in Ann Arbor and throughout the state of Michigan! You can even see a list of several of their locally-sourced ingredients on their website, which includes milk and cream from Guernsey Farms Dairy in Northville. Locally owned and operated, we’re proud to put Blank Slate at the top of the list.
2. Michigan Creamery
Photo courtesy of Olivia Seta via Michigan Creamery
Another locally-owned and locally-sourced favorite, the Michigan Creamery story began back in 2007 with a charming storefront in Dexter. Today, they operate one shop right here in Ann Arbor. Everything — from the ice cream and chocolates all the way down to the ingredients — is locally produced in Michigan!
3. Washtenaw Dairy
Photo courtesy of Washtenaw Dairy
Washtenaw Dairy may already be a famous destination for donuts, but if you’re skipping the ice cream, you’re missing out on some of Ann Arbor’s best! This landmark shop has the biggest cones in town at the lowest prices. With over 30 flavors alongside hand-dipped shakes and malts, everyone can find a cold, refreshing treat to enjoy. Follow the team on Instagram and get ready to drool.
4. Go! Ice Cream
10 N Washington St, Ypsilanti | Facebook
Photo courtesy of Go! Ice Cream
This year-round, Ypsi ice cream shop serves up ice cream made by hand, from scratch, using all-natural and local ingredients whenever possible. Inside their vintage-inspired shop, you’ll find custom cakes and pies, one-of-a-kind flavors and an old-school, chromed-out soda fountain. Stop in once and you’ll soon become a regular.
5. Iorio’s Gelateria
Inspired by their great-grandparents, Luigi and Maria Iorio, siblings Mary and Nick started Iorio’s Gelato in 2004 right here in Ann Arbor to celebrate and share their family’s Italian heritage. Today, their team makes artisan gelato using authentic, natural ingredients sourced from all around the world. You can find flavors like traditional Italian pistachio and pomegranate champagne sorbetto here in Ann Arbor or in the East Lansing shop!
6. Joe and Rosie Coffee and Tea
The Joe and Rosie story started and flourished in nearby Dexter where they serve coffees, teas, pastries, sandwiches and more. At the very end of 2017, the team purchased Coffee House Creamery and opened their second location in Ann Arbor! In this new shop, they serve everything we’ve come to love in Dexter, plus specialty ice cream and cakes.
7. Kilwins
Photo courtesy of Kilwins
Since 1947, Kilwins has been serving families decadent chocolates, ice cream and confections in locations around the country. You’ll find Kilwins of Ann Arbor in the heart of downtown under two orange awnings — the same place they’ve been since January 18, 1983! Walk in and you’ll immediately smell handmade waffle cones, homemade caramel, hand-paddled fudge and more.
8. Cherry Bee’s
This self-serve frozen yogurt, ice cream, gelato and custard shop offers up to 18 flavors and endless toppings so you can eat to your heart’s (and stomach’s) content! Because you serve the ice cream and choose the toppings, you can opt for a create-your-own fruity concoction or a death by chocolate masterpiece.
9. Ben & Jerry’s
Locally owned and operated, the Ann Arbor Ben & Jerry’s will inspire everyone to feel like a kid again. In addition to classic, famous flavors, you’ll find pints to take home, sundaes, smoothies, shakes and even custom ice cream cakes!
10. I-CE-NY
This franchise ice cream shop is the only place in Ann Arbor where you can find rolled ice cream! Inspired by the Thai street food, rolled ice cream makes preparing and serving the treat as fun as eating it. Customize your order with mix-in ingredients, then watch as it’s all smashed together and rolled up for you to enjoy.
Enjoy!
In the comments below, let us know where you go for ice cream in the Ann Arbor area — even if it’s not on our list!
16 Ann Arbor Date Ideas That Don’t Involve Going to a Restaurant
Ann Arbor is a hidden gem in our country’s foodie community. If you’ve walked down Main Street, you’ve already passed more than a dozen must-try spots — all of which are suitable for a dinner date. But even with outstanding food on the table, dinner dates can get repetitive (and expensive) quickly.
If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, have no fear. We rounded up 16 of the best date night ideas that cover both night time outings and day dates.
And when you do get hungry, check out The 15 Best Date Night Restaurants in Ann Arbor.
1. Explore local museums
Photo courtesy of UMMA
Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan so it makes sense that our little town is packed with so many museums and educational opportunities. The long list of options includes University of Michigan Museum of Art, African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County, Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, Kempf House Museum, the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum, and the Michigan Firehouse Museum in Ypsi.
2. Watch an independent film
Founded in 1928, the Michigan Theater is now home to three screening spaces for independent movies, concerts, comedy shows, national tours and more. Check out the schedule here to see which movies are playing. And if you don’t see something you like, check out the State Theatre for more indie options. If you’re looking for more current releases, head to Rave Cinemas or Quality 16.
3. Challenge each other to miniature golf
Putterz in Ypsilanti offers everything from a large game room and batting cages to a 54 hole golf course. Three miniature golf games cost just $10 per person so this is a great budget-friendly option, too!
4. Listen to live music
Photo courtesy of TSLC Productions via The Blind Pig
If you and your date are on the hunt for live music, you won’t struggle to find it in Ann Arbor. Kerrytown Concert House provides the classics, The Blind Pig provides the danceable tunes, and The Ark provides, well, everything! This downtown venue offers live music on more than 300 nights each year in one of the best listening rooms anywhere.
5. Attend Sonic Lunch
Since 2008, Sonic Lunch has been bringing free, outdoor concerts to the streets of Downtown Ann Arbor every summer. Suitable for all ages, the 2018 concert series kicks off June 7th and continues with 12 total shows through August 30th. All shows begin at 11:30 a.m. so pack a picnic lunch and head to the corner of Liberty and Division for a Thursday afternoon date! You can see the full 2018 lineup here.
6. Laugh at a comedy show
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase has a schedule packed with stand up comedy. You can catch headliners on Friday and Saturday or buy $5 tickets to the Comedy Jamm each Thursday, which features of 12 local stars from beginner to professional and everything in between.
7. Shop local record stores
If you’re looking for a music-themed day date, hit up a local record store and dig through the bins together. Encore Records, Wazoo Records and Underground Sounds all call Ann Arbor home.
8. Sip cocktails
Dinner may get old after a while, but cocktails never do — especially when you’re sipping at The Last Word! Repeatedly named as Ann Arbor’s best cocktail bar, this underground locale is a hidden gem, literally. Located underground with no exterior signage, and offering dim lighting and an outstanding bar program, it’s designed in true speakeasy fashion. The drink menu includes high-quality wines and craft beers alongside cocktails prepared with fresh ingredients and house-made syrups and bitters.
9. Go on your own brewery tour
We certainly have no shortage of craft breweries here in Ann Arbor. Our town is home to Wolverine State Brewing Co., HOMES Brewery, Glasshouse Brewing, Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, Pileated Brewing Company, Edelbrau Brewing Company and Arbor Brewing Company Brewpub, which serves beers brewed down the road in Ypsi.
If you want to taste a few different breweries in an always lively and fun atmosphere, we recommend stopping by Bill’s Beer Garden or Ann Arbor Beer Grotto.
10. Share tea
Photo courtesy of TeaHaus
Ann Arbor’s favorite tea spot, TeaHaus, offers options suited for a quick stop or an entire afternoon — from single mugs to full English tea!
Another local favorite, The Crazy Wisdom Tea Room, serves over 100 varieties of tea alongside Mighty Good Coffee and café snacks. On the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, you can stop by to enjoy the Crazy Wisdom Poetry Series!
11. Learn how to dance
Ann Arbor’s dance organizations and clubs can get you out on the floor even if you don’t know how! The Ballroom Dance Club hosts three hours of lessons and two hours of open dance nearly every Sunday night. And at AACTMAD gatherings, you can practice dancing, play instruments, or just come to listen and watch.
12. Paddle in a kayak
Our two favorite kayak destinations in Ann Arbor are Gallup Park and Argo Canoe Livery. Gallup is a 69-acre park along the Huron River and Geddes Pond. It offers two playgrounds, picnic areas and grills, an open field, more than three miles of asphalt trails, and a canoe livery for boat rentals!
The Argo Livery is located at the Argo Cascades and features canoes, one-person kayaks, two-person kayaks, five-person rafts, tubes and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
13. Embark on a nature walk
Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum are two educational and environmental gardens on the UM campus. The botanical gardens include eleven outdoor spaces full of bonsai, native and medicinal plants, perennials, and more which bloom seasonally from spring to first frost. For colder months enjoy their year-round indoor conservatory filled with plants from around the world.
Nichols Arboretum is one of the richest landscapes in the region. It spans miles of trails and land with collections of native and exotic trees and shrubs crafted into a landscape that was begun by O. C. Simonds in 1907.
14. Shoot each other at laser tag
The Ypsilanti Zap Zone is one of our favorite places for laser tag, but that’s not all they have! You can enjoy an entire day of fun with bumper cars, an arcade and a virtual reality experience, too.
15. Play arcade games
Pinball Pete’s opened its doors more than 30 years ago and has since become the Ann Arbor destination for arcade fun. Spend your quarters along the entire wall of pinball machines, play video games, and challenge your date to a game of pool or air hockey!
16. Go bowling
Revel and Roll offers 27 lanes of bowling as well as billiards tables, interactive and virtual video games and chef-inspired dining options in case you work up a hunger. Schedule your date for Thursday night and you can enjoy bottomless bowling, including shoes, for just $12 from 10 p.m. until close!
Do you have a go-to date?
If you have a favorite date spot in Ann Arbor, let us know in the comments below!
15 Amazing Menus Available During Ann Arbor Restaurant Week 2018
Ann Arbor Restaurant Week is a twice-yearly event that brings together some of our hometown’s best eateries for a chance to taste outstanding, local foods at discounted prices. Each participating restaurant offers either a $15 lunch menu, a $28 dinner menu, or both. And some even offer those menus at a two-for-one price which means you pay just $15 for two lunches!
This year’s summer event is scheduled for June 10 – 15, 2018 and includes nearly 60 participating restaurants. To see the complete list, click here.
Below, we’ve rounded up details on a few of the mouth-watering menus that already have us hungry for our next meal. Keep reading to learn more about each restaurant, to preview their menus and to get ready for Ann Arbor Restaurant Week 2018!
Aventura
216 E Washington St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
Photo courtesy of Aventura
Aventura is a charming spot that offers authentic Spanish culture and cuisine, including tapas, paella, vino and delicious, artisan cocktails. In traditional Catalan and Valencian style, the dining room and bar are intertwined, emphasizing the lively social experience of the classic tapas bar.
For just $28, the Restaurant Week dinner menu will take you on a tapas trip through la España. The four-course menu includes a choice of pintxos, small finger foods served throughout the Basque Country, followed by your choice croquetas, tapas and a main plate.
Black Pearl
302 S Main St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
Photo courtesy of Black Pearl
This sleek seafood restaurant offers a unique lounge atmosphere with cocktails, music and mouth-watering cuisine. In the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, you can taste innovative creations from Chef James Wilhelm any time of year, including everything from Raw Oysters on the Half Shell to the famous Caramel Apple Salmon. And don’t worry, the team’s award-winning fish tacos are on the Restaurant Week menu!
Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery
207 E Washington St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: Two for one $15 lunch + two for one $28 dinner
At Blue Tractor, they offer their own award-winning, craft brewed beer alongside world-class smoked meats and barbecue. For Ann Arbor Restaurant Week, they’re offering a lunch menu and a dinner menu — and both are two-for-one. That means you can get two lunches for $15 and two dinners for just $28. You may even want to visit more than once!
Café Zola
112 W Washington St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: $15 lunch + $28 dinner
Café Zola opened in 1996 and is still independently owned and operated. The original breakfast and lunch menu was largely influenced by French cuisine and today, you’ll also find influences from Mediterranean and Turkish tradition.
During Restaurant Week, the team is offering a lunch menu Monday through Friday and a dinner menu every night. Both menus offer a huge selection of Zola favorites: two courses and 16 options for lunch, two courses and 23 options for dinner!
The Café Zola bistro, Zola Bistro, is also participating in Ann Arbor Restaurant Week!
Grange Kitchen & Bar
118 W Liberty Rd | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
Photo courtesy of Grange Kitchen & Bar
This farm-to-table restaurant offers seasonally and daily rotating menus that are filled with farm fresh ingredients and local, sustainable products. Because the menu can change daily, you’ll get something new and innovative everytime you stop by. During Restaurant Week, they’re offering a three-course dinner menu which includes options like smoked trout rillettes, pan roasted chicken and grilled lake trout.
Grizzly Peak Brewing Company
120 W Washington St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: Two for one $15 lunch + two for one $28 dinner
Grizzly Peak Brewing Company started serving their in-house brewed craft beer in 1995 and have since become a staple in downtown Ann Arbor. Inside their warm, casual digs, you can get made from scratch foods paired with eight different craft brews on tap daily.
During Restaurant Week, they’re offering a two-for-one lunch that includes options like a Honey Mustard Burger, a Smoked Turkey and Gouda sandwich and a Cherry Pecan Chicken Salad. The two for one dinner menu includes four different Grizzly Peak favorites, including their Pub Fish and Chips!
Logan
115 W Washington St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
Logan is the passion project of Executive Chef Thad Gillies, General Manager Ryan Gillies and Sommelier Kevin Hobart. Their New American menu is driven by innovation and offered alongside boutique wine and spirits and outstanding service. As such, their three-course Restaurant Week dinner menu is a must-try!
Mikette Bistro and Bar
1759 Plymouth Rd | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: $15 brunch + $15 lunch + $28 dinner
Whether diners are seeking a traditional three-course dining experience or a more communal, tapas-style dinner, the team at Mikette is ready with mouth-watering dishes and superb service. The regular dinner menu offers both East Coast and West Coast Oysters, House Patés, and Blue Plate Specials like Shrimp Gumbo, Fried Chicken and Chicken Parmesan. For Restaurant Week, they’re offering a brunch menu, a lunch menu and a dinner menu so you can count us in for all three!
Mikette’s sister restaurants, MANI Osteria and Isalita are also participating in Ann Arbor Restaurant Week!
Miss Kim
415 N 5th Ave | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: $15 lunch + $28 dinner + $48 dinner deluxe
Photo courtesy of Miss Kim
Miss Kim’s authentic Korean dishes are driven by and adapted to showcase Michigan’s bountiful produce. As you sit back and relax in the modern, industrial dining room, you can share small plates like Fresh Oysters and Pork Belly Bossam, or opt for the medium and large entrée selections which include everything from Fried Calamari to a Whole Lamb Shank.
For Restaurant Week, they’re offering a traditional lunch menu and a dinner menu, as well as a dinner deluxe menu. The Dinner Deluxe adds $20 and includes five courses from appetizer all the way through to dessert!
NeoPapalis
500 E William St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: $15 lunch + $28 dinner
The team at NeoPapalis opened their first restaurant right here in Ann Arbor more than three years ago, but the family has been in the pizza business for more than 29 years. Their Neo-Neapolitan pizzas are made from dough that is allowed to rise for a minimum of three days, fior di latte cheese, fresh basil, tomatoes from the foot of Mt. Vesuvius and extra virgin olive oil.
Their Restaurant Week lunch and dinner menus each serve at least two diners. And one of the dinner options even comes with two Michigan microbrews for guests over 21 years of age!
Sava’s
216 S State St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: $15 lunch + $28 dinner
Photo courtesy of EE Berger via Sava’s
What began as Sava Lelcaj’s 23-seat cafe is now one of Ann Arbor’s best restaurants with 300 seats, a team of amazing chefs and welcoming staff. The seasonally-inspired menu includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert driven by Michigan ingredients.
During Restaurant Week, you can try that fresh fare in the form of Fish Tacos served with blackened mahi-mahi, cabbage, roasted tomato salsa and chipotle mayo, a Michigan Apple Salad, or two other mouth-watering choices. The dinner menu consists of three courses, including a dessert of devil’s food cake with marshmallow buttercream frosting and chocolate fudge ganache.
Seva
2541 Jackson Ave | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menus: Two for one $15 lunch + two for one $28 dinner
Seva has been serving outstanding plant-based cuisine in Ann Arbor since 1973. Now located in Westgate on the town’s west side, Seva offers an impressive craft beer list, all housemade desserts, gluten-free options, and dishes that will make even meat eaters love vegetarian food.
Get a taste for yourself during Restaurant Week when they’ll be offering a two-for-one lunch menu and a two-for-one dinner menu which includes three courses (and three vegan dessert options!).
The Earle
121 W Washington St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
The Earle has been a downtown Ann Arbor favorite for more than 20 years. In addition to the decadent menu of French and Italian country cuisine, they offer live jazz five nights a week, solo piano and solo guitar performances.
During Restaurant Week, they’re showing off their love of upscale fare with a dinner menu that features three courses and fifteen options total, including six dessert choices!
The Ravens Club
207 S Main St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
The Ravens Club has been offering some of the best seasonal menus in town since they opened their doors in 2011. Alongside Michigan craft beer, a list of over 150 American whiskeys and impressive craft cocktails, the dinner menu features made from scratch snacks, appetizers and upscale main dishes.
This is exemplified in their three-course dinner menu during Restaurant Week. It includes items like Chicken Liver Mousse and Ahi Tuna for appetizers and Chicken Brandy, Spinach Gnocchi or Indian River Trout for a main dish.
Vinology
110 S Main St | Facebook | Restaurant Week menu
Restaurant week menu: $28 dinner
Owned and operated by the Jonna family, this neighborhood wine bar boasts a chic atmosphere, 150 wines and a New American menu. With more than 40 years of experience in the food and wine business, the team at Vinology has proven time and time again that they know good eats and world-class wine.
The three-course dinner menu during Restaurant Week features jaw-dropping items, including Greek Octopus with lemon, cucumber, olive oil, oregano, feta mousse and kalamata olives, Vegan Tamales Fritos, and Peach Cobbler for dessert — a decadent dish in a brown butter crust and served with cinnamon basil ice cream.
Where will you be dining?
To see a complete list of restaurants participating in Ann Arbor Restaurant Week, check out the website here. Then, let us know where you’ll be dining in the comments below!
The 14 Essential Ann Arbor Area Events to Attend June 2018
June brings us countless wonderful things, including the official first day of summer, the unofficial beginning of festival season, huge annual events like Ann Arbor Summer Festival, and the sunny weather that makes us fall in love with Ann Arbor year after year.
To help you take advantage of all four, we rounded up a handful of Southeast Michigan’s most exciting events. Fill your calendar with fun this month and don’t forget to tag us in your Facebook and Instagram posts so we can join in too!
For even more summer happenings, check out 21 Summer Fairs and Festivals in the Ann Arbor Area You Don’t Want to Miss which includes events happening through August.
Arts + Culture
Cinetopia Film Festival | Ann Arbor
May 31 – June 10, various times | Various locations
Specially curated for the community of Southeast Michigan, Cinetopia features the best feature-length dramas, comedies and documentaries shown at the world’s best film festivals, including SXSW, Sundance and more. Outside of screenings, special pre- and post-film events include presentations, discussion panels, and Q&A sessions with directors, writers and stars.
Sonic Lunch | Ann Arbor
June 7 – August 30 | Downtown Ann Arbor
Since 2008, Sonic Lunch has been bringing free, outdoor concerts to the streets of Downtown Ann Arbor every summer. Suitable for all ages, the 2018 concert series kicks off June 7th and continues with shows on June 14th, June 21st, June 28th and eight others throughout the summer. All shows begin at 11:30 a.m. and you can see the full lineup here.
Ya’ssoo Greek Festival | Ann Arbor
June 8 – 10, various times | St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Hosted by St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, this annual event has become a local favorite thanks to the authentic Greek foods, live entertainment, Greek dance performances and more. Admission ranges from free during the day up to $3 for evening admission, but children 12 years and younger are always admitted for free!
Gordon Hall Days | Dexter
June 23 – 24, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Gordon Hall
The Dexter Area Historical Society serves to preserve our history and inspire our community to connect the past with the future. Gordon Hall Days brings the community together to celebrate that mission through tours, shows, live music, food and fun for an entire weekend! Highlights include the Dexter Antique and Vintage Market on Saturday and Sunday, the Antique Car Show on Saturday and a ticketed performance by George Bedard and The Kingpins on Saturday night.
Community Celebrations
Milan Fair | Milan
May 31 – June 2, various times | Wilson Park
Image courtesy of Milan Fair
The annual Milan Fair is a favorite regional event for good reason! It’s been a community tradition for more than 65 years and, in 2018, highlights include a carnival, a parade, an artisan market, fireworks, kids’ activities, and an entertainment tent that will feature karaoke and live music.
Ypsi Pride | Ypsilanti
June 1, 6 – 10 p.m. | Downtown Ypsilanti
Celebrating its second year in 2018, Ypsi Pride is a block party of epic proportions on Ypsilanti’s South Washington Street. The event coincides with First Friday Ypsilanti, a monthly art walk throughout Downtown Ypsi.
African American Downtown Festival | Ann Arbor
June 2, 9 a.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor
Entertainment at this annual festival is suitable for all ages. Whether you’re perusing local food vendors, playing carnival games or dancing to live tunes on the main stage, the whole family will find something to love!
Ann Arbor Summer Festival | Ann Arbor
June 8 – July 1, various times | Various locations
As the can’t-miss, arts-centered event of the summer, the 2018 Ann Arbor Summer Festival will include world-class entertainment in comedy, cinema, food, jazz, pop and rock, acoustic, spoken word, public radio, and so much more. It all takes place in venues like the Power Center, Top of the Park and The Ann Arbor Club. Buy your tickets here.
Mayor’s Green Fair | Ann Arbor
June 8, 6 – 9 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor
The 18th annual Mayor’s Green Fair is coming to Main Street on June 8th. In celebration of our community’s environmental leadership, the event will close down the street so pedestrians can enjoy environmental displays and green products, live music, and fun in one of the town’s liveliest neighborhoods.
Juneteenth Celebration | Ann Arbor
June 16, 12 – 6 p.m. | Wheeler Park
Juneteenth is an annual festival that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery on June 19, 1865, and the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans. In Ann Arbor, the event is hosted by The Ann Arbor Branch of the NAACP and includes vendors, a youth basketball tournament, live music, face painting and more.
Sports
8th Annual Chelsea-Dexter Golf Outing | Chelsea
June 7, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Pierce Lake Golf Course
This annual community golf tournament brings together neighbors in Chelsea, Dexter and the surrounding area for a full day of golf and fun. The $125 registration includes prizes for every golfer, breakfast, lunch and dinner, 18 holes and a golf cart! Register your team online here.
Food + Drink
Taste of Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor
June 3, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor
Photo courtesy of Ryan Halsey Photography via Main Street Ann Arbor
This beloved annual event brings together local restaurants in booths throughout downtown Ann Arbor. Each one offers bite-sized foods to showcase what they do best and ensure you can taste more than one! Tickets for food can be purchased at the event for $1 each. Follow the team on Facebook for event updates.
Grillin’ for Food Gatherers | Ann Arbor
June 10, 3 – 8 p.m. | Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds
Established in 1988, Food Gatherers was Michigan’s first food rescue program and still works today to alleviate hunger and eliminate its causes in our community. Grillin’ for Food Gatherers is an annual fundraiser that includes food and desserts from our area’s best restaurants, live music, a cash bar featuring Michigan microbrews and wines, children’s activities hosted by the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, free massages by Body Wisdom Massage and a photo booth! To buy your tickets and get more information, click here.
Ann Arbor Restaurant Week | Ann Arbor
June 10 – 15 | Various locations
Ann Arbor Restaurant Week is a bi-yearly celebration of local food and business in our hometown. The weeklong event gives you the opportunity to try various Ann Arbor restaurants for one low, fixed price. Participating restaurants will offer $15 lunch menus and/or $28 dinner menus — and some will even be offering two meals for the price of one! To see who is participating and to preview their menus, check out the website.
Happy June!
14 Ann Arbor Area Events Happening over Memorial Day Weekend 2018
Memorial Day is a national holiday that gives us a dedicated time to reflect and honor our nation’s fallen heroes. Over the years, the long weekend has also become the kick-off to summer events and celebrations. This year, the Ann Arbor area is providing a healthy balance of both.
Our guide has concerts, community gatherings, outdoor shows, and eight different parades and Memorial Day ceremonies. With at least one event for every day of the weekend, you can fill your holiday with both fun and remembrance!
The Decemberists | Ann Arbor
Friday, May 25, 2018 at 7 p.m. | Event info
This quirky and crooning quintet released their debut album in 2002, and they’ve been releasing hit after hit ever since. Driven by theatrical and hyper-literate pop lyrics, their songs are often history- and literature-based — they even have a rock opera under their belt! Kick-off the long weekend with a live show on Friday.
Cruise in 2018 Downtown Jackson | Jackson
Friday, May 25, 2018 from 6 – 9 p.m. | Event info
Photo courtesy of Downtown Jackson
This event brings classic cars, live music and family fun to the streets of downtown Jackson. The family-oriented event includes a variety of local vendors and some of the region’s best food trucks, too! On May 25th, Mystic Bowie’s Talking Dreads will be providing the tunes. Bring your whole family down between 6 and 9 p.m. for a Friday evening of fun with the community.
Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra Season Finale | Ypsilanti
Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 2 p.m. | Event info
The Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra 2017/2018 season comes to a close on Saturday, but not before a wonderful show in Riverside Park! Through orchestral music of the highest artistic caliber and innovative programming, the artists and organizers of YSO continuously enhance the cultural lives of the residents of Ypsilanti and the surrounding communities. Follow the team on Facebook for finale event updates.
Movement Detroit | Detroit
Saturday, May 26, 2018 – Monday, May 28, 2018 | Event info
This electronic music festival is an annual music event held in Detroit each Memorial Day weekend — and it has been since 2006. The schedule for the 2018 festival features more than 75 performances across five stages and three days. The biggest names on the lineup include Diplo and Wu-Tang Clan, so get your tickets today!
Flower Day at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market | Ann Arbor
Sunday, May 27, 2018 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Event info
Photo courtesy of Ann Arbor Farmers Market
On the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market is teaming up with the Sunday Artisan Market to host Flower Day. Celebrating all things flowers and plants, the special occasion will include food trucks, live music, backyard beekeeping tips, gardening how-to advice, kids activities, and tons of fun!
Milan Memorial Day Service and Parade | Milan
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 9 a.m.
At 9 a.m., Milan’s annual Memorial Day Parade begins at Marble Park Cemetery. The service will take place in the cemetery as well, so stick around to honor our fallen veterans and gather with the community.
Plymouth Memorial Day Parade | Plymouth
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 9 a.m. | Event info
Plymouth’s annual Memorial Day parade will march up Main Street beginning at 9:00 a.m. It will end further down Main at Veterans Park with a special program saluting our veterans.
Ypsilanti Memorial Day Parade | Ypsilanti
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 9 a.m.
This community parade kicks off at the corner of Huron and Michigan then proceeds up Huron to Cross Street. There will be a ceremony on the bridge over the Huron River before the parade and the concluding program will be at the Armed Forces Memorial.
Memorial Day Murph Challenge | Ypsilanti
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m.
The Murph Challenge is a Memorial Day tradition that pays tribute to LT. Michael P. Murphy and contributes to a prestigious organization founded by the Murphy family. The CrossFit challenge begins with a 1-mile run then consists of 100 pull-ups, 200 pushups and 300 squats before finishing with another 1-mile run.
This year, CrossFit Ypsilanti is an official host of the Memorial Day Murph Challenge! As the only official host in Southeast Michigan, you can join them for the workout at 10 a.m. then enjoy a light brunch to celebrate.
However, they won’t be the only CrossFit team embarking on the challenge and raising money on Memorial Day so check with your local gym too!
Glacier Highlands Memorial Day Parade | Ann Arbor
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m.
Ann Arbor’s Memorial Day parade is hosted by the Glacier Highlands Neighborhood Association each year. This year, come together in the Glacier Highlands neighborhood for the community’s amazing parade and remembrance ceremony.
Dexter Memorial Day Parade | Dexter
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m. | Event info
Photo courtesy of Quaila Pant via Rotary Club of Dexter
Dexter’s Memorial Day Parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Ann Arbor St. and Inverness. The procession will continue down Ann Arbor St. and continue on to Main St. until it turns right on Alpine to circle back to the ceremony at Monument Park. Organized by the Rotary Club of Dexter, this has become a beloved event in the region, so don’t miss it!
Saline Memorial Day Parade | Saline
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m.
Saline’s Memorial Day Parade begins at the Michigan Ave. fire station and travels west to Oakwood Cemetery for a community memorial service. The service will be followed by hot dogs, chips and refreshments, so bring the whole family down to honor our fallen veterans and gather with the community.
Chelsea Memorial Day Parade | Chelsea
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m.
The Chelsea Memorial Day Parade begins at the municipal park lot in downtown Chelsea and will travel south to Oak Grove Cemetery for a ceremony and gathering. This is a great way for locals to come together as a community to honor those whose who gave their all, so don’t miss out on this event!
Manchester Memorial Day Parade | Manchester
Monday, May 28, 2018 at 1 p.m.
Two parades are held each year in Manchester and one of them is — you guessed it — the Memorial Day Parade! This parade includes the High School Band, veterans groups and the Boy and Girl Scouts of our community. It is followed by a ceremony at the cemetery.
Have a great weekend!
Wherever you’re celebrating and honoring our veterans over the long weekend, we hope you have a safe and happy holiday.
Reinhart Establishes Charitable Foundation to Benefit the Community
We are proud to announce the launch of our new charitable foundation – the Reinhart Charitable Foundation.
The goal of the new foundation is to champion both volunteerism and fundraising, for organizations that work to improve the quality of life in the communities that we serve.
Dave Lutton, President of Reinhart, said, “As a corporation, we have always placed a high priority on giving back to the community, and have a long history of helping a wide range of organizations throughout Washtenaw County”. Nancy Bowerbank, the newly appointed Chair of the Reinhart Charitable Foundation, and Sales Manager of the Reinhart North office added, “Charitable giving has always been at the heart of our business model. Our agents and employees have been fundraising and volunteering for years, but the Foundation gives us a structured way to do this work and will allow us to serve our community more effectively!”
Ozone House is the Foundation’s first Charity Partner. Ozone House supports children and young people, ages 10 to 20 years old who are in crisis and seeking help for a variety of reasons. Support includes emergency, transitional and permanent housing options, counseling, family intervention, a 24-hour crisis line, life skills training, job training, LGBTQ support and a safe drop-in center that serves over 800 youth per year with after school programs and a hot meal. Last year, Ozone House supported over 4,000 young people in Washtenaw County.
For more information visit Facebook.com/ReinhartCharitableFoundation.
Where to Take Out of Town Guests in Ann Arbor, Michigan
In our totally unbiased opinion, everyone should make a trip to Ann Arbor at least once. Our quirky, historic and charming community is home to several things you can only find here, including the country’s largest stadium, hidden fairy doors and, of course, the Fragel.
As a local, it’s easy to forget all the best places to show off when you have guests in town. To help jog your memory, we rounded up a few of our must-visit local businesses and attractions. Our guide includes food, shopping, education and outdoor experiences, so there’s a good chance your guests will fall in love with Ann Arbor, too.
If you need more ideas, follow along on the Reinhart blog where we continually highlight the area’s best local businesses, restaurants, events and more!
Try the Fragel from MD Bagel Fragel
MD Bagel Fragel is a beloved bagel shop in town and they’re the only place where you can still get a Fragel! A 30 year Ann Arbor tradition, a Fragel is raisin-packed dough fried golden brown and coated with cinnamon sugar. The perfect combination of bagel and donut, it’s a must-try for every A2 local and visitor. Alongside Fragels, you’ll find an impressive lineup of freshly baked bagels in sweet and savory flavors, as well as homemade cream cheeses available in 20 different flavors!
Grab a cup of coffee
Photo courtesy of Black Diesel Coffee
The small town feel and college atmosphere of Ann Arbor make it the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee in a cozy setting. Because our community loves to support local businesses, there are countless neighborhood cafes. In fact, we rounded up The 16 Best Coffee Shops in the Ann Arbor Area, which includes favorites like Literati Coffee located above Literati Bookstore, Roos Roast and Black Diesel Coffee. So why not take a coffee tour of Ann Arbor?
Find all The Fairy Doors
Fairy doors have been popping up all over Ann Arbor in various locations for as long as we can remember. Today, you can find these charming, artistic, miniature doors at The Michigan Theater, Ann Arbor District Library, The Ark, Nicola’s Books and at least four other documented locations in town. Check out the map here and see if you can spot them all!
Type on Literati Bookstore’s public typewriter
Photo courtesy of Literati Bookstore
When Ann Arbor’s original, local bookstore, Borders, closed its doors all over the country, Hilary and Mike Gustafson moved back to their home state and opened Literati Bookstore as a book-lovers haven in downtown Ann Arbor. On the store’s lower level, they set out an old typewriter and invited anyone and everyone to type a note on it. Over the years, they accumulated thousands of love notes, poems, sentences and salutations. Published in 2018, Notes From A Public Typewriter compiles some of their favorites alongside essays, photos and more. Stop by and type your own note to be a part of local history!
Learn something new at the University of Michigan Museum of Art
One of the most obvious attractions in Ann Arbor is the University of Michigan campus. But you can do a lot more than just people watch in The Diag. Located on campus, the University of Michigan Museum of Art is one of the largest university art museums in the country. Their collections represent 150 years of art collecting and include everything from 1000 BCE Middle Eastern artifacts to 21st-century paintings. Admission to the museum is always free, but a $10 donation is also appreciated. Get full details and plan your visit here.
Drive out to Dexter Cider Mill
Part of the excitement of being in Ann Arbor is the opportunity to explore the surrounding communities that make Southeast Michigan the enchanting place that it is. Just 20 minutes northwest of Ann Arbor, the seasonal Dexter Cider Mill in Dexter, Michigan is the oldest continuously operating cider mill in the entire state. Today, the team makes cider the same way it was made 120 years ago: using locally grown, hand picked apples on an oak rack press. Even their equipment is over 100-years-old! In addition to natural cider, fresh apples, doughnuts, apple nut bread, made-from-scratch apple pies, apple strudel, apple turnovers and hand rolled gingersnaps, you can also sip homemade hard ciders made on-site.
Go out for brunch
It’s not a trip to Ann Arbor without getting a taste of the local flavor. Our local restaurants have helped make our town a hidden gem in the foodie community — and we can’t get enough. A good starting point is brunch, AKA the most important meal of the week. Check out The 16 Essential Brunch Spots in Ann Arbor to see a few of our favorites!
Visit one (or more!) of the famous Zingerman’s businesses
Photo courtesy of Emma Boonstra via Zingerman’s Creamery
Zingerman’s Community of Businesses began humbly in 1982 as a small delicatessen in a historic building that was once a neighborhood grocery store. Instead of following the typical franchise model, deli founders Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig decided to expand locally. Today, there are more than ten businesses operating under the Zingerman’s umbrella — from Zingerman’s Bakery and Miss Kim to Zingerman’s Food Tours and Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter. To learn more about all of them, check out Your Guide to 14 Zingerman’s Businesses in Ann Arbor.
Sip a cocktail at The Last Word
Repeatedly named as Ann Arbor’s best cocktail bar, The Last Word is a hidden gem, literally. Located underground with no exterior signage, and offering dim lighting and an outstanding bar program, it’s a bar designed in true speakeasy fashion. The drink menu includes high-quality wines and craft beers alongside cocktails prepared with fresh ingredients and house-made syrups and bitters. The food menu includes crafted dishes like Pork Belly Tostada, Duck Confit Hash and Fried Chicken Buns — and it’s available until midnight during the week and 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday!
Shop the farmers’ market
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is open year-round on Saturdays. During the summer, you can enjoy it twice a week on Saturdays and Wednesdays with six food truck rallies scheduled on the first Wednesday of the month, May through October!
Because it’s located in Kerrytown, shopping the market will also give you the chance to explore one of Ann Arbor’s most charming districts. Home to places like 16 Hands, Everyday Wines, The Lunch Room Diner & Canteen, Monahan’s Seafood Market, and a beautiful outdoor courtyard, there will be plenty of other activities to enjoy post-market.
See a game in The Big House
Michigan Stadium is the largest stadium in the United States and the second largest stadium in the world. Though the official capacity is 107,601, its record attendance is 115,109 — which occurred on September 7, 2013. To find out when you can cheer on the Wolverines at home, check out the schedule here. And superfans can also tour the stadium and the Crisler Center at just $15 – 20 per person! Get information on tours here.
Peruse Nickels Arcade
Photo courtesy of Joseph Saborío via Comet Coffee
Located in downtown Ann Arbor and adjacent to the University of Michigan campus, Nickels Arcade is home to some of the best cafes and shops in town. Now over 100-years-old, the covered mall is filled with natural light and local flavor. A few of the highlights include Comet Coffee, Arcade Barbers and University Flower Shop.
Enjoy a live show at The Ark
The Ark is Ann Arbor’s destination for live music. Founded in 1965 by four area churches, the venue now offers over 300 nights of shows each year in one of the best listening rooms anywhere. In the past, they’ve brought Howie Day, Blind Pilot and the Violent Femmes to town! See all the upcoming events here.
Order a full English tea at TeaHaus
Photo courtesy of TeaHaus
Ann Arbor’s favorite tea spot, TeaHaus offers options suited for a quick stop or an entire afternoon. Available Tuesday through Sunday, the full English tea is a three-tiered service brought out to each table and complete with white china and linens. The experience includes all the tea you can drink, four finger sandwiches, the soup of the day, two scones with jam, jellies, lemon curd and clotted cream, and three desserts. Get all the details here and be sure to make your reservation a few days in advance. Happy sipping!
Stroll through Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum
Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum are two educational and environmental gardens on the UM campus. The botanical gardens include eleven outdoor spaces full of bonsai, native and medicinal plants, perennials, and more which bloom seasonally from spring to the first frost. For colder months, enjoy their year-round indoor conservatory filled with plants from around the world.
Nichols Arboretum is one of the richest landscapes in the region. It spans miles of trails and land with collections of native and exotic trees and shrubs crafted into a landscape that was begun by O. C. Simonds in 1907.
Eat a late-night meal at Fleetwood Diner
This 24-hour diner is a true Ann Arbor institution, thanks in large part to their famous Hippie Hash. If you haven’t tried it for yourself, Hippie Hash is a dish of homemade hash browns with grilled tomato, green pepper, onion, mushroom and broccoli topped with feta cheese. The entire menu is available 24 hours, so stop by whenever you get a craving!
Where are you headed?
If you’re an Ann Arbor local, let us know which spots are on your tour itinerary in the comments below!
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