Life in Ann Arbor

Built on the banks of the Huron River and located 45 minutes west of downtown Detroit, Ann Arbor is a cultural mecca within the Midwest basin. It is home to the University of Michigan – one of the finest universities and premier health systems in the country - and offers a unique blend of city sophistication and small town charm that appeals to students and professionals, singles and families, newly born and newly retired, alike. It is both ethnically diverse and culturally rich. Just one visit and you will quickly understand why Ann Arbor is consistently voted one of the best places to live in the United States!

Whether you are coming here for medical care, considering attending the U-M Medical School,  thinking about living in the area, or working for the U-M, the resources below provide a closer look at what Ann Arbor has to offer.

Staying Active in Ann Arbor
Entertainment in Ann Arbor

Helpful Guides

First Days Survival Guide
Your Training Ground
Health & Wellness

Find more information about life in Ann Arbor, including things to do, campus life, job hunting, spirituality, and so much more in our Go Blue Guide! 

Looking for personal recommendations from our former graduates? We've got you covered - see below.

Activities

Ann Arbor is a great college town for a reason.

Places to Visit

The Big House Drive by and check out our famous stadium. Formal tour typically a part of our interview days! FYI during football season, we plan a tailgate for every home game. Come one, come all.
The Law Quad Check out the Reading Room and decide for yourself if it looks like Hogwarts. (It does.)
UMMA The Art Museum with lots of great galleries inside.
The Arb Just behind our Mott Children's Hospital, where you can go on a hike and enjoy the outdoors. 
Michigan Theater Classic downtown architecture. This place is an ornate and gorgeous movie theater.
Briarwood Mall It's a 10 minute drive from downtown, but you will definitely find what you need. The big department stores, Sephora, Pottery Barn, Pinkberry in the food court.
State St. + Nickels Arcade Shopping In the heart of campus with trendy boutiques, high end clothing stores, MDen for a maize and blue souvenir, and antique shops.
Pinckney Recreation Area If you're looking to get outside of Ann Arbor for a little country escape, head to this state park for hiking trails or lakeside fun with beach volleyball courts and picnic spots.
Argo Cascades If you bring your bathing suit, head to Argo Canoe Livery one of Ann Arbor's Parks and start a tubing adventure down the cascades. 

Food + Beverages

Ann Arbor has a can’t-miss food scene that spans the spectrum.

Great Lunch Spots:
Zingerman's Deli An Ann Arbor staple that never disappoints.  Go hungry.
Dominicks Outdoor eating/drinking in Ann Arbor.  Famous for their Sangria and Constant Buzz. 
HopCat Great food and hundreds of beers on tap.  Must order: crack fries.  They live up to the name.
No Thai Truly a guilty (and cheap!) pleasure. 
Frita Batidos Chorizo + Fried Egg + Fries on a Bun.
Zola Bistro A go-to brunch spot. Lots of choices. From Turkish eggs to Belgian waffles.
Fred's For the health conscious or food instagramers: picture-worthy acai bowls.

Restaurants:
Mani Osteria Wood fired pizzas. Pickled tomatoes to start.
Jolly Pumpkin PSA:  Go up to their rooftop and enjoy the beautiful Ann Arbor summer weather with a beer and truffle fries! 
Grizzly Peak If you're new to the Midwest you'd be amiss to not try some Fried Cheese Curds. 
Spencer Great food with rotating menu and curated selection of wine with laid back counter service.
Aventura Tasty tapas place, with a fun bar. Paella is delicious too.
Isalita Tacos and chips & guac, tequila drinks. 
Grange Farm-to-table. Homemade ice creams.

Drinking Establishments (if you're into that):
Raven's Club Great post-dinner drinks spot in town, with great craft cocktails and a huge selection of spirits. 
The Last Word A hidden gem of Ann Arbor and amazing speakeasy-style cocktail bar. 
Bill's Beer Garden Outside + Summer + Ann Arbor + Beer.  What else do you need?