Summer Fun in Ann Arbor

Plan your summer getaway in Ann Arbor area! Plan a trip downtown and spend time with loved ones exploring and dining. From annual events to outdoor activities and nightlife fun, use this guide as your planning inspiration.

@cam_captures_moments Graffiti Mural

Here are fun ideas and things to do this summer in Ann Arbor
 

1. Hotel Pool Party   

The Kensington Hotel

Book your stay at one ofAnn Arbor’s luxury hotels with a soothing indoor pool and morning breakfast to jumpstart your fun-filled day.  

2. Art Fair Extravaganza

ann arbor art fair

Every July, the Ann Arbor Art Fair features nearly 1000 artists across 30 blocks of downtown Ann Arbor. This three-day festival is a perfect way to capture Ann Arbor's artful spirit. Art lovers can also visit eclectic art galleries and the U-M Art Museum (UMMA) year-round.

3. Round of Golf 

Aerial of U-M Golf Course

Washtenaw County is home to limitless recreational activities, including over 20 golf courses. Take advantage of the summer weather by practicing your swing at the beautiful Leslie Park Golf Course, or Rustic Glen Golf Course in Saline. First-timers can try out beginner-friendly courses.  

4. Summer Festivals 

chelsea sounds & sights festival musicians playing

Dance to live music outdoors at the Ann Arbor Summer Festival June 14-30. This summer tradition features world-renowned artists and performances. More exciting annual festivals include the Michigan Summer Bear Festival in Ypsilanti and family fun at Sounds and Sights Festival in Chelsea. 

5. Lunch on the Patio 

Outdoor dining at Black Pearl

Maximize your Ann Arbor restaurant experience with downtown patio dining. Enjoy a refreshing lunch at Sava's or make dinner plans at The Black Pearl. The York Yard is a great spot to chill with friends with fusion cuisine from Bao Boys and Ricewood BBQ.

6. The Great Outdoors

Man on bench in Gallup Park

Rent a kayak from Gallup Park and paddle the Huron River or take a relaxing stroll through scenic area parks. In Ypsilanti, Rolling Hills County Park is a top-visited outdoor destination with its own water park. Milan's Wilson Park is great for family fun, with splashpad and basketball courts. For long distance trails, head to the Border-to-Border Trail, providing 35 miles of accessible pathway. 

7. Rooftop Dinner

Palio rooftop at night

Want to enjoy Ann Arbor’s stunning views while enjoying a delicious meal? Make plans for rooftop dining at Palio, specializing in authentic Tuscan dishes. Browse more Ann Arbor area restaurants to find your flavor.

8. Sweet Treat

two people hold scooped ice cream outside of blank slate creamery

Beat the summer heat and treat yourself at a delicious dessert shop. To start, we recommend visiting Blank Slate Creamery to try their homemade, all-natural flavors, ranging from Blueberry Pancake to Wolverine Tracks.

9. Tickets to the Show

Ann Arbor comedy showcase

Finish a summer night with laughter with stand-up comedy at the Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase. Catch a theatre performance or touring musical at The Encore nearby in Dexter, or the Purple Rose Theater in Chelsea, both a short drive west of Ann Arbor.

10. Try a Local Brew 

HOMES Brewery beer flightHighly rated breweries like Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery downtown serves delicious brews with flavorful BBQ. Unique distilleries like Manchester's River Raisin Distillery creates their own spirits. We know these fantastic Ann Arbor breweries and distilleries will satisfy your taste buds.

This is just a sample of the fun and exciting things to do in Ann Arbor, Michigan during summer. Visit AnnArbor.org to plan your next visit.

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