Washtenaw County Travel Guide

Uncover the best cultural, natural, and outdoor attractions of Washtenaw County in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Washtenaw County

Located in Southeast Michigan, Washtenaw County is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This unique destination greets visitors with a vibrant mix of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural landmarks. The county is home to Ann Arbor, a bustling college town, and Ypsilanti, an iconic and historic city. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, visit museums, or indulge in delicious food and drink, there’s something for everyone in Washtenaw County.

List of Places to Visit in Washtenaw County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors interested in cultural landmarks can explore a number of museums and historical sites in Washtenaw County. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum offers interactive experiences for all ages, while the University of Michigan Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of art from around the world. The Yankee Air Museum, located in Ypsilanti, is another must-visit spot, featuring historic airplanes and exhibits on aviation history. Historical sites such as the Cobblestone Farm and the Ypsilanti Water Tower round out the list of culturally important attractions in Washtenaw County.

Natural Attractions of Washtenaw County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Washtenaw County offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum are two of the most breathtaking and expansive parks in the area. Bird watchers can visit the Sharonville State Game Area, which provides preserved wetlands and diverse species of birds to discover. Additionally, the Hudson Mills Metropark is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, who can kayak, canoe, hike, bike, and relax on the beach there.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Washtenaw County

Exploring the great outdoors is easy in Washtenaw County, with a plethora of scenic hiking and biking trails to choose from. The Border-to-Border Trail is a regional favorite, spanning 35 miles along the Huron River all the way to the western county line. The 4.5-mile B2B Loop Trail, in particular, offers great views of Ann Arbor’s vibrant downtown and the scenic Huron River.

Best Things to Do in Washtenaw County: Activities and Tours

Those looking for unique activities should explore the variety of tours and attractions in Washtenaw County. The Creature Conservancy, located in Ann Arbor, provides opportunities to observe and interact with a variety of exotic animals. For a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, visitors can go on a food tour of downtown Ann Arbor with Eat Like a Local. The Ann Arbor Distilling Company offers tours and tastings of their handcrafted spirits, while the Michigan Firehouse Museum highlights the state’s firefighting history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Washtenaw County

A week-long itinerary in Washtenaw County can include the must-see attractions as well as hidden gems. For Day 1, start with a morning visit to the Matthaei Botanical Gardens or the Nichols Arboretum. After lunch at one of Ann Arbor’s iconic restaurants, take a stroll through the Kerrytown Market. Day 2 should be reserved for outdoor activities, such as kayaking or canoeing at Hudson Mills Metropark.

On Day 3, visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. Day 4 can be spent exploring the various historical sites, museums, and landmarks. On Day 5, take a food tour in Ann Arbor for lunch, then go to the Creature Conservancy for a unique animal experience. On Day 6, visit Ypsilanti’s Yankee Air Museum and end the day with drinks and dinner at the Arbor Brewing Company. Finally, Day 7 should be dedicated to exploring unique shopping experiences in the Ann Arbor area, including the Ann Arbor Farmers Market and the Kerrytown BookFest.

Food and Drink Scene of Washtenaw County

Must-Try Dishes

Washtenaw County has something for every culinary palate, from upscale eateries to casual diners. One favorite must-try dish is a traditional Michigan Coney Dog, found throughout the region. Foodies will also appreciate the variety of BBQ options, seafood dishes, and even local farm-to-table fare. Zingerman’s Deli in downtown Ann Arbor is known for its iconic sandwiches and other artisan foods as well.

Local Beverages

In addition to fantastic food, Washtenaw County offers a variety of local beverages. The Ann Arbor Distilling Company distills their spirits on the spot, offering a selection of handcrafted cocktails. Arbor Brewing Company’s beer, Hard Cider, and other fermented beverages also take center stage in the county. A trip to the local wine-making operation, Sandhill Crane Vineyards, is also worthwhile.

Where to Stay in Washtenaw County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Washtenaw County offers a wide variety of accommodations for visitors. Popular hotels in Ann Arbor include the Graduate Ann Arbor, the Bell Tower Hotel, and Weber’s Inn. Budget-friendly options include the YPSI hostel and the Red Roof Inn in Ann Arbor. For a more unique experience, consider a bed and breakfast or guesthouse, such as the Stone Chalet Bed and Breakfast Inn or the Ann Arbor Bed and Breakfast.

What to Buy in Washtenaw County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Souvenirs and local products from Washtenaw County make great gifts for friends and family. Unique items include handmade pottery, local honey, artisan chocolates, and even sporting memorabilia from local teams (University of Michigan Wolverines). Zingerman’s Deli offers a huge selection of locally-made goods, while Kerrytown Market and Shops offers a variety of artisan foods and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Washtenaw County

Washtenaw County is a melting pot of cultural diversity and traditions. Visitors should be mindful of area universities and local colleges, as well as local deities, such as Washtenaw County water tower. The region is known to support art and creative businesses, with music, theatre, arts and other expressions found everywhere.

Best Time to Visit Washtenaw County

The best time to visit Washtenaw County is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the streets are bustling with music festivals, markets, outdoor activities and more. Additionally, autumn is an excellent time to visit, with cooler temperatures and the changing leaves providing a beautiful backdrop for hikes and scenic fall drives.

Do’s and Don’ts of Washtenaw County

Do:

  • Explore the breathtaking parks and trails
  • Try the iconic Coney Dog and other Michigan inspired dishes
  • Take in local art, culture and tradition
  • Visit the local university landmarks and museums

Don’t:

  • Leave the parks without garbage and litter
  • Disrespect the local culture and custom of the minorities and under-represented groups
  • Engage in any prohibited or illegal activity in the county
  • Forget to tip your servers in the restaurants and food joints.

Safety and Health

Safety in Washtenaw County

Washtenaw County is overall a safe destination, but visitors should still take basic precautions to stay safe. These include locking up your rental car and lodging, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking through isolated areas alone at night. Reading about local news and safety advice can also help mitigate any additional risks.

Health in Washtenaw County

Washtenaw County offers great medical facilities in case of any health issue. Urgent Care centers and clinics such as Concentra Urgent Care, St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor quick care center, and urgent care of Ann Arbor are available in various area.

Getting to Washtenaw County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Washtenaw County

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the nearest major airport, located around 25 miles east of Washtenaw County. Other options include Willow Run Airport and Ann Arbor Municipal Airport, both of which are smaller regional airports.

Bus Stations Near Washtenaw County

Greyhound and Indian Trails both offer bus service to the county, with stops in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority also has several bus routes connecting different parts of the region. Additionally, Lyft and Uber are popular in the county.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient option for exploring Washtenaw County, especially if visitors want to travel to more remote parks and attractions. Car rental options are available in the major airports and in Ann Arbor. Biking is also a great transportation option, and there are many bike rental companies available in the area.

How to Get Around in Washtenaw County

Once visitors arrive in Washtenaw County, there are several transportation options to consider. The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority has an extensive bus network, with multiple lines connecting different parts of the city and surrounding towns. For visitors planning to bike, there are plenty of bike rental companies and trails to explore. For those wishing to use ride-sharing services, Uber and Lyft both operate in the area. Of course, renting a car is another option.

Where to Go Next from Washtenaw County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of worthwhile destinations to visit in the nearby areas of Washtenaw County. Detroit, Michigan’s largest city, is just a 40-minute drive away and offers a thriving arts and culture scene. Lake Erie, only an hour away, has several beaches and family-friendly attractions. Those interested in nearby camping grounds can explore the early wilderness areas such as Silver Lake and Rustic Knoll.

Conclusion

Washtenaw County offers a unique combination of cultural sites, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for those wanting to experience Southeastern Michigan fully. From artisan food to local breweries and distilleries, Washtenaw will meet every traveler’s interest. Whether you’re planning to explore the iconic Arboretum, visit the Yankee Air Museum, or experience a food tour of the Ann Arbor area, there’s something for everyone in Washtenaw County. So, pack your bags and start exploring Michigan’s hidden gem now!



    Ann Arbor
    Chelsea
    Saline
    Ypsilanti