Things to Do in Ann Arbor in the Winter
Ann Arbor, Michigan is a vibrant college town with plenty to offer visitors year-round. But winter in Ann Arbor is something special, with its snow-covered streets, cozy cafes, and festive atmosphere. If you’re looking for things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter, here are a few ideas to get you started.
One of the best things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter is to visit the University of Michigan campus. The campus is beautiful in the snow, and there are plenty of things to see and do, including visiting the museums, attending a sporting event, or simply taking a walk around the Diag.
Ice Skating
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend a winter day, head to Ann Arbor’s outdoor ice skating rink, which is located in the heart of downtown on Liberty Plaza between Fourth and Fifth Avenues.
The rink is open everyday and offers skate rentals for those who don’t have their own. There is also a warming hut where you can take a break from the cold and enjoy a hot chocolate or snack.
Visit Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is a great place to visit with kids of all ages. The museum has over 250 interactive exhibits that explore science, technology, engineering, and math. There are also plenty of hands-on activities, making it a great place to learn and have fun at the same time.
The museum is open everyday but closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and children ages 3-12, and free for children under 3.
Attend a Holiday Event
Ann Arbor is home to a number of holiday events throughout the winter season. Some of the most popular events include the Ann Arbor Christmas Parade, the Ann Arbor Holiday Market, and the Ann Arbor Ice Cube Festival.
The Ann Arbor Christmas Parade is held on the first Sunday of December and features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus. The Ann Arbor Holiday Market is held on weekends in December and features local vendors selling unique gifts and crafts. The Ann Arbor Ice Cube Festival is a family-friendly event held in February and features ice sculptures, ice skating, and live music.
Go Tubing or Sledding
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to enjoy the snow, head to Gallup Park or Huron Hills Golf Course for tubing and sledding. Both parks have designated areas for tubing and sledding, and there are plenty of hills to choose from.
Be sure to dress warmly and bring a sled or tube. You can also rent tubes at Gallup Park.
Tips and Expert Advice for Enjoying Winter in Ann Arbor
Here are a few tips and expert advice for enjoying winter in Ann Arbor:
- Dress warmly. Ann Arbor winters can be cold, so be sure to dress in layers. Wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect yourself from the cold.
- Be prepared for snow. Ann Arbor gets an average of 50 inches of snow each winter, so be sure to be prepared for it. Bring a shovel or snowblower to clear your driveway and sidewalks, and be sure to stock up on salt or sand to help melt ice.
- Take advantage of the winter activities. There are plenty of things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter, so take advantage of them. Go ice skating, sledding, or tubing. Visit the museums, attend a holiday event, or simply take a walk around town and enjoy the snow-covered scenery.
FAQ on Things to Do in Ann Arbor in the Winter
Here are some frequently asked questions about things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter:
- What are some of the best things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter?
- How can I dress warmly for winter in Ann Arbor?
- Is there anything special I need to do to prepare for snow in Ann Arbor?
Some of the best things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter include visiting the University of Michigan campus, going ice skating, visiting the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, attending a holiday event, and going tubing or sledding.
To dress warmly for winter in Ann Arbor, be sure to dress in layers. Wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect yourself from the cold. You may also want to wear a coat, sweater, and long pants.
If you’re driving in Ann Arbor in the winter, be sure to have a shovel or snowblower to clear your driveway and sidewalks. You may also want to stock up on salt or sand to help melt ice.
Conclusion
Winter in Ann Arbor is a magical time of year. There are plenty of things to do, both indoors and outdoors. So bundle up and head to Ann Arbor this winter to experience all that the city has to offer.
Are you interested in learning more about things to do in Ann Arbor in the winter? Leave a comment below and I’ll be happy to help.
