The Most Charming College Town In Michigan Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More
By Jack Springgate|Published September 08, 2023
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Jack Springgate
Author
I'm proud to be from the great state of Michigan. I've lived in the Mitten several different times throughout my life spending time in all corners of it. My journeys took me up and down the Lake Michigan coast, out east to explore Detroit and Ann Arbor, and to the dense forests of the UP.
Before writing with Only In Your State, I worked as a local TV news reporter and anchor, most recently in South Bend. Many of the stories I covered took place in Southwest Michigan. My roots are even deeper in the Wolverine State as I often head to Kalamazoo to visit family.
When I'm not out exploring nature, I'm avidly watching sports. I specifically have a deep love for the Michigan Wolverines (my alma mater), and I get to write about them and several other Big Ten teams as and editor for Athlon Sports. I also love to enjoy the great outdoors with my wife and our dog, Piper.
I'm excited to share all my favorite Michigan destinations with you. Keep exploring.
Come to Ann Arbor to visit one of the most unique college towns in the country. From the stunning University of Michigan campus, to the top-notch restaurants, to the art and culture, Ann Arbor is more than just a place for higher education. This is where I call home, so let me show you why this is where I’ve always wanted to live.
The University of Michigan campus is something that gets more and more impressive as you walk through it. The iconic Law Quad is a popular backdrop for engagement, graduation, and family photos. The diag is another popular spot in the middle of campus that sits just east of downtown. It even reaches north of the Huron River where more students live and study.
The home of the Michigan Wolverines is also the third-largest stadium in the world. If you’re lucky enough to watch a football game there, you’ll be surrounded by more than 107,000 passionate fans wearing maize and blue.
Michigan’s main campus boasts several renowned libraries and museums including the popular University of Michigan Natural History Museum. There’s also an incredible hands-on science museum in downtown Ann Arbor. History buffs will want to visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library located on the university’s north campus.
Beautiful street art and professional displays can be seen across this college town. While the university has a lot of influence with some of these installations, some are cultivated by Ann Arbor's own residents. There are also a number of art museums within walking distance of downtown and campus.
This college town is one of the top destinations for foodies. From high-class dining on Mainstreet at Mani Osteria or The Earle, to affordable and unforgettable places like Frita Battitas or Washtenaw Dairy, Ann Arbor has countless ways to satisfy your hunger. Zingerman’s Deli might ring a bell as one of the best delis in the Midwest. I’m still exploring all the great places to eat here.
Student and residential life spill into one another here, making for some very distinct neighborhoods. The homes in the Kerrytown neighborhood are impossible to miss with their vibrant colors. It’s also where you’ll find the Ann Arbor farmer’s market.
There are a number of venues to listen to local and regional bands here. The famous Bob Seger song “Mainstreet” is written about the songwriter's hometown. That’s one of the area’s live music still rings through the streets until the early morning.
I’m still exploring much of this beautiful town. It’s truly a place that shines in all seasons with plenty to do for all interests. Next time you’re thinking about taking a college town road trip, make sure this one makes the list. (And check out our road trip essentials packing list!)
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