10 Free Things To Do In Ann Arbor For A Fun-Filled Day Trip

Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a vibrant and eclectic college town that offers a wide variety of activities and cultural experiences that won't break the bank. From street art to scenic nature trails, Ann Arbor has something to offer everyone. So, if you're looking for a fun-filled day trip without spending a dime, we've got you covered. Here are our top picks for 10 free things to do in Ann Arbor that will make your day trip an unforgettable experience.

Visit Nichols Arboretum

If you're looking for something to do in Ann Arbor that won't cost you a dime, look no further than the Nichols Arboretum. Not only is it one of the city's most beautiful outdoor spaces, but it's completely free to visit. Here's everything you need to know about exploring this local gem.

Located on the University of Michigan's campus, the Nichols Arboretum (also known as "The Arb") spans 123 acres and features a diverse collection of trees and plants from all over the world. There are several different trails that wind through the park, so you can choose your own adventure depending on how much time you have and what you want to see.

One of the must-see spots within the arboretum is the Peony Garden. This section is only in full bloom for a short window each year (usually in late May to early June), but when it is, it's absolutely breathtaking. With over 800 different varieties of peonies on display, it's no wonder that this garden is so popular with both locals and tourists.

Another highlight of the arboretum is the Huron River, which runs along the eastern edge of the park. There are several spots where you can access the river and take in the serene beauty of its rushing waters. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even rent a kayak or canoe from one of the local rental shops and paddle your way down the river.

In addition to the natural beauty of the arboretum, there are also several man-made structures worth checking out. The most famous of these is the Arboretum's historic peony cottage, which dates back to the early 1900s. The cottage is open to visitors during special events and tours, so keep an eye out for any upcoming opportunities to explore this piece of local history.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Nichols Arboretum is a must-visit destination in Ann Arbor. And the fact that it won't cost you a penny to explore this beautiful park is just icing on the cake. So pack a picnic, grab your camera, and head out to The Arb for a day of free fun in the great outdoors.

Check out the street art in Kerrytown

Ann Arbor is a vibrant city known for its artistic culture. If you're looking for a fun and free activity to do, head over to the Kerrytown neighborhood and check out the amazing street art.

Kerrytown is located just north of downtown Ann Arbor, near the University of Michigan campus. This neighborhood is full of unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as some of Ann Arbor's most impressive street art.

One of the highlights of the Kerrytown street art scene is the alley behind the Ann Arbor Farmers' Market. This colorful space is filled with stunning murals and graffiti-style art, created by local and visiting artists.

The alley is constantly evolving, so there's always something new to see. Some notable pieces include a giant cat wearing a top hat, a vibrant rainbow mural, and a whimsical landscape featuring flying saucers and friendly monsters.

As you explore the alley, make sure to take your time and appreciate the small details in each piece of art. You never know what hidden surprises you might find.

In addition to the alley, Kerrytown is home to several other great street art spots. The exterior walls of the popular Zingerman's Deli are covered in colorful murals, and nearby buildings boast beautiful graffiti-style pieces.

Overall, Kerrytown is a must-visit destination for any art lover or anyone looking for a fun and free activity in Ann Arbor. The neighborhood's vibrant street art scene is a testament to the city's creativity and collective spirit. So grab your camera and take a stroll through Kerrytown – you won't be disappointed!

Walk through the University of Michigan campus

If you're looking for a fun and free activity to do in Ann Arbor, walking through the University of Michigan campus is a great option. The campus is not only beautiful and historic, but it's also home to many interesting landmarks and buildings.

To start your walk, head to the heart of campus at the Diag. This is a central area of campus that is surrounded by academic buildings, including the famous Angell Hall which houses many of the university’s social sciences departments. The Diag is also home to the Michigan Union, which is a great place to stop for a snack or to check out the campus bookstore.

From the Diag, you can head to several other noteworthy spots on campus. The Law Quadrangle is a gorgeous set of buildings that houses the law school and overlooks the Huron River. The Michigan Theater is a historic movie theater that often shows classic films and documentaries, and the famous Bell Tower is a must-see for any Michigan fan.

If you're interested in art, be sure to check out the University of Michigan Museum of Art. Admission to the museum is free and it houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.

Another interesting spot on campus is the Nichols Arboretum, which is a great place to take a walk and enjoy nature. The arboretum has several miles of trails that wind through various gardens and wooded areas.

Overall, walking through the University of Michigan campus is a great way to spend time in Ann Arbor without spending any money. Whether you're a Michigan alum, a football fan, or just interested in learning more about the university, there are plenty of things to see and do on campus.

Explore the Ann Arbor Farmers Market

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ann Arbor Farmers Market
Type	Farmers' market
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 192
Address	315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone	(734) 794-6255
Hours	Sunday - Closed Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - opens at 7 AM and closes at 3 PM Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed Saturday - opens at 7 AM and closes at 3 PM
Profiles

Are you looking for a fun and free activity to do in Ann Arbor? Look no further than the Ann Arbor Farmers Market! This market is a staple in the community and is a perfect destination for anyone who wants to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying a day out in the sunshine.

Located at 315 Detroit St, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market is open year-round. It offers fresh produce, flowers, and a wide range of handmade goods. You'll find everything from Michigan-grown fruits, vegetables, and nuts to hand-crafted pottery, soaps, and candles.

In the summer and fall months, the market is bustling with shoppers and vendors. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with musicians playing, children running around, and delectable smells wafting from the food trucks. You can grab a coffee and sit down at a picnic table to enjoy the ambiance while you shop for your groceries.

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is also a great place to learn about sustainable farming practices. Many of the vendors are happy to chat about their crops and how they are grown. You can learn about how to cook with more unusual vegetables, or even how to start your own garden at home.

If you're looking for fresh produce at a great price, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market is the perfect destination. You'll often find better prices than you would at a grocery store, and the produce is always fresh and local. The market is also a great place to pick up unique items such as heirloom tomatoes or specialty cheeses that you might not find elsewhere.

Overall, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for anyone living in or visiting the area. With its lively atmosphere and unique offerings, it's not hard to see why it's so beloved by the community. So whether you're looking for a fun day out with friends or simply need to do some grocery shopping, make sure to check out the Ann Arbor Farmers Market.

Wander the Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum
Type	Botanical garden in Ann Arbor Charter Township, Michigan
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 2,583
Address	1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone	(734) 647-7600
Hours	Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4:30 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Profiles

Ann Arbor, located in Michigan, is known for its scenic beauty and cultural landmarks. For those looking for a free activity in the area, a visit to the Matthaei Botanical Gardens is a must. The botanical gardens offer visitors a beautiful and peaceful space to explore.

The Matthaei Botanical Gardens were founded in 1964 and named after the university's first botany professor, Frederick C. Matthaei. The gardens span over 300 acres, with over 10 miles of hiking trails to explore. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plant species, including native Michigan wildflowers, herbs, and ornamental plants. The location is also home to four main habitats: the Great Lakes Garden, the Richard and Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, the Judith DeLapa Perennial Garden, and the Gateway Garden of New World Plants.

One of the most prominent areas of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens is the Richard and Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. This garden is a stunning representation of traditional Japanese culture and design. Visitors are invited to stroll across the meticulous paths that cut through the garden. Here, you'll find beautiful ponds filled with fish, a waterfall, tea house, and a bridge that offers stunning views.

Another popular area is the Judith DeLapa Perennial Garden. This area of the gardens is known for its diverse collection of perennials, including beautiful wildflowers and flowering shrubs. The garden is continually changing, with new species being added throughout the year.

The Gateway Garden of New World Plants is another area worth visiting. This part of the gardens highlights plants that are native to North America. Visitors can find information about each plant and its role in the ecosystem.

The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are open year-round, and admission is free of charge. Visitors looking for a guided tour of the gardens can sign up for a walk led by a trained docent. The gardens also host various events throughout the year, including educational programs and workshops.

Overall, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens provide a peaceful and scenic getaway for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Ann Arbor. With diverse plant species and a range of habitats, visitors are sure to find something to explore and enjoy.

Take a scenic hike in the Parker Mill Park

Ann Arbor, Michigan is a city known for its beautiful parks and outdoor activities. One of the most popular parks in the area is Parker Mill Park, which offers a stunning hike with plenty of views to take in. Best of all, it's completely free to visit!

Parker Mill Park is a 20.5-acre park located at 4650 Geddes Road in Ann Arbor. The park is situated on the banks of Fleming Creek and offers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. The highlight of the park is the Parker Mill Gristmill, which was built in 1873 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The hike in Parker Mill Park is a great way to spend an afternoon in Ann Arbor. The trail is just over a mile long and winds through the woods along the creek. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it a great option for families with children or those who are new to hiking.

Along the way, visitors will enjoy scenic views of the creek as well as a variety of plant and animal life. Keep an eye out for wildflowers, birds, and other small critters that call the park home.

At the end of the trail, visitors will find the Parker Mill Gristmill. The building is open for tours on select days, but even if it's not open, it's still worth seeing. The historic building is a great example of early milling technology and is a must-see for anyone interested in local history.

Overall, a hike in Parker Mill Park is a great way to spend a day in Ann Arbor. With its natural setting, historic gristmill, and scenic views, it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors. And best of all, it's completely free to visit!

Tour the Ann Arbor Art Center galleries

Ann Arbor is a vibrant city located in the state of Michigan known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque views. For anyone looking to explore the best of art and culture in the city, the Ann Arbor Art Center is undoubtedly one of the top attractions. The Center features a range of exhibitions, classes, and events, all geared towards fostering creativity and expression.

One of the best ways to soak in the experience of the Ann Arbor Art Center is by touring the galleries, which boast a stunning selection of contemporary and traditional art pieces. The displays feature works from local, regional, and national artists, covering a diverse range of mediums, styles, and themes. From traditional paintings to contemporary sculpture and digital art, there is something for everyone in the galleries.

One of the most popular galleries is the 117 Gallery, which features juried exhibitions that rotate every six weeks, showcasing some of the best artists in the region. Another noteworthy gallery is the 10+10 Gallery, which showcases the works of ten local artists who are paired with ten national or international artists. The resulting juxtaposition of styles and perspectives makes for an exciting and thought-provoking display.

Apart from the stunning collections, touring the galleries is an excellent opportunity to connect with other art enthusiasts and learn about the creative process behind the pieces. The Art Center also offers free tours of the gallery, which provide an in-depth look at the exhibitions and the artists behind them.

In addition to the galleries, the Art Center has a range of other free events throughout the year for visitors to enjoy. These include talks, workshops, and meet-the-artist events, all aimed at creating a welcoming and inclusive space for art lovers of all backgrounds.

Visiting the Ann Arbor Art Center is a must-do activity for anyone looking to experience the rich and vibrant art scene in the city. With free tours, exhibitions, and events, there is no better way to explore the very best of what the Center has to offer. So, the next time you find yourself in Ann Arbor, make sure to head to the Art Center and immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art.

Stroll through the historic Old West Side neighborhood

Ann Arbor is a city located in the state of Michigan that is known for its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and historic neighborhoods. One of the best free things to do in Ann Arbor is to take a stroll through the historic Old West Side neighborhood. This neighborhood is filled with beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and a charming small-town atmosphere that is sure to delight visitors and locals alike.

The Old West Side neighborhood is located just west of downtown Ann Arbor and is known for its beautiful homes that date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of the homes in this neighborhood were built by early settlers of Ann Arbor, and they have been meticulously preserved over the years to maintain their historic charm.

One of the best ways to experience the Old West Side neighborhood is to take a self-guided walking tour. There are several resources available online that provide maps and information about the neighborhood's historic homes and landmarks. As you stroll through the neighborhood, be sure to take in the beautiful architecture and unique details of each home.

In addition to beautiful homes, the Old West Side neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces. Wurster Park and West Park are both located within the neighborhood and provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. West Park also features a bandshell that hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer months.

Another great free activity in the Old West Side neighborhood is to attend an art fair. Every summer, the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair takes place in the nearby downtown area. This four-day event features hundreds of artists from around the country and draws thousands of visitors each year.

Overall, a stroll through the historic Old West Side neighborhood is a must-see for anyone visiting Ann Arbor. With its beautiful homes, charming atmosphere, and free outdoor activities, this neighborhood is a true gem of the city. So be sure to add it to your itinerary the next time you're in town!

Watch a movie at Top of the Park Outdoor Film Festival

If you are looking for something fun and free to do in Ann Arbor, Michigan this summer, then you may want to check out the Top of the Park Outdoor Film Festival. This annual event is held in downtown Ann Arbor and features a variety of movies that are screened under the stars. For movie lovers, it is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with family and friends while enjoying some great films.

The festival is held in June, July, and August and features a lineup of movies that cater to a variety of tastes. Some of the popular films that are shown at the festival include classics like "The Princess Bride" and "Jurassic Park," as well as newer releases like "Black Panther" and "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse." There is usually a good mix of genres, so whether you are a fan of action, comedy, drama, or romance, you are sure to find something that piques your interest.

One of the biggest draws of the Top of the Park Outdoor Film Festival is its stunning location. The festival is held on the rooftop of the Ann Arbor District Library's downtown branch, which provides a beautiful view of the city skyline. Moviegoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on, and food and drinks are available for purchase from local vendors. There is also a playground nearby for kids to enjoy while waiting for the movie to start.

Overall, the Top of the Park Outdoor Film Festival is a great way to spend a summer evening in Ann Arbor. Whether you are a movie buff or simply looking for a fun and free activity to do with friends or family, this event is definitely worth checking out. So why not pack a picnic and head to downtown Ann Arbor for a movie under the stars?

Attend a free concert or event at Liberty Plaza or Burns Park

Ann Arbor, Michigan is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, beautiful parks, and world-renowned university. Despite its many attractions, experiencing everything the city has to offer doesn't have to break the bank. One way to enjoy some of Ann Arbor's best events and attractions for free is by attending a concert or event at Liberty Plaza or Burns Park.

Liberty Plaza, located in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, is a quaint park with a big personality. The park is known for hosting live music concerts, including the Sonic Lunch music series, which offers free concerts every Thursday from June to August. The concerts feature a diverse lineup of bands and artists, from cutting-edge indie rock to local favorites and internationally recognized performers. Guests can bring their own chairs or blankets, sit back, relax, and enjoy the music under the sun.

In the summer, Liberty Plaza also hosts a regular farmers' market, offering a wide range of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors. The market is open from early May until early December, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to sample the city's local flavors and support its small businesses.

Another great spot to catch a free event in Ann Arbor is Burns Park, a 15-acre park located in the heart of the city's historic district. Burns Park is known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and charming atmosphere. The park also features a large shelter that is frequently used for events, including concerts, movies in the park, and community gatherings. During the summer, the park hosts the Burns Park Concert Series, which showcases live music from a wide range of genres. The concerts are held on Sunday evenings, and guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, and picnic snacks.

Throughout the year, Burns Park is also home to many other free events, including an annual Fourth of July parade and a springtime egg hunt for children. The park is also a popular spot for outdoor recreation, with amenities like playgrounds, basketball courts, a baseball diamond, and tennis courts.

In conclusion, with so many free events and destinations in Ann Arbor, there's no need to break the bank to enjoy everything the city has to offer. By attending a free concert or event at Liberty Plaza or Burns Park, visitors can experience the city's vibrant culture and lively atmosphere in a relaxed and affordable setting. Whether you're a fan of music, food, or outdoor recreation, you'll find something to love in Ann Arbor.

Frequently asked questions