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
Add Your
Event
Share your event with the community.
Never Miss Out
Get the best events and local picks straight to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Things to do in Ann Arbor
Promote your
Business
Get featured and grow your business.
Add your
Event
Share your event with the community.
via Google MapsThe Creature Conservancy
via Google MapsPalace Tang 唐宫
via Google MapsDimo's Deli & Donuts
The Ark
Intimate non-profit venue presents acoustic folks & roots music, wine & beer sales to members-only.
The Earle Restaurant
Cozy underground spot for classic French-Italian fare, an extensive wine list & regular live jazz.
The Grotto - Watering Hole
Industrial-chic bar featuring craft beer, wine & cocktails.
via Google MapsBusch's Fresh Food Market
Supermarket chain with departments for meat, seafood, produce, deli, bakery & flowers, plus basics.
via Google MapsTexas de Brazil - Ann Arbor
Upscale Brazilian eatery featuring all-you-can-eat grilled meat carved tableside & a salad bar.
via Google MapsEvergreen Restaurant
Spacious Chinese standby lures locals with its regional dishes, lunch deals & laid-back atmosphere.
via Google MapsDomino’s Farms Petting Farm
via Google MapsFirst Watch
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
via Google MapsLillie Park South
Park with a lake, 2 ponds, a boardwalk & sports fields plus asphalt, wood-chip & limestone trails.
via Google MapsTotal Wine & More
Family-owned chain retailer offering a wide selection of wine, beer & spirits.
The Last Word
Cozy, stylish bar serving up classic cocktails & many whiskeys, plus local craft beers & wine.
Kroger
Large supermarket chain with deli & bakery departments, plus health & beauty products.
via Google MapsBusch's Fresh Food Market
Supermarket chain with departments for meat, seafood, produce, deli, bakery & flowers, plus basics.
The Blind Pig
Longtime watering hole & live music venue featuring diverse bands in a snug, unpretentious setting.
via Google MapsCasey's Tavern
Relaxed pub with a laid-back vibe for French dip sandwiches, burgers & beers in a historic building.
via Google MapsMediterrano
Variety of Mediterranean dishes in an old-world setting with deep-yellow walls & an outdoor patio.
Afternoon Delight
Cozy, bustling eatery known for its eggs Benedict also boasts an extensive salad bar.