Photo: Ann Arbor CVB
	Diverse dining options are available in Ann Arbor.

Ann Arbor more than its college town atmosphere

Michigan,
© 2013 Group Tour Media
September 22, 2011

Want to taste Ann Arbor?

Be prepared to bite off more than you can chew to get the full flavor.

In fact, long-term nibbling is the preferred way to enjoy this bustling college town, which buzzes with creative energy and cultural awareness. 

Home to the University of Michigan, locals often fondly refer to the city as “28 square miles surrounded by reality.” 

Well, if Ann Arbor is some kind of fantasyland, it doesn’t leave much to the imagination. What you see is what you get — from its funky shops and delicatessens to its thriving arts scene and museums. 

There is a nearly palpable sense of community support and pride among the city’s residents and natives. 

A stroll through Kerrytown reveals an unmatched love of neighborhood and desire for mutual success. 

Its spirit of “locavorism” is strong.

And neighboring cities and towns such as Chelsea and Dexter bring their own touch to the greater metropolitan area, boasting successful entrepreneurs, farmers, artisans and artists. 

Of course, when speaking of art, one would be remiss not to laud the University of Michigan Museum of Art from the get go. Its Chinese paintings and Japanese and Chinese ceramics collections are among the finest in the U.S. The museum has more than 18,000 works of art in its permanent collection, representing 150 years of collecting. The Tiffany architectural glass from the H.O. Havemeyer mansion in Manhattan, N.Y., is sure to dazzle.

	Photo: Aaron Ogg
	The University of Michigan Museum of Art is located at U of M’s central campus in Ann Arbor.

Ann Arbor also is home to top-notch galleries. 

WSG Gallery features original fine arts from contemporary regional artists, including paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture, ceramics and art glass. 

Selo/Shevel Gallery, entering its 30th year, offers are from nationally and internationally recognized artists. It showcases rare objects collected by its owners during travels throughout Asia and Central America. Clay Gallery displays six special exhibits annually by gallery and guest artists. 

Visitors also can appreciate art in a variety of other mediums that are distinctly Ann Arbor. Consider, for instance, the immense musical talent that graces one of the city’s premier performance venues regularly. The Ark gives accomplished musicians an intimate venue to share their songs and stories. Live music graces its stage more than 300 nights annually. 

Another art form Ann Arbor is particularly famous for is its flair with food. 

No one knows how to put together a hearty meal quite like Chef Alex Young of Zingerman’s Roadhouse. His barbecue is to die for, and he’s also a seasoned green thumb. Young grows more than 40 varieties of heirloom tomatoes that appear in various dishes. 

The Zingerman’s family of businesses offers groups loads of different tastes and atmospheres. Sample delicious meats, olive oils, vinegars, coffees and teas at Zingerman’s Deli. And the best artisan cheeses take center stage at Zingerman’s Creamery.

Ann Arbor Area CVB
(800) 888-9487
(734) 995-7283
www.visitannarbor.org

Tell us what you think or offer your group travel suggestions to the editor.
Mail: 2465 112th Ave.
Holland, MI 49424
Fax: (616) 393-0085
Phone: 1-800-767-3489 between 8am - 5pm, EST.

View Group Tour Media group travel itineraries for Michigan.

View Group Tour Media group travel Suppliers from Michigan.

View Group Tour Media group travel Deals for Michigan.