Find Free Fun

You don’t have to spend a dime to discover what makes Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County so memorable. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend, cheering on the Wolverines, attending a conference, or simply looking for a new adventure close to home, you’ll find countless ways to experience the area’s creative spirit, natural beauty, and welcoming community, for free.

1. Visit Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Admission is always free at Matthaei Botanical Gardens, making it one of Ann Arbor’s hidden gems. Explore indoor conservatories filled with tropical plants, wander themed outdoor gardens, and discover miles of nature trails surrounding wetlands and forests. It’s a relaxing stop any time of year, especially when Michigan weather doesn’t cooperate.

U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens

  • 1800 N Dixboro Rd

The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens includes botanical gardens, natural areas with trails, and several research-quality habitats. Offering a beautiful indoor conservatory, extensive formal gardens, and gift shop.

U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens

2. Hunt for Public Art

Creativity is everywhere in Ann Arbor. Wander downtown to discover colorful murals, sculptures, and unexpected artistic surprises around nearly every corner. Public art turns an ordinary stroll into an urban treasure hunt, with installations celebrating innovation, history, and community. Challenge yourself to see how many murals and sculptures you can find.

Art & Culture

10 Must-Visit Murals in Ann Arbor

  • 3 min read

Ann Arbor is well-known for hosting the largest juried art fair in the country, but did you know the city is full of inspirational artwork year-round? Check out these beautiful murals and collaborative art projects designed and painted by area creatives, and see for yourself why…

10 Must-Visit Murals in Ann Arbor

3. Walk or Bike the Border-to-Border Trail

Stretching across Washtenaw County, the Border-to-Border Trail connects parks, neighborhoods, and scenic riverfront paths. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or biking, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Huron River, peaceful wooded areas, and plenty of places to pause along the way.

Border to Border Trail (B2B)

  • Various locations

The B2B Trail is a 42-mile, 10-foot wide, ADA accessible, paved pathway consisting of 6 different trail corridors that connect you to cities, parks, and many destinations throughout Washtenaw County, Michigan. Everyone is welcome! Corridors: Chelsea-Stockbridge The completed…

Border to Border Trail (B2B)

4. Explore World-Class Museums for Free

You don’t have to travel to a major city to experience incredible museums. The University of Michigan is home to several nationally recognized museums, each offering free admission and unique opportunities to discover art, history, science, and culture. Whether you’re escaping a rainy afternoon or looking to add a little inspiration to your itinerary, these museums are must-visits.

University of Michigan Museum of Art

  • 525 S State St

In addition to housing magnificent pieces of art, the Universitiy of Michigan Museum of Art is a beautiful and unique venue to host any event. It features both spacious and intimate event spaces. The spaces are available after Museum hours, on weekday and weekend evenings. One of…

University of Michigan Museum of Art

U-M Museum of Natural History and Planetarium

  • 1109 N. University Ave.

The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History transforms hearts and minds by promoting understanding of the natural world, our place in it, and our impact on it. They bring campus and community together in participatory and inclusive learning experiences to explore the…

U-M Museum of Natural History and Planetarium

5. Wander Through Nichols Arboretum

Known affectionately as “The Arb,” Nichols Arboretum is one of Ann Arbor’s most beloved green spaces. Stroll beneath towering trees, explore winding trails, or spread out a blanket for a peaceful afternoon overlooking the Huron River.

Visit in late spring to catch the world-famous Peony Garden in bloom, or enjoy colorful foliage during the fall. Every season offers something new to discover.

University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum

  • 1610 Washington Heights

The Nichols Arboretum, near U-M hospital and downtown Ann Arbor, offers trails, riverfront, picnic area, restrooms, and peony and lilac gardens. The Arb allows cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing and kayaking but does not provide rentals. It has extensive but dispersed…

University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum

6. Go on a Fairy Door Adventure

Turn your visit into a free scavenger hunt as you search for fairy doors at spots like Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, the Ann Arbor District Library, The Ark, Crazy Wisdom Bookstore, and the Michigan Theater. Each door has its own unique design and tiny details, making every discovery feel like a little bit of magic. Best of all, finding them is completely free. 

Urban Fairy Doors

  • Throughout downtown Ann Arbor

Urban Fairy Doors are located throughout downtown Ann Arbor. A unique attraction for kids of all ages. Tiny doors found on the front of select businesses open to reveal "fairy homes." Go to the website for more information and to download the map.

Urban Fairy Doors

7. Play the Kerrytown Chime

Members of the public are invited to choose from more than 100 song options and try their hand at playing this chime. The Kerrytown Chime is a seven-ton, world-class instrument. Its 17 bells can be heard from a three-to-four-block radius. The Kerrytown Chime is open for the public to play every Saturday at 10:30am and Wednesdays and Fridays at 12-noon. Follow the numbers to play. All ages welcome!

Kerrytown Chime

  • 407 N Fifth Ave

You don't have to be a professional musician to make these bells sing. Three times a week, members of the public are invited to choose from more than 100 song options and try their hand at playing this chime. The Kerrytown Chime is a seven-ton, world-class instrument. It’s also…

Kerrytown Chime

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or exploring your own backyard, you’ll find that some of Ann Arbor’s greatest treasures are completely free. So lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and start exploring, your next favorite memory is waiting around the corner.