Ann Arbor locals Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig opened up Zingerman’s Delicatessen in 1982. Located near the historic Ann Arbor Farmers Market, this deli serves up thousands of hot and cold deli sandwiches to hungry Michiganders.
Stop by for a sandwich or come for their impressive array of deli staples. Shop farmhouse cheeses, artisan oils, vinegar, smoked fish, and more.
Check out their other local spots, like Zingerman’s Bakehouse & Zingerman’s Creamery.
If you’re craving a perfectly-cooked steak, look no further than Knight’s Steakhouse. Since 1952, they’ve satisfied Ann Arbor’s cravings, whether that’s for steak cooked to perfection or charcuterie, scallops, salads, and more. Knight’s extensive menu ensures that everyone will find something to love at Knight’s, even those less steak-inclined.
Dig into Knight’s at three locations in and around Ann Arbor so you can get your steak fix after every adventure.
Say thanks to the staff and add a “Treat for the Kitchen Crew” to your bill – they’ll make sure it goes to their non-tipped employees in the back!
Frita Batidos is like the Chipotle of Cuban street food. Whether you dig into a Cuban burger or bowl, everything is made to order. Pile it high with your protein of choice (we love the chorizo!) then mix it up with toppings like a sunny-side up egg, tropical slaw, or cilantro-lime salsa. If you’re extra hungry, ask to “Make it Loco” and you’ll be handed a burger packed with everything but bacon and jalapenos.
But don’t skip the sides! Pair your burger or bowl with plantains prepared two ways, layered rices, and bright salads, all of which feels fresh from Cuba.
Opt for lighter fare with the “Make it Lighter” option, where romaine takes the place of the brioche bun.
Immerse yourself in one of the largest university art museums in the United States. This sprawling 94,000 square foot museum is home to over 20,000 works of art. Though the building was once a war memorial, it now also pays homage to countless cultures and periods of time thanks to the artworks within.
See movements, counties, and eras from a new point of view through the different media in museums. Peruse paintings, photography, sculptures, and more, all carefully curated to reflect changing times around the world.
They’re closed to the public right now, but make sure to check out all of the fun virtual events and exhibits they’re currently offering.
Locals and students alike shorten Nichols Arboretum to “The Arb,” but the experiences within are anything but brief. The arboretum first took shape in 1909, when O.C. Simonds selected native and exotic shrubs and trees to create what the arboretum calls a “naturalistic landscape.”
Visitors of today get to reap the benefits of Simond’s effort as they meander the gardens, ponds, and blooms within the arboretum. Stop and smell the roses, walk beneath the trees, and even catch a performance of “Shakespeare in the Arb.”
The peony garden at “The Arb” is an absolute must-see.
Literati Bookstore opened in 2013 in quaint downtown Ann Arbor. With shelves packed with books and a calendar full of events, Literati keeps a book in everyone’s bags and friendship in everyone’s lives. This is as much a bookstore as it is a gathering place for book lovers, bringing community to our quaint college town.
Shop books in all genres or simply swing by to socialize. While you’re there, pick up stationary, pens, and even Literati gear so you can rep the bookstore even when you’re not in Ann Arbor.
Want to support Literati even after you go home? Sign up for their Subscription Program and get books sent straight to your door all year round!
Every home could use a bit of vintage flare. Find goods both old and new at Thistle & Bess, an Ann Arbor favorite for thoughtful goods. A self-described treasure trove for the “stylish hostess seeking a luxurious lifestyle,” Thistle & Bess stocks everything from high-quality vintage to old-world antiques.
Shop everything from barware to necklaces, candles to cups, all sourced from around the world. They also host workshops and events if you’re in the mood to learn more about art and antiques.
Shop locally handcrafted goods from makers like Unwilted Flowers, incredibly realistic paper flowers that are perfect for a gift.
Step back in time at Kerrytown Market & Shops, one of the most unique shopping destinations in Ann Arbor. The shopper experience here is second-to-none, born of a community of shopkeepers doing what they love.
Learn about art and the artists who make it as you shop their creations, whether that’s jewelry, toys, or even sausage and smoked fish. Kerrytown also hosts various special events so you can experience the market in a whole new way.
Check out sales, specials and events at First Fridays Kerrytown from 5-8 pm.
All the best Ann Arbor adventures start just across the street from the University of Michigan. Soak up the cozy club vibe and flashes of Maize and Blue before taking on the attractions that make Ann Arbor unique. Whether you’re reliving your glory days or simply taking making your way through Michigan, you’ll find yourself at home at Graduate Ann Arbor.
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