travel with purpose
COLLiDE Travel is an interactive collection of city guides curated by local bands, artists and tastemakers. Spanning the globe, hundreds of creatives have shared their favorite local hangs, from the underground to the upscale, and everything in between. So choose a city and start exploring!
Ann Arbor, MI
“The university brings so many young, creative people together from so many different backgrounds. The clash of cultures and views is really what makes it great to me. Living in Ann Arbor taught me that it was okay to be different, which I think is a big key to my success.” — Mayer Hawthorne
Curated by: Frontier Ruckus, Chris Bathgate, Mayer Hawthorne, Stef Chura, Allene Smith, Grace Luczak, EH Sherman
city guide:
Ann Arbor, MI
Presented by:
landmark
Burton Memorial Tower
Designed by Albert Kahn, the Burton Memorial Tower is located at the campus of the University of Michigan.
230 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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landmark
University of Michigan Law School
The law school of the University of Michigan, founded in 1859.
625 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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coffee
Mighty Good
"I love coffee, and in my opinion Mighty Good does it right. The beans are ethically sourced, roasted locally, and turned into art through a wide selection of brew methods. Their decaf is swiss-water processed, which is a good clean choice if you’re looking for a little less oomph, and they can froth non-dairy milk like no other." - Allene Smith
Mighty Good Coffee, North Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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food
Kosmo Bop Shop
"I get their vegetarian bibimbap with sauteed and fermented veggies, and load it up with their gochujang sauce (aka bibimbap sauce). It’s hot, hearty, fast, and all-around legit food." - Allene Smith
407 N 5th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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landmark
Michigan Theater
Established in 1928. Home to three screening spaces: the 1600-seat Main Auditorium, the 200-seat Screening Room, and the 60-seat Annex Cinema.
603 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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landmark
Nickels Arcade
Nickels Arcade is a covered shopping district in Ann Arbor, built in 1918.
326 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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landmark
Graffiti Alley
An alley on East Liberty Street in Ann Arbor where the walls are covered with graffiti. The wall has served as a canvas for many graffiti artists over the years and is continuously evolving as new artists leave their mark.
E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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outdoors
Huron River
The Huron River is 130-mile-long, the river system flows through the southeast Michigan counties of Oakland, Ingham, Livingston, Washtenaw, Monroe and Wayne.
Huron River, Michigan, USA
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outdoors
Cedar Bend Park
"I haven’t been there for sunrise, but Cedar Bend Park is another city park that’s really hilly, and I imagine looking east in the morning from a high point there could be pretty stunning." - Allene Smith
1495 Cedar Bend Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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outdoors
Lloyd and Mabel Johnson Preserve
"I consider it a bit of a hidden gem. It’s half woodland and half restored prairie. The woodland is high quality considering its being located in a more industrialized part of the city, with a nice buttonbush swamp at its center." - Allene Smith
Platt Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
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outdoors
Sharon Hills Nature Preserve
"There are open fields, a well-established woodland, and natural wetlands - a pretty diverse landscape - and the trails criss cross, so I can mix up my route." - Allene Smith
Sharon Hollow Rd, Manchester, MI 48158, USA
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landmark
Broadway Bridges
"I love to stand on the path and just watch the river move under the bridge for a time. The view of the city and medical campus is just beautiful and the walk toward the Argo area is just below, making it a perfect pit stop for a few photos." - EH Sherman
375 Depot St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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landmark
The Diag
"I love the energy here. I usually bring a blanket and sit in the grass sketching the trees, students or friendly squirrels." - EH Sherman
913 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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outdoors
Border-to-Border Trail
The Border-to-Border Trail is a 10.5-mile long non-motorized pathway open for walking, running and bike riding, and takes you through several parks and across bridges for views along the Huron river.
"I love to run and the Border-to-Border Trail has been wonderful." - EH Sherman
Border-to-Border Trail, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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food
Homes Brewery
"The food is top notch and the atmosphere is just perfect for winding down after a day of adventures. My most treasured spot is right by the fire pits with a glass of their Same Same Different." - EH Sherman
2321 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
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landmark
Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum
The Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum in Ypsilanti, Michigan is a unique automotive museum that is home to cars from the local Willow Run Plant and cars from Hudson Motors.
100 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198, USA
market
White Lotus Farms
Local farm organic produce with 100% organic artisan breads, and farmstead artisan cheeses.
7217 W Liberty Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
landmark
Yankee Air Museum
The Yankee Air Museum is an aviation museum located at Willow Run Airport in Van Buren Township, Michigan. The museum has a small fleet of flying aircraft and a collection of static display aircraft outdoors.
47884 D St, Belleville, MI 48111, USA
bar
Ypsi Alehouse
A farm-to-table kitchen and brewery featuring 16 taps and a variety of beers.
124 Pearl St #100, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
food
TeaHaus
TeaHaus offers the highest quality teas available with over 175 teas in the collection as well as tasty macaroons.
204 N 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
landmark
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History offers an array of educational programs and exhibits for both campus and community.
Alexander G. Ruthven Museums Bldg, 1109 Geddes Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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landmark
University of Michigan Museum of Art
The University of Michigan Museum of Art, or UMMA is one of the largest university art museums in the USA with 94,000 sq ft.
525 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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shopping
Shinola Ann Arbor Store
Upscale retailer of watches & bicycles, plus a line of leather goods & curated gift items.
301 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Slurping Turtle
Industrial-chic Japanese choice with long communal tables for tapas, noodles & sushi, plus sake.
608 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Taste Kitchen
Refined, intimate restaurant & bar offering sophisticated American dishes with an Asian twist.
521 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
bar
Salt Springs Brewery
Salt Springs Brewery offers lovingly crafted & locally sourced food, true-to-style ales, wine & cider.
117 S Ann Arbor St, Saline, MI 48176, USA
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food
Sava’s
Contemporary bi-level eatery serves eclectic, locally sourced fare & a large Sunday brunch buffet.
216 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
shopping
Schmidt’s Antiques Inc
Auction house in Pittsfield Charter Township, Michigan.
5138 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
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bar
The Necto
Dance club with smart causal dress code, patio area & live DJs offers frequent theme nights.
516 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
bar
The Pretzel Bell
A modern American tavern where you can carve your name in the tables.
226 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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food
Red Rock Downtown Barbecue
Dark wood & exposed brick set a chill vibe at this BBQ eatery serving craft beer & Southern sides.
207 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
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food
Melange
Asian & European fare in a modern space with romantic booths & a large, glass-walled wine cellar.
312 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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food
Mikette Bistro and Bar
Hip eatery serving food from Southern France.
1759 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
landmark
Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
Located on the University of Michigan central campus, the museum includes more than 100,000 artifacts.
434 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
bar
Mani Osteria and Bar
This Italian eatery serves wood-oven pizza & small plates with old-world wines & local beer in an open setup.
341 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Mash
Speakeasy-style bar serving in whiskey, bourbon & craft beer, as well as casual American bites.
211 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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shopping
Materials Unlimited
Antique store in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
2 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
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bar
Grizzly Peak Brewing
Century-old space with stone walls sets a warm tone for site-made craft beer & a seasonal menu.
120 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
landmark
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum specializes in interactive exhibits with the goal of helping both children and adults discover the scientist within them.
220 E Ann St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Isalita
Mexican standards served in a rustic space with painted-brick walls & a festive streetside patio.
341 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Grange Kitchen & Bar
Market-fresh, upscale American fare & artisanal cocktails are served in a welcoming, refined space.
118 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Gratzi Ann Arbor
Former movie house now an upscale Northern Italian eatery complete with balcony tables & huge mural.
326 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
landmark
Detroit Observatory
Built in 1854, it was the first scientific research facility at the University of Michigan and the oldest observatory of its type in the nation.
1398 E Ann St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
shopping
Ann Arbor Farmers Market
The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is open-year round.
315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
landmark
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library is a repository located on the north campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
1000 Beal Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
outdoors
Matthaei Botanical Gardens
The botanical gardens include natural areas with trails, and several research-quality habitats. The conservatory is popular year round.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
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bar
Chelsea Alehouse Brewery
Chelsea Alehouse Brewery offers a wide variety of ales, all brewed on site in a 7 barrel brewery while serving up great food from the deli-style kitchen.
420 N Main St Ste 100, Chelsea, MI 48118, USA
shopping
Cherry Republic – Ann Arbor
Cherry Republic features gourmet cherry products and gifts made from both tart and sweet cherries.
223 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
bar
Beer Grotto Ann Arbor
Industrial-chic bar featuring craft beer & wine on tap, plus a retail setup selling bottles to go.
303 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Blue Nile Restaurant
Comfortable, utensil-free Ethiopian restaurant featuring all-you-can-eat platters & honey wine.
221 E. Washington Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Bona Sera Restaurant
Eclectic Italian fare with a Southern twist is served in a brick-walled space covered in local art.
200 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
outdoors
Argo Park
Located on the Huron River, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding is available.
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
shopping
Argus Farm Stop
A market selling locally grown produce, meats and dairy.
325 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
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food
Aventura Restaurant
Tapas, paella, wine & cocktails offered in a stylish, contemporary space with rustic touches.
216 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
food
Amadeus Restaurant
Polish, Hungarian & Austrian fare served in an old-world cafe with live classical music on weekends.
122 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
landmark
Ann Arbor Art Center
Nonprofit arts center hosting rotating exhibits, a range of classes & a supply shop.
117 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
bar
Old Town Tavern
Upbeat watering hole featuring local beer on tap & a menu of hearty sandwiches & Southwestern fare.
122 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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shopping
Encore Records
Michigan's premiere record store, where you can buy and sell the finest used and new records.
417 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
venue
Hill Auditorium
Hill Auditorium is the largest performance venue on the University of Michigan campus. The auditorium was named in honor of Arthur Hill, who served as a regent of the university from 1901 to 1909.
825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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food
Zingerman’s Delicatessen
Locals line up for generous deli sandwiches at this funky, longtime market with specialty groceries.
422 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Zingerman’s Roadhouse
Bustling locale offering hearty American comfort fare, local draft beers & a gourmet food shop.
2501 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
bar
Sidetrack Bar & Grill
Lively railroad-themed bar with deck serves handmade burgers & local beer amid taxidermied trophies.
56 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198, USA
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bar
Eightball Saloon
Nirvana once played this dim 30-year-old watering hole that's still a live music destination.
208 S 1st St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Dominick’s
Cozy spot for traditional Italian eats & pizza with cocktails in Mason jars & a patio with fountain.
812 Monroe St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Agave Tequila Bar
Latin American fare served in an unfussy cantina with a full bar & sidewalk tables.
211 N Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Frita Batidos
Stark white space with picnic table seating serves colorful cuban street food & tropical cocktails.
117 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Ann Arbor Distilling Company
Ann Arbor Distilling Co. is located just a couple of blocks west of Ann Arbor's downtown, in a turn-of-the-century 6000 sq ft former flour mill.
220 Felch St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
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bar
Arbor Brewing Company Brewpub
Light-filled pub in an 1870s space serves American fare & handmade beers brewed with solar energy.
114 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Alley Bar
Boisterous hangout lures locals with its craft cocktails & cold brews served in a hip atmosphere.
112 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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landmark
Pinball Pete’s
Enduring arcade with pinball machines & video games, plus pool tables, skee-ball, air hockey & more.
1214 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
The Last Word
Cozy, stylish bar serving up classic cocktails & many whiskeys, plus local craft beers & wine.
301 W Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
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food
Beezy’s
Chill eatery & coffeehouse serving breakfasts & lunches featuring locally sourced ingredients.
20 N Washington St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
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food
Bomber Restaurant
Mom-&-pop brunch diner adorned with model airplanes famous for an enormous breakfast platter.
306 E Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48198, USA
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food
People’s Food Co-Op & Cafe Verde
The People's Food Co-op is Ann Arbor's first natural-foods grocery store.
216 N 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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food
Frank’s Restaurant
Veteran diner serving signature French toast & pancakes, plus sandwiches & soups in old-school digs.
334 Maynard St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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bar
Unity Vibration
The brewery produces artisan Kombucha Tea and Kombucha Beer products using the healthiest ingredients possible.
93 Ecorse Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48198, USA
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venue
Arbor Vitae Loft
Arbor Vitae Loft above Wazoo Records on the third floor is host to up and coming artists in the Ann Arbor area.
304 1/2 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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venue
The Yellow Barn
The Yellow Barn is Ann Arbor’s most intimate venue for live music and performance. Located centrally in downtown Ann Arbor and yet hidden from the flow of everyday life, the historic Yellow Barn is a warm and rustic 2,500 square-foot venue that is the perfect escape into a world of art, motion, and music.
410 W Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
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venue
Club Above
Club Above offers live music, DJ’s, and interactive entertainment several nights a week.
215 N Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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venue
Rackham Auditorium
Rackham Auditorium has been the site of numerous notable lectures, performances, and academic symposia in the 60-plus years since its opening.
915 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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food
Fleetwood Diner
Retro-style venue dishing American classics including its signature "hippie hash" 24/7.
300 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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food
Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger
Established in 1953, this burger joint with a cafeteria-style setup also makes sandwiches.
304 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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outdoors
Nichols Arboretum
The arboretum is operated by the University of Michigan and located on the eastern edge of campus.
Nichols Arboretum, Angell, MI, USA
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venue
Power Center-Performing Arts
Sophisticated campus center featuring student theater performances in a spacious, modern interior.
121 Fletcher St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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venue
The Blind Pig
Established as a home for blues musicians, the historical venue has famously hosted acts like Joan Baez, Sonic Youth, Pearl Jam and Nirvana.
208 S 1st St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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venue
The Ark
The Ark, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a nationally known acoustic and folk music venue. It has been in existence in various locations since 1965. It currently seats about 400 and features more than 300 live performances each year.
316 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
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venue
Michigan Stadium
Michigan Stadium, nicknamed "The Big House", is the football stadium for the University of Michigan. It is the largest stadium in the United States and the second largest stadium in the world.
Stadium Pl, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
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