Things To Do
Downtown Ann Arbor
For a more lively adventure, explore the city home to Noah's alma mater! FAVORITE BREAKFAST & LUNCH SPOTS Zingerman's Delicatessen (nationally-renowned Jewish deli!) Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery (local chain that sources local!) Frita Batidos (Noah's favorite - mostly different menu than the Welcome Party!) Jerusalem Garden (Mediterranean flavors!) Blank Slate Creamery (the best ice cream!) Avalon Cafe & Kitchen (amazing brunch!) First Bite (local, healthy brunch!) Pizza Bob's (A2 famous, try a Chipati "salad"!) ATTRACTIONS Explore the University of Michigan campus (Noah's alma mater!) Visit Argus Farm Stop for local groceries and the best coffee/matcha/tea Explore Kerrytown Market & Shops (note - Farmer's Market on Saturday!) Hike through the Nichols Arboretum for nature and river views Visit the locally-beloved Literati bookstore
Downtown Dexter
For a quieter reprieve, explore Noah and Nicki's city of residence. Dexter is like entering the world of your favorite small-town show. Parking is free and abundant! Explore local shops and restaurants, or meander your way down to the River Walk for a stroll along the Huron River. Grab a coffee/matcha/tea or snack at Nicki's favorite coffee shop, Joe and Rosie's on Main Street.
Local Gems
RESTAURANTS El Harissa (just go, trust us!) Juicy Kitchen (healthy brunch!) La Marsa - Dexter Location (Noah & Nicki's favorite Lebanese food!) HOMES Brewery - Brewpub (unique food & local taps!) The Dixboro Project (order lunch/pizzas, treats & drinks from the cafe & enjoy a picnic lunch by the river!) HIKING TRAILS Fox Science Preserve (explore local geology & secluded views!) Burns-Stokes Preserve (listen to the river rapids & pay respect to its history) Bandemer Nature Area & Argo Nature Area Gallup Park & Furstenberg Nature Area Bird Hills Nature Area Matthaei Botanical Gardens (the indoor conservatory is a must-see!)
Nicki's Favorite Hikes
PICKEREL LAKE A little ways out from Ann Arbor -- walk the beautiful Potawatomi and Crooked Lake Trails for glittering views of the secluded, spring-fed Pickerel Lake. A favorite hiking and paddling spot for Nicki all summer long! No official address. For directions, select "Pickerel Lake Access" on Google Maps. The address is listed as: Unnamed Road, Gregory, MI 48137 After your hike, consider a beverage, ice cream or snack at the cafe, NautiMI on the River, located on the Huron River Chain of Lakes. Home to lots of fun Michigan souvenirs! Otherwise, head back through downtown Dexter for a bite to eat! BARTON NATURE AREA 1010 W Huron River Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Nicki's go-to Ann Arbor hiking spot. Walk up to the lake and sit on the dock to enjoy beautiful views. Or, cross the bridge on your right and meander down the trails to find yourself with a mesmerizing view of the Huron River.