Washtenaw County Michigan Map
Top Attractions
Washtenaw County, Michigan, is home to several top attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. One of the most popular destinations in the county is the University of Michigan, a renowned public research university that has produced many notable alumni. Other top attractions include the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, the Yankee Air Museum, and the Michigan Theater.
Hidden Gems
For those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Washtenaw County has plenty of hidden gems to explore. These include the Fairy Doors of Ann Arbor, a series of miniature doors that can be found throughout the city, and the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, a beautiful oasis of plants and flowers. Other hidden gems include the Waterloo Recreation Area, a sprawling park that offers hiking and camping opportunities, and the Dexter Cider Mill, a historic mill that produces delicious apple cider.
Food Scene
Washtenaw County is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, with plenty of options for foodies of all tastes and budgets. One of the most popular spots is Zingerman’s Deli, a famous deli that has been serving up delicious sandwiches and baked goods for over 30 years. Other top restaurants include Frita Batidos, a Cuban-inspired eatery, and the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, a brewery that also serves up delicious food.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Washtenaw County has plenty of options for those looking to save money. One tip is to check out the local farmers markets, where you can find fresh produce and other food items for a fraction of the cost of eating out. Another budget-friendly activity is hiking or biking in one of the county’s many parks and trails. And if you’re looking for affordable accommodations, consider staying in a hostel or camping in one of the county’s many campgrounds.
Outdoor Adventures
Washtenaw County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. One of the top destinations for outdoor adventures is the Huron River, which offers miles of scenic waterways for kayaking and canoeing. Other top spots include the Pinckney State Recreation Area, a popular destination for hiking and camping, and the Border-to-Border Trail, a 35-mile trail that stretches from Ypsilanti to Dexter.
Historical Landmarks
History buffs will find plenty to explore in Washtenaw County, which has a rich and fascinating past. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Ypsilanti Water Tower, a historic water tower that dates back to the 19th century. Other top historical landmarks include the Kempf House Museum, a restored Victorian home that offers a glimpse into life in the late 1800s, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the former president.
Family-Friendly Activities
Washtenaw County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that kids will love. One of the top spots is the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and activities for children of all ages. Other family-friendly activities include the Leslie Science and Nature Center, the Chelsea Treehouse, and the Rolling Hills Water Park.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for unique and memorable experiences, Washtenaw County has plenty to offer. One off-the-beaten-path activity is the Ann Arbor Art Fair, a massive outdoor art festival that takes place every summer. Other options include taking a hot air balloon ride over the county, exploring the underground tunnels of the Michigan Central Station, or visiting the Creature Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that houses exotic animals.
Natural Wonders
Washtenaw County is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. One of the most iconic destinations is the Nichols Arboretum, a 123-acre park that is filled with beautiful gardens and natural areas. Other top spots include the Waterloo State Recreation Area, the Pinckney State Recreation Area, and the Bird Hills Nature Area.
Vibrant Nightlife
Washtenaw County has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to explore. One of the top spots is The Blind Pig, a legendary music venue that has hosted many famous acts over the years. Other popular nightlife destinations include Conor O’Neill’s, a traditional Irish pub, and Necto Nightclub, a popular dance club.
Local Markets
For those looking to experience the local culture, Washtenaw County has plenty of markets and fairs to explore. One of the most popular destinations is the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods, and more. Other top markets include the Ypsilanti Farmers Market, the Chelsea Farmers Market, and the Dexter Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
While there aren’t any beaches or mountains in Washtenaw County, there are plenty of nearby destinations that are worth exploring. One option is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a scenic area that offers miles of sandy beaches and stunning views of Lake Michigan. For those looking for mountain adventures, head to the nearby Huron Mountains, which offer hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
Cultural Immersion
Washtenaw County is home to a diverse range of cultural experiences, from art galleries and museums to music venues and festivals. One of the top destinations is the University of Michigan Museum of Art, which houses a collection of over 18,000 works of art. Other cultural experiences include attending the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, which features music, theater, and dance performances, or exploring the African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County.
Art and Music Scene
Washtenaw County has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. One of the top spots is the Kerrytown Concert House, a cozy venue that hosts jazz and classical music performances. Other popular destinations include the Ann Arbor Art Center, the Riverside Arts Center, and the Ark, a legendary music venue that has been around since the 1960s.
Walking Tours
For those looking to explore the county on foot, there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. One popular option is the Ann Arbor Art Walk, a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the city’s downtown area and highlights its public art installations. Other walking tours include the Ann Arbor Historic District Tour, which explores the city’s rich architectural history, and the University of Michigan Campus Tour, which showcases the university’s beautiful buildings and campus.
Architectural Marvels
Washtenaw County is home to several architectural marvels that are worth exploring. One of the most iconic buildings is the Michigan Central Station, a historic train station that has been abandoned for decades. Other top architectural landmarks include the Michigan Theater, a beautifully restored movie palace that dates back to the 1920s, and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Palmer House, which is open for tours during the summer months.
Historical Sites
Washtenaw County has a rich and fascinating history, and there are several historical sites that are worth exploring. One of the top destinations is the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the former president. Other top historical sites include the Cobblestone Farm and Museum, a restored 19th-century farm that offers a glimpse into life in the past, and the African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County.
Biking Routes
Washtenaw County is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes to choose from. One popular option is the Border-to-Border Trail, a 35-mile trail that stretches from Ypsilanti to Dexter. Other top biking routes include the Huron River Drive, a scenic route that follows the Huron River, and the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, a 36-mile trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Wellness Retreats
For those looking to unwind and relax, Washtenaw County has several wellness retreats and spas to choose from. One of the top destinations is the Four Seasons Health Club and Spa, a luxurious spa that offers massages, facials, and other treatments. Other wellness options include the Center for the Childbearing Year, which offers prenatal and postnatal yoga classes, and the Ann Arbor School of Yoga, which offers a range of yoga classes for all levels.
Adventure Sports
For those looking for a thrill, Washtenaw County has plenty of adventure sports to choose from. One popular option is skydiving, which can be experienced at the nearby Skydive Tecumseh. Other adventure sports include zip-lining at the Adventure Park, rock climbing at Planet Rock, and bungee jumping at the Michigan International Speedway.
