Things to do in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is a college town with a lot going on beyond campus.
Ann Arbor is a college town with a lot going on beyond campus. You can spend a day exploring museums, catching live music, or just walking along the river. Food is a big draw here, from famous delis to casual Cuban spots, and there are plenty of parks and trails to balance out the eating.
Start at Gallup Park for a stroll or kayak, then head to the University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum for quiet gardens. Families often end up at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum or Pinball Pete's arcade. For music, The Ark and Kerrytown Concert House host intimate shows, while Michigan Theater screens indie films in a historic setting. Zingerman's Delicatessen is a local institution for sandwiches, and Frita Batidos serves Cuban street food with outdoor seating. Shopping ranges from Briarwood Mall to the smaller Kerrytown district.
Frequently asked questions about Ann Arbor
What are the best outdoor spots in Ann Arbor?▾
Gallup Park has walkways, bridges, playgrounds, and canoeing along the river. The Nichols Arboretum is good for quiet walks and spring flowers. County Farm Park and Argo Nature Area also offer trails and river access, with canoe and kayak rentals at Argo.
Where can families take kids in Ann Arbor?▾
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum has over 250 science exhibits across four floors. Pinball Pete's is an old-school arcade with pinball and video games. Lucky Strike offers bowling, and Launch Family Entertainment has more active options. Several parks, including Gallup and Island Park, have playgrounds.
What live music venues are worth checking out?▾
The Ark is a nonprofit venue focused on folk and roots music. Kerrytown Concert House hosts emerging and established artists in a 19th-century house. Hill Auditorium and Rackham Auditorium on campus also put on performances, and North Star Lounge has a more casual vibe.
Where can I get a good meal in Ann Arbor?▾
Zingerman's Delicatessen is famous for its sandwiches and specialty groceries. Frita Batidos serves Cuban street food like fritas and batidos. Zingerman's Roadhouse does American comfort food, and HopCat has a huge beer list with pub fare. Gandy Dancer is a more upscale seafood option in a restored 1886 building.
What are some good rainy-day activities?▾
The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art both have exhibits that appeal to different ages. The Michigan Theater and State Theatre show films in historic buildings. Escape rooms like Breakout and Decode Ann Arbor offer indoor challenges, and Blue Karaoke has private rooms.
Upcoming events
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights
Laith Al-Saadi’s Birthday Bash
The Bros. Landreth: Tumbling Wild Tour 2026
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Things to do in Ann Arbor
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via Google MapsGandy Dancer
Elegant restaurant in a restored 1886 building serving seafood options, as well as steak & pasta.
Gallup Park
69-acre park with walkways & bridges, playgrounds, picnic sites, & canoeing/kayaking areas.
via Google MapsZingerman's Roadhouse
Bustling locale offering hearty American comfort fare, local draft beers & a gourmet food shop.
HopCat
Woodwork-filled brew pub with a massive beer list offering creative pub fare & brunch items.
Briarwood Mall
Standard mall offering brand-name apparel, beauty products & homeware, plus informal restaurants.
via Google MapsSava's
Contemporary bi-level eatery serves eclectic, locally sourced fare & a large Sunday brunch buffet.
Zingerman's Delicatessen
Locals line up for generous deli sandwiches at this funky, longtime market with specialty groceries.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Offering sprawling gardens, woods & prairies, plus a visitors center, gift shop & conservatory.
Frita Batidos Ann Arbor
Open & airy space with picnic table seating serving colorful Cuban street food & tropical cocktails.
via Google MapsBlack Rock Bar & Grill
Breakout Escape Rooms Ann Arbor
via Google MapsRed Lobster
via Google MapsTexas Roadhouse
Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.
Michigan Stadium
University of Michigan's historic 110,000-seat football stadium, known locally as the Big House.
via Google MapsOlive Garden Italian Restaurant
Lively, family-friendly chain featuring Italian standards such as pastas & salads.
via Google MapsIchiban Japanese Steakhouse Ann Arbor
Bustling spot presenting theatrical teppanyaki grill shows, plus specialty sushi rolls & a full bar.
via Google MapsBuddy's Pizza
Iconic pizza chain (since 1946) known for its square slices & soups, plus other Italian & fast fare.
via Google MapsTrader Joe's
Grocery chain with a variety of signature items, plus produce, dairy & more (most sell wine & beer).
Arborland Center
Long-running shopping center with a large supermarket & familiar national retail/dining chains.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Colorful, 4-story space invites children to play & learn through 250+ science-focused exhibits.