Ypsilanti

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ypsilanti's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day by grabbing a coffee and a pastry at a local café in Ypsilanti's historic district. Stroll through the charming streets lined with beautiful Victorian homes and visit the Ypsilanti Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich history. Don’t miss the iconic Ypsilanti Water Tower, a unique landmark that offers a great photo opportunity.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local eatery, take a leisurely walk along the Huron River, enjoying the scenic views. Visit the nearby Riverside Park for a relaxing afternoon, where you can also engage in recreational activities like biking or bird watching. Explore the unique shops and boutiques in Depot Town, where you can find local crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of Ypsilanti's eclectic restaurants, perhaps trying some regional cuisine. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Ypsilanti Arts and Culture Center, where local artists showcase their talents. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the riverfront, soaking in the ambiance of the city.

day 2
A Day at the Ypsilanti Farmers Market
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Ypsilanti Farmers Market, which is bustling with activity and fresh produce. Engage with local farmers and artisans as you browse through their stalls, sampling homemade goods and organic fruits. Enjoy a delightful breakfast from one of the market stalls, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

afternoon
:

After indulging in fresh treats, take some time to explore the nearby historical sites, such as the Ypsilanti Freighthouse. Participate in a cooking class using ingredients purchased at the market, allowing you to bring a taste of Ypsilanti back home. Spend some time in the vibrant community gardens, where you can learn about sustainable gardening practices.

evening
:

For dinner, prepare a meal at your accommodation using the fresh ingredients you acquired earlier in the day. Consider inviting friends or family to join in on the culinary experience, sharing stories and laughter over a home-cooked meal. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the neighborhood, appreciating the warm community vibe.

day 3
Exploring the University of Michigan
morning
:

Take a short drive to the nearby University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, known for its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Start your exploration at the University of Michigan Museum of Art, where you can admire a diverse collection of artworks. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at a popular campus café, soaking in the student energy around you.

afternoon
:

Continue your tour by visiting the Michigan Stadium, famously known as 'The Big House,' and learn about its storied history. Wander through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, a serene escape filled with lush greenery and beautiful flowers. Spend some time at the university’s libraries, where you can immerse yourself in the academic ambiance.

evening
:

Return to Ypsilanti for dinner at a local pizzeria, savoring delicious slices with unique toppings. After dinner, head to a local brewery for a tasting flight of craft beers made from regional ingredients. Wrap up your day by attending a trivia night or live music event at a local venue, enjoying the social scene.

day 4
Outdoor Adventures in the Parks
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of outdoor fun. Head to Ford Lake Park to enjoy a morning of hiking or biking along the trails, surrounded by nature and fresh air. Take a moment to relax by the water’s edge, where you can watch ducks and other wildlife.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at the park, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Ford Lake, getting a unique perspective of the area while engaging in some fun water activities. If you're lucky, you might spot some local fish or birds as you paddle.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Ypsilanti and enjoy a casual dinner at a riverside restaurant. Reflect on your day of adventure while savoring a meal with friends or family. Afterward, enjoy an evening walk along the scenic waterfront, taking in the sunset and the beauty of nature around you.

day 5
Cultural Immersion at Local Festivals
morning
:

If your visit coincides with a local festival, start the day by attending the opening events and activities. Enjoy breakfast from food vendors offering a variety of international cuisines, sampling unique dishes from around the world. Participate in workshops or demonstrations that showcase local crafts and traditions.

afternoon
:

Explore the festival grounds, visiting booths that highlight the rich cultural diversity of Ypsilanti. Engage with local artisans and performers, perhaps even joining in on traditional dances or games. Don’t forget to check out live music performances that feature local bands and artists throughout the day.

evening
:

As the festival continues into the evening, grab dinner from one of the many food trucks or stalls featuring local flavors. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you mingle with locals and other visitors, appreciating the community spirit. End the night with a spectacular fireworks display, a fitting conclusion to a day filled with culture and celebration.

day 6
Art and Creativity in Ypsilanti
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the Ypsilanti Arts and Culture Center, where you can explore various exhibitions and installations from local artists. Participate in a morning art workshop, allowing your creativity to flow while learning new skills. Grab a coffee at a nearby café after the workshop, enjoying the local art scene.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon wandering through Ypsilanti's public art installations and murals, capturing their beauty with photos. Visit local galleries to discover the works of emerging and established artists, perhaps even finding a unique piece to bring home. Attend an afternoon art class, where you can meet fellow art lovers and expand your creative horizons.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its artistic ambiance, where the decor and menu reflect local creativity. After your meal, attend an open mic night or poetry reading at a local café, where you can enjoy the talents of Ypsilanti’s vibrant artistic community. Conclude your day by reflecting on the inspiration you've gained from the local art scene.

day 7
A Day of History and Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Ypsilanti Depot, where you can learn about the city’s railroad history. Explore the exhibits showcasing the impact of the railroads on the local economy and culture. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner that has been a local favorite for generations.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Ypsilanti Historical Museum to dive deeper into the city’s past, exploring artifacts and stories from different eras. Take a guided walking tour of the historic district, where you can marvel at the beautiful architecture while learning fascinating tales about the homes and their former residents. Don’t miss a chance to visit the local cemetery, where you can discover the graves of notable figures from Ypsilanti’s history.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a dinner at a restaurant that celebrates local heritage, featuring dishes inspired by traditional recipes. Reflect on your day of discovery and history as you savor your meal. Consider attending a historical reenactment or storytelling event to gain a deeper appreciation for Ypsilanti's rich past.

day 8
Indulging in Local Cuisine
morning
:

Start your day with a breakfast food tour, sampling dishes from various local cafes known for their delicious morning offerings. Try iconic dishes that Ypsilanti is famous for, such as a unique take on the classic omelet or pancakes. Enjoy conversations with local chefs who share their culinary secrets and passion for food.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, visit a local bakery to learn about the baking process and enjoy fresh bread or pastries right from the oven. Join a food workshop that focuses on a specific cuisine, where you can learn to prepare a traditional dish from scratch. Explore local markets in search of unique ingredients that make Ypsilanti’s cuisine stand out.

evening
:

For dinner, indulge in a multi-course meal at a renowned restaurant that highlights seasonal and local ingredients. Engage in a wine pairing experience, where you can discover the perfect matches for each course. Conclude your culinary journey with dessert at a local ice cream shop, savoring handmade flavors that capture the essence of Ypsilanti.

day 9
Relaxation and Wellness Day
morning
:

Treat yourself to a relaxing start with a yoga class at a local studio, focusing on mindfulness and rejuvenation. After your class, enjoy a wholesome breakfast at a health-focused café, featuring smoothies and organic options. Spend some time at a nearby park, meditating or reading in the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Pamper yourself with a spa treatment at a local wellness center, choosing from massages, facials, or holistic therapies. Enjoy a light lunch made from fresh, local ingredients at a nearby bistro that promotes wellness. After lunch, visit a holistic shop to explore natural remedies and wellness products unique to the area.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, reflect on your wellness journey over a nourishing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Engage in light-hearted conversations with fellow diners, sharing stories about your day of relaxation. End your evening with a calming tea ceremony at a local tea shop, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as you unwind.

Discover Ypsilanti

Read more in our Ypsilanti 2025 Travel Guide.

Ypsilanti Travel Guide