The nations largest Art Fair is back on for three days July 15-17, 2021! Come to Ann Arbor before the wedding to enjoy several streets full of booths from local and national artists, live music and the great food in downtown Ann Arbor. Make sure you have enough room in your suitcase to take a few things back with you!

We encourage you to head to some of our favorite spots in downtown Ann Arbor for amazing day & nightlife! Including:

Mani Oysteria & Bar: Adam & Rachel's first date (July 7, 2017)

Bill's Beer Garden: A graduate school & young professional's outdoor favorite featuring many exclusive Michigan beers

Blimpy Burger: The greatest diner burger you'll ever have, but make sure you follow instructions when ordering!

Frida Batido's: Cuban street food restaurant with amazing churros & shakes!

Cherry Republic: If you can't make it UP North this trip, check out this little store to find out what makes Michigan the Cherry State

The Last Word: If you're looking for a nightlife recommendation, this cocktail & appetizer Speakeasy is a hidden favorite of all Ann Arborites. Make a reservation beforehand, and note that is is actually a true prohibition-style Speakeasy--there's no signage outside. Follow Google Maps to find your way to live jazz and a 20 page spirit menu!

The Huron river sits just north of downtown Ann Arbor about 10 minutes from the hotel blocks. Argo Park offers tube rental for the Argo Cascades or kayak rental for the full river float (~1.5 hours) with a free shuttle back to the start. This is a great activity for adults and kids alike, and you can bring your own food and beverages on the river! We float the cascades & the river in our kayak at least once a month in the summer.

The Henry Ford Museum is our favorite attraction for first-time visitors to Detroit. It is the largest indoor-outdoor museum in the USA, boasting one-of-a-kind collections such as: the presidential limousine of John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln's chair from Ford's Theatre, the Rosa Parks bus, and many other historical exhibits. It includes many interactive and imaginative exhibits on the history of innovation in America, and it a great place to take both children and teenagers. You don't have to love cars to feel inspired here!

The Detroit Historical Museum is one-of-a-kind. It sends visitors back in time through the evolution of the Detroit area, including real cobblestone streets and fur trading from the 18th century, 19th century stores, an interactive auto assembly line, toy trains, and emersion in the prosperity, culture, and tension of the 20th century. It is a very unique experience, and has something meaningful for the whole family!

Founded in 1885, the Detroit Institute of Arts has one of the largest, most significant collections in the USA. In addition to outstanding American, European, Modern and Contemporary, and Graphic art, the museum holds significant works of African, Asian, Native American, Oceanic, Islamic, and Ancient art. You will be blown away by Diego Rivera's 4 wall, 27 painting Detroit Industry Mural!

Sleeping Bear Dunes is the most popular & unique summer outdoor destination in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. In additional to the famous Dune Climb, There are numerous water activities, including kayaking, tubing, and jet ski rental, as well as countless beaches to enjoy. We go camping at the state or national parks near the shore annually, and it never gets old!

Traverse City is known for its cherries---so don't forget to try some! There are countless wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, as well as farms with U-Pick cherries, blueberries, strawberries, and more. The beaches & lighthouses there offer a picturesque view of Lake Michigan. Book a room at a bed and breakfast on the Peninsula for the perfect relaxing Michigan vacation!

Craft beer is all the rage around the country now, but it got its start in Michigan! Downtown Traverse City has several quaint riverfront streets full of shopping, gift shops, and tastings. Downtown is also home to the first locations of the famous Michigan chains Grand Traverse Pie Co. and Cherry Republic Co. Rachel's favorite breweries, North Peak & Shorts, also call Traverse City home.