The Reinhart Blog

Michigan game day is one of your favorite days and one of the most important in Ann Arbor. Complemented by tons of pre-game tailgates, game-day specials at our favorite hangouts, and the best fight song in college football history, after just one game day in Ann Arbor, this will become your favorite holiday, too. 

To make sure you can navigate all the excitement, we created this tailgating guide—complete with information on where to park and find tailgates, where to watch the game outside The Big House, where to buy your U-M merch, and where to keep celebrating afterward. And remember, Go Blue forever! 

For details on tailgating policies and procedures, click here, and for the Michigan Football schedule, click here. 

Jump ahead:

The Most Popular Tailgating Areas | The Best Places to Watch on Screen | What to Wear on Game Day | Where to Go After the Game

Tailgating

The Most Popular Tailgating Areas

Whether you’re parking or just looking for a pre-game party, you’ll find plenty of areas to do it, but be aware ahead of time that parking can cost $30 to $60 to $180 and more. To read tailgating policies and procedures and make sure you’re following the rules, click here. When you follow that link, you can also find a detailed map of parking areas. 

University of Michigan Golf Course

Located south of The Big House, the U-M Golf Course is one of the most popular places for tailgating on game day. Although RVs, trailers, pets and glass containers aren’t allowed, you can park regular vehicles and set up all your tailgating accessories within the designated areas. 

Ann Arbor Golf & Outing Club 

Located directly across Stadium Boulevard from the south end of the stadium, AAGOC offers convenient public parking for U-M football and basketball games. On football game days, public parking is first come, first served, but a limited number of reserved spots are also available through Park n Party here. For full AAGOC parking info, click here. 

Blue Lot 

This lot is available for RVs and vehicles with permits only, but open to foot traffic. That means many season ticket holders and Michigan fans who have been attending games for decades set up shop here, but everyone is welcome to peruse the tailgates and join the fun. 

Pioneer High School

One of three lots open to RVs, Pioneer High School opens on Game Day Fridays for RVs with permits and other vehicles on a first come, first served basis. These daily passes and reservations are available through Michigan Event Parking, and we recommend checking out their website here before game day. 

Brown Lot

Located south of the golf course at the Varsity Tennis Center, this lot offers cash-only permits on the day of the game and is open to RVs which can stay until noon on Sunday. 

Sports Bars

The Best Places to Watch on Screen 

If you didn’t get a ticket in time, you can still catch all the action on screen at a local hangout. For the full list of favorite sports bars which includes options in surrounding towns, too, check out The 13 Best Sports Bars in the Ann Arbor Area. 

The Pretzel Bell

Photo courtesy of The Pretzel Bell

After P Bell opened in 1934, it became the campus watering hole for more than 50 years, feeding and hydrating students, townies and visitors alike. After a brief closing, the doors reopened to become one of A2’s most beloved spots—complete with gourmet pub food, craft beer and cocktails, and more than 30 TVs tuned into every Michigan football, baseball, hockey and basketball game available! Game day attractions include drink specials, a game room with pong, Jenga and darts, late-night live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays, and more. 

Fraser’s Pub

Jimmy and Red Fraser first opened this neighborhood bar in 1962 and it’s been the A2 go-to ever since. The taps feature multiple Michigan beers, the menu includes all the bar favorites cooked up with style, and the TVs fill the whole place so you’ll never miss the action. Be sure to wear your blue and maize or you may feel left out. Go Blue! 

Scorekeepers

Especially popular amongst the younger crowd, Scorekeepers boasts more than 30 beers on tap, 17 flat screens, and a food lineup that includes bratwursts, nachos, sliders, burgers and waffle fries. They’ve been around for decades and have always been a go-to game day spot, for obvious reasons.

Good Time Charley’s

Good Time Charley’s opened its doors in 1979, the first U-M student walked in, and the rest was history. It’s located right across the street from the university and offers a parking structure, making it one of the easiest places to get to before the game starts. We recommend ordering a plate of Pepperoni Styx, hand-twisted breadsticks stuffed with mozzarella and pepperoni and topped with garlic and parmesan. Then, get ready to cheer!

Gear

What to Wear on Game Day 

When in doubt, put on your maize and blue. Some games may encourage maize-outs inside the stadium, but you can’t go wrong with any Wolverine merch. To find out where to buy yours, keep reading. 

The M Den 

The M Den is the official retailer of Michigan Athletics, which means you can find branded clothing for women, men and kids, Michigan Nike products, hats, furniture and home decor, autographed memorabilia, toys, jewelry, pet accessories and more. You can shop online here or stop by one of five Ann Arbor locations to shop in person.

Bo 

Inspired by and named after Bo Schembechler, the University of Michigan head football coach from 1969 to 1989, Bo is a store built by and for Wolverines. In the Main Street shop, you can purchase clothing and hats, mugs and glasses, posters and vinyl decals, and basically everything you need to show your Michigan pride. To shop online, click here.

After

Where to Go After the Game

If you want to keep celebrating after the game is over, you’ll have plenty of options, especially along Main Street and State Street in downtown Ann Arbor. For super late nights, check out our guide The 13 Best Places to Eat After Midnight in Ann Arbor. 

Grizzly Peak Brewing Co.

Photo courtesy of Grizzly Peak Brewing Co.

A landmark in downtown Ann Arbor, Grizzly Peak began serving craft beer in August of 1995 from their century-old building. The kitchen produces scratch-made pub eats and the brewhouse produces classic beers in a wide range of styles. To see what’s on tap right now, click here, and be sure to celebrate with a pint of Victors’ Gold after the game! You can also order Party Platters which feed 8 to 10 people and your dogs are welcome to party on the patio with their own menu of snacks! Check it out here.

Wolverine State Brewing Co.

Wolverine State Brewing’s flagship beer, Wolverine Premium Lager, was born out of a desire for an outstanding, approachable beer that was true to Michigan character. Today, this Ann Arbor craft brewery is still operating as the first and only all-lager microbrewery in the state of Michigan. That means, when you stop in, you’ll get the opportunity to explore absolutely everything a lager can do—from the solid, approachable flagship to innovative, ingredient-driven and aged creations. They’re open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays!

Dominick’s 

When you think Dominick’s, you think great patio and even better sangria. Since opening in 1960, this locally owned spot has been the go-to for locals, students, families, you name it! Grab a seat on game day and keep the fun going with potent sangria and Italian-inspired eats. 

Ashley’s 

A Downtown Ann Arbor tradition since 1983, Ashley’s is a must-visit on game day—especially if you love craft microbrews! Throughout the year, their rotating taps offer more than 1,000 different beers made right here in Michigan, all around the country and all around the globe. Pair that with a meal of pesto fries and fish and chips, and you’ll have a new favorite in town. 

Do you have a game day tip?

Share it in the comments below!

Though you can always enjoy a crisp, hard cider around here, Michigan’s apple season is August through October, which makes fall the ideal season for it. After all, it is a lovely combination of our passion for craft beer and our favorite autumn crop.

In this guide, we rounded up some of the state’s best hard cider makers, located near our home in Ann Arbor and farther out. Where available, we added links so you can find these beverages on tap, bottled or canned closer to home, wherever that may be. Happy sipping!

B. Nektar

Based in Ferndale

Founded by a fun-loving team in 2006, B. Nektar brings a modern, sub-pop culture-inspired twist to everything they create, from the mead that has made them famous to every cider and craft beer on their tap list. And we’re proud to say this little Michigan operation was the first meadery named to the top 100 best breweries in the world by Ratebeer.com! To find out where you can get bottles closer to home, click here.

Blake’s Hard Cider Co.

Based in Armada

The team behind Blake’s Hard Cider has been growing apple trees for more than 70 years. Today, they have 45,600 apple trees on their property in 42 different varieties and they use those backyard harvests to create more than 60 varieties of hard cider. Their tasting room has been named one of the best bars in America, but if you can’t make it to Armada, click here to locate Blake’s sold near you.

Bløm Meadworks

Based in Ann Arbor

Photo courtesy of Bløm Meadworks

Bløm (pronounced bloom) is a hyper-local meadery located in the heart of Ann Arbor. Unlike many other meaderies and cideries, every ingredient is sourced from Michigan and their mead is fermented like a dry craft cider so it’s not as thick or as sweet as other meads you may have tried. On the tap list, you’ll also find straight-up ciders, all carefully crafted with subtle, delicious tasting notes. To shop cans online, click here.

Cherry Creek

Based in Brooklyn

Nestled in the Irish Hills, this family-owned winery honors over 100 years of winemaking knowledge passed down through four generations. Inside their historic 1870 schoolhouse tasting room and seasonal café, you can sip award-winning grape wines, fruit wines and ciders, sample freshly made butter fudge, taste their Michigan Cherry Preserves, and more! To see their wine and cider list, which has included things like Cinnamon Ginger Cider and Root Beer Cider, click here.

Farmhaus Cider Co.

Based in Hudsonville

Photo courtesy of Farmhaus Cider Co.

In 1866, Claus Behrens, an immigrant from Germany, purchased 200 acres in Hudsonville, built a farmhouse and planted an apple orchard. Decades later, two generations of the Behrens family, with the business owners’ family and friends, worked nights and weekends to restore the property and, in March 2015, Farmhaus Cider Co. celebrated their first canning run. Today, they operate the Farmhaus Cidergarten on site at the 150-year-old family farm and distribute throughout the state. Click here to find out where you can get it.

Northville Winery & Brewing Co.

Based in Northville

Photo courtesy of Northville Winery & Brewing Co.

This hometown spot makes all their wine, hard cider and beer on-site and is open year-round with frequent live music events and a delectable calendar of local food trucks stopping by. To see what’s on tap and what events are coming up, check out the website here, and be sure to make a visit during the fall so you can visit Parmenter’s Northville Cider Mill, too!

Sierra Rose

Based in Grand Rapids

Sierra Rose is a program of Grand Rapids’ Cascade Winery. Making everything in small batches, they start with 100% apples and ferment the cider at cold temperatures to maintain distinct, crisp flavors. Then, they use their history of innovation, skill and creativity to create flavors like Peach, Strawberry and Blueberry Hard Ciders.

St. Ambrose Cellars

Based in Beulah

The St. Ambrose story starts with 40 years of beekeeping and a passion for mead. Later, they dabbled in cider, then added beer and pizza, and now they’re one of the best craft beverage makers in the state. On-site, you’ll find a nine-hole disc golf course, a bocce ball court, yard games and a bee garden, but you can also find their beverages in stores across the country and shop their online store here. To track down St. Ambrose near you, click here.

St. Julian

Based in Paw Paw

St. Julian has been owned and operated by the same family for four generations, and through those generations, they’ve become Michigan’s most awarded and longest-running winery. They also use only Michigan fruit to create each distilled spirit, cider and wine in their lineup. To locate these award-winning products, click here.

Starcut Ciders

Based in Bellaire

Starcut Ciders comes from the famous, award-winning team behind Short’s Brewing Company. Founded in 2014, this project was born out of a desire to make unique ciders using Michigan’s abundant apple harvests, including apples from local farmers whose orchards are close to their home in Antrim county. To purchase nearby, click here.

Uncle John’s Cider Mill

Based in St. Johns

Photo courtesy of Uncle John’s Cider Mill

Historically, Uncle John’s was a wholesale fruit and vegetable farm but has been transformed since the 1970s into a destination for family fun—especially during the fall when the cider mill is running and fresh donuts are being made! From May through December, you can also stop in the Uncle John’s Fruit House Cidery and Winery Tasting Room to taste wines, spirits, premium ciders, and hard cider in cans and on draft. Throughout the year, you can also shop cans in stores throughout the Great Lakes region.

Unity Vibration

Based in Ypsilanti

Dedicated to health, unity and community, this Ypsi favorite serves up kombucha tea, kombucha beer and a few kombucha cider hybrids. Similar to a Lambic fermented in oak-barrels with hops and whole fruits, Unity kombucha beers are gluten-free, vegan, organic, bottle conditioned and raw. So whether you’re craving a belly-friendly tea or a unique craft beer, visit the taproom to try a small-batch and handmade beverage. To find their creations near you, click here.

Vander Mill

Based in Grand Rapids

A founding member of the Michigan Cider Association, Vander Mill started from humble beginnings in 2006 inside a small, 5,000-square-foot building. Today, they’ve grown to distribute their hard cider varieties throughout the Great Lakes region, but they still press only Michigan apples and even work with the Dietrich family apple farm located nearby in West Michigan. To locate their hard ciders closer to your home, click here.

Virtue Cider

Based in Fennville

Practicing traditional craftsmanship and sustainable methods, using the finest apples grown in orchards with just the right climate, and handpicking their apples and their barrels, the team behind Virtue Cider crafts proper farmhouse cider. Like the art of winemaking, they press local fruit, ferment the juice on site, age it in barrels, and continually taste to develop the perfect blends. You can get more information on finding their beverages locally here.

Do you have a favorite?

Whether it’s on our list or not, tell us about your favorite Michigan hard cider in the comments below!

For decades, Ann Arbor has been defined by its artists, creators and innovators—from the artwork they create to the green practices they put to work and everything in between. Through the work of our residential designers and architects, this passion for aesthetic and creativity can be brought to life inside our most precious spaces: our homes. 

And in this guide, we’re writing about our favorite local designers and artists who are doing just that. Get ready for a healthy dose of home inspiration!

Angelini & Associates Architects 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Jeff Garland of Jeff Garland Photography via Angelini & Associates Architects

Established in 1989 by Bradford and Theresa Angelini, Angelini & Associates Architects has been Ann Arbor’s high-quality, innovative and award-winning architecture firm for three decades. Through those decades, the team has produced designs for more than 500 projects, including additions, renovations and new constructions in the Ann Arbor area and throughout Michigan. To view their online portfolio, click here. 

Architectural Resource 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

The team behind Architectural Resource knows how important our living spaces are, and they have since they first came together in 1991. From the beginning, they decided to focus exclusively on residential architecture so they would continuously get the opportunity to work closely and intimately with clients and create those essential spaces. This has resulted in some of the region’s most beautiful homes featuring everything from historic Victorian remodels to brand new, sustainable and modern farmhouses. 

Damian Farrell Design Group 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Kate Benjamin Photography via Damian Farrell Design Group

At Damian Farrell Design Group, they have expertise and experience in nearly every field from residential and commercial to niche industries like resorts and healthcare facilities. In the commercial space, they’ve been responsible for bright, modern and innovative Ann Arbor spaces like Baba Dari Mediterranean Grill and Ann Arbor Arms. And this translates to their residential projects, too, which show off their diversity of skills and styles; you can see that portfolio here. 

Hobbs+Black Architects

Based in Ann Arbor | Facebook

The team behind Hobbs+Black believes in showcasing the identity of each individual client, not the identity of their designers. As a result, they don’t have a defined style, but rather use more than 50 years of experience to dabble in every style and create truly one-of-a-kind spaces each client is happy to live, work and play in. And that experience has covered nearly every industry, from the Westgate Branch of Ann Arbor District Library to unique residential projects throughout the region.

Lewis Greenspoon Architects

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

At LGA, the team specializes in both residential and commercial building types, including single-family and multi-family housing, community and civic buildings as well as professional and medical office spaces. Through these diverse experiences, they’ve created award-winning projects, including their winning design for the Michigan Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Lansing. The team’s residential portfolio also showcases diverse styles in new construction, full remodels, kitchen and bath remodels, and even stylish outdoor living spaces. To view some of these projects online, click here. 

Meadowlark Design + Build 

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Sean Carter Photography via Meadowlark Design + Build 

Shown in each of their buildings and mentioned in nearly every review, Meadowlark homes are truly one of a kind and easy to spot for their craft, unique character, innovation and warmth. And that makes sense coming from a team dedicated not only to building our most intimate spaces but also to improving their clients’ lives. The best part is Meadowlark is also one of the nation’s leading green builders, and they hold more LEED Platinum custom home certifications than any other builder in the region! 

Meier Group Architects

Based in Ann Arbor and Adrian | Houzz

In 2000, William Meier AIA founded Meier Group Architects with the goal of creating a firm where he and his team could provide excellent architectural design service for a variety of project types. Today, they’ve become one of the best in the region thanks to their beautiful structures that are functional, aesthetic, affective, enduring and efficient all at once. To view their residential portfolio, click here.

Molly Bachelor Architect

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz

Based in the Water Hill neighborhood of Ann Arbor, Molly Bachelor is an Ann Arbor native and a graduate of the University of Michigan. Her services include full-service architectural design, residential energy consulting and interiors, which has allowed her to create high-performance renovations and additions as well as stunning custom homes throughout the area. To preview some of that work online, click here. 

OX Studio

Based in Ann Arbor | Facebook 

When you look through this firm’s online portfolio, you’ll probably recognize some of Ann Arbor’s most beloved spaces, including Black Diesel Coffee and Tomukun Korean BBQ. Rooted in the true integration of architecture, design and game-changing technologies, these spaces—and every other residential and commercial project they touch—are collaborative, innovative, cost-efficient and high-tech. To see that applied to residential projects, view their portfolio here. 

Quinn Evans Architects

Based in Ann Arbor + other locations | Facebook

An authority in preservation and sustainable stewardship, QEA was founded as a two-man studio in 1984. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving, multi-faceted firm with four full-service offices in Washington, DC, Baltimore, Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Richmond, Virginia, as well as a studio in Madison, Wisconsin. Here in Ann Arbor, their specialty in preservation has made them especially noted for work with historic homes.

Rochman Design Build

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Rochman Design Build

This nationally recognized, award-winning design-build firm, has been delivering innovative remodeling solutions since 1989. Through their specialization in mid to large residential remodeling and home additions, they’ve created truly transformative spaces (and amazing before and after photos!) that reflect each individual client’s lifestyle without sacrificing function or aesthetic. And it helps that this team—including founding partner Gary Rochman—is driven by the relationships developed with each and every client, so the journey is as enjoyable as the finished product. 

Studio Z Architecture

Based in Plymouth | Houzz | Facebook 

The team at Studio Z is driven by their commitment to designing and building one-of-a-kind homes that match each client’s personality, lifestyle and functional needs. In addition to a huge catalog of happy clients, they also won awards and national recognition for these builds here in Southeast Michigan and beyond. To view some of those online, check out their portfolio here. 

Synecdoche Design Studio 

Based in Ann Arbor | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Synecdoche Design Studio

Synecdoche is a small, start-up-style design/make architecture studio and the team uses this to their advantage to create quickly, nimbly and efficiently. This has also resulted in a unique style that can be spotted at places around town like Bløm Meadworks, Thrive Juicery, Spencer and Ann Arbor Pharmacy. In the residential space, you’ll find a similar playfulness and a modern aesthetic that includes individual furniture and designs created right in their studio. Click here to see some of those pieces—from pivot doors to rolling counters and everything in between. 

Wright Street Design Group Inc.

Based in Ann Arbor | Houzz 

One of the area’s most recognized firms, Wright Street Design does absolutely everything in the residential design space: new, custom homes, full renovations, additions, kitchen and bath remodels, home theaters, outdoor living spaces, custom furniture, and even green architecture. And they’ve been doing it since Stanley Monroe founded Wright Street Design Group in 1986. To view their online portfolio, click here. 

Do you have a favorite?

Whether they’re on this list or not, tell us about your experience in the comments below!  

Southeast Michigan’s small towns are home to some of our favorite local businesses, eateries, breweries, coffee shops and communities in all of Michigan. In these historic cities and towns, entrepreneurs combine neighborhood sensibilities with some of our favorite things—including real, homemade cooking. And that’s what we’re celebrating in this guide. 

Keep reading to see which local spots made our list, then make the list longer by adding your favorites in the comments below! 

Beezy’s | Ypsilanti 

20 N Washington St, Ypsilanti | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Beezy’s

Both a beloved coffee shop and a delicious cafe, Beezy’s is a hyper-local option in downtown Ypsilanti. Every day, they make two different seasonal soups, whip up fresh homemade salad dressings, bake hot fresh bread, and prepare everything with a local sensibility using local products from nearby vendors and farmers. To view the menu, click here. 

Bomber Restaurant | Ypsilanti 

306 E Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti | Facebook 

This old-school diner has been an Ypsi staple since it opened in 1936. Surrounded by aviation-inspired decor, you can get one of the county’s best breakfasts right here in the Bomber dining room, and their huge menu of American classics offers more than 35 options!

Casablanca | Ypsilanti 

2333 Washtenaw Ave, Ypsilanti | Facebook 

One of Ypsilanti’s highest-rated eateries, Casablanca serves authentic Moroccan and Arabic cuisine for dine in, carry out and delivery. From fresh hummus to chicken shawarma, this is the best way to explore global cuisine in town.

The Common Grill | Chelsea 

112 S Main St, Chelsea | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of The Common Grill

This downtown Chelsea restaurant is known around the state and even as far as the James Beard House in New York City where self-taught chef Craig Common was invited to prepare a dinner for their members and guests. For more than 25 years, Craig and his team have been serving innovative New American cuisine with a seafood-forward menu and outstanding service. Preview that menu here and get ready for an unforgettable meal.

Cultivate Coffee & Taphouse | Ypsilanti 

307 N River St, Ypsilanti | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Nick Azzaro via Cultivate Coffee & Taphouse

At Cultivate, you can get sandwiches and bagel sandwiches, sweet toasts and simple snacks, but the real attraction is the freshly roasted coffee, the craft beer and the community atmosphere. Built around the mantra, “craft, community and cause,” they roast their own coffee beans, brew their own beer and host some of the region’s most beloved community events. You can see those upcoming events here.

Dexter Riverview Cafe | Dexter 

8124 Main St, Dexter | Facebook 

One of the community’s beloved breakfast, brunch and lunch spots, Dexter Riverview Cafe is a locally owned and operated eatery. Their menu features fresh, homemade oatmeal, homemade biscuits and gravy, pita sandwiches, coneys and so much more. To see that menu, click here. 

Matty J’s | Saline 

972 E Michigan Ave, Saline | Facebook 

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 here to find out what breads, sandwiches and cookies you can get today.

Ollie Food + Spirits | Ypsilanti 

42 E Cross St, Ypsilanti | Facebook 

Photo courtesy of Ollie Food + Spirits

This Ypsi favorite offers a seasonally rotating menu made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and they pair that with a lineup of artisan cocktails, craft beer and wine. These approachable, gourmet eats cater to all kinds of diets—vegans, vegetarians and omnivores alike.

Red Brick Kitchen & Bar | Dexter 

8093 Main St, Dexter | Facebook 

Red Brick is a small, family-owned restaurant nestled in the middle of Downtown Dexter. Led by Executive Chef Cody Wiseley, the kitchen produces fresh, innovative food, and their team combines that with creative craft cocktails and a warm, inviting atmosphere complete with a full bar. That bar also boasts eight beers on tap, all from Michigan breweries! To see the full menu, click here. 

Salt Springs Brewery | Saline 

117 S Ann Arbor St, Saline | Facebook 

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.

Sidetrack Bar & Grill | Ypsilanti 

56 E Cross St, Ypsilanti | Facebook 

Sidetrack has been a local destination since it opened its doors in 1850 and it’s easy to explain why. They serve some of the best pub food, pour some of the best beer, and offer it all in one of the best Ypsi atmospheres. Their burger—Our Famous Burger—was included on GQ’s 2005 round-up The 20 Hamburgers You Must Eat Before You Die, and that’s just one of the reasons we recommend stopping by.

Smokehouse 52 | Chelsea + Saline 

125 S Main St, Chelsea + 105 W Michigan Ave, Saline | Facebook 

Phil and Jenn Tolliver opened Smokehouse 52 in downtown Chelsea in February of 2013 and it’s been a beloved neighborhood eatery ever since. Phil’s passion for BBQ began when he was a child growing up on a hog farm in Stockbridge. Now, that passion translates into the most delicious and authentic BBQ in the region at locations in both Chelsea and Saline.

Add to the list! 

The small towns of Southeast Michigan are home to some of the best local food and drink in the state. Make our list longer by giving your favorite a shoutout in the comments below!

Though September brings the end of summer, it also brings us a long weekend to celebrate Labor Day, the beginning of football season, and beloved fall harvest celebrations. In the Ann Arbor area, our communities are saluting the summer and welcoming the fall with cultural celebrations, beloved annual festivals, fundraisers and more.

This year, join the fun at our region’s biggest September events. Will you attend a concert, a festival or Oktoberfest? Let us know in the comments below!

JUMP AHEAD:

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

Arts + Culture 

A Cappella Around Main | Ann Arbor 

September 3, 7 – 8:30 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor  

Photo courtesy of Main Street Area Ann Arbor

Did you know Ann Arbor has more a cappella groups than any other city in the country? Throughout the summer, Main Street Area Association celebrates with an a cappella celebration every first Tuesday. For the last event on September 3rd, you can shop, eat and explore downtown while four different singing groups stroll the sidewalks to serenade the community. 

Ann Arbor Russian Festival | Dexter 

September 14 – 15, various times | St. Vladimir Russian Orthodox Church 

The 7th Annual Ann Arbor Russian Festival will include Russian dance, music and song ensembles, an infused vodka tasting for guests over 21, authentic foods, and so much more. Bring the whole family down to Dexter to celebrate Russian culture! 

Orphan Car Show | Ypsilanti 

September 15 | Riverside Park 

The term “orphan car” describes a vehicle built by a manufacturer that has discontinued business entirely, and because Ypsi has such an important history in cars and orphan cars, it’s the perfect place for this unique car event. The 2019 show celebrates the 21st year of the Orphan Car Show! Spectator admission is $7 for adults and children under 12 are admitted for free.

Old West Side Homes Tour | Ann Arbor  

September 22, 12 – 5 p.m. | Community of Christ Church 

The 46th Annual Old West Side Homes Tour celebrates Ann Arbor’s historic Old West Side whose architecture, streetscape, history and environment are especially characteristic of 19th-century, midwestern America. You can purchase tickets on the day of the event at its headquarters: Community of Christ Church at 520 West Jefferson. 

Heritage Market | Milan 

September 29, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Hack House 

Hosted by Milan Area Historical Society for the second year, the Heritage Market brings local vendors, creative makers and community members to shop and support local in the historic Hack House. For details and updates, check out the Facebook event here. 

Community Celebrations 

Dancing in the Streets | Ann Arbor  

September 1, 1:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Downtown Ann Arbor  

An annual tradition hosted by the Ann Arbor Community for Traditional Music and Dance, Dancing in the Streets is a free, family-friendly dance-themed event. The schedule includes demonstrations, interactive activities, tons of lessons, kid-friendly activities and more. To see that schedule, click here.   

Festival of the Honey Bee | Ypsilanti  

September 6, 5 – 9 p.m. | Downtown Ypsilanti  

Held in partnership with First Fridays Ypsilanti, the Festival of the Honey Bee aims to raise awareness and celebrate the honey bee’s impact on our local and global food supply through art and education. Nearly a decade old, this annual tradition includes art, music, educational activities for all ages, vendors, demonstrations and more. 

An Evening with Ozone House | Ann Arbor

September 14, 6 p.m. | Domino’s World Resource Center, Lobby F

Ozone House’s 11th annual fall fundraiser, this charitable event includes a silent and a live auction, cocktails and dinner, youth performers, entertainment, a paddle raise and a wine pull. To attend the event, make a donation, and support the work of Ozone House, click here.

Oktoberfest | Saline 

September 20 – 21 | Downtown Saline 

This fall celebration brings the spirit of Germany to Downtown Saline. In celebration of the community’s sister city relationship with Lindenberg, Germany, Oktoberfest features traditional and modern music, a festive biergarten, a corn hole tournament, wiener dog races and so much more over the course of two full days.

Harvest Festival | Ann Arbor  

September 22, 2 – 5 p.m. | Sutherland-Wilson Farm 

Hosted by Pittsfield Charter Township, the 11th Annual Harvest Festival is welcoming the fall season with a performance by the Saline Fiddlers, face painting, carriage photos, lawn games, a pumpkin patch, docent-led tours, artisan demonstrations, a petting farm and so much more. All of this is included in general admission, which ranges from free for children 2 years and under to $5 for adults over 16. For more details, click here. 

Webster Fall Festival | Dexter  

September 28 | Corner of Webster Church & Farrell Roads 

Co-hosted by the Webster United Church of Christ and the Webster Township Historical Society, this fall festival has something for everyone: hayrides, live music, an auction, a petting zoo, a children’s carnival, historical buildings, baked goods, demonstrations like rope making and blacksmithing, baseball games played following the rules of 1860, and even more! For the full schedule, click here. 

Sports 

University of Michigan Football vs. Army | Ann Arbor 

September 7, 12 p.m. | Michigan Stadium 

Michigan football is back! They’re playing in the Big House against Army West Point on September 7th. To see the full 2019 schedule, click here, and don’t miss their other home game this month on September 28th against Rutgers. 

RunTough for ChadTough | Saline 

September 28, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. | Saline High School 

Benefitting The ChadTough Foundation—a local nonprofit in Saline—this running event is celebrating its sixth year with a family-friendly 5K and a one-mile fun run. Whether you want to virtually run or you want to run the route yourself, you can register online here.

Glow-in-the-Park 5K | Ypsilanti  

September 20, 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. | Rolling Hills County Park 

Hosted by Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission, this nighttime run invites racers to Rolling Hills County Park after the sun sets. Then, racers can enjoy a lighted, glow-in-the-dark run through the park! To register, click here. 

Food + Drink 

Route 23 Craft Beer Walk | Milan  

September 13, 4 – 10 p.m. | Main Street 

An annual event with Milan Main Street, this craft beer celebration brings live music, food truck fare, community fun and eight Michigan breweries to Downtown Milan. When you purchase tickets here, adults can enjoy flights of three craft beers at each venue, and each flight includes a small appetizer, too! 

Bike Ypsi’s Taco Tour | Ypsilanti 

September 15, 12 – 5 p.m. | Frog Island Park 

Bike Ypsi is returning for the 12th year of the Taco Tour! Featuring only locally owned businesses and only traditional tacos, this event invites bicyclists for a 5-mile, 15-mile or 25-mile route through town for tacos and taco-themed treats. Each route includes a different number of tacos, but all include a choco taco at Go! Ice Cream and finish at Cultivate Coffee & Taphouse for liquid refreshment. For mail-in registration details, click here. 

Chefs in the Garden | Ypsilanti  

September 15, 5 – 8 p.m. | Growing Hope Urban Farm 

Hosted by and benefitting Growing Hope, the Chefs in the Garden series brings together local charity, local food and urban farm education. The three-part dinner series features well-known, local culinary talent at each event occurring on September 15th, September 29th and October 13th. The first event on September 15th will bring together Chef Ji Hye Kim of Miss Kim with dessert from Milk + Honey. For tickets, click here. And for details on the September 29th event, click here. 

Happy September!

Kerrytown is a charming neighborhood located just a few blocks north of Main Street in Downtown Ann Arbor. Centered around Kerrytown Market & Shops, the neighborhood is home to the year-round Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market, the Jim Toy Community Center, annual events like Kerrytown KindleFest, beloved restaurants like Miss Kim and The Lunch Room, as well as tons of local shops and services. Outside of the main Kerrytown market, you’ll also find some of Ann Arbor’s most beloved institutions, including Zingerman’s Delicatessen, Aut Bar, Kerrytown Concert House and more—continuing all the way to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum at East Huron Street.

In this guide, we rounded up all there is to do and see in Kerrytown, including the attractions of Kerrytown Market & Shops and the surrounding neighborhood. We included features on more than 30 Ann Arbor businesses. Enjoy!

Jump Ahead: 

Food + Drink | Things to Do | Shopping

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Food + Drink

Food + Drink

Aut Bar 

Beloved as an LGBTQ institution, Aut Bar is one of the town’s most welcoming food and entertainment establishments. Famous for their classic bar atmosphere which includes trivia nights, drag shows and holiday-themed events, you’ll also find one of Ann Arbor’s best brunches served every Sunday. To stay up-to-date on brunch and other events happening at Aut, follow the team on Facebook here. 

The Bar at 327 Braun Court

This true neighborhood bar is the place to go when you want a creative cocktail and a comfortable setting. The drink list rotates with the seasons and includes three rotating taps from Original Gravity Brewing based in Milan. And if you get hungry, you’re in a great place for a Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Paneer Poutine or Vegan Chili Fries. To see the full menu, click here. 

The Lunch Room

Photo courtesy of The Lunch Room

Often referred to simply as The Lunch Room, The Lunch Room Diner & Canteen is this team’s original location in Kerrytown. Other eateries from the team include Detroit Street Filling Station and The Lunch Room Bakery & Cafe where all their bread is made from scratch.  Because only plant-based foods are served at The Lunch Room, you never have to worry about the presence of meat, dairy, eggs, honey or anything processed with animal products. As an added bonus, many of the ingredients are also organic and non-GMO, and many meals can be made gluten-free. 

Miss Kim

Though the name is different than other Zingerman’s businesses—it was chosen to showcase Korean tradition and honor the restaurant’s female chef—the service and quality at this restaurant is everything you’d expect from the Zingerman’s team. At Miss Kim, the authentic Korean dishes are driven by and adapted to showcase Michigan’s bountiful produce. Shareable small plates include things like Fresh Oysters and Pork Belly Bossam alongside medium and large entrée selections like Fried Calamari and Whole Lamb Shank.

Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea 

Sweetwaters is well-known throughout Michigan and Ohio (and even as far as Walnut Creek, California!), but the humble coffeehouse began right here in Ann Arbor. Alumni of the University of Michigan, Wei and Lisa Bee founded the first Sweetwaters in 1993 in Downtown A2. Now, you can grab a globally inspired beverage or snack downtown, in Kerrytown, on the UM campus, at Westgate Library, in Canton and in Ypsi.

Teahaus  

Ann Arbor’s favorite tea spot, TeaHaus offers options suited for a quick stop or an entire afternoon. For example, the full English tea is a three-tiered service brought out to each table 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. 

The team also operates Eat More Tea, a Kerrytown business open by appointment, for reservations and for special order pickup where you can get tea-inspired treats, eats, gelato and more. 

Zingerman’s Delicatessen

The first business that opened in the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses was this historical deli opened in 1982 with a staff of two, a small selection of specialty foods, a variety of traditional Jewish dishes and a short, simple sandwich menu. Today, the deli is still located in the small, red brick building across from the Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market, but you can now get corned beef, pastrami, turkey, chicken, pork, fish and vegetarian sandwiches, as well as breakfasts, salads, housemade Jewish specialty foods, handmade pot pies and more.

If that’s still not enough, you can go right next door to Next Door Café for cakes, pies, cupcakes, coffee, gelato, cookies, brownies, chocolates, candies and so much more! They opened this charming shop in 1991 to offer more space and more treats both from Zingerman’s businesses and from around the country.

Things to Do

Things to Do 

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum 

Highlighted in 18 Things to Do with Kids in Ann Arbor, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is home to countless interactive exhibits where children and adults can get interactive and discover their inner scientist. Visiting the museum any day of the week means you can explore exhibits like Michigan Nature, Lyons Country Store, MediaWorks, and DTE Energy Foundation Light and Optics.

Bellanina Day Spa

This award-winning day spa offers a full spectrum of healing day spa services, including massage, facials, organic spray tans, waxing and nail services in the heart of Kerrytown. They’ve even been voted the Best Day Spa in Washtenaw County every year since 2012 by Current Magazine’s Best of Washtenaw. 

Encore Studio 

Encore Studio is a woman-run business and the place to go for all your hair and nail needs. In their comfortable studio, you can get haircuts and styles, waxing and makeup application, manicure and pedicure services, and more. 

Grateful Dreads 

Grateful Dreads is a beloved and spiritual salon in Kerrytown. Owned and operated by Sandy, this team specializes in dreads and locs whether you need them put in, maintained or repaired. Sandy and her team can also do SoCap fusion extensions, style and cut curly hair, care for afros, thread eyebrows and more. 

Kerrytown Concert House 

An intimate, 110-seat venue, Kerrytown Concert House is a nonprofit organization focused on community engagement and providing audiences with fine art, including everything from live music to gallery exhibitions. Inside their historic home-turned-venue, you can attend affordable events in various genres; check out the event calendar here.

The Rope Yoga Collective 

Located in a quiet studio above the People’s Food Co-Op, The Rope Yoga Collective is run by a small, dedicated team of certified professionals with a passion for yoga. To view their full class schedule, click here.  

Shopping

Shopping  

16 Hands 

This Ann Arbor shop has been operating in town for more than four decades. When it began in 1975, it was an artist collective of eight artists exhibiting artwork by its members in a storefront on Washington Street. In 2011, the store relocated to Kerrytown Market & Shops, and the team still showcases and sells original, finely crafted objects of uncommon quality and character, including jewelry and accessories, unique gifts, and items for the home, office and garden. 

Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market 

Ann Arbor has an outdoor farmers’ market that operates all year long, and it’s located right here in Kerrytown. The Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market brings together our community, our local makers, our local growers and our local artisans for weekly events—and bi-weekly events during the summer! For the full schedule, vendor information and details about seasonal food truck rallies, click here. 

Ann Arbor Spice Merchants 

A branch of the national chain, Spice & Tea Merchants, this store sells the freshest, highest quality herbs and spices available alongside an inventory of locally produced products. In Kerrytown since 2007, they carry herbs, spices, more than 60 spice blends, a variety of sea salts and peppers, and more than 100 flavors of tea with tea accessories.

Catching Fireflies 

Catching Fireflies is a Michigan institution with locations in Berkley, Rochester and right here in Ann Arbor. In the whimsical gift gallery, you can shop gifts for every occasion and interest, including kitchen and home goods, accessories, fashion and stationery. 

Durham’s Tracklements 

At Durham’s Tracklements, they specialize in smoked salmon and other custom smoked provisions. So, when you stop by to pick up their delicious salmon, be sure to shop pickled herring, rainbow trout, pickled asparagus, smoked cheeses and more, too! Follow the team on Instagram for updates on specials! 

Everyday Wines 

This Kerrytown Market & Shops store is locally owned and totally independent. Owner Mary Campbell and her team work tirelessly to make wine an easy and affordable everyday pleasure, and their inventory is spotted with informative cards and tasting notes so you can choose the right bottle for you. Of course, if you want even more wine opinions, ask them! They’re some of Ann Arbor’s best wine pros. 

FOUND 

Photo courtesy of FOUND

Perfectly merging vintage and modern, FOUND offers a mix of home decor, pillows, rugs, textiles, candles, jewelry and gifts. And many of those goods are made right here in Michigan by local artisans! Their brick and mortar location is in Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown district, but you can also shop much of their inventory online here.

Fourth Ave Birkenstock 

Owned by Paul and Claire Tinkerhess, Fourth Ave Birkenstock is the place to go for comfortable and functional shoes. To read their story, click here. 

Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars 

The original Fustini’s in Traverse City was born from a love of the oil and vinegar stores of Europe and a desire to bring the experience stateside. Now, Jim Milligan and his team have four Michigan locations: Ann Arbor, Holland, Petoskey and the original in Traverse City. Swing by to shop an impressive selection of oils and vinegars alongside other foodie goods and gourmet selections. 

Hollander’s 

Owned and operated by Tom and Cindy Hollander since 1991, Hollander’s is a nationally recognized retailer specializing in decorative papers, bookbinding supplies and teaching workshops. Their retail store stocks more than 2,000 unique decorative papers, as well as traditional artist papers imported from all over the world.

Lily’s Garden 

This Kerrytown original has been providing fresh flowers and delivering joy for more than 35 years. Always family-owned and operated, you can find this bright and flower-filled storefront right next door to Zingerman’s Next Door! 

Monahan’s Seafood Market 

In 2019, Monahan’s Seafood Market celebrated 40 years of serving the Ann Arbor community and we’re so happy to have them. This world-class fish market is the only market in these parts that brings in the majority of their fish whole then cuts each one to your specifications. That makes their seafood the freshest and most delicious in town! 

Motte & Bailey Booksellers 

Motte & Bailey is a type of medieval Norman castle and the name of this local bookstore was chosen to reflect the team’s interest in books that concern all the various aspects of history. They opened their original storefront in 2000, moved into their current one in 2006, and have become notable in town for their huge inventory of books, their history-focused reading groups, and their great book deals. Speaking of which, you can take advantage of the “buy three and get a deal” offer every day. For more information, check out the website here.

Mudpuddles 

Mudpuddles is a specialty toy store filled with smart and creative toys and games for all ages. Local owners Jan and Sharon hand select every item in the store so you can rest assured that each one will be suitable for both education and fun. 

People’s Food Co-op

Photo courtesy of People’s Food Co-op

Ann Arbor’s first natural foods grocery store, the People’s Food Co-op has been offering local, natural and organic options in every grocery department for more than 40 years. Open seven days a week, the co-op invites members and non-members to shop goods and enjoy healthy food and drink at their very own PFC Café. 

Sparrow Market 

An Ann Arbor tradition since opening their doors in 1983, this beloved butcher and market is the place to go for fresh cuts of meat. Their reviews are filled with phrases like, “This is my favorite place to shop” and, our favorite, “These people care about what you put in your mouth.” Next time you need grass-fed prime beef or duck bacon, check out Sparrow. 

Spun 

Image courtesy of Spun

Spun is a local, family-owned yarn shop in Kerrytown where you can shop yarn and tools, learn at scheduled classes and ask questions at free, drop-in sessions. Their free social knitting and crochet sessions occur four different times per week and they host Ask-a-Knitter throughout the week, too. Regularly scheduled classes are more hands-on and intensive, covering topics like beginning crochet, crochet for knitters, introduction to lace and more. To see the full calendar, click here.

Title Nine 

Back in 1989, Founder Missy Park saw a need for athletic gear built for women, and Title Nine was born. Today, the team operates more than 15 stores throughout the country, and as of 2019, Michigan’s only retail store is right here in Kerrytown Market & Shops. Stop by to shop women’s outdoor and athletic apparel and gear with healthy doses of inspiration and motivation, too. 

The Treasure Mart 

The Treasure Mart was originally established in 1960 and is the place to go for antique finds and thrift store shopping. You can discover something new and beloved every time you stop by! 

Urban Rider Cargo Bikes 

Specializing in cargo bikes and electric cargo bikes, this Ann Arbor shop boasts the largest selection in the Midwest! In-store, you can shop for new and pre-owned bikes and learn all about how these vehicles help reduce global emissions and save time and money compared to cars. 

V2V 

This beautiful women’s fashion, lifestyle and bridal-blend boutique can be found in the heart of Kerrytown. With a focus on both elegance and simplicity, the locally owned shop is filled with fashion, accessories and everything you else you need to feel stylish and confident. 

Do you have a favorite?

If you have a favorite thing to do in Kerrytown, tell us about it in the comments below! 

Our charming hometown is filled with art, history, educational opportunities and tons of fun. And, even if you’re on a tight budget, you can enjoy all of that and more—completely free of charge. Highlights in this guide include 1,588 total acres of park space, strange animal encounters, 1000 BCE Middle Eastern artifacts, prehistoric whales, outdoor concerts and ukulele parties! 

If you have a few more dollars available for entertainment, check out our other guide 14 Things to Do in Ann Arbor Under $20. 

Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art.

Photo courtesy of Scott Soderberg, U-M Photography via University of Michigan Museum of Art

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.

Learn at Leslie Science & Nature Center.

This educational facility on the north side of Ann Arbor encourages sustainability, understanding and regular nature encounters. You can join the fun and visit the grounds, trails and raptor enclosures for free any day from sunrise to sunset. The Critter House is open on select days (which you can see here) and invites guests to observe frogs, turtles, snakes and other adorable and unusual animals. For more visiting information, click here. 

Explore Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. 

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum are two educational and environmental spaces on the U-M campus. The botanical gardens include 11 outdoor areas full of bonsai, native and medicinal plants, perennials and more, and if you want to head inside, you can enjoy the year-round indoor conservatory filled with plants from around the world. The arboretum spans miles of trails and land with impressive collections of both native and exotic trees and shrubs.

Both the gardens and arboretum offer free admission, but if you decide to drive, you’ll have to pay $1.70 per hour for parking at Matthaei with a $5 daily maximum charge.

Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History.

Photo courtesy of Michelle Andonian via University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

The U-M Museum of Natural History story begins all the way back in 1837 when the university was created, but the first museum building wasn’t constructed until 1881. In April 2019, the museum celebrated its most recent grand reopening after a move into the brand new Biological Sciences Building, part of the U-M School of Literature, Sciences and the Arts. Today, the constantly expanding exhibits include interactive displays about mastodons and prehistoric whales, multimedia artwork, the evolution of life on Earth, space exploration, and more. You can even see the museum staff at work in the Fossil Prep Lab! For more information on your visit, click here. And remember, admission to the museum is free, but donations are always accepted.

Tour Chelsea Milling Company.

The home of JIFFY Mix and the industrial heart of Chelsea, tours of the Chelsea Milling Company are free and open to the public with a reservation. Your one-hour journey through the factory includes an inside look at the packaging plant, a video presentation, refreshments and a product sample. Yes, that means you get to enjoy a free muffin, too!

Attend Sonic Lunch. 

Video courtesy of 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 seasonal concert series kicks off in early June and continues through August for a total of about 11 shows each year. All of these performances begin at 11:30 a.m. and you can see the full lineup for this year here.

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 locations throughout town, including The Michigan Theater, Ann Arbor District Library, The Ark, Nicola’s Books and more. Check out the locations here and see if you can track them all down!

Visit the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology. 

Located on the U-M campus, this museum supports teaching and research on Classical, Egyptian and Near Eastern archaeology. With a collection of more than 100,000 artifacts—1,500 of which are on permanent display—and two to three annual exhibitions, there’s plenty to explore and learn. Admission is always free, but a donation is also appreciated. 

Hear a recital at the Charles Baird Carillon. 

The Charles Baird Carillon is the third heaviest in the world and contains 53 bells cast in 1936 by the John Taylor & Co. Bellfoundry in Loughborough, England. The tower and carillon were originally dedicated in 1936 and got a complete renovation in 2011. Today, you can hear the bells chime throughout the day from 9:15 a.m. to 9 p.m., including a free, thirty-minute recital performed on the Charles Baird Carillon at noon every weekday when classes are in session. To get there, enter the belfry observation deck any time during the recital, take the elevator to the eighth floor, and climb two more flights of stairs to the belfry. For full information and dates, click here. 

Visit WSG Gallery. 

Located on Main Street in Downtown Ann Arbor, WSG Gallery showcases original fine art including paintings, prints, drawings and sculpture. The team’s special exhibits change every six weeks and you can often attend free artist talks, receptions and other special events, too! To preview their current exhibit, click here, and follow the team on Facebook here. 

Attend an event with Ann Arbor District Library. 

The Ann Arbor District Library provides services at no charge to all residents living within the library service area, and residents outside the area can still access available services for a fee. In five different locations, these guests can access millions of items, print and digital research materials, computer and Internet training, free WiFi, library exhibits and regularly scheduled, fun events! These include things like Tea 101 with Arbor Teas, Family Writing Labs with 826michigan, film screenings, business workshops, and family-friendly ukulele parties! To see all the upcoming events, click here. 

Preview The Creature Conservancy. 

This local nonprofit is home to Al the Alligator, Quinn the Bald Eagle, Suzi the Macaw, Dumpie the Ball Python, Jerome the Argentine Tegu, Harper the Mountain Lion, and several other rescued animals. Their conservation through education mission allows our community to meet these animals, learn about wildlife and nature, attend educational programs and camps, and more. On weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., you can enjoy limited outdoor viewing for free, and if you want to get up close and personal, admission ranges from $8 to $10 on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Spend time at Buhr Park. 

A recreation destination throughout the year, Buhr Park’s 39 acres are home to softball diamonds, two tennis courts, playground equipment, a basketball court, open fields, a sledding hill, picnic facilities with a grill, an outdoor pool with a special family activity pool during the summer, and a seasonal ice rink. The park is also connected to Cobblestone Farm, a historic educational facility with a house on-site that was originally completed in 1845. Visiting and recreating in the park are always free of charge, but admission to the pool, ice rink and guided tours of Cobblestone Farm Museum cost a few dollars each. For more information on all three, click here. 

Bike to Hudson Mills Metropark. 

Although there is an annual or daily fee for vehicles, hikers, bikers and inline skaters can enter Hudson Mills Metropark for free using the trail system. The park is located in Dexter and covers a whopping 1,549 acres, including Huron River access, basketball and volleyball courts, softball diamonds, soccer fields, picnic shelters, a playground, and a 3-mile, paved loop trail for hiking and biking which connects to the nearly 5-mile West River Trail to Downtown Dexter.  

Visit the Gerald R. Ford Library. 

Located right here in Ann Arbor, the Gerald R. Ford Library is one of two Michigan facilities dedicated to Gerald R. Ford. The museum can be found in Grand Rapids. At the library, guests are invited to explore the massive collection of archival materials on U.S. domestic issues, foreign relations, and political affairs during the Cold War era, focusing on the Ford administration. Other attractions include a permanent exhibit on President Ford’s life, rotating exhibitions and frequent special events. 

What’s on your itinerary? 

If you have a favorite free activity in Ann Arbor, tell us about it in the comments below! 

We can’t believe it either, but summer vacation is already winding down. Before we start buying supplies, prepping first day of school outfits, and planning carpools, there are a few more essential, kid-friendly things to do in Ann Arbor. In this guide, we rounded up the 10 things you and your kids need to do before school starts. 

For year-round, kid-friendly activities in the area, check out our other guide, 18 Things to Do with Kids in Ann Arbor. 

1. Don’t miss 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 2019 concert series kicked off in June and continues through August 29th for a total of 11 shows. All shows begin at 11:30 a.m. and you can see the full lineup here. August headliners include Michael Franti and Spearhead!

2. Attend YpsiFest. 

YpsiFest is a heritage, arts and entertainment festival in Ypsilanti that has been a beloved tradition for more than 35 years. This year’s event includes a kids’ area with bounce houses, pony rides, crafts and games, daily helicopter rides, a classic car show, a BBQ competition, the famous Rubber Ducky Race and more. For all the details, click here, and mark your calendars for August 23rd through the 25th. 

To find more events happening this August, including Ann Arbor Blues Festival, Dexter Daze and Saline’s Summerfest, click here. 

3. Attend a food truck rally at the Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market. 

The Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market is a favorite thing to do in town, and it continues all year long! During the summer and fall, you can add to the fun on the first Wednesday of every month when the Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market hosts food truck rallies from 5 to 8 p.m. The last three rallies are coming up on August 7th, September 4th and October 2nd. For more information, click here. 

4. Spend the day at Rolling Hills Water Park. 

Rolling Hills County Park covers 439 acres and offers outdoor activities all year long. During the summer, one of our favorite attractions is Rolling Hills Water Park, a huge outdoor water park located on site. Attractions include a lazy river, a wave pool, a zero-depth entry activity pool and multiple water slides! 

To find more nearby swimming holes, check out The 15 Swimming Holes Near Ann Arbor You Need to Visit This Summer. 

5. Meet the animals at The Creature Conservancy. 

This local nonprofit is home to Al the Alligator, Quinn the Bald Eagle, Suzi the Macaw, Dumpie the Ball Python, Jerome the Argentine Tegu, Harper the Mountain Lion, and several other rescued animals. Their conservation through education mission allows our community to meet these animals, learn about wildlife and nature, attend educational programs and camps, and more. To visit, you can stop by Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. or from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays for limited outdoor viewing.

6. Kayak on the Huron River. 

Some of the region’s most popular activities, kayaking and canoeing on the Huron River are accessible for all ages thanks to Gallup Park Livery and Argo Park Livery. These City of Ann Arbor facilities offer boat rentals, guided river trips and even river programs designed for children as young as 2 years old! For information on all of the above, click here. 

And for even more details on kayaking in the area, check out The Ultimate Guide to Kayaking in Ann Arbor. 

7. Explore Waterloo Recreation Area.

Did you know the largest state park in the Lower Peninsula is located right in our backyard? Waterloo Recreation Area covers more than 20,000 acres of outdoor paradise in Chelsea and offers everything from fishing and swimming to mountain biking and disc golf. To get the details on all the available activities, check out Everything You Can Do in Waterloo Recreation Area. 

8. Visit Ann Arbor’s best city parks. 

City of Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation maintains a whopping 159 parks and 15 park facilities. Their list includes neighborhood pocket parks, larger community parks, golf courses and huge, undeveloped nature areas that are open to explore. In our blog post, Your Summer Guide to Ann Arbor’s City Parks, Mapped, we rounded up the largest and the best—offering kayaking, picnicking, disc golf and dirt bike courses, playgrounds, hiking trails, tennis and basketball courts, softball fields and even dog parks! 

9. Visit Leslie Science & Nature Center. 

Leslie Science & Nature Center is an independent, nonprofit organization serving to connect our community with wildlife, nature and science. Their grounds, trails and raptor enclosures are open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk and they also open the Critter House on select days and offer public programs, rentals, birthday parties, field trips and more. To see upcoming programs scheduled on-site, at local parks and at other venues, click here. 

10. Scream for ice cream. 

Ice cream is an all-season treat, but summer makes it taste even better. In our guide, The 10 Best Places for Ice Cream in Ann Arbor, we rounded up the area’s best, including local favorites like Michigan Creamery and Blank Slate Creamery and even Go! Ice Cream in Ypsilanti. 

We hope you enjoyed your summer vacation!  

For more activities you can enjoy throughout the year, check out 18 Things to Do with Kids in Ann Arbor. 

In very brief summary, Ann Arbor is unlike any other town. The stories behind our beloved businesses, the legends driving our annual events, and quirky things like fairy doors and Hash Bash make our hometown one of the best places to live—and one of the most interesting, too.

Living here puts residents within driving distance of Detroit, minutes from the Lower Peninsula’s largest state park, a quick trip from the perfect vacation on Lake Michigan, along the route of the Huron River and in close proximity to Michigan’s best historic small towns. 

To get the short list of our favorite things about Ann Arbor, keep reading! 

1. It really is one of the best places to live.

If you already live here, you know. Ann Arbor is consistently ranked on lists of the country’s best cities to live, visit and go to school. Some of our favorites include College Ranker’s The 50 Best College Towns to Live in Forever, Livability’s 5 Great College Towns to Settle In Post-Graduation, and The Travel’s 10 US Destinations For Your Next Long Weekend Getaway.

2. It’s home to one of the country’s best universities.

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.

Even locals who aren’t involved in the university can enjoy university facilities and programs like the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, the University of Michigan Museum of Art, Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum and more. 

3. It’s a haven for coffee lovers.

If you haven’t sampled A2’s coffee culture, you’re in for a treat. Our small city ranks with craft coffee giants like Seattle, San Francisco and New York. Our hometown has been named on The 10 Best Cities for Coffee Lovers in America and Livability’s 10 Unexpectedly Awesome Coffee Cities. A quick trip to downtown Ann Arbor can include stops at Literati Coffee, RoosRoast, lab, Comet Coffee and Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea—all packed into a few blocks! 

To preview the local coffee scene, check out The 16 Best Coffee Shops in the Ann Arbor Area. And read The Best Coffee Roasters Around Ann Arbor to find a few shops that do their own roasting!

4. And for book lovers!

Ann Arbor’s history is rich with literature, books, bookstores and book-themed festivals. Before the nationwide bookstore Borders closed its doors for good, it was founded and headquartered right here in downtown Ann Arbor. Today, our city’s book-loving culture is alive and well through local, indie businesses like Literati Bookstore, Bookbound and Nicola’s Books. To track down even more places to shop, check out Your Guide to Ann Arbor’s Independent Bookstores, Mapped. For events, clubs and more, check out The Book Lover’s Guide to Ann Arbor. 

5. We love local. 

Bookstores and coffee shops aren’t the only things that are indie and local around here. Ann Arbor also boasts tons of local craft breweries, local shops and eateries that were built right here and have become staples of our community. For example, Arbor Brewing Company was the first brewpub to open in Ann Arbor and only the fifth brewpub to open in the entire state of Michigan. Learn more in Your Ultimate Guide to 20 Craft Breweries in the Ann Arbor Area. 

Another national name that began right here is Zingerman’s, and though it is nationally recognized, this community of businesses has stayed right here in Ann Arbor and has grown to include the original deli, a coffee roaster, a bakery, a cheese and gelato shop, multiple restaurants, an event venue, and more. For the complete details, check out Your Guide to 14 Zingerman’s Businesses in Ann Arbor. 

6. We have a year-round farmers’ market. 

Speaking of loving local, Ann Arbor has an outdoor farmers’ market that operates all year long! At the heart of Kerrytown, the Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market brings together our community, our local makers, our local growers and our local artisans for weekly events—and bi-weekly events during the summer! For the full schedule and information about seasonal food truck rallies, click here. 

7. There’s always something to do. 

We know in a suburban city like Ann Arbor, things can sometimes feel slow and quiet, but boring isn’t in our vocabulary around here. In addition to fun activities found in guides like 14 Things to Do in Ann Arbor Under $20, 10 Ann Arbor Date Ideas Perfect for Any Time of Year and 18 Things to Do with Kids in Ann Arbor, our community hosts tons of special events and festivals throughout the year. In our blog post, The Ultimate Guide to Annual Events in Ann Arbor, we highlighted more than 25! And that just covers the largest ones. To stay up-to-date on even more, check out Destination Ann Arbor here. 

8. It offers urban amenities and rural adventure.

Ann Arbor offers the fun of a college town, the amenities of a city, and the open space of a charming, rural town. It’s the urban center of Washtenaw County and is less than an hour from Detroit, but also offers proximity to the huge Waterloo State Recreation Area and Pinckney Recreation Area near Chelsea and Dexter. For outdoor fun both in town and outside of it, check out 8 Things to Do in the Ann Arbor Area for Outdoor Enthusiasts, The Ultimate Guide to Kayaking in Ann Arbor, Everything You Can Do in Waterloo Recreation Area and Your Summer Guide to Ann Arbor’s City Parks, Mapped. 

9. It’s an affordable place to live. 

Home to a variety of industries and an award-winning university, Ann Arbor is a great place to live, work and invest. According to the United States Census Bureau, median household income in Ann Arbor is $61,247 which is higher than both Michigan and the United States. And, widening the range to the entirety of Washtenaw County, the median household income jumps to $65,618.

Looking to housing, the median value of owned homes is $271,600 and median gross rent is $1,166. Measured with the median household numbers we discussed, Ann Arbor is one of the country’s more affordable places to live—especially when compared to popular urban areas across the country. If you want to find homes on the market right now, click here to view the area’s newest listings. And to get more economic and social statistics like this, check out our other guide 10 Reasons to Stay in Ann Arbor After Graduation.

10. It’s surrounded by more small towns we love. 

Living in Ann Arbor puts you within reach of some of our state’s most charming small towns. These quieter and historic communities—like Chelsea, Dexter, Milan, Saline and Ypsilanti—are home to some of Michigan’s best hidden gems, from entertainment at The Purple Rose Theatre Company to coffee and beer at Cultivate. To begin your explorations of these communities, we recommend the following guides: Your Ultimate Guide to Chelsea, Michigan, Your Ultimate Guide to Dexter, Michigan, Your Ultimate Guide to Milan, Michigan, Your Ultimate Guide to Saline, Michigan and Your Ultimate Guide to Ypsilanti, Michigan. 

That was our short list. 

For even more reasons to love Ann Arbor, including the college culture, economic statistics and housing information, check out 10 Reasons We’re Lucky to Live in Ann Arbor, 10 Reasons Ann Arbor is the Best College Town in America and 10 Reasons to Stay in Ann Arbor After Graduation.

And to stay up-to-date on local events, things to do, favorite businesses and regional real estate, you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

The culmination of summer fun in Southeast Michigan, August brings some of the season’s most highly anticipated festivals, races and events. Taking place in communities throughout the region, you can enjoy live music, tractor pulls, parades, craft fairs, a challenging triathlon and even a United States Air Force air show!

Peruse our top picks for August below and mark your calendars so you don’t miss a second of the action.

JUMP AHEAD:

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

Arts + Culture

Arts + Culture 

Milan Bluegrass Festival | Milan

July 31 – August 3 | KC Campground Milan

Featuring both well-known bluegrass bands and up-and-coming acts, Milan Bluegrass is a can’t-miss music festival in Southeast Michigan. The 2019 event features five different bands each day and a special guest on Saturday! For the full concert experience, we recommend camping on-site with KC Campground.

Sonic Lunch | Ann Arbor

June 6 – August 29, 11:30 a.m. | Downtown at the corner of Liberty and Division

Since 2008, Sonic Lunch has been bringing free, outdoor concerts to the streets of downtown Ann Arbor every summer. Suitable for all ages, the 2019 concert series kicked off in June, has two July concerts on the schedule, and continues through August for a total of 11 shows. All shows begin at 11:30 a.m. and you can see the full lineup here.

The Ton-Up | Ypsilanti

August 11, 12 – 7 p.m. | Arbor Brewing Company Microbrewery  

The Ton-Up is a motorcycle and music festival, are they’re returning to Ypsilanti for the tenth year this August! Serving to promote and educate the public about the art, science and history of the motorcycle, motorcycle safety, and awesome music, this one-day event will bring vintage and custom motorcycles, scooters and mopeds to ABC in addition to local music and tons of fun. To learn more, check out the Facebook event here. 

Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival | Dexter

August 12 – 17 | Monument Park

En plein air is the act of painting outdoors, and the Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival invites artists and community members to do just that! Over the course of four days, local and visiting artists will paint in and around Dexter. Then, non-painters can view and purchase artwork at the two-day exhibit and art sale in the Tent Gallery in Monument Park. To stay up-to-date on this year’s happenings, follow the team on Facebook here. 

Ann Arbor Blues Festival | Ann Arbor

August 16 – 18 | Washtenaw Farm Council Fairgrounds

In August 1969, several thousand blues lovers gathered in a small field in Ann Arbor for the first ever Ann Arbor Blues Festival where they sang and danced along with blues legends that included B.B. King. This August, it all comes back to the Washtenaw Farm Council Fairgrounds for an all-ages music event you don’t want to miss. Buy your tickets in advance here.

DIYpsi | Ypsilanti

August 24 – 25 | Arbor Brewing Company Microbrewery

An indie art fair like none other, DIYpsi is a handmade art fair that takes place in Ypsilanti once each summer and winter. Alongside incredible homemade foods and drinks, you’ll find unique handcrafted gifts that are sold by and in support of local, Ypsilanti artists. This year’s summer event features more than 90 vendors at ABC Microbrewery! 

Community Celebrations 

Ann Arbor Pride | Ann Arbor

August 3 – 4 | Kerrytown  

Originally called OUTFest, Ann Arbor Pride has been showcasing equality and LGBTQ support for decades. Throughout Kerrytown this August, you can enjoy entertainment, community, vendors, fun and, most importantly, pride. In celebration of their 25th anniversary, the team is expanding the event with more mainstage entertainment, a pride picnic, a kids’ zone and a beer and wine garden. As always, proceeds from the event benefit the Jim Toy Community Center.

Thunder Over Michigan Air Show | Ypsilanti

August 3 – 4 | Willow Run Airport

At Willow Run Airport in Ypsilanti, this family event brings the United States Air Force Thunderbirds to Southeast Michigan. The air show will feature presentations from the F16 Demo Team and the Screamin’ Sasquatch as well so buy your tickets here and don’t miss it. Kids 15 years and younger are admitted for free!

Dexter Daze | Dexter

August 9 – 10 | Various locations

For nearly 50 years, Dexter Daze has been providing an occasion for our communities’ families to come together and celebrate with artisans and crafters, local businesses and free entertainment. You can join the fun in Dexter this August! 

Saline’s Summerfest | Saline

August 9 – 10 | Downtown Saline

Returning to the streets of Downtown Saline this month, Saline’s Summerfest is a hometown celebration like none other. In 2019, the event promises even more activities, attractions and amusements, but with all the local flare we’ve come to love.

Michigan Firehouse Museum Fire Muster | Ypsilanti 

August 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Riverside Park 

The annual Fire Muster is a fun, free event for the entire community! The Michigan Firehouse Museum brings their trucks of all types to the park and they also provide a bucket brigade demonstration, hand pumper demonstrations, special activities for the kids, fire safety information and much more. For event updates, RSVP to the event on Facebook here. 

Chelsea Community Fair | Chelsea

August 20 – 24 | Chelsea Community Fairgrounds

One of our favorite community events in the region, the Chelsea Community Fair includes a rodeo, multiple tractor pulls, livestock competitions and auctions, demolition derbies, a local merchant tent, and more. For all the details, click here. 

YpsiFest | Ypsilanti

August 23 – 25 | Riverside Park

In 2019, the Ypsilanti Heritage, Arts, and Entertainment Festival will be bigger and better than ever before. Over the course of three days, you can enjoy live trivia in the entertainment tent, daily helicopter rides, a kids’ area with bounce houses, pony rides and games, a classic car show, the Rubber Ducky Race, a BBQ competition and more. For all the details, click here. 

Saline Community Fair | Saline

August 28 – September 1 | Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds

Every year, the Saline Community Fair brings together the community to celebrate Saline’s favorite activities, local vendors and organizations. This year’s event will feature tractor pulls, carnival rides, racing and derbies, rodeo presentations, livestock and animal competitions and so much more. To see the full schedule, click here. 

Sports

Ann Arbor Triathlon | Dexter

August 3, 7:30 a.m. | Pinckney Recreation Area  

The Ann Arbor Triathlon is the culmination of all your training, all your running, all your biking and all your swimming. Beginning at Halfmoon Lake in Pinckney State Recreation Area, you’ll swim the waters of Halfmoon, bike the country roads of the surrounding rural area, then run the 5-mile Poto Trail course to complete the challenge. If you’re ready, register online here.

Swim to the Moon | Dexter

August 18, 9 a.m. | Pinckney Recreation Area  

Celebrating 10 years in 2019, Swim to the Moon is an extraordinary open-water swimming adventure through the picturesque Hiland Chain of Lakes near Hell, Michigan. Participants can choose between distances including the half-mile, the 1.2-mile, the 5K or 10K. For full details and online registration, click here. 

Food + Drink 

German Park Picnic | Ann Arbor

August 31, 4 p.m. | German Park

The German Park Recreation Club hosts three picnics every summer and this month’s event is set for August 31st 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. And, children 12 and under are admitted for free! 

Happy August!