Michigan Family Travel

Looking for the perfect way to kick off move-in weekend in Ann Arbor? This family-friendly guide helps parents and students make the most of their time in this iconic college town, with ideas for sightseeing, dining, shopping, and celebrating the start of a new chapter at the University of Michigan.

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About Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is a vibrant, walkable college town known for its artistic energy, Big Ten spirit, and beautiful campus. Home to the University of Michigan since 1837, the city is filled with bookstores, galleries, parks, and restaurants, all just steps from campus.

Geography and Weather

Located along the Huron River in southeast Michigan, Ann Arbor’s geography features rolling hills, green spaces, and riverfront trails. August brings warm, humid days with average highs in the low 80s and cooler evenings, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors with family.

Major Destinations in Ann Arbor

Families visiting for move-in will find plenty to do. Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum offer miles of peaceful trails and gardens. Kerrytown Market & Shops is a charming spot for browsing artisan foods and boutiques. The University of Michigan Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers, and Argo Park and Cascades provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, or simply relaxing by the river.

Top Restaurants in Ann Arbor

Dining is a highlight of any Ann Arbor visit. Zingerman’s Delicatessen is legendary for its sandwiches and deli specialties. Frita Batidos serves Cuban-inspired burgers and shakes in a casual atmosphere. Sava’s offers brunch, lunch, and dinner right near campus and is a favorite among students and visitors alike.

Favorite Photo Spots on Campus

Capture milestone moments at iconic photo spots around campus. The bronze Block M in the Diag (just don’t step on it!) is a favorite, as are the striking Gothic archways of the Law Quad. Burton Memorial Tower provides a memorable backdrop, and Nichols Arboretum offers lovely natural scenery for family pictures.

Local Gift Card Ideas

A gift card to a beloved Ann Arbor business makes a thoughtful parting gift for a new student. Options include Zingerman’s for food lovers, Literati Bookstore for avid readers, Underground Printing for Michigan gear, and Michigan Theater for entertainment.

Pro-Tip: Gift Prime for Young Adults

Heading to Ann Arbor for move-in week? If your student is 18–24, don’t miss this great deal: they can get a 6-month Amazon Prime trial free, courtesy of Grubhub. That means fast, free delivery for dorm essentials, unlimited Prime Video streaming, and even free food delivery with Grubhub+. After the trial, it’s just $7.49/month. Perfect for helping them settle in—and making life a little easier for everyone. Try Prime for Young Adults here.

Local Coffee Shops and Study Spots

Ann Arbor is filled with coffee shops perfect for study breaks or catching up with friends. Comet Coffee is tucked inside the Nickels Arcade and known for its cozy feel. RoosRoast Coffee serves bold brews and has a loyal local following. Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea has several convenient locations downtown, while Black Diesel Coffee offers a welcoming environment near campus.

Where to Stay (Parents)

If staying overnight during move-in, several hotels are conveniently located near campus. Graduate Ann Arbor is a boutique property with a fun college-town vibe and is steps from the university. Bell Tower Hotel offers a classic Ann Arbor experience in an unbeatable location. Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown has spacious rooms and easy access to Main Street. Weber’s Boutique Hotel, just a short drive from campus, is another excellent choice with dining and a pool.

Best Place to Buy a U-M T-Shirt or Hoodie

Families looking to purchase University of Michigan gear will find top options downtown. The M Den is the official outfitter of Michigan Athletics and has multiple locations near campus. Underground Printing is another fun choice, offering apparel with creative designs that appeal to students.

Local Events During Move-In Week

Move-in weekend often coincides with some of Ann Arbor’s best seasonal events. The Ann Arbor Farmers Market in Kerrytown is a lively destination on Saturday mornings. A2 Summer Streets brings outdoor dining and live music to downtown streets, and the Free Summer Movie Series at Michigan Theater is a fun way to unwind after a long day.

Quick Parking Tips

Ann Arbor has several centrally located parking garages that make getting around easy. Maynard Street Garage and Forest Avenue Structure offer convenient access to campus and downtown. The city enforces metered parking, so families should download the epark Ann Arbor app for easy payment. It’s also helpful to avoid parking in residential neighborhoods where permits may be required.

Favorite Activities for New Students

During their first weekend, many new students head to Nichols Arboretum for a peaceful nature walk right near campus. Fuller Park Pool is another popular destination, offering a great place to swim on warm days. For a sweet treat, Blank Slate Creamery is a student favorite known for its handmade ice cream.

Grocery, Ikea, and Hardware Stores Near Dorms

For last-minute essentials and dorm setup needs, several stores are convenient to campus. Kroger on Plymouth Road is the nearest full grocery store, while Trader Joe’s on East Stadium Boulevard offers quirky, student-friendly shopping. Meijer on Ann Arbor-Saline Road is a large-format store with groceries and home goods. Families looking for dorm furniture and accessories will find IKEA Canton about a 25-minute drive from campus. For quick hardware and dorm supplies, Ace Hardware on Stadium Boulevard is an easy stop.

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