Whether you’re a native Michigander or an out-of-state resident, it’s probably safe to say that the cold Ann Arbor weather isn’t your favorite. However, with the new school year in full swing, Umich students have a few weeks to soak up the sun while it lasts. Last year, my freshman worries got the best of me, and I didn’t check out all of the warm weather activities Ann Arbor and the University has to offer. That being said, I created this handy bucket list of the Top 10 Umich Warm Weather Activities you need to do before the nice weather runs out, so you don’t take the beautiful temperature for granted!
- Go for a walk at The Arb
Nichols Arboretum is located at 1610 Washington Heights and is a 123-acre landscape of pure beauty and nature! This is the perfect spot for a nice walk, to sit and read a book, and so much more! While winter walks in the Arb are still beautiful, make sure you check out this cool spot while it’s in full bloom!
- Go to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market
This farmers market has delicious, fresh produce, but it also offers a variety of other treats and treasures such as flowers, soaps, authentic Polish & Mediterranean food, and so much more! The market is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7am-3pm at 315 Detroit St!
- Kayak at Gallup or Argo Park
Looking for a relaxing solo activity or a unique hangout with pals? Check out some local kayaking! This is something on my personal bucket list, but I have heard great things! Click here for more information.
- Hammock in The Diag
If you’re unfamiliar with the term “hammocking”, chances are you aren’t from the Midwest. Lucky for you, there isn’t much to it! Just grab a hammock, tie it to some trees, and hang out! The trees in the Diag are great for hammocks, and hammocks are great for homework, reading, chatting with friends, or a much-needed cat nap.
- Go to Michigan Football games
If you’re a big sports fan like me, this is a no brainer! The Big House is the best college football stadium around. Going to games is a great way to meet new people, take a break from studying, and get fully immersed in the school spirit! Even if sports aren’t totally your thing, give a football game a try, you might surprise yourself!
- Sit on the lawn in the Law Quad
It’s no secret that the Law Quad is a renowned staple of our university. Even though its walls are primarily for law students only, their gorgeous grounds are open to all! In the fall, you can catch students hammocking, doing homework, having picnics, playing frisbee, and so much more! Enjoy a nice trip to the Law Quad lawn before it’s covered in snow!
- Walk around the shops downtown
Notice how I said “walk around” and not “shop at”? Don’t worry, I’m all with the broke college kid agenda. However, it’s hard to ignore the unique appeal of Downtown Ann Arbor, so why not go check it out?! Rock Scissors Paper and Rocket Fizz are amongst some of my personal favorites!
- Go tubing down the Argo Cascades
This is another activity I have yet to try, but have been dying to! At Argo Park, you can rent tubes for 2 hours to go down the exciting Argo Cascades. More information can be found here.
- Check out the latest graffiti in Graffiti Alley
Graffiti Alley is a vibrant street art exhibit in the heart of downtown. Located on E Liberty St, this is a great location for some cool Instagram photos or a unique stroll. The best part is it’s free and open to the public!
- Explore Nickels Arcade
This list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of this unique outdoor shopping strip. Though this unique enclosed alley is accessible in the colder months of the year, the warm weather is the perfect accompaniment to your outdoor shopping and iced latte-drinking adventures. Check out Nickels Arcade at 326 S State St.
-Brooke Woodrum