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Things to Do in Ann Arbor

Hot Spots and Attractions

By , About.com Guide

Dubbed 'Annarbour' in 1824, the City of Ann Arbor is better known as the home of the University of Michigan. While the University helped shape Ann Arbor's identity, the city's hilly terrain, cultural attractions, unique stores, wide range of restaurants and vibrant downtown add to its charm. Of course, things to do in Ann Arbor include a full schedule of festivals and events.

1. Kerrytown

Kerrytown Chime in the Tower of the Market BuildingPhoto © Elizabeth R. Rose, Guide to About.com's Southwest U.S. Travel
Red brick streets, unique stores and delicious food characterize the Kerrytown Neighborhood of Ann Arbor.

2. Public Art

'The Wave' is an Organic Sculpture by Maya LinPhoto © Elizabeth R. Rose, Guide to About.com's Southwest U.S. Travel
The Wave by Maya Lin is just one example of the public art that is scattered across the University of Michigan campus.

3. Farmer's Market

Tomatoes at the Ann Arbor Farmer's MarketPhoto © Elizabeth R. Rose, Guide to About.com's Southwest U.S. Travel
Fresh fruits and vegetables are just a few of the things available at the Ann Arbor Farmer's Market.

4. Exhibit Museum of Natural History / University of Michigan

Mastadon Skull ExhibitPhoto © Laura Sternberg, Licensed to About.com
Exhibits at the museum fall into four main displays, including the Hall of Evolution (dinosaurs, mastodons), The Michigan Wildlife Gallery, Anthropology and Geology (rocks and minerals). The museum also has a host of temporary exhibits.

5. Matthaei Botanical Gardens

One of several trails within Matthaei Botanical GardensPhoto © Laura Sternberg, Licensed to About.com

A great place to take the family and learn something while you're at it, the University of Michigan's Matthaei Botanical Garden has several display gardens showcasing herbs, perennials, an urban pocket garden and even a garden/playground just for kids. It also has several hiking trails, as well as a conservatory full of various plant collections from around the world.

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