West Ann Arbor - Ann Arbor, MI Area Guide

Founded in 1824 by John Allen and Elisha Walker Rumsey, Ann Arbor was named after their wives, both named Ann, and the stands of Bur oak trees. Ann Arbor was part of the Underground Railroad during the 19th century, while the University of Michigan moved here from Detroit in 1873. The town gained attention during the 1960s and 1970s for its involvement in the Civil Rights and anti-Vietnam War movements, earning a reputation as a left-leaning political community.

Annual events such as the Ann Arbor Art Fair, held every third week of July, sees more than half a million visitors per year, while the Ann Arbor Film Festival, held the third week of March, receives over 2,500 Oscar-worthy submissions from filmmakers worldwide, cementing the city's commitment to fine arts.

The Natural History Museum and the Hands On Museum remain dedicated to teaching residents about science and world history.

No matter what you crave, West Ann Arbor has a delightful meal for you every night of the week.

No visit to Ann Arbor would be complete without an award-winning sandwich from Zingerman's Deli on Detroit Street. The historic deli opened in 1982 serving specialty foods, Jewish dishes and a small selection of sandwiches. It has since become an Ann Arbor institution, with thousands of visitors each year feasting on one of the signature sandwiches piled so high, you could eat for a week and still have leftovers. Order a premium black Angus corned beef sandwich, topped with a variety of farmhouse cheeses or the house-made chopped liver and chicken salad on your choice of fresh-baked bread. After a visit here, you will understand why world-famous chef Mario Batali Zingerman's a "temple of deliciousness."

For an experience like no other, head to Krazy Jim's Blimpy Burger on Ashley Street. From the moment you step inside this lively diner, you'll understand why so many locals wait outside in the snow just to get in. The unique style of ordering adds to the fun, where you must first grab your own tray and silverware and be ready to bus your own table after finishing your custom-made burger. Leave your cell phone in the car, unless you want Krazy Jim to send you to the back of the line. Also, be prepared to say exactly what you want, whether ordering a double, triple, quad or quint burger. Don't even think of changing your order once you've placed it or else: no burger for you Pay for your order with enough cash to receive a signature $2 bill in change.

For upscale dining at its finest, visit The Gandy Dancer on Depot Street. This beautifully restored historic landmark was previously the 1886 Michigan Central Depot, now known for its elegant design and expertly prepared seafood and steak. Come for brunch to try a little bit of everything, from succulent prime rib to creamy eggs Benedict as you raise a champagne toast when the train rolls by, followed by a round of applause for its safe passage through town.

When it comes to nightlife in West Ann Arbor, you may have trouble choosing between so many options. For a casual night out with friends, head downtown to The Blue Tractor. The rustic atmosphere and friendly staff will have you feeling like a townie in no time. Grab a table near the bar, and order a sampler of some of the finest craft beers in the state. Try one of the signature cocktails such as the porch swing hooch; a blend of Jeremiah Weed sweet tea vodka, citrus vodka and lemonade.

If you're in the mood for live music, dancing or singing karaoke, head over to South First Street. There you'll find a four-story building, home to four different clubs. Start downstairs at the Cavern Club to watch the Killer Flamingos perform, then make your way up to the modern Millennium Club for a night of drinks and dancing. Hit Gotham City on the third floor for a more eclectic style of music and comic book-style atmosphere, then make your way up to the top floor for some pool, fantastic drink specials and karaoke fun at Circus Bar & Billiards.

Known as one of the top music clubs in the world, The Ark has live, acoustic music over 300 nights a year. This intimate, 400-seat venue has one of the most impressive lists of famous performers anywhere. Find one of the city's numerous "fairy doors" near the ticket booth before entering and leave a penny at its entrance.

You can often see Ann Arbor residents riding their bikes or walking to and from work during the fall, spring and summer months because of the breathtaking scenery and bicycle-friendly roads. If you prefer to commute by car, the city's close proximity to Interstates 94, 23, 96 and 275 make it easy, while the Uber app can help you locate a taxi, private car, or airport shuttle within minutes.

Most Ann Arbor residents value environmentally-friendly travel, relying on the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority, or "The Ride" for short. The Ride offers reliable and safe transportation via hybrid buses, with several routes running regularly throughout the day and night for a reasonable fare.

With so much to do in downtown Ann Arbor, you have numerous parking garages to choose from. Centrally-located Washington Parking Structure charges during the week but provides free parking in all garages on the weekends.

Residents of West Ann Arbor enjoy being outdoors year-round, whether to run, hike and fish during the warmer months, or sled, ski and snowshoe during the winter.

Nichols Arboretum, known to locals as "The Arb," is a historic landmark with plenty for anyone looking for a relaxing day at the park. The hiking, biking, walking and running trails complement the substantial wide-open spaces where you can relax on the grass with a good book or have a family picnic. Take the dog for a walk down to the Huron River and let him fetch a stick in the water before collecting spikes alongside the vintage railroad tracks.

Gallup Park on Fuller Road has two play structures, trails for biking, running and walking and the Argo canoe livery, where you can rent a canoe or paddle boat for a scenic trip down the Huron River. Pack a cooler for a day of fishing, or sit on one of the numerous benches to marvel at the exquisite swans paddling in the river. Canada geese and plenty of ducks call this place home, and children and adults delight in seeing the newly-hatched goslings and ducklings in the spring. Neither park charges admission, and both are dog-friendly.

Averaging 12 percent higher than the rest of Michigan, the cost of living in West Ann Arbor could be considered moderate to high. You can expect to pay around $883 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. The price of gas tends to hover around 2 percent higher than the national average, a one-way trip on The Ride costs $1.50 and a pint of beer at the local pub averages about $5.

Whether you prefer to shop in the mall or buy locally from smaller boutiques, West Ann Arbor delivers. Browse high end merchandise at Von Maur and Coach, or grab a bargain from JC Penney while shopping in the Briarwood Mall. With stores such as Journeys, Sephora and H&M, you won't have any trouble finding something for the whole family.

For the latest in high fashion, visit Adorn Me on East Liberty Street. There the friendly staff greet you and happily assist you in finding the perfect outfit for any occasion, offering suggestions on how to accessorize. For men's clothes and shoes, try Motivation Boutique on South University, where the clothes are trendy and the prices affordable.

Fresh, locally grown produce can be found at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market in Kerrytown during the warmer months, where children can participate in numerous activities as you chat with neighbors and friends while browsing the wide selection of whole foods. Weekend visits to this historic market remain a local tradition.

For your everyday grocery needs, visit Kroger on Carpenter Road for its large selection of quality meats, cheeses, dairy and bakery items with daily discounts. If you prefer to shop late at night, go to Meijer on Ann Arbor-Saline Road. Open 24 hours a day, 364 days a year, you can fill prescriptions and purchase clothes, appliances, and groceries all in one place.