Ann Arbor is a vibrant college town with a rich history, thriving arts scene, and plenty of outdoor activities. With its beautiful campus, tree-lined streets, and charming downtown, Ann Arbor is a great place to visit any time of year. But May is a particularly special time to be in town, as the weather is perfect for exploring all that the city has to offer.
If you’re planning a trip to Ann Arbor in May, be sure to check out these 11 top things to do:
1. Visit the University of Michigan
The University of Michigan is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and its campus is a beautiful place to explore. Take a walk around the Diag, the heart of campus, and admire the historic buildings. Visit the Michigan Museum of Art, which houses a world-renowned collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Or catch a performance at the University Musical Society, which offers a wide variety of musical events throughout the year.
2. Explore Downtown Ann Arbor
Downtown Ann Arbor is a charming and vibrant area, with something to offer everyone. Browse the unique shops, dine at one of the many excellent restaurants, or catch a show at one of the local theaters. On Saturdays, be sure to check out the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, which features a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other goods from local farmers and artisans.
3. Visit the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is a great place for kids and adults alike to learn about science, technology, and art. The museum features a wide variety of interactive exhibits, including a water play area, a construction zone, and a planetarium. There’s also a large outdoor play area, where kids can burn off some energy.
4. Take a Walk or Bike Ride Along the Huron River
The Huron River is a beautiful river that runs through the heart of Ann Arbor. There are several parks and trails along the river, where you can walk, bike, or kayak. The Argo Cascades is a particularly scenic spot, where the river tumbles over a series of small waterfalls.
5. Visit the Matthaei Botanical Gardens
The Matthaei Botanical Gardens are a beautiful 300-acre park that features a wide variety of plants from around the world. The gardens are a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, or learn about botany. There are also several educational programs offered throughout the year.
6. Attend a Performance at the Michigan Theater
The Michigan Theater is a historic movie theater that shows a variety of films, from independent films to Hollywood blockbusters. The theater also hosts live performances, such as concerts, plays, and dance recitals. The Michigan Theater is a great place to catch a show and support the local arts scene.
7. Visit the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
The Kelsey Museum of Archaeology houses a world-renowned collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The museum is a great place to learn about ancient cultures and see some of the most famous works of art from the ancient world.
8. Visit the Nichols Arboretum
The Nichols Arboretum is a beautiful 123-acre park that features a wide variety of trees and shrubs. The arboretum is a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, or learn about botany. There are also several educational programs offered throughout the year.
9. Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History houses a vast collection of specimens from the natural world, including fossils, minerals, and animals. The museum is a great place to learn about the natural history of Michigan and the world.
10. Visit the Ann Arbor Sculpture Walk
The Ann Arbor Sculpture Walk is a free, outdoor sculpture exhibit that features works by local, national, and international artists. The sculptures are located throughout downtown Ann Arbor, and they make for a great way to explore the city and see some public art.
11. Attend the Ann Arbor Art Fair
The Ann Arbor Art Fair is a four-day event that takes place every July. The fair features over 500 artists from around the country, and it’s a great place to buy art, see live music, and enjoy the summer weather. The Ann Arbor Art Fair is one of the most popular events in the city, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Ann Arbor in May. With its beautiful campus, charming downtown, and vibrant arts scene, Ann Arbor is a great place to visit any time of year. But May is a particularly special time to be in town, as the weather is perfect for exploring all that the city has to offer.
