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JennyPenny
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Getting Around in Ann Arbor / University of Michigan Area
Ann Arbor is a great town located in Southeast Michigan. It is home to the University of Michigan. There are wealth of things to do because of the university setting from festivals to art to music to eating out to partying to watching sports in big stadiums (Go Blue!) and more.
I have run into plenty of domestic and international tourists who visit family and friends in the area and I often hear questions about transportation. While central campus is close to downtown and much is walkable, it is helpful to know about the bus system.
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) runs the bus system and detailed information can be found at http://www.theride.org/ . In brief, there is a program called “The Link,” which is free and connects in the main downtown areas. Other bus rides for longer distances cost US$1.00 (exact change) per trip. Ask for a transfer from the bus driver upon payment if you plan to change buses along the routes and use them before they expire within 90 minutes from the time they are issued. There are discount passes for senior citizens and children. Special deals are available if you buy a 30-day pass. Students and select employees from local businesses may travel free if they have valid identification cards. There are also specific shuttles during football season for home games and the large art fair during the summer. All buses are equipped to carry two bikes in the front as well. The AATA buses are white in color, while the University of Michigan buses are blue and yellow, the latter being free to ride.
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JennyPenny
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Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market
The Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market is a fun little place to visit on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7:00am to 3:00pm. A separate, but also fun Artisan’s Market is on Sundays from 11:00am to 4:00pm. The markets are both seasonal and so are closed during the winters. They are located at 315 Detroit Street in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Visitors can find some really good deals at the markets. I like the fresh produce and plants at the Farmer’s Market. Talking with the farmers is also interesting and can be quite educational. A few vendors sell baked goods. If you happen to see the lady who sells sweet potato pies, pick one up. If you can’t get a whole large one, settle for a taste of the little individual pies. I usually peruse the artsy goods at the Artisan’s Market with admiration for the artists. I particularly like the creative jewelry and pottery that goes for sale. The markets are not that large and a visit would probably take around half an hour. Entrance is free. Sometimes there are special events like face-painting for children, taste-testing, and music. I remember having an especially good time when there was an Earth Day celebration at the same time as the markets one year.
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JennyPenny
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Nickels Arcade in Ann Arbor
Don’t think that Nickels Arcade is a commercial establishment with kids-type games. “Arcade,” I found out, can mean a mall area or a covered passage/walkway with arches. Nickels Arcade is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It is between State Street and Maynard Street. There are various small shops along the narrow indoor walkway with a glass ceiling. I’ve been told that it was built in the early 1900s, but I think plenty of renovations have occurred over the years. I haven’t actually bought anything substantial at the little upscale clothing boutiques, antique shops, or art galleries, but window-shopping is fun and I could theoretically save up some money for something nice one of these days. I have used the travel agents located at the Arcade, however, and have had good experiences. If you are out and about at the University of Michigan, I suggest checking out Nickels Arcade. Perhaps you might just find a good gift for yourself or others.
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JennyPenny
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Internet Access in Ann Arbor
One of the benefits of a college town is access to the internet, though it does help if you have your own laptop. There is free wireless internet access at many of the cafes and restaurants near the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. If it’s not free, it is still affordable. You would pay by credit card online in those cases. If you don’t have a computer of your own, you can use the ones available at the Ann Arbor Public Library. The library is located at 343 South Fifth Avenue near the main post office. Their telephone number is (734) 327-4200. If you are not in town long enough to get a library card, just tell the staff that you are visiting and they should let you on a computer for a while. The time limit varies, but it is usually less than an hour. I’ve had great experiences at the library. The staff have a lot of knowledge and are quite friendly. Another choice for computer access is Digital Ops, which is situated at 525 East Liberty Street, downstairs in the Michigan Theater Building. They are typically open in the afternoons and evenings. Their phone number is (734) 994-1595. If you are into multiplayer games as well, then this is the place for you. I can’t really speak personally about Digital Ops, but I have heard good things. As an FYI, there are computer labs and libraries with computers at the University of Michigan campus, but users need a special user name and password to access the internet on them. Unfortunately, I have not heard of any temporary guest use allowed on those computers.
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JennyPenny
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Zingerman's Delicatessen in Ann Arbor
Okay, so no visit to Ann Arbor, Michigan would be complete without going to Zingerman’s Delicatessen at least once. Seriously. It’s a well-known establishment that serves up excellent food. It does have really expensive prices, however, but you do get what you pay for. Prices start at around US$6.00 for items and go up much higher. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Zingerman’s Deli is located at 422 Detroit Street, which is close to the Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market area. Their telephone number is (734) 663-3354. They are open Sunday through Saturday from 7:00am to 10:00pm. Zingerman’s is often busy, so be prepared for a wait during rush periods. The place is popular for their made-to-order sandwiches. My friends really like their Reuben and Double Dip sandwiches. I prefer their vegetarian sandwiches. Any of the options that use mozzarella or cheddar cheeses get an A in my book. Sandwiches come in “nosher” or “fresser” sizes, the former being less expensive than the latter. “Nosher” refers to “small eater” in Yiddish, while “fresser” is Yiddish for “big eater.” If you are in the mood for something sweet, check out their large and very tempting glass display case. Go for the croissants, carrot cakes, brownies, or cannolis. Looking for something to take home or give as gifts? Zingerman’s sells all kinds of cheeses, vinegars, olive oils, smoked fish, coffee, etc. There are monthly and seasonal specials, so keep an eye out for those, too. Catering is available as well.
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JennyPenny
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Sushi.come in Ann Arbor
I can’t quite explain the name of the restaurant, but Sushi.come is a nice place to visit for food and drinks. I have tried their sushi several times, but I am a creature of habit and therefore tend to stick with one of the bento box lunch specials. I also like the fact that their lunch specials are more food for the money compared to the individual sushi servings. Though there can be a wait during busy lunch periods, the food is worth the wait. I like how the food is filling without being too heavy and that the ingredients taste very fresh. Their hot tea is also quite good. Sushi.come is situated at 715 North University Avenue, which is near/on the central campus of the University of Michigan. Their phone number is (734) 213-3044. They are open during regular business hours.
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JennyPenny
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White Castle in Ann Arbor
Have you seen the film “Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle?” If you have, then you can probably appreciate and understand the urge to go to this particular fast food joint. White Castle is located at 3953 Packard in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Their telephone number is (734) 973-6811. White Castle is open 24 hours a day everyday, so you can satisfy your middle-of-the-night, alcohol-induced, stress-related, or pregnancy cravings anytime. Their prices are cheap, which especially appeals to students like me and travelers on a budget. I have eaten there for just a few U.S. dollars for example. White Castle is similar to McDonald’s or Burger King, but they are famous for their mini-sandwiches, namely their mini-burgers that are a bit square-like and fit easily into the palm of your hand. The simple sandwiches include bread, meat (beef, chicken, or fried fish), and maybe an extra topping like a pickle slice, cheese, or something else. You can end up eating several small sandwiches if you are hungry. There are the typical French fries/chips and soft drinks, too, to supplement your meal. You can dine-in or takeaway. The staff are usually in a rush to fill orders, but will still give customers smiles.
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JennyPenny
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Ali Baba's Restaurant in Ann Arbor
I have enjoyed several lunches at Ali Baba’s Restaurant in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Ali Baba’s is located at 601 Packard. If you have questions or want to make a takeaway order, you can call them at (734) 998-0131. Ali Baba’s is open Sunday through Saturday from 11:00am to 10:00pm. My favorites include the falafel and French fries/chips meal and pita bread with tabbouleh and hummus. The falafel were crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, as well as flavored nicely. The tabbouleh tasted most fresh and the hummus was creamy the way I like it. There is a window case that contains sweets if you still have room after eating lunch or dinner. The restaurant space is not that large, but it’s comfortable enough for singles, couples, and families. Larger parties will need to make arrangements in advance. Lunch time can be crowded with students from the University of Michigan during the academic school year. Catering is available, and I found their service to be prompt and courteous on the one occasion I used them. Cash and credit cards are accepted for payment.
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JennyPenny
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Schakolad Chocolate Factory in Ann Arbor
Schakolad Chocolate Factory in Ann Arbor, Michigan is a gourmet chocolate shop that has plenty of goodies for chocolate-lovers. The store is located at 110 East Washington. They can be contacted by telephone at (734) 213-1700. Coffee drinkers will appreciate their fair trade organic choices. Fans of tea will enjoy the variety, including some lovely chais. My personal favorite is their yummy, rich hot chocolate (like liquid gold I tell ya). The health conscious will be relieved to know that Schakolad does not use hydrogenated fats, additives, or milk powders in their recipes. There are also sugar-free options. If you need a great gift, there are multiple items that may be of interest such as assortment boxes, chocolate flowers, chocolate body paint, and chocolate figurines. You can indulge in sweets Monday to Wednesday from 9:00am to 9:00pm, Thursday through Saturday from 9:00am to 10:00pm, and Sunday from 1:00pm to 7:00pm. Shakolad has additional locations scattered in different states across the country, but I like the fact that their chocolates are made fresh at each store. The smells when you walk into their store, too, just can’t be beat.
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JennyPenny
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Old Country Buffet in Ann Arbor
If you have a big appetite and happen to be in Ann Arbor, Michigan, I recommend getting a meal at Old Country Buffet. The restaurant can be found at 914 West Eisenhower in Cranbrook Village. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Their hours tend to be Sundays from 8:00am to 9:00pm, Mondays through Thursdays from 11:00am to 9:00pm, Fridays from 11:00am to 9:30pm, and Saturdays from 8:00am to 9:30pm. Their telephone number is (734) 998-2610. Old Country Buffet serves up good ol’ American food in big portions. Their fresh salad bar has an assortment of salads, vegetables, and fruits to choose from. There is a section with fried foods like French fries/chips, chicken, fish, and the like. Breads are available, too. Customers will find meat roasts on most days and sometimes special seafood selections. There is a dessert bar as well. Fountain drinks, milk, water, tea, and coffee are on hand. The restaurant has discounts for youngsters and the elderly. Sure, eating at Old Country Buffet is an exercise in indulgence, but it is good value for the money. Just pace yourself!
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JennyPenny
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Little Caesars in Ann Arbor
As a graduate student on a budget, not to mention a traveler throughout the United States, I can certainly appreciate the cheap eats available at Little Caesars. I can’t tell you the number of times I got their US$5.00 large cheese pizzas to share with friends. For such an inexpensive price, you might be skeptical of the taste, but I thought it was pretty good. You can add all kinds of veggie or meat toppings for extra, too. Most Little Caesars are for takeaway or delivery. I frequented the Little Caesars at 3000 Packard in Ann Arbor, where the staff and head manager are friendly folks who serve food quickly. Their telephone number is (734) 971-0933. Check for discounts at participating Little Caesars. For example, those with AAA memberships can get a 10% discount on their orders. Cash and credit cards are accepted.
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JennyPenny
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Faz's Hello Pizza in Ann Arbor
I accidentally happened upon Faz’s Hello Pizza one day, but later found out it is quite well-known. It is a small hole-in-the-wall pizza shop in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It is located at 2259 West Liberty and their telephone number is (734) 741-7777. Faz’s Hello Pizza offers all sorts of delicious pizzas, as well as sub sandwiches, chicken wings, and salads. They are most popular for their basic (and inexpensive) cheese pizzas. There really isn’t any place to sit, so order some pizzas in advance and pick them up for takeaway. They are very good at bulk orders (e.g., parties). Check out the old photographs and newspaper clippings on the walls while you wait. Faz’s Hello Pizza is usually open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00am to 1:00am and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00am to 3:00am. The owner and staff are really friendly and chatty if you are in the mood.
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JennyPenny
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California Pizza Kitchen in Ann Arbor
California Pizza Kitchen is an international chain of pizza restaurants. They offer standard fare, but also unique meals that have a fusion influence. If you are visiting Ann Arbor, I recommend grabbing a bite to eat at the California Pizza Kitchen located in the Briarwood Mall. The restaurant’s phone number is (734) 222-6320. They tend to be open on Sundays from 12:00pm to 8:00pm and Monday through Saturday from 11:00am to 10:00pm. It is a good idea to call ahead if you have a party of more than four people. California Pizza Kitchen serves various appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, and pizzas. For appetizers, I recommend the Singapore Shrimp Rolls, Tuscan Hummus, and Spinach Artichoke Dip. Some of their pizzas may be considered non-traditional because of the different topping combinations. Experiment and you might find something you like. I am perhaps more of a traditionalist and so I thought the Margherita Pizza and Four Cheese Pizza were pretty tasty. I found the Thai Chicken Pizza to have a sauce that was too sweet for example. As for dessert, I was a fan of the Red Velvet Cake and the Chocolate Souffle Cake. Overall, I found the service at the California Pizza Kitchen to be courteous and prompt. The bills are not cheap at the restaurant, however, and can easily set you back US$20.00 or more per person depending on what you order.
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JennyPenny
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Bubble Island in Ann Arbor
Bubble Island is a small restaurant located at 1220 South University in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Their telephone number is (734) 222-9013. The place is quite popular with young university students. Dress is casual and the menu is pretty affordable. You can dine in or takeaway. Bubble Island’s specialty is bubble tea, which is a type of cold flavored tea with sticky tapioca pearls. The straws are wider than usual ones to allow for people to suck up the pearls. Bubble Island also offers up a range of smoothies and snacks such as finger foods and mochi ice cream. They are open on Sundays from 12:00pm to 2:00am, Monday through Thursday from 11:00am to 2:00am, and Friday to Saturday from 11:00am to 3:00am. Most folks go there to drink, eat, and chat, though you could read a book or work on your laptop if you don’t mind the noise.
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Hyfeno
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The Ark Concert Venue
This is a small concert club in Ann Arbor, Michigan. What I like most about this club is that it works as a nonprofit organization. Through the club they encourage all sorts of artists including folk, ethnic, and anything not considered "mainstream" to perform. They get performers to play here almost every night of the week. Don't expect to here any top 40s music here, rather some interest acoustic music by a large variety of bands.
Besides for music the Ark also offers hands on events. They try to encourage people to get involved in music by offering classes that let people get hands on with music. This includes a soundboard class where interested participants can learn how to properly use a soundboard and have a chance to do some experimentation. I personally have not tried to join in any of the events, but I did enjoy a nice night of some southern acoustic music. Tickets to see a show are usually between $11-$30. Every fourth Tuesday of the month they offer a free concert.
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