Ann Arbor’s Best Travel Secrets

In this edition of, In the City, we profile the city of Ann Arbor, USA. We catch up with Vinal Desai Burbeck chapter leader of Ann Arbor Travel Massive to learn more about her home town and get tips on what to see and do from a local perspective. Vinal is the Founder of bespoke travel + experiences and is always looking to meet new people within the travel industry.

How long have you lived in this city?

I first came to Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan and I immediately fell in love — first with the campus, and then the city. I love it so much that I’ve never left (except for brief stints in London, Washington, DC, and London). This year, I celebrated ten years as an Ann Arbor resident.

What makes your city so awesome or unique?

Though it’s small, Ann Arbor has all the characteristics of a large city: a walkable downtown, dozens of independent restaurants and bars/pubs, world-class arts and entertainment. But that doesn’t mean it’s generic. Ann Arbor has a few tricks up its sleeve! Come visit and you might spot a fairy door or get serenaded by our resident Violin Monster.

Are there any myths or misconceptions about your city, people, custom, or culture?

I think people are quick to write Ann Arbor off as a college town or a small (a.k.a. boring) city. But there is actually a lot to do! In addition to eating and drinking well, you can visit museums, attend live events, and enjoy the outdoors — all within city limits.

Is there a social, political or environmental issue at the heart of your city which people want to drive change to?

Absolutely. In fact, Ann Arborites are known for being active and vocal community members. Back in the 1960s, Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan was a hotbed for student activism, and the 1970s saw the creation of Hash Bash.

Best sustainable travel tips for visiting your city?

Unlike other cities in Michigan, you do not need a car. I prefer exploring on foot, but you can also rent one of our shiny new ArborBikes.

Best local food or restaurant?

That’s a tough one! We have so many amazing dining options, including some celebrity chef spots. But if you’re new to the area I might start with one of our casual brewpubs, which are essentially breweries that serve food. Grizzly Peak is one of the originals, while Wolverine State Brewing Company is a newer option that is very popular among locals.

Best local neighbourhood to explore and why?

Kerrytown is special for many reasons. Not only is it historic and as a result very charming, it has some of Ann Arbor’s best shopping, food & drink — including the famous Zingerman’s Deli. 

Best local festival people should experience?

I adore the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, a three-week performing arts and entertainment extravaganza. Many of the events are completely free.

Best cultural tradition?

As a University of Michigan alum, I have to say “football Saturdays.” Ann Arbor doubles in size when over 100,000 people descend on the city to see the University of Michigan Wolverines play American football at the Michigan Stadium, the largest stadium in the United States.

Best spots to get off the beaten track?

My neighborhood, the Old West Side of Ann Arbor, is considered a historic district because of its beautiful Victorian style homes, many of which were constructed in the early 1900s. Coincidentally, the neighborhood is home to not one but TWO delicious ice cream shops: Blank Slate Creamery, which boasts housemade ice cream cones, and Washtenaw Dairy, which also has incredible donuts.

Best time of year to visit and why?

Fall is the most beautiful, but I’d say summer is the best because the city truly comes alive. Our sidewalks are packed with people dining and drinking on outdoor patios, and there is often live music due to our many outdoor festivals.

Are their any helpful words or lingo in the local language we should know?

Longtime Ann Arbor residents are called “townies.” I am proud to be one 🙂

What is your favourite go-to travel website or blog about your city?

I am kind of obsessed with food, so I gravitate toward blogs like Eater. The Ann Arbor Observer is also a trusty resource.

Any favourite travel apps for travelling your city?

Fellow Travel Massive member Marcie Greenfield of Savor Ann Arbor is in the process of launching an app. You should check it out!

Any strange or weird by-laws in your city?

Not really…although I read that in Ann Arbor, the human body is considered to be a container — meaning those college students can get into lots of trouble for underage drinking!

If you could book a ticket tomorrow, where would you go?

That’s so tough! If I want to go somewhere familiar, I’d go to London. But if I’m feeling adventurous and have a lot of time to explore, definitely India. I’ve been wanting to go there for years.

Why do you travel?

At the risk of sounding cliche, I love the phrase carpe diem. Traveling is the best way to seize the day and take advantage of all this beautiful world has to offer.

In the City is a monthly series that profiles a unique Travel Massive city around the world. Connect with Vinal on Travel Massive or join the Ann Arbor Travel Massive chapter for updates on their upcoming event.