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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Pacific Rim By Kana
Romantic backdrop for American- & French-inspired Pan-Asian fare alongside a curated wine list.
The Bros. Landreth: Tumbling Wild Tour 2026
via Google MapsSierra
via Google MapsBenny's Family Dining
Stalwart, unpretentious diner serving up familiar American, Italian & Mexican entrees, plus gyros.
via Google MapsThe Songbird Cafe
Creative American eatery serving espresso drinks, soups, sandwiches & baked goods in a cozy setting.
Laith Al-Saadi’s Birthday Bash
via Google MapsUnion Rec
via Google MapsThe Drip House Coffee
via Google MapsMiss Kim
Trendy spot for traditional Korean fare with a modern, seasonal twist in contemporary surrounds.
via Google MapsWatson's of Ann Arbor
Retailer of living room, home theater, game room & patio furniture, plus above-ground pools.
Launch Family Entertainment - Ann Arbor
via Google MapsWorld Market
Retail chain featuring an eclectic array of imported housewares, furniture, decor & specialty foods.
via Google MapsBurger One of Ann Arbor
via Google MapsThe Hen Ann Arbor
Island Park
Riverside recreation space offering ample picnic areas with BBQ grills, playgrounds & walking paths.
via Google MapsRicewood
Market-based counter offering Asian fusion flavors in bowls & sandwiches with indoor-outdoor seats.
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights
Parker Mill County Park
This park offers forested trails, seasonal tours of its old grist mill & a museum in a cider mill.
via Google MapsCasa Dominick's
Cozy spot for traditional Italian eats & pizza with cocktails in Mason jars & a patio with fountain.
Blue LLama Jazz Club and Restaurant
Stylish lounge restaurant for a la carte & prix fixe menus of Afro Caribbean dishes, plus live jazz performances.