The peonies are blooming in Ann Arbor!

Visit Nichols Arboretum this spring and experience the sights and smells of 800 colorful peonies and over 10,000 additional blooms. 

To make the most of your time in Ann Arbor, we've built three unique itineraries inspired by the garden with ideas on what to do before and after visiting. Choose your route and plan your trip! 

Choose your Peony Itinerary  

Click any of these pre-planned routes to jump to the section, or create your own with our interactive map below.

  1. Food, Drinks & Treats

  2. Relaxing Day

  3. Arts and Culture
     

Garden of blooming peonies.  People walk by and take pictures admiring the flowers.
 
Heads up! 

Review these important reminders.

  • When to visit: Late May - early June, weather permitting
  • Location: U-M Nichols Arboretum, W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden 
    1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI  
  • Price: Visiting is FREE! All ages are welcome

 

Food, Drinks & Treats

Get a taste of Ann Arbor’s impressive food scene and sweet treats. Fill your day with spring-inspired menus and visit spaces with floral decor that match the vibe.

Bon Bon Bon interior

Morning

  • The Hen Brunch favorites and floral décor. It's a perfect way to start your day.  

  • Argus Farm Stop This part farmers market, part grocery store carries fresh flowers and local food.

Afternoon

  • Peony Garden! 🌸 Head to The Arb early afternoon. The flowers are so vibrant in the sunshine. 

  • Bon Bon Bon Pick out quality chocolate located in a colorful pink and teal shop.

  • TeaHaus Try a sample of fine loose tea. Expert staff will help find your next favorite flavor. 

Evening


 

Relaxing Day

Take your time, enjoy the outdoor breeze, and plan a laid-back day around Ann Arbor.

Couple sits on wooden bench close to each other, looking to the left and smiling. They are at an outdoor garden with vibrant green grass and white and pink flowers in the background.

Morning

  • Farmers Market This outdoor market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday. Save the date for flower day, May 25!

  • Kerrytown Stroll Browse the charming shops and explore more of the historic neighborhood.

Afternoon

  • Little Kim Order to-go and enjoy a patio lunch in the Kerrytown courtyard.

  • Peony Garden! 🌸 Spend time roaming the garden, smelling flowers, and following nearby trails. 

  • Refresh at the hotel: Head back to your hotel to get ready for a chill night out. 

Evening

  • Explore downtown: Make your way to Main Street for happy hour specials and shopping along tree-lined streets. 

  • Vinology End the evening at a wine-forward restaurant paired perfectly with dinner in a quiet setting.



Arts and Culture

From public art to live performances, discover what makes Ann Arbor so colorful and full of charm.

section of a colorful mural that spells the word "create" and underneath transforms to the word "anything". Behind the words are a colorful explosion of waves that transform into activites like a trumpet, flowers, math problems. Items that represent Ann Arbor

Morning

  • Peony Garden!🌸 Go early and beat the rush. Make your way to the coffee truck serving visitors most weekends. 

  • aMa Bistro Enjoy a late breakfast with a homestyle menu and authentic Albanian food.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Peridot You'll love the Vietnamese-inspired menu with an ideal evening ambience. Reservations recommended!

  • The Ark End your evening with a live concert at Ann Arbor's iconic acoustic venue.  



Interactive Map

Want to build your own Ann Arbor spring itinerary? Here are a few attractions, restaurants, and fun places to start.


 

Visit the Peony Garden

You've planned your itinerary, now explore the gardens and all you need to know before you go.

Peonies

Visiting the Peony Garden at Nichols Arboretum – otherwise known as The Arb by us locals - is truly a treat. From the end of May to the…

Rachel Kawate

 

Where to Stay

Stay the weekend in Ann Arbor. Browse hotels and bed & breakfasts nearby.

Special Offers

For an all-inclusive experience, be sure to check out the Specials offered by Ann Arbor area hotels. From transportation, dining, champagne, tickets to attractions, and more - Ann Arbor area…

Hotels

No matter your style or budget, Ann Arbor has accommodations that make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Sheraton Ann Arbor

Bed & Breakfasts

The B&Bs in Ann Arbor are a great option, with most located just 5-10 minutes from U-M campus and Downtown. Whether you’re in town for a football game or a weekend getaway, Ann Arbor…

 

Explore More of Ann Arbor

Find inspiration for your upcoming trip through these insider guides.