Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor’s rich cultural scene thrives on its university roots and an abundance of events, galleries, and locally owned businesses. Live music, art fairs, and film screenings fill the calendar, while green spaces like the Huron River trails offer outdoor reprieve. The city is known for its progressive mindset, welcoming community, and strong coffeehouse culture. Visitors find an experience that feels both globally aware and uniquely Ann Arbor.
Top areas to stay at in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Downtown Ann Arbor
Downtown Ann Arbor is vibrant, walkable, and full of restaurants, bookshops, and music venues. Vacation rentals in Downtown Ann Arbor include stylish lofts, modern condos, and townhomes just steps from Main Street. Staying downtown puts you at the heart of Ann Arbor’s lively cultural scene.
Kerrytown
Located just north of downtown, Kerrytown is a historic neighborhood known for its farmers market, boutique shopping, and brick-lined streets. Airbnbs here offer charming townhouses and apartments in restored buildings with a local, artsy vibe. The area is home to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market and Zingerman’s Deli, a foodie institution. Kerrytown is perfect for travelers who love walkability and artisanal flair.
Old West Side
A picturesque residential neighborhood, the Old West Side features 19th-century homes, shaded sidewalks, and a quiet, residential atmosphere. Visitors can stay in beautifully maintained homes, often with porches, fireplaces, and garden patios. The Old West Side is ideal for families or travelers seeking a peaceful base with charm.
Burns Park
Situated near the University of Michigan’s central campus, Burns Park is a green and family-friendly neighborhood known for its park, tennis courts, and historic homes. Vacation rentals include spacious houses, cozy bungalows, and apartments near leafy streets and local cafés. The neighborhood is well-connected to the campus and downtown by bike lanes and walking paths. Burns Park offers a balance of serenity and accessibility.
Lower Town
North of the Huron River, Lower Town is a growing neighborhood with a mix of historic and new developments. Airbnbs in this area often have river views, modern interiors, and proximity to parks and bike trails. Lower Town suits visitors looking for quiet comfort near the city’s top sites.
Must-visit places and attractions in Ann Arbor, Michigan
University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA)
Located on the university campus, the UMMA offers a rich collection of art from around the world, including Asian, African, and contemporary works. Visitors can enjoy thought-provoking exhibits, student-curated shows, and cultural programming throughout the year. The museum is free to the public and easily accessible from downtown.
Nichols Arboretum
Known affectionately as "the Arb," Nichols Arboretum is a sprawling natural area featuring wooded trails, wildflower meadows, and the scenic Huron River. Springtime peony blooms and fall foliage draws locals and visitors alike. The Arboretum offers nature’s tranquility right in the heart of the city.
Ann Arbor Farmers Market
Operating year-round in Kerrytown, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market is a community staple for fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and flowers. Open multiple days a week, it features local farmers and artisans who bring a vibrant, seasonal rhythm to the city. Visitors can sample regional specialties, pick up picnic supplies, or enjoy live music during special events.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens
A short drive from downtown, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens offer indoor conservatories, themed gardens, and nature trails. Guests can explore bonsai displays, herb gardens, and wetland ecosystems on peaceful walking paths. The facility also hosts educational programs and eco-friendly exhibits.
Michigan Stadium (The Big House)
As the largest stadium in the United States, Michigan Stadium is an iconic landmark and home to the University of Michigan Wolverines football team. Visitors can attend a game in the fall or take a guided tour to learn about its history and impressive scale. Game days transform the city into a sea of maize and blue. Experiencing The Big House is a bucket-list item for sports fans.
The Ark
One of the most respected listening rooms in the country, The Ark is a nonprofit venue hosting over 300 performances a year. The intimate setting is ideal for acoustic sets, folk acts, and singer-songwriters from around the world. Catching a show at The Ark is a quintessential Ann Arbor evening.
Gallup Park
Located along the Huron River, Gallup Park is popular for kayaking, biking, and family-friendly recreation. It features boat rentals, scenic bridges, picnic areas, and well-maintained trails. The park is a top spot for weekend relaxation and outdoor activity. Gallup Park is a natural gem in Ann Arbor’s green network.
Main Street District
The Main Street District is the beating heart of Ann Arbor’s food and shopping scene. Visitors can dine at acclaimed restaurants, browse independent bookstores, and enjoy rotating art installations. Main Street combines the city’s creative and culinary energy in one walkable stretch.
Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Ann Arbor, Michigan
Detroit, Michigan
About 45 minutes east, Detroit offers a mix of historic resurgence and cultural landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts and Motown Museum. Visitors can catch a Tigers game, explore Belle Isle, or enjoy Detroit-style pizza. Detroit adds big-city culture and energy to a trip to Ann Arbor. Stay in a vacation rental in Detroit with skyline views or tucked near the museums in Midtown.
Lansing, Michigan
Just over an hour northwest, Lansing is Michigan’s capital city with government buildings, riverfront trails, and a revitalized downtown. Visitors can tour the State Capitol, visit the Impression 5 Science Center, or stroll the Lansing River Trail. Lansing offers a political and educational complement to Ann Arbor’s academic vibe. Spend the night in an apartment in Lansing near the Capitol or just across the river from East Lansing’s college life.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Around two hours west, Grand Rapids is known for its craft beer scene, art museums, and family attractions. The city hosts the ArtPrize competition and features excellent public gardens and theaters. Grand Rapids brings creativity and Midwestern warmth to your itinerary. Rest for a few days in a vacation rental in Grand Rapids near breweries, sculpture parks, and riverside cafés.
Traverse City, Michigan
Approximately four hours north, Traverse City is a scenic Lake Michigan destination known for its wineries, dunes, and waterfront charm. Visitors enjoy cherry orchards, boat tours, and hikes along Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Traverse City adds a relaxing, nature-rich extension to a Michigan road trip. Spend a long weekend in a house in Traverse City overlooking the bay or nestled beside a vineyard.
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Just 20 minutes east of Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti (or “Ypsi”) offers historic neighborhoods, street art, and a fun, offbeat vibe. Guests can enjoy live music, local brews, and community events throughout the year. Ypsilanti is a quirky and creative counterpoint to Ann Arbor’s academic energy. Book an airbnb in Ypsilanti near Depot Town or among the colorful houses in the historic district.
Explore urban and cultural gems across the United States
In addition to enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and contemporary charm of Ann Arbor, seek out new urban adventures in neighboring cities. Experience the dynamic and innovative spirit of airbnb in Beaverton, where you can explore the impressive Nike headquarters and diverse food scene. Venture to vacation rentals in Paducah and discover its rich art scene, including the National Quilt Museum. Or stay closer with vacation rentals in Kalamazoo, famed for its fascinating Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum, ensuring your urban exploration extends beyond just one city.
The cultural heritage of the United States provides a tapestry of history and tradition, inviting you to delve deeper into its material and spiritual richness. Norfolk stay rentals invite you to explore the historic battleship, USS Wisconsin, and the Chrysler Museum of Art. In airbnb in Maryland, historical landmarks like Fort McHenry and the American Visionary Art Museum await your discovery. Meanwhile, Des Moines rental properties offer proximity to the Des Moines Art Center and the fascinating living history of the Iowa State Capitol, positioning you in the heart of a cultural journey full of discovery and engagement.