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 MapsArgo Nature Area
Riverfront park featuring canoe, kayak & paddleboat rentals, a boat launch & biking/hiking trails.
Grizzly Peak Brewing Company
Century-old space with stone walls sets a warm tone for site-made craft beer & a seasonal menu.
County Farm Park
Green county park featuring a wooded area, fitness trails, gardens, playgrounds & picnic pavilions.
via Google MapsMaple Village
via Google MapsTotoro
Sleek little spot for Japanese specialties such as tempura & udon, plus creative sushi rolls.
Vinology Restaurant & Event Space
Chic, high-ceilinged wine bar with exposed-brick walls offers 150 wines & a New American menu.
via Google MapsTraver Village Shopping Center
via Google MapsDJ’s Bakery
Good Time Charley's
Casual indoor-outdoor canteen with multiple TVs, daily specials, karaoke & trivia nights.
via Google MapsZola Bistro
Creative New American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist & cocktails in a sleek, minimalist setting.
via Google MapsOak Valley Center
via Google MapsBell's Diner
Functional restaurant offering traditional diner fare & Korean specialties in an unassuming space.
via Google MapsAvalon Cafe and Kitchen
Lively joint combining a bakery, coffee bar & restaurant with New American breakfast & lunch dishes.
via Google MapsPlum Market
Holiday's Restaurant
Homestyle American cooking, including breakfast & a salad bar, in a cheerful, dinerlike setting.
via Google MapsHill Auditorium
Black Pearl
Sleek seafood venue that adopts a lounge aura with cocktails, music & dimmed lights after 9 PM.
via Google MapsJolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery
Local chain known for truffle fries serves upscale pub fare & pints of rustic craft beer.
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Cozy club with stand-up comedians, open-mike nights & cocktails, hosting famous names since 1984.
The Ravens Club
Choice speakeasy-style joint for farm-to-fork American-fare small plates & old-fashioned cocktails.