Central Ann Arbor - Ann Arbor, MI Area Guide

Ann Arbor was established by John Allen and Elisha Rumsey in 1824. Both men were land speculators who marveled at the numerous bur oak trees throughout the area, leading them to name the town after them and their respective wives, both named Ann. Originally registered as Annarbour, the name was later changed after being incorporated as a village and designated as the seat of Washtenaw County in 1837. The town began to gain momentum during the 1960s and 1970s as a fiercely liberal city, with deep roots in the Civil Rights and anti-Vietnam War movements. In 2010, Forbes named Ann Arbor one of the most liveable cities in the United States.

Annual events such as Top of the Park feature over 140 concerts and events, including the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, while the University of Michigan Museum of Art celebrates artworks by legendary painters such as Degas, Rembrandt and Monet.

Dining out remains a social staple in Central Ann Arbor, with plenty of culinary options to choose from. For Cuban-inspired street food, try Frita Batidos on West Washington Street, where the owners take great pride in sharing authentic Cuban culture with the locals and use only the freshest ingredients from Michigan farms and vendors. Try the spicy chorizo burger on a soft egg bun served with a side of shoestring fries or coconut-ginger rice. Add a tasty batidos - a tropical milkshake made with crushed ice, sweetened milk and fresh fruit. Add some rum to your drink as you savor a crispy churro dessert. Winner of the Opentable Diner's Choice Award in 2014, Aventura on East Washington Street provides modern Spanish tapas in one of Ann Arbor's oldest downtown buildings. The rustic brick arches and original stonework add to its Midwestern charm, while dishes like the tortilla espanola made with egg, potato, onion, brava sauce and mojo verde spice up your meal. Sip on a glass of traditional Spanish wine or an exotic specialty cocktail as you enjoy a relaxing night out with family and friends. Taste Kitchen on East Liberty Street uses the finest produce and the highest quality seafood to create a new twist on American cuisine. Featuring modern wood tables adorned with wildflowers in mason jars and a menu that reflects the changing seasons, Taste Kitchen feels like a new restaurant each time you visit. Start with some shrimp dimsum served with ginger soy sauce before ordering the pan-seared duck breast made with potato hash, quail egg, duck confit and duck jus. Delight in a glass or two of Luccio Moscato from Sonoma County, California as you relish the quiet, romantic atmosphere. Central Ann Arbor has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. For a classy night out filled with live music in an intimate setting, go to Kerrytown Concert House on North 4th Avenue, where you'll enjoy chamber or classical music performances by some of the area's most talented musicians. The University of Michigan landmark known as Good Time Charley's opened in 1979 and has remained a campus favorite. Both faculty and students clamor to grab a seat on the outdoor patio upstairs during the warmer months, and the typically cold winters can't keep the regulars away. Come enjoy this lively, energetic bar that offers fantastic drink specials seven days a week and fun theme nights, including karaoke and trivia. The charming, rustic Ashley's bar on South State Street has been an Ann Arbor staple since 1983. Serving up the finest craft brews from all over the world, you never run out of new favorite drinks to discover. Try a dark lager from Germany or a British bitter while catching up with friends in this traditional pub. Head downstairs for a quieter, more intimate setting, or wrangle a table upstairs for more high-energy fun. The friendly staff add an extra touch to the already welcoming atmosphere.

Central Ann Arbor's close proximity to I-94 and I-23 make getting around by car easy, whether you prefer to use your own vehicle, a taxi, or an airport shuttle hired through the convenient Uber app. Locals revel in being outdoors no matter the season, and the city has numerous cycling and walking paths available for the environmentally conscious commuter.

When you need to access public transportation, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority, known as "The Ride," provides several options in Washtenaw County throughout the day and night. It offers reliable, safe, affordable and eco-friendly services, including curb-to-curb transport for those who are unable to utilize standard bus routes.

Plenty of public parking exists in Central Ann Arbor. The expansive 4th and William Street Garage provides color-coded levels to make it easier to locate your vehicle, while the reasonable rates and free parking on Sundays give your wallet a welcome break.

Plenty of wildlife, wide open space and free admission make the historic Nichols Arboretum the place to be any time of year. Numerous dog-friendly walking and running trails let you enjoy the lush greenery during the warmer months and lovely, snow-covered paths during the winter. Pack your binoculars to catch a glimpse of various birds as you take a leisurely walk down to the Huron River, or strap on your snow shoes for a challenging trek up and down the hills. Sit on the lush grass to read your favorite book, or bring your fishing pole in preparation for a fresh, fish-fry dinner.

Family oriented fun can be found at Bandemer Park on North Main, where everyone shows respect for bikers, walkers and runners while making their way to the play structures and picnic pavilions. Take a dip in the pond as you watch the rowing crews from U of M, Pioneer High School and Huron High School practice their craft, then watch the Canada geese foster their young in this dog-friendly, admission-free park.

The cost of living in Central Ann Arbor can be considered moderate to high, averaging about 10 percent higher than the rest of Washtenaw County. A standard one-bedroom apartment goes for $961, while a pint of beer at the local pub will set you back $5. The price of gas hovers around 3 percent higher than the national average, while a one-way trip on The Ride costs $1.50, with free transfers throughout your route.

Visit Briarwood Mall for everything from high-value to high-end stores. Grab some wonderfully-scented candles and body sprays from Bath & Body Works before heading to Coach to admire the latest in upscale handbags and accessories. Pick up a new cardigan to match your favorite jeans at H & M, then stop by JC Penney for a new pair of shoes at a bargain price. Let the kids explore the numerous play areas as you enjoy a scrumptious Cinnabon.

Many Ann Arbor residents enjoy taking weekend trips to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. Fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, meats, farmhouse cheeses, and fun activities for children set this market apart.

For your everyday grocery and pharmacy needs, head to Kroger on South Maple. A fully stocked bakery, choice meats, plenty of snacks and a hearty selection of produce take the guesswork out of planning your weekly meals. The convenient in-store pharmacy makes this a one-stop shop.