The Reinhart Blog

Traditionally, Thanksgiving has been a time for our families to come together to share a meal inside our homes. But we don’t all have traditional families and that’s okay! If you’re on the hunt for places to dine out where you can get a turkey dinner minus the clean-up, or where you can enjoy some of Ann Arbor’s best Chinese food, then you’ve come to the right place.

If you’re looking in advance, check out Zingerman’s Roadhouse Thanksgiving To-Go where you can take home a full family feast November 20th, 21st and 23rd. Their Coffee Spiced Smoked Turkey was named “the greatest turkey recipe in the history of Thanksgiving” by Esquire.

And if you’re looking for food on Thanksgiving Day, November 22nd, keep reading! All of these restaurants have been confirmed, but we provided their phone numbers so you can double check and make your reservations. 

Carlyle Grill | Ann Arbor

3660 Jackson Rd | Facebook | (734) 213-9800

Photo courtesy of Carlyle Grill

Ann Arbor’s Carlyle Grill is driven by comfort—from the atmosphere to the menu filled with homestyle dishes made with regional ingredients. Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, the team is serving up hand-carved turkey, Sparrow’s Market prime rib, acorn squash stuffed with kale risotto, Faroe Island salmon, family-style sides, and a dessert of pumpkin or pecan pie. For all the details and to make your reservations, click here.

Gandy Dancer | Ann Arbor

401 Depot St | Facebook | (734) 769-0592

Famous for seafood, steaks and pasta dishes, Gandy Dancer is located in the beautifully restored 1886 Michigan Central Depot, making it the ideal setting for elegance, food and celebration. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect combination for Thanksgiving?

Haab’s | Ypsilanti

18 W Michigan Ave | Facebook | (734) 483-8200

Haab’s has been serving the Ypsilanti community since they opened their doors in 1934. When it opened way back then, The Haab Brothers’ Café was the first establishment in Washtenaw County where food was the primary draw. And today, everyone is still understandably crazy about the food. In addition to being open on Thanksgiving from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Haab’s serves a killer Grilled Turkey Reuben throughout the year!

Holiday’s Restaurant | Ann Arbor

2080 W Stadium Blvd | Facebook | (734) 668-1292

In keeping with their name, Holiday’s is open 365 days a year and they’re open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on holidays. Their menus cover everything from breakfast to lunch and pancakes to ribeye, so if you’re dining out this Thanksgiving, you can come for breakfast and lunch! When you do, be sure to order something from the dessert menu (like Gourmet Carrot Cake or pumpkin pie).

Lucky Kitchen | Ann Arbor

1753 Plymouth Rd + 2370 S Wayne Rd | Facebook | (734) 357-8823

Consistently named as Ann Arbor’s best place for Chinese food, Lucky Kitchen has been serving our community since 1993. They also offer catering and are a University of Michigan Strategic Supplier for catering needs, and they make food for the Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels Asian Menu. You can dine in with them at both locations during the holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.

Mediterrano | Ann Arbor

2900 S State St | Facebook | (734) 332-9700

Photo courtesy of Mediterrano

Mediterrano is the Carlyle Grill’s sister restaurant serving up flavors inspired by 14 different countries. Driven by the belief that the Mediterranean diet is inherently nutritious, they source their meats and produce from local farmers and purveyors as much as possible.

On Thanksgiving Day, they’re turning that local sensibility and Mediterranean inspiration into a festive family dinner. Open from 12 to 7 p.m., they’re serving Sliced Turkey Breast, Turkey Leg Confit, Scottish Salmon, Prime Rib, Vegetarian Paella and an impressive lineup of family-style sides. To see them all and get more details, click here.

The Original Cottage Inn | Ann Arbor

512 E William St | Facebook | (734) 663-3379

Back in 1948 when it opened, The Original Cottage Inn was Ann Arbor’s first restaurant to serve pizza. Today, they still serve some of the best pies in town as well as classic American, Italian and Greek cuisine. On Thanksgiving, you won’t find their regular menu, but you will find a restaurant filled with volunteers to continue an Ann Arbor tradition that has been going strong for more than 30 years. Each year on Thanksgiving Day, Cottage Inn opens its doors to the impoverished people and families in our community to enjoy a free meal that includes roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, veggies and seasonal fall favorites for dessert. If you’d like to volunteer, call the restaurant at (734) 663-3379.

The Quarter Bistro & Tavern | Ann Arbor

300 S Maple Rd | Facebook | (734) 929-9200

The Quarter is the only place in Ann Arbor where you can get European-inspired, bistro-style dining with a Creole twist. Driven by the rich heritage of New Orleans cooking, their menu of homemade dishes includes things like Bronzed Stuffed Chicken with Gumbo Sauce, Catfish and Shrimp, Cajun Crawfish Flat Bread and different specials every week.

On Thanksgiving Day, The Quarter celebrates the holiday with their special event, Thanksgiving Supper. Follow the team on Facebook for event updates.

Weber’s Restaurant | Ann Arbor

3050 Jackson Ave | Facebook | (734) 665-3636

Weber’s has been serving the people and families of Ann Arbor since 1937 and the restaurant has become a go-to for prime rib, live Maine lobster and house-made desserts. For Thanksgiving 2018, they’re offering four different dining options. Dinner in the dining room features a special holiday menu of individual turkey dinners, prime rib, fresh seafood, roast duck and more. You can also take complete Thanksgiving dinners to go or enjoy the family-style dinner at Weber’s, which is a complete Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings to feed parties of four or more. To see all the options and make your reservation, click here.

5ive Restaurant At The Inn At St. John’s | Plymouth

44045 Five Mile Road | Facebook | (734) 357-5700

Located about 30 minutes outside of Ann Arbor in Plymouth, 5ive has become a destination steakhouse that offers an impressive suite of bourbons and wines from around the world and hand-cut steaks that are chosen from the top 2% of grain- and grass-fed beef in the world. The menu covers everything from breakfast and brunch to pub grub and desserts (check out the Snickerdoodle Cheesecake). On Thanksgiving Day, they’ll be offering a special holiday menu in the dining room for anyone hoping to celebrate outside of their home kitchen. Call in advance to make reservations.

Want to add to the list?

If you know of a restaurant in the Ann Arbor area that will be open on Thanksgiving Day, tell us about it in the comments below.

For the 23rd year, Reinhart Realtors is teaming up with our agents and with the people of Washtenaw County (that’s you!) to collect winter coat donations. From October 29th through November 30th, you can bring new and gently used coats to any of our Charles Reinhart Sales Offices and to any open house hosted by a Reinhart agent during the month of November.

We have six office locations total: four in Ann Arbor, one in Chelsea and one in Saline. To see those specific locations, click here. And to preview all our open houses and find out where and when you can drop off in your neighborhood, click here.

In 2018, our goal is to collect 2,000 total coats for adults and children. Last year, with your help, we collected more than 1,100, and over the last 23 years of the Reinhart Coat Drive, we’ve collected more than 23,000 coats!

These have been distributed to local agencies, programs and organizations throughout Washtenaw County, including Ann Arbor Community Center, Dawn Farm, The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan and Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels. The list of agencies includes more than 30 total and these are located in communities all over Washtenaw County.

Together, they’re all working to ensure the homeless, struggling and underserved in our communities are cared for. Here in Michigan, that care becomes even more necessary during the biting winter months. According to Washtenaw Housing Alliance, more than 4,600 people experienced homelessness over the course of one year in 2014 and 38% of those were families with young children.

Whether living on the streets or in homes without adequate heating, these families struggle to stay warm during the fall, winter and even the early spring. And if you’ve lived in the mitten very long, you understand why. Here in Ann Arbor, we get an average of 57 inches of snowfall each year and our average low temperature in January is just 18 degrees.

So join the cause with us this November and bring a new or gently used coat to one of our offices or open houses.

We hope to see you soon!

Coat donations can be dropped at any of our six Charles Reinhart Sales Offices and at any open house hosted by a Reinhart agent during the month of November. You can see our office locations here and our list of upcoming open houses here.

Ann Arbor’s downtown area is one of the city’s best places to explore local business, local eats, local drinks, and other locals-only attractions. Listed in our guide, The Top Five Ann Arbor Neighborhoods with the Best Walk Scores, it’s also the city’s most walkable neighborhood! So today, we’re combining all of these characteristics for a full day spent in one of our favorite places in Ann Arbor. Along the way, you’ll taste local food, local brews and local coffee, you’ll shop books and see art, and you’ll even get some bonus tips throughout the day.

For full details on the businesses in Downtown Ann Arbor as well as transportation options and events, check out Main Street Area Association.

8 a.m. | Breakfast at Afternoon Delight Café

Locals line up for this Ann Arbor staple—and it’s easy to see (and taste!) why. Serving brunch for over 30 years, the Afternoon Delight breakfast menu includes pan-grilled pancakes, homemade bran muffins, customized three-egg omelets, fresh poached salmon on the weekends and more. The eggs are always cage-free, the bread comes gluten-free and most of the ingredients and meats are organic!

9:30 a.m. | Coffee at RoosRoast

Photo courtesy of Kaden Brouwer via RoosRoast

Deeply local Roos Roast is the coffee headquarters for freshly roasted beans in Ann Arbor—and it’s just steps from Afternoon Delight on the way to Literati Bookstore. At their charming locale in Rosewood, they roast all their coffees in-house and offer a lively and cozy vibe. And the downtown location is everything we want in a local coffee shop. They’ve been voted the best in Washtenaw County and the best in Southeast Michigan, so it’s the perfect place to swing by for a taste of local Ann Arbor!

10 a.m. | Shopping at Literati Bookstore

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 to shop local for books and make sure you type your own note on the Literati public typewriter!

Bonus tip: If you need even more coffee, head upstairs to Literati Coffee where you’ll find even more books and a full coffee and espresso bar.

11 a.m. | Head to Ann Arbor Art Center

After our typing and reading excursion to Literati, we’re headed back to Liberty Street to get a feel for local art. Acting as Ann Arbor’s art headquarters since opening in 1909, this center in Downtown A2 serves both artists and our community by hosting art exhibitions in the gallery, events and classes for all ages, and they even sell jewelry, paintings, ceramics and prints in the 117 Gallery Shop. So, spend time perusing the gallery and you can even take home a bit of Ann Arbor culture for your friends, family or home!

Bonus tip: On the way to the Ann Arbor Art Center from Literati, stop in Le Bon Macaron for a morning treat.

12 p.m. | Lunch at Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery

Photo courtesy of Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery

Founded by Ron Jeffries in 2004, Jolly Pumpkin began in Dexter and now operates pubs and tap houses in Dexter, Ann Arbor, Detroit, Traverse City, Royal Oak, Grand Rapids and Chicago. Each location—whether full-service pub or casual hangout—offers its own character, menu and lineup of sour, aged Jolly Pumpkin beers. In Downtown Ann Arbor, you’ll find Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery, a full-service brewpub serving lunch, dinner, brunch and late-night eats. Choose the JP Burger and you’ll be in for one of Ann Arbor’s best lunches!

1:30 p.m. | Tea at Crazy Wisdom

Locally and independently owned since 1982, Crazy Wisdom is another great place to get a sense of Ann Arbor’s strong literary history and character. Inside the downtown shop, you’ll find books, art, crystals, jewelry and, of course, the Crazy Wisdom Tea Room! Here, they serve more than 100 varieties of tea, coffee from local roaster, Mighty Good Coffee, as well as appetizers, entrees, desserts and other treats.

Bonus tip: If you’re looking for something stronger than tea, head to Grizzly Peak Brewing Company just around the corner on W Washington Street.

3 p.m. | Movie at the Michigan Theater

The Michigan Theater Foundation was founded in 1979 to save the Michigan Theater from the wrecking ball—and we’re so glad it was. Today, this historic theater and its neighbor, the State Theater, offer regular showings of indie movies, limited releases, special screenings and more. Matinee movies typically start between 3 and 4 o’clock.

Bonus tip: Traveling from Jolly Pumpkin to the theater, you can slip into Kilwin’s Chocolates or Cupcake Station.

5 p.m | Dinner at Isalita

Photo courtesy of Isalita

Between the Michigan Theater and our evening activities, we’ll travel right past Downtown Ann Arbor’s MANI Osteria and its sister restaurant, Isalita. MANI is a local restaurant modeled after the classic Italian osteria, but Isalita takes the team’s focus on local ingredients, small production and hospitality to the streets of Mexico. Isalita is our little city’s very own cantina. The menu is inspired by the street stall food found in open-air markets throughout Mexico and the hospitality is designed in true mi casa es su casa spirit.

7 p.m. | Dessert at Blank Slate Creamery  

After dinner, keep heading down Liberty Street for dessert. The ice cream at locally-owned and operated 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 even throughout the entire state of Michigan! You can see a list of several of their locally-sourced ingredients on their website which includes milk and cream from Guernsey Farms Dairy in Northville.

7:30 p.m. | Live music at The Blind Pig  

Photo courtesy of TSLC Productions via The Blind Pig

Just a few steps north on 1st Street from Blank Slate, The Blind Pig is the locals’ choice for live music almost every night of the week. This quirky bar and music venue hosts everything from punk and folk to comedy and karaoke. Check out the calendar online and you can buy your tickets in advance if needed.  

Bonus tip: The doors typically open between 7 and 9 p.m. so if you have some time to kill, head to Bill’s Beer Garden which is open seasonally or Ann Arbor Beer Grotto. They’re both just steps from Blank Slate Creamery and The Blind Pig!

11 p.m. | Cocktails at The Last Word

Repeatedly named as Ann Arbor’s best cocktail bar, The Last Word is a hidden gem, literally. It’s located underground just up the street from The Blind Pig. With no exterior signage, 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 as well as house-made syrups and bitters.

Bonus tip: If you need post-cocktail, late-night eats, check out The 13 Best Places to Eat After Midnight in Ann Arbor.

Do you have a local tip?

In the comments below, let us know which downtown business is on your one-day itinerary.

November is fast approaching, and with it, some of the most festive holidays of the year. This month’s event lineup includes the culture festivals we’ve all come to love, as well as craft fairs, a Veterans Day event, a Thanksgiving race, and plenty of holiday preparation events like local markets and cookie classes. Enjoy!

Jump ahead:

Arts + Culture | Community Celebrations | Sports | Food + Drink

Arts + Culture

Jewish Book & Arts Festival | Ann Arbor

October 18 – November 8, various times | Various locations

Continuing into November, this multi-week festival celebrates culture and arts of all kinds but is still heavily anchored by authors as it has been for the past three decades. Most of this year’s events are free to attend and the authors, performers, artists, topics and projects are Jewish or have significant Jewish connections. Check out the schedule here.

Stories of Service | Ann Arbor

November 5, 11 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Hill Auditorium

In honor of veterans, Fisher House Michigan is hosting Stories of Service on November 5th. This year, the free event at Hill Auditorium will include a silent auction to raise funds for Fisher House construction, and this auction will include a bi-plane donated right out of Yankee Air Museum! Last year, more than 2,000 people attended this free event in support of our local veterans and Fisher House Michigan.

Saline Craft Show | Saline

November 10, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Saline Middle School

Featuring an impressive lineup of products and crafts from local makers, bakers and entrepreneurs, Saline Craft Show is the perfect place to shop local before the holidays. Organized through Saline Middle School, the youth groups involved get the opportunity to practice life skills and leadership, as well as earn money for their activities. So swing by the school on November 10th to shop and support!

Saline Antiques & Vintage Market | Saline

November 11, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Washtenaw Farm Council Fairgrounds  

Since beginning just a few years ago, Saline Antiques & Vintage Market has become one the area’s favorite places to shop real antiques. Every show features collectibles, jewelry, home goods and more. It’s the perfect place to find holiday gifts for friends, family and yourself!

Community Celebrations

Wine, Women & Shopping | Chelsea  

November 10, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Downtown Chelsea

This annual event in downtown Chelsea invites the community into local shops and restaurants for discounts, deals, free samples and services, and more. To see the list of the more than 30 participating local spots, click here—and get ready to celebrate local!

Giving Tuesday | Everywhere  

November 28 | Various locations

Giving Tuesday is an annual day of giving that is honored all across the globe. Here in the Ann Arbor area, specific local events encourage philanthropy right here in our communities, and because the day is driven by social media and online donations, you can help from anywhere!

For example, the University of Michigan celebrates with Giving Blueday and Eastern Michigan University celebrates #GivingTrueday.

Midnight Madness | Ann Arbor

November 30, 7 – 9 p.m. | Main Street

Just in time for holiday shopping season, downtown Ann Arbor businesses stay open late for one of our community’s favorite shopping events. Main Street Ann Arbor’s Midnight Madness includes holiday specials inside shops and restaurants, as well as visits by Santa Claus and Miss Washtenaw County and performances by various outdoor entertainers.

Kerrytown KindleFest | Ann Arbor

November 30, 4 – 10 p.m. | Ann Arbor Farmers Market

Coinciding with Midnight Madness, Kerrytown KindleFest is Ann Arbor’s version of the German tradition Christkindlmarkt. In the same location as the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, you’ll find artisans, farmers and retailers selling their holiday wares plus traditional food like pretzels, bratwursts, roasted nuts, Glühwein (a mulled wine) and beer. Then, you can shop Kerrytown retail businesses who will be open late and grab a spot around a fire pit for warmth and s’mores!

A Manor Christmas at Concordia University | Ann Arbor  

November 30 – December 2nd, various times | Concordia University

One of Ann Arbor’s favorite Christmas celebrations kicks off on November 30th this year. A Manor Christmas is another local Christkindlmarkt, featuring tours of the historic Earhart mansion decorated for Christmas by professional designers, a unique Festival of Trees, premium artificial pre-lit trees for sale and, of course, the European-style Christmas market. Tickets are between $5 and $7 and you can buy them online here.

Sports

The Original A2 Turkey Trot | Dexter   

November 11, 9 a.m. | Hudson Mills Metropark

Photo courtesy of Greg Sadler Photography via Epic Races

Epic Races is celebrating Thanksgiving the only way they know how—with a race through Hudson Mills Metropark! This running and walking event features three different distances: a 5K loop around scenic Hudson Mills, a 10K course comprised of two 5K loops, and a quick mile fun run. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can run both the 5K and 10K races for a total of 9.3 miles in the Iron Turkey challenge!

Food + Drink

Fancy Schmancy Holiday Cookies | Ann Arbor

November 28 – December 24, various times | Zingerman’s Bakehouse

The most popular event from Zingerman’s Bakehouse is back for the 2018 holiday season! Fancy Schmancy Holiday Cookies will teach participants how to make the best cookie creations using even more whole grains, local ingredients and freshly milled flours. There are 70 classes through Christmas Eve and all the spots are currently sold out, but if you sign up for the waitlist, you may be able to snag an opening in the event of a cancellation.

Happy November!

It’s not every day you get a craving for freshly baked bread, a warm jelly donut, a fluffy soft pretzel, a scratch-made scone or a decadent macaron. If that list made your craving hit right now, then we have just the round-up for you, because our Ann Arbor area communities are home to some of the best makers and bakers around and they’re providing fresh baked goods that satisfy all those cravings and more.

Keep reading to learn where you can track down the best in local baked goods, including everything from downtown storefronts to online shops and businesses that can only be found at area farmers’ markets. Enjoy!

Avalon Cafe and Kitchen | Ann Arbor

120 E Liberty St | Facebook

Avalon International Breads originally opened their humble Detroit storefront in 1997 striving to offer artisan baked goods made with 100% organic flour. Today, they’ve developed the building blocks of the region’s agri-urban economy and operate five storefronts and restaurants total. Their first and only location outside of Detroit is located right here in Ann Arbor where they serve outstanding menus for breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner alongside their breads, seasonal pies, cakes, cookies, scones, granola bars and more.

Benny’s Bakery | Saline

111 W Michigan Ave | Facebook

If you’ve ever felt a craving for seasonal donuts, fresh soft pretzels, warm cookies or chocolate éclairs filled with homemade vanilla custard, head to Benny’s. This Saline original churns out some of the best baked goods in Southeast Michigan and it’s all made fresh.

Big City Small World Bakery | Ann Arbor

500 Miller Ave | Facebook

Whether you’re in search of a custom cake, a holiday pie, a morning cinnamon roll, or just a sweet treat for yourself, Big City Small World should be at the top of your list. This hometown bakery makes everything in-house, from scratch and fresh every day; they even candy their own ginger for their orange-ginger scone and the apples in their apple pies come from local orchards!

Czechbox Bakery | Ypsilanti

Found at local farmers’ markets | Facebook

Regularly available at the Ypsilanti Farmers’ Market and Milan Third Thursdays, Czechbox Bakery is the only bakery of its kind in the Ann Arbor area. As a Michigan Cottage Food business providing heritage eastern European baked goods, founder and baker Gretchen Kopmanis creates authentic treats and breads seasonally based on Michigan produce. Check out the website to see what she bakes or to place an order and follow Czechbox on Facebook to track it all down.

Cupcake Station | Ann Arbor

116 E Liberty St | Facebook

The Cupcake Station has five locations in the Ann Arbor area, including one downtown. Made in-house and from scratch every day, you’ll find 24 unique flavors available each time you visit. Stop in to try creations like Cotton Candy Sweet Treat, Hot Fudge Sundae and Strawberry Sunshine.

The Dexter Bakery | Dexter

8101 Main St | Facebook

Photo courtesy of The Dexter Bakery

The home of mouth-watering jelly donuts, Instagram-worthy cupcakes, towering cakes, fluffy soft pretzels and freshly baked breads, The Dexter Bakery is a must-visit near Ann Arbor. In 2018, they were even named the Sweetest Bakery in Michigan through the Sweetest Bakery in America Contest! And they’ve been serving their treats in Downtown Dexter for more than 100 years.

Ed’s Bread | Saline

201 W Michigan Ave | Facebook

A local, family run and oriented business, Ed’s Bread is a staple of the Saline community and also happens to produce some of the tastiest baked goods in the area. Baked fresh from scratch, their lineup frequently includes muffins, huge cookies, fresh bread, bagels, and some of the best homemade granola in town.

Le Bon Macaron | Ann Arbor

209 S 4th Ave | Facebook

Photo courtesy of Le Bon Macaron

Born from a love of French culture, Le Bon Macaron is a local, family business that offers two of the most charming cafés in Michigan: one in Grand Rapids and one in Downtown Ann Arbor. On the menu, you’ll find French press coffee and espresso from Rowster Coffee, fresh scones made daily, ice cream sundaes with Cone Appetit craft ice cream, French and Italian sodas made with handcrafted fruit puree and, of course, the macarons that have made them famous.

The Lunch Room Bakery & Cafe | Ann Arbor

2200 Fuller Ct #8B | Facebook

Photo courtesy of The Lunch Room

The Lunch Room Bakery & Cafe is the second location of the beloved, plant-based eatery The Lunch Room. As the headquarters of The Lunch Room Bakery, it’s where they make all their breads in-house from scratch. On any given day, the lineup of baked goods available to purchase includes breads, cinnamon rolls, cupcakes, cakes, donuts and more. And they’re all vegan!

Mitten Made Cheesecakes | Ypsilanti

Found at Cream & Crumb | Facebook

As lovers and crafters of impeccable cheesecakes, this local business produces some of the best cakes in the region. Though you won’t find them in a brick-and-mortar store yet, you can find their cheesecakes at Cream & Crumb in Ypsi and follow the team on Facebook.

Pastry Peddler | Ann Arbor

619 Packard St | Facebook

This Ann Arbor shop is a small, locally-owned bakery that offers fresh baked goods with a focus on breakfast pastries. That means they’re the place to go to satisfy every croissant, danish, pillow puff, sticky bun or pasty craving.

Simple Pleasures | Ann Arbor

Found at local farmers’ markets + Earthen Jar | Facebook

The Simple Pleasures story began when Jasmine wanted her brother to enjoy the same pastries and sweet treats everyone else loved without straying from his strict vegetarian and eggless diet. Today, the venture has turned into a full-fledged baked goods business that caters to special diets, including gluten-free, vegan, eggless and sugar-free. You can find these sweets and breads sold at Earthen Jar in Ann Arbor and several farmers’ markets throughout the area.

Sweet Heather Anne | Ann Arbor

Online shop | Facebook

Photo courtesy of Cat Carty Buswell via Sweet Heather Anne

Sweet Heather Anne is perhaps the most photographed bakery in Ann Arbor thanks to the team’s jaw-dropping special occasion cakes, macarons and other special order treats. Though they ran their public dessert counter for six years, they recently had to reduce the hours to holidays and events. You can still shop their famous macarons and sea salt chocolate chip cookies online, order for your own special occasion treats, and swing by the dessert counter during holiday hours.

Tasty Bakery | Ann Arbor

416 W Huron St #24 | Facebook

A must-visit no matter what your diet, Tasty Bakery offers high-quality, gluten-free artisan baked goods that are indiscernible from any glutinous treat. Additionally, many of their cakes, cookies, bars, brownies, scones and breads are also soy free, organic, vegan and naturally sweetened. Swing by their bakery or find them at the year-round Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market to taste the difference for yourself!

White Lotus Farms | Ann Arbor

Found at local farmers’ markets | Facebook

White Lotus Farms is an Ann Arbor institution specializing in organic produce, homemade breads, artisan goat and cow’s milk cheeses and soothing botanicals. Showcasing the same passion for local, sustainable and handcrafted in every facet of the farm, the bakery produces some of the best breads in Michigan. While the bread is not certified organic, it is made with 100% organic grains and can be found at markets throughout the area, including Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market, Argus Farm Stop, and Eastern Market in Detroit.

Yoon’s Bakery | Ann Arbor

2775 Plymouth Rd | Facebook

Housed in a charming storefront no Plymouth Road, Yoon’s Bakery is a Korean bakery based on the French style of baking. The team serves a unique selection of fresh baked goods that includes sweetbreads, savory breads, cakes and fluffy buns stuffed with things like homemade strawberry cream cheese. Yum!

Zingerman’s Bakehouse | Ann Arbor

3711 Plaza Dr | Facebook

Photo courtesy of Zingerman’s Bakehouse

After running Zingerman’s Delicatessen for ten years, owners Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig wanted to improve the flavors by baking their own breads. So, in September of 1992, they teamed up with Frank Carollo and just five other staff members to open the beloved Zingerman’s Bakehouse. Today, 130 staff members and partners make pastries, breads and other treats from scratch daily.

Do you have a favorite?

Let us know in the comments below!

Ann Arbor is home to the world-renowned University of Michigan. On its own, our hometown university has consistently ranked on National University Rankings amongst other ivy league superstars like Yale and Harvard. But the university paired with our outstanding community has landed Ann Arbor on lists of the country’s best college towns. This Livability list, 2017 Best College Towns, puts us in the top ten, and Ann Arbor regularly ranks in the top five of Livability’s Top 100 Best Places to Live (it snagged the number one spot in 2018!).  

We could go on and on listing awards, accolades and honors our little city has won (like 5 Great College Towns to Settle In Post-Graduation), but now, we’re going to let the community speak for itself. Keep reading to find out exactly what makes Ann Arbor the best college town in America.

1. The school

This one is kind of a no-brainer, but we can’t talk about our perfect college town without bragging about the university that makes it what it is. The University of Michigan is continually ranked amongst the best universities in the nation, and in the US News & World Report 2019 ranking of the best national universities, it makes the top 30. Boasting a total undergraduate enrollment of just under 30,000, UM offers students more than 1,500 organizations, more than 60 Greek chapters, and an impressive lineup of athletics for both athletes and fans.

2. The food

Late night food, date night food, patio dining — you name it and Ann Arbor has it. Our humble foodie city offers local eats you won’t find anywhere else, covering just about every cuisine, every craving and every occasion. To get a sampling of some of Ann Arbor’s best, check out The 13 Best Places to Eat After Midnight in Ann Arbor, The 13 Best Places to Get a Burger in Ann Arbor, The 15 Best Date Night Restaurants in Ann Arbor and The 16 Essential Brunch Spots in Ann Arbor.

3. The events

Whether you’re looking for events hosted by the university or outside of the university, our local calendar is packed. On campus, you’ll find regular events through the University Musical Society at Hill Auditorium, theater performances with the School of Music, Theatre & Dance at the Power Center for the Performing Arts, as well as annual student celebrations like Winterfest, Friday Flicks, UMix Late Night, UM Slam Poetry and more.

Outside of the university, our community calendar is filled with events for foodies, musicians, artists, outdoor enthusiasts—events like Cinetopia Film Festival, Taste of Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor Summer Festival, FestiFools and FoolMoon, Kerrytown BookFest, Huron River Day, and so many more. To stay up-to-date on the essential events each month, follow along on the Reinhart blog where we post monthly event guides for Ann Arbor and our surrounding communities.

4. The outdoor recreation

Is there any activity more stereotypically college than disc golf? We don’t think so, and Ann Arbor is home to two public courses maintained by the city, as well as a FootGolf course! In fact, our city boasts nearly 2,100 acres of parkland and 14 recreation facilities where visitors can hike, bike, picnic, swim, cross-country ski—you name it.

For ideas on where to go and what to do, check out 8 Things to Do in the Ann Arbor Area for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

5. The Main Street 

Every college town needs a hub for local food, local events and local character. Not only is this the place you’ll spend most of your free time, it’s also the place you’ll take your parents, your friends and your family every time they visit. Here in Ann Arbor, that place is Main Street, the heart of downtown, located less than half a mile from the UM campus.

The downtown area is home to some of the city’s best local restaurants (try Aventura, The Pretzel Bell and Spencer for starters) and local events like Taste of Ann Arbor, Rolling Sculpture Car Show and Midnight Madness. To stay up-to-date on the happenings around the area, check out the Main Street Area Association.

6. The football   

You’re going to spend a lot of time in The Big House. But UM athletic events will also make you well acquainted with the Crisler Center and Yost Ice Arena because our university is home to one of the best football programs, one of the best basketball programs, and one of the best ice hockey programs in the country. Needless to say, you’ll have a way to show off your Michigan pride all year long! #GoBlue

For more information on all Wolverine athletics, check out the University of Michigan Athletics website.

7. The museums

Operated both through the university and through community organizations, Ann Arbor is packed with museums and educational opportunities. The long list of options includes University of Michigan Museum of Art which is one of the largest and oldest university art museums in the country, the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology which presents research on Classical, Egyptian, and Near Eastern archaeology, and the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History which displays four billion years of natural history.

8. The live music

Live music is one of the best ways to spend an evening whether you’re a student, a graduate or a regular townie. The University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance puts together more than 900 performances every year. And outside of the university, you’ll find impressive and diverse event calendars at The Ark, The Blind Pig, Kerrytown Concert House and even Michigan Theater.

9. The local art

Ann Arbor’s local and public art provides a way for you to practice your own creativity, a way to admire the work of your peers and your community, and an opportunity to get some iconic Instagram photos. Yes, we’re talking about The Michigan Wings, the perfect spot for your first day of school photo and your graduation photo. You can find this blue and maize mural at the corner of East William and Maynard streets at Tower Plaza.

Other landmark murals include The Bookstore Mural which depicts the colorful heads of Woody Allen, Edgar Allan Poe, Hermann Hesse, Franz Kafka and Anaïs Nin. And you have to snap a photo at the Singing in the Rain mural located on the 5th Ave. entrance to the Library Lane Parking Structure!

To start your official exploration of Ann Arbor art, visit Ann Arbor Art Center, a nonprofit arts center that hosts rotating exhibits, classes, events and a supply shop.

10. The craft beer

Craft beer culture seems to especially boom around major colleges and universities — and we don’t think that’s a coincidence. Here in Ann Arbor, we’ve experienced the craft beer boom as much as any other college town (and maybe even more than most). To get the lowdown on the city’s best, check out Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Craft Breweries in the Ann Arbor Area. It even has an interactive map so you can track down the one closest to you right now!

Are you a University of Michigan alumnus?  

Let us know why you think Ann Arbor is the best college town in the comments below!

Each year, Halloween brings the ghouls, goblins and monsters out to play in Ann Arbor. But thankfully for our families and kids, the fun isn’t all scary. Starting with the most frightening option up first, we rounded up the region’s best family-friendly events where you can celebrate Halloween 2018.

Using our event guide, you can keep the festive fun going even past Halloween!

Wiard’s Night Terrors | Ypsilanti

September 22 – October 31, various times | Wiard’s Orchard | Event info

Michigan’s premier haunted attraction comes alive once again this October. Open at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through October 28th and then again on Halloween night, Night Terrors features 89 acres of terror. The six haunted attractions include The Asylum, Hayride of the Lost, The Ultimate Haunted Barn and less frightening options like Scaryoke Live Music and Wiard’s Bakery where you can enjoy the homemade cider and caramel apples of Wiard’s Orchard.

For more information on the less haunted fall attractions available at Wiard’s Orchard, check out 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor.

Monster Mash | Ypsilanti

October 13, 12 – 3 p.m. | Rolling Hills Park | Event info

The 4th Annual Monster Smash will include a candy hunt, a costume contest, face painting, a scavenger hunt, festive hayrides, cider and donuts, carnival games, the Trek-or-Treat Trail, and a pumpkin patch! For information on registration, click here.

Trick or Treat on the Trail | Dexter

October 13, 4 – 6 p.m. | Hudson Mills Metropark Activity Center | Event info

On the trails of Hudson Mills Metropark, little ones in costume can trick-or-treat along the trails decorated with a festive theme. The cost is $5 and you can find pre-registration information here.

Trick or Treat on the River | Ann Arbor

October 14, 12 – 5 p.m. | Gallup Park | Event info

Spend this haunting afternoon on the waters of the Huron River for Trick or Treat on the River! While paddling up and down Gallup Pond, participants will encounter creatures handing out treats and candy. There is no pre-registration required and the fee is $20 per boat. For more information, check out the Argo Canoe Livery website.

Pumpkin Carving Party | Dexter

October 14, 1 – 3 p.m. | Hudson Mills Metropark Activity Center | Event info

At Hudson Mills Metropark on October 14th, you and your kids can pick out a pumpkin and a design then have fun carving it together! Participants can also enjoy cider and donuts, included in the $6 fee.

Preschool Pumpkin Hunt | Saline

October 16, 10 – 11 a.m. | Saline Recreation Center | Event info

In Miller Field behind the Saline Rec Center, preschoolers are invited to play and track down their perfect pumpkin to decorate and take home. The fun also includes snack time and story time! Register online here.

Boo Bash | Saline

October 19, 6 – 8 p.m. | Saline Recreation Center | Event info

The 27th Halloween event at the Saline Rec Center will include tasty treats, a Trick or Treat trail, costumes, games, dancing, a balloon drop and more! Register in advance here.

Pumpkins, Lanterns & Leaves | Ann Arbor

October 19 + 20, 6 – 7:30 p.m. | Matthaei Botanical Gardens | Event info

Happening on two days this year, the annual Halloween celebration at Matthaei Botanical Gardens includes the famous pumpkin trail, lantern crafts, magic tricks, stories, cider and donuts!

Haunted House: The Show | Ann Arbor

October 19 + 20, 8 – 10 p.m. | Ring of Steel | Event info

This haunted house experience brings the scares to you! Presented as a spooky show instead of a journey through a set, Ring of Steel has put together a performance full of fire dancing, circus acts, stunt work and general silliness. Though the show is family-friendly, the second half will feature slightly darker material, so parents of younger children should plan accordingly.

Girls on the Run Superhero 5k | Dexter

October 21, 2 p.m. | Hudson Mills Metropark | Event info

Photo courtesy of Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan

This costumed race benefits Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan‘s financial assistance program. Suitable for kids and adults, race day includes three events: a 5k run/walk, a one-mile fun run and a kids dash for participants five years and younger. For registration information and pricing, check out the website.

Halloween Hootenanny | Ann Arbor

October 25, 4 – 7 p.m. | Zingerman’s Deli | Event info

The Hootenanny at Zingerman’s Deli includes pumpkin drawing, cookie decorating, face painting and more Halloween-themed fun. Come dressed in costume and enjoy music and snacks as you and your kids participate at your own pace.

Spooky Species | Ann Arbor

October 26 – 31, various times | The Creature Conservancy | Event info

Spooky Species in The Creature Conservancy’s annual Halloween event that invites families to check out creepy crawlies you may not normally get to see on a typical visit. Sessions include interactions and viewings of spiders, snakes, bats and more as well as cider and donuts! For more information on registration and specific dates and times, click here.

Halloween Downtown | Ypsilanti

October 26, 5:30 – 7 p.m. | Ypsilanti District Library | Event info

In Library Park Plaza, Ypsilanti District Library is hosting Halloween fun even before the fun of YpsiGLOW. Stop by to trick-or-treat for candy, enter giveaways and visit the Boo! Mobile. Then, stick around downtown Ypsi for the luminary fun!

YpsiGLOW | Ypsilanti

October 26, sunset | Downtown Ypsilanti | Event info

Photo courtesy of Ryan Rupprecht via Wonderfool Productions

From the same team that brings us FestiFools and FoolMoon every April, ypsiGLOW is a light-filled celebration through Downtown Ypsi. In the weeks leading up to the event, local artists, businesses and organizations host GLOWorkshops so you can create your own luminary and costume. Then, you can join the community on October 26th for a celebration of Ypsilanti and art! Follow the team on Facebook for updates on workshops and the big event.

Den of Darkness Haunted Hallway | Pittsfield Township

October 26, 6:30 – 8 p.m. | Ann Arbor Community Center | Event info

Hosted by Pittsfield Charter Township, the Den of Darkness Haunted Hallway is an annual tradition for families with kids of all ages. There will be crafts, donuts and cider, a costume contest, candy bags, the famous haunted hallway, and a Spooktacular Halloween Story provided by the Ann Arbor District Library. Register in advance here for $5–7.

Celebration of Halloween: 1978 | Ann Arbor

October 26, 7:30 p.m. | Towsley Auditorium, Washtenaw Community College | Event info

In honor of the Washtenaw Community Concert Band’s 40th year, they’re going back in time to 1978. Dress like it’s 1978 or come in a traditional Halloween costume, and join in the fun of this free Halloween celebration!

Tag And Treat Costume Party | Ann Arbor

October 27, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Zap Zone | Event info

Zap Zone Ann Arbor is turning into a festive destination on October 27th complete with candy stations, a kid-friendly haunted house, a costume contest with prizes, and admission to one free Zap Zone attraction to be used that day!

Halloween Spooktacular | Belleville

October 27, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Yankee Air Museum | Event info

The Yankee Air Museum Halloween Spooktacular features spooky games, family-friendly activities, a costume contest and trick-or-treating.

Halloween Skate | Ann Arbor  

October 27, 1 – 2:30 p.m. | Veterans Memorial Ice Arena | Event info

For the cost of general admission to Veterans Memorial Ice Arena, you and your family can enjoy ice skating to the spooky sounds of Halloween as well as a costume contest!

Zombie Apocalypse Survival | Dexter

October 27, 1 – 3 p.m. | Hudson Mills Metropark Activity Center | Event info

Hudson Mills Metropark is celebrating Halloween by preparing you and your family for the zombie apocalypse. For a $5 registration, you can learn shelter building, fire making and other zombie-proofing techniques.

Animal Haunts | Ann Arbor

October 27, 6 – 8 p.m. | Leslie Science & Nature Center | Event info  

For $10 person or $35 per family, Leslie Science & Nature Center is offering Animal Haunts on October 27th. The non-scary event will include a guided hike through Black Pond Woods, harvest crafts, a hay jump, live animals and more.

If you’re looking for the adult-only version, check out Animal Haunts: Adults Only on October 26th here.

Muttster Mash Bash | Ann Arbor

October 27, 6 – 8 p.m. | Humane Society of Huron Valley | Event info

Hosted by Humane Society of Huron Valley, this Halloween event brings together the community with animals in need. The event will include family-friendly activities throughout the shelter that include games, trick-or-treating, crafts for the animals, meet and greets and more. Adults are admitted for free and children cost $10. Register in advance here.

Halloween Concert | Ann Arbor

October 28, 4:30 p.m. | Hill Auditorium | Event info

The University of Michigan orchestras are joining forces for this Halloween tradition. Featuring spooky sounds, musical classics and Halloween favorites, the show celebrates the holiday with tricks, treats and great music. Come in costume or come as you are!

Halloween Treat Parade | Ann Arbor

October 31, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Main Street | Event info TBD

For the 18th year, trick-or-treating is coming to Main Street Ann Arbor on Halloween day! Neighborhood merchants welcome costumed kids and their parents for treats. In addition, the Downtown Ann Arbor District Library will be throwing a Halloween Party that includes stories, puppets and more trick-or-treating.

The Great Pumpkin Roll | Saline

November 3, 9 – 10 a.m. | Mill Pond Park | Event info

After Halloween, bring your old Jack-O-Lanterns to Mill Pond Park for The Great Pumpkin Roll! At this free event, you’ll race your pumpkin against others. Winners will get a fun mystery prize and everyone can enjoy hot cider, donuts, a pumpkin launcher and plenty of laughs. For updates, RSVP to the event on Facebook.

Pumpkin Smash | Ypsilanti

November 3, 12 – 5 p.m. | Rolling Hills Park | Event info

Bring your carved pumpkins to Rollings Hills Park on the Saturday after Halloween to literally roll your Jack-O-Lantern down the park’s rolling hills. The event is free to participate in and includes themed targets to hit on the way down.

Happy Halloween!

Through the years, Ann Arbor has cemented itself as one of Michigan’s foodie capitals. Whether you’re craving burgers, ice cream or plant-based cuisine, you’ll find a local spot for it. And very often, you’ll find they make it by hand with local ingredients from scratch.

If you’re struggling to track down the vegan and vegetarian-friendly places amongst all the options, don’t worry. We rounded up the best of the best. Our guide includes plant-based eats in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Saline with restaurants that are all-vegan, all-vegetarian, and others that offer meat-free options alongside meat-filled options so everyone in your group can find a dish to enjoy.

The Lunch Room Diner & Canteen | Ann Arbor

407 N 5th Ave | Facebook | Vegan

Photo courtesy of Juan Moncayo via The Lunch Room Diner & Canteen

Often referred to simply as The Lunch Room, The Lunch Room Diner & Canteen is the team’s original location in Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown. Because only plant-based foods are served here, you never have to worry about the presence of meat, dairy, eggs, honey or anything processed with animal products. Additionally, many of the kitchen’s ingredients are organic and non-GMO, and most items can be made gluten-free.

The Lunch Room Bakery & Cafe is the team’s second location and the headquarters of The Lunch Room Bakery, where they make all their breads in-house from scratch.

Veg-O-Rama | Ypsilanti

533 W Cross St | Facebook | Vegan + vegetarian

Photo courtesy of Atharva Kharkar via Veg-O-Rama

This fast casual, vegetarian restaurant is Ypsi’s headquarters for vegan and vegetarian fare. Veg-O-Rama is dedicated to serving delicious plant-based fare that will impress both vegans and meat eaters alike. Their menu features innovative creations like the Peanut Crusted Cajun Black Bean Burger, Mean Green Protein Pea Burger, Tamarind BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich, and other burgers, sub sandwiches, bowls, wraps, pizzas and breakfast items.

Seva | Ann Arbor

2541 Jackson Ave | Facebook | Vegetarian

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 carnivores love vegetarian food.

If you find yourself in Detroit, swing by Seva’s second location which opened in 2011!

Detroit Street Filling Station | Ann Arbor  

300 Detroit St | Facebook | Vegan

Photo courtesy of Detroit Street Filling Station

Owned and operated by the same team behind The Lunch Room, Detroit Street Filling Station is housed in the historic building that was once The Staebler Family Oil Company. Their menu features the high-quality, vegan eats that we’ve come to expect from The Lunch Room — but includes its own innovative items like the Detroit Street Burrito, Apple Fritters and the Central American Platter made with seitan steak, fried plantains, pureed black beans, tofu scramble, cashew sour cream, cabbage slaw and corn tortillas.

Vedge Cafe | Ann Arbor

205 N Main St | Facebook | Vegan 

Owned and operated by Amanda, a Registered Dietitian and a plant-based eater since 2005, Vedge Cafe is where she gets to combine her love for cooking with her passion for educating and sharing diet alternatives. Amanda and her team offer a menu of scratch-made vegan food like Korean BBQ Jackfruit Tacos, The Vedge Stromboli with house-made dough and pepperoni seitan, Reubens and more.

Earthen Jar | Ann Arbor  

311 S 5th Ave | Facebook | Vegetarian

Earthen Jar is a vegetarian and mostly vegan Indian buffet, as well as the first and only kosher restaurant in Ann Arbor. Everything at the hot buffet, the cold buffet and the dessert buffet is vegetarian and the majority are also vegan. Because everything is clearly marked—whether it’s vegan or gluten-free—anyone can eat here without worry.

What’s in Your Cup? | Ypsilanti

1816 Whittaker Rd | Facebook | Vegan + vegetarian

Photo courtesy of What’s in Your Cup? 

Popularized for their juices, smoothies and vegan milkshakes, What’s in Your Cup? also offers an impressive menu of flavor-packed wraps, chili, sandwiches, sweet treats, guacamole and salsas. Whether you just need a fruit-filled smoothie to power your morning or you’re looking for a complete, plant-based meal, we recommend stopping by this Ypsi favorite.

Salt Springs Brewery | Saline

117 S Ann Arbor St | Facebook | Options

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. Their menu includes various vegetarian options that can also be made vegan like the Tempeh Reuben, The Incredibly Tasty Tofu Sandwich and Roasted Vegetable Pizza.

Swing by on Wednesday when the Salt Springs team hosts Vegan Wednesdays! Starting at 5 p.m. every week all the featured dishes are vegetarian and/or vegan.

Ollie Food + Drink | Ypsilanti

42 E Cross St | Facebook | Options

This Ypsilanti original offers a seasonally rotating menu, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients alongside a lineup of artisan cocktails, craft beer and wine. That impressively fresh menu includes clearly marked vegan and gluten-free options like the Vegan Burrito, seasonal tartines, house-made chorizo tempeh, salads, chilaquiles and more.

Arbor Brewing Company | Ann Arbor + Ypsilanti

114 E Washington St | Facebook | Options

When the Greffs opened the doors to Arbor Brewing Company in 1995, it was the first brewpub to open in Ann Arbor and only the fifth brewpub to open in the entire state of Michigan. Today, it has become one of Ann Arbor’s and Ypsilanti’s favorite destinations for craft beer and inspired food. The food menus at each location also feature an impressive lineup of clearly marked vegetarian and vegan items like the Crispy Quinoa Cake Sandwich, the Vegan Burger and Vegan Chili.

Juicy Kitchen | Ann Arbor  

1506 N Maple Rd | Facebook | Options

Photo courtesy of Juicy Kitchen

Using locally sourced produce, hormone-free chicken, and organic vegetables and grains as much as possible, Juicy Kitchen crafts meals from scratch in healthy, sustainable ways. While this Ann Arbor spot is an excellent option for anyone searching for healthy food, they also cater to specific allergies, gluten-free diets, and vegans and vegetarians during both breakfast and lunch. Peruse the clearly marked menus to see just how many plant-based meals they can create!

El Harissa Market Cafe | Ann Arbor

1516 N Maple Rd | Facebook | Options

The name El Harissa comes from Harissa, a spicy and flavorful chili pepper paste that has injected its explosive flavor into dishes from throughout the Mediterranean region. Using this inspiration, the team at this Ann Arbor café produces unique North African and Mediterranean cuisine that includes plenty of gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, vegetarian and vegan options.

Chela’s Restaurant and Taqueria | Ann Arbor  

693 S Maple Rd | Facebook | Options

Chela’s already offers some of the region’s best Mexican food, but they also offer some of the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly options in town. Clearly marked vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free, anyone can enjoy vegetarian tortas, vegan tacos, burritos and a huge lineup of all vegan side dishes. Their black beans are even Michigan-grown!

Cantina Taqueria + Bar | Ann Arbor

1140 S University Ave | Facebook | Options

From their casual space perched above South University, Cantina serves bold tacos made from quality ingredients alongside tequilas, whiskeys and craft margaritas. Because meat lovers and plant eaters can all agree tacos make for an incredible meal, it’s the perfect location for everyone to come together and enjoy carnitas tacos, potato tacos, black bean tacos and more! Additionally, all their sides—including rice and beans—are vegan.

Elevation Burger | Ann Arbor

529 E Liberty St + 3365 Washtenaw Ave | Facebook | Options

This chain restaurant has two Ann Arbor locations and is dedicated to the fine art of the burger. Their meat options feature 100% organic, grass-fed and free-range beef, and you can choose from five delicious signature burgers, vegetarian and vegan options, or build your own. The Veggie Burger is a savory blend of veggies and cheese while the vegan option is packed with whole grains and veggies. Feel free to order a side of fries, too — they’re cooked in heart-healthy Bertolli olive oil!

Share your favorites

If you have a favorite spot for plant-based eats in the Ann Arbor area, give them a shout-out in the comments below!

Michigan is famous for its fall foliage thanks to the kaleidoscope of color found in our state’s open spaces, along the shores of our lakes and rivers, across rolling hillsides, and even in our tree-filled cities. And no other city could be more tree-filled than Tree Town.

Though the state’s Gold Coast rates as one of America’s Best Color Drives, according to Travel and Leisure magazine (and we definitely recommend doing it at least once), you don’t have to travel outside of Ann Arbor for a Michigan fall color tour of equally epic proportions.

Right in the city, you can meander the sidewalks and parks of the Old West Side, Huron Parkway or the University of Michigan campus. But if you have a little extra time and a stronger craving for brilliant reds, oranges and golds, we recommend hitting up these regional parks, recreation areas, and even one railroad!

Gallup Park | Ann Arbor

One of the best ways to see Michigan’s changing leaves is to hop on a canoe and cruise down the Huron River. Ann Arbor’s canoe liveries—located in Gallup Park and Argo Park—are open through the end of October so you don’t even need to buy your own canoe or kayak! While you’re in Gallup Park, you’ll get the opportunity to explore the 69 acres that make up the town’s most popular recreation area. Amidst the trees, you can enjoy scenic walkways that traverse small islands and pedestrian bridges as well as more than three miles of asphalt trails available for biking, rollerblading, walking and running.

Nichols Arboretum | Ann Arbor

Photo courtesy of Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum

The University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum began in 1907 and has developed into miles of trails and land home to collections of both native and exotic trees and shrubs. These plants transform during the fall to showcase some of the best colors in Southeast Michigan, including golds, reds and even inky purples.

Furstenberg Nature Area | Ann Arbor

Furstenberg Nature Area is a 38-acre park containing wetlands, woodlands, prairie and oak savannah just west of Gallup Park. Owned and maintained by the city since 1971, the open space offers a half-mile paved trail that loops through the park and a granular trail that goes through the prairie and woods then connects to a quarter mile of wetland boardwalk. The heavily wooded lands boast a huge variety of oaks, maples and other types of colorful trees.

Riverside Park | Ypsilanti

Located on the Huron River in the center of Ypsilanti, Riverside Park consists of 13.8 acres and connects downtown Ypsi with Depot Town. Whether you’re fishing on the river, riding your bike, or walking along the trail during the fall, you’re guaranteed a glimpse of our state’s famous seasonal foliage.

Delhi Metropark | Ann Arbor

Located just five miles northwest of Ann Arbor, Delhi Metropark offers 52 acres of mature oak trees, open, grassy lawns, playgrounds, softball diamonds and more. Because the park is nestled against a bend in the Huron River, it has become a popular fishing and canoeing destination—both great activities during the fall! While you’re there, you may even spot a great blue heron, turtles or a white-tailed deer.

Southern Michigan Railroad | Tecumseh

Photo courtesy of Southern Michigan Railroad

Each year, the Southern Michigan Railroad hosts Fall Color Tours, seasonal events that explore the area’s changing foliage from the comfort of a train car. Because the rides sell out every single year, the railroad is offering even more seating options now, including the open-air car for fair weather, the historic interurban coach and the entire Memorial Caboose available to rent. Rides depart on October 6th and 7th, 13th and 14th during the Appleumpkin Festival, 20th and 21st, and 27th and 28th. You can get more details on the website here.

Pinckney State Recreation Area | Pinckney

Covering a whopping 11,000 acres, Pinckney State Recreation Area is one of our favorite outdoor destinations in the Ann Arbor area. Known for its extensive trail system and chain of excellent fishing lakes, the park also offers over forty miles of multi-use trails, picnicking, playgrounds, beaches, a concession stand, boat launches and rowboat, canoe, paddle boat and kayak rentals.

Waterloo Recreation Area | Chelsea

The largest park in the Lower Peninsula, Waterloo Recreation Area consists of more than 20,000 acres. Across these grounds, you’ll find two modern campgrounds, a rustic campground, an equestrian campground, swimming beaches, several picnic sites, 11 fishing lakes, eight boat launches, 12 miles of interpretive nature trails, 47 miles of hiking trails, four rustic cabins, a yurt, equestrian trails, mountain biking trails, and the Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center. While exploring these grounds during the fall, keep your eyes peeled for russet red and blazing oranges.

Brighton Recreation Area | Howell

Covering 4,947 acres, Brighton Recreation Area is a hilly, outdoor paradise interspersed with a number of picturesque lakes, 19 miles of trails and a full-service riding stable open through early December. When you reserve a trail ride with Brighton Recreation Riding Stable, you can explore Michigan foliage on horseback!

Hudson Mills Metropark | Dexter

Combing serene woods with the calm waters of the Huron River, Hudson Mills Metropark offers 1,536 acres of land home to an 18-hole golf course, two 24-hole disc golf courses, a three-mile, paved hike and bike loop, and the nearly five-mile West River Trail which connects to the Hudson Mills loop and takes hikers and bikers on a journey that ends in downtown Dexter.

Independence Lake County Park | Whitmore Lake

Independence Lake County Park is one of Washtenaw County’s favorite open spaces thanks to 360 acres, 3.5 miles of hiking and biking trails, two miles of paved trails and, of course, fishing, boating and swimming in Independence Lake. Stroll along the lakeshore to get accustomed to the bright, changing colors then head to the edges of the Indy and Woodcock prairies to see the best color in the park!

Do you have a go-to fall foliage destination?

Tell us about it in the comments below!

Now that October has arrived, we’ve completely embraced the fall festivities—and so have our Ann Arbor area communities. This month’s lineup includes craft shows where you can shop fall treats and find the perfect holiday gifts, holiday-themed concerts, terrifying attractions, and some of our most anticipated annual events.

Join the fun this October and attend an event in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Dexter or Chelsea!

Jump ahead:

Arts + Culture | Community Celebrations | Sports | Food + Drink

Arts + Culture

Ann Arbor Antiques Market | Ann Arbor

October 20 – 21, various times | Washtenaw Farm Council  

Established in 1968, this historic antique market has been fueling our love of home decor and vintage finds for fifty years. Admission is $6 with free parking and kids are admitted for free! Come by in October to peruse antiques, jewelry, paintings, mid-century and Industrial design, folk art, repurposed furniture and more. It’s the perfect place to get some holiday shopping done!

Ann Arbor Annual Arts & Crafts Show | Ann Arbor

October 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | New Grace Apostolic Temple  

This juried arts and crafts show costs just $2 for guests over 12-years-old and includes shopping from more than 60 artists and crafters, a complimentary Kids Korner and face painting, access to food concessions and baked goods, door prizes and more. The show is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2018 so don’t miss out on the fun!

Westside Art Hop | Ann Arbor

October 20, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Old West Side

Westside Art Hop is presented as Michigan’s quirkiest Art Walk. The twice-yearly event showcases high-quality arts and crafts for sale to the public in a festive atmosphere. While exploring the West Side, you can peruse artworks, meet the artists, find decor for your home, or shop holiday gifts!

Band-O-Rama: True Blue! | Ann Arbor

October 21, 4 p.m. | Hill Auditorium  

A tried and true UM tradition, Band-O-Rama showcases the musical talents of all the University of Michigan bands. Celebrating its 54th anniversary this October, you can expect a classic mix of musical genres and an incredible musical performance.

Halloween Concert | Ann Arbor

October 28, 4:30 p.m. | Hill Auditorium  

The University of Michigan orchestras are joining forces for this Halloween tradition. Featuring spooky sounds, musical classics and Halloween favorites, the show celebrates the holiday with tricks, treats and great music. Come in costume or come as you are!

Community Celebrations

Night Terrors | Ypsilanti  

September 22 – October 31, various times | Wiard’s Orchard

Michigan’s premier haunted attraction comes alive once again this October. Open at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through October 28th and then again on Halloween night, Night Terrors features 89 acres of terror. The six haunted attractions include The Asylum, Hayride of the Lost, The Ultimate Haunted Barn and less frightening options like Scaryoke Live Music and Wiard’s Bakery where you can enjoy the homemade cider and caramel apples of Wiard’s Orchard.

For more information on the less haunted fall attractions available at Wiard’s Orchard, check out 19 Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards and Cider Mills You Can Visit Near Ann Arbor.

ypsiGLOW | Ypsilanti

October 26, sunset | Downtown Ypsilanti  

From the same team that brings us FestiFools and FoolMoon every April, ypsiGLOW is a light-filled celebration through Downtown Ypsi. In the weeks leading up to the event, local artists, businesses and organizations host GLOWorkshops so you can create your own luminary and costume. Then, you can join the community on October 26th for a celebration of Ypsilanti and art! Follow the team on Facebook for updates on workshops and the big event.

Sports

University of Michigan Homecoming Game | Ann Arbor

October 6, 2018 | The Big House

The University of Michigan faces off against the Maryland Terrapins for their homecoming game on October 6th. If you want to watch live in The Big House, get your tickets here.

The Wolverines also play Wisconsin at home on October 13th! See the full football schedule here.

Girls on the Run Superhero 5k | Dexter

October 21, 2 p.m. | Hudson Mills Metropark

This costumed race benefits Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan‘s financial assistance program. Suitable for kids and adults, race day includes three events: a 5k run/walk, a one-mile fun run and a kids dash for participants five years and younger. For registration information and pricing, check out the website.

Food + Drink

Art & Brew 2018 | Ann Arbor

October 4, 5:30 – 9 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor

Hosted by Ann Arbor Art Center and various Downtown businesses, Art & Brew 2018 is a celebration of local food and drink and a competition for the best food and beer pairing. When you buy your $50 ticket, you’ll be invited to join the bar crawl traveling to each participating restaurant to taste their beer and snack pairings, to create your own art at each one, and then to vote for the best pairing using #ArtandBrew on your favorite Social Media platform. See the participating venues and get more information here.  

Apple Daze Festival | Dexter

October 6, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Monument Park  

Hosted by the Dexter Lions Club in Downtown Dexter, Apple Daze Festival invites the community to enjoy local apples and apple products, participate in apple pie eating contests, take the family on festive hayrides and shop craft booths from local vendors and artists.

Chelsea Smoke & Ale Festival | Chelsea

October 12 – 13, various times | Chelsea Fairgrounds  

Smoke & Ale is a beer festival, BBQ cook-off and cornhole tournament all rolled into one. Featuring live music, local food vendors and a kids area as well, the event is family-friendly and costs just $5 for admission! Follow the team on Facebook for updates.

Happy October!