About Ann Arbor

The Ann Arbor area is a small, friendly town with big city sophistication; a world-class educational and high-tech research center nestled in a rural setting; a community of charming neighborhoods with a rich mix of cultures.

Although geographically small, the area is perhaps most renowned for its cultural offerings. From exclusive art exhibits to performances by jazz legends, there are abundant opportunities to enjoy arts and culture. More than 30 independent bookstores, dozens of unique galleries, and a variety of top-notch museums; including the newly-renovated University of Michigan Museum of Art — are all within the downtown limits.

The Ann Arbor area also offers a bounty of recreational activities for those looking to golf, hike, or cycle, and three Metroparks are within a short drive of the city center.

In the warmer months, when our REU program takes place, the area offers an array of street festivals and outdoor fairs.  The Ann Arbor Summer Festival is a fun way to spend evenings with free movies and live music. The award-winning Ann Arbor Art Fair draws an annual crowd of nearly 500,000 as the streets of downtown and campus are transformed into an outdoor art gallery. 

Visit the Visit Ann Arbor Website for more information and events.

Transportation - UM Buses

The big blue buses will take you around campus.  They are free, and nominally you should show your ID card.

Service to and from major parking lots with stops on South, Central, Medical, and North campuses. It operates Monday through Friday only. See the Northbound and Southbound Route Maps and Schedules for more details.

AATA Buses

The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority Buses - The Ride - are free to anyone with a UM ID.  Routes and schedules are available here.