Summer Fun in Ann Arbor
Things to do During an Ann Arbor Summer
Summer is here and there's plenty to do in the Ann Arbor area! Plan a trip downtown and spend time with loved ones exploring and dining. From annual events only found here, to outdoor activities and nightlife fun, try these fun ideas for your summer trip.
1. Hotel Pool Party
Book your stay at one of Ann Arbor’s luxury hotels with a soothing indoor pool and morning breakfast to jumpstart your fun-filled day.
2. Art Fair Extravaganza
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Highly 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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