Ann Arbor is a family friendly, affordable destination filled with educational museums, exciting events, and plenty of restaurants. Check out these ideas for a low-cost, fulfilling family trip to Ann Arbor!
What to Eat
Classic: Visit Ann Arbor's iconic Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger, offering affordable meal options. Krazy Jim's was featured on Food Network’s Diners Drive-Ins and Dives and the Travel Channel. Try for yourself and find out why!
Variety: If your family likes options, head to Amer’s Deli for breakfast or lunch for soups, chicken tenders, and deli sandwiches including Mediterranean and vegetarian specialties. Find something for everyone at this quality deli.
Museums Families Love
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum: Discover the scientist within through experiments and education! Wander through the STEAM Park and learn how mechanisms work through interactive exhibits.
U-M Museum of Natural History Curiosity soars at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. Discover prehistoric dinosaur exhibits, visit the planetarium, watch science demos, and learn about amazing life-size fossils.
Ypsilanti Museums: Nearby in Ypsilanti, the Michigan Firehouse Museum shares an impressive collection antique fire trucks and the largest collections of fire truck bells in the country, plus a brand new dalmatian exhibit! Within walking distance is the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum, full of antique cars manufactured in Ypsi.
Browse Galleries & Museums here.
Things To Do
Pinball Pete’s: This classic arcade is fun for all ages, filled with retro and modern games. Play pinball, ski-ball, racing games, claw machines, pool, and air hockey. Turn your tickets into big prizes!
Animal love: Enjoy an up-close experience with alpaca, chickens, and horses at Domino's Petting Farm. Hear special demonstration and interact with birds, snakes, and more furry and feathery friends at the Creature Conservancy.
Browse Ann Arbor things to do here.
Sweets & Treats
Love ice cream? Ann Arbor has plenty of options! Try a flight of flavors at Blank Slate Creamery, or order Michigan-made ice cream at Michigan Creamery. Find more sweet treats and surprise your little ones with a tasty cupcake at Bakehouse 46.
Where to Stay
Downtown Ann Arbor: The Residence Inn Ann Arbor Downtown was rated #1 Best Value of Family Hotels in Ann Arbor by TripAdvisor, and is just a five minute walk from the nearby Hands-On Museum and the Kerrytown Market and Shops.
Highway Access US-23: The DoubleTree by Hilton allows quick access to US-23 and sits close to the Matthai Botanical Gardens, where families can explore the Gaffield Children’s Garden designed from a kids’-eye view. This hotel is also minutes away from the University of Michigan Museums.
Highway Access I-94: Hotels including the EVEN Hotel and the Kensington Hotel provide highway access convenient for road-trippers and Midwest explorers. Just a short drive to Main Street, these hotels are less than a mile away from I-94, the Briarwood Mall, and a variety of dining options.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities all around Ann Arbor. Searching for more fun? Click here for 20 Free Things To Do Around A2!
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