Since its creation over 200 years ago, the University of Michigan has become one of the top educational institutions in the world, known for its leadership in academic performance, inspiring arts and culture and powerful sports teams. Stroll along quiet paths past stone buildings covered in ivy and step inside the “Big House,” where some of the best U.S. college football players meet their rivals.
Over 40,000 students from around the world attend the university on its 3,200 acres (1,300 hectares) on two main campuses in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Visit some of the nearly 60 arts and culture venues on campus, such as the University of Michigan Museum of Art, the historic Michigan Theater, the more modern Arthur Miller Theatre and the Lurie Bell Tower. The Law Library is a surprisingly interesting building, appreciated for its very recognizable Gothic exterior and beautiful interior with stained-glass windows and warm wood furnishings.
In size and popularity, Michigan Stadium is the biggest attraction on campus, with seating for over 100,000 fans during Wolverine football games. Book in advance for an event ticket or a stadium tour. Hill Auditorium is the school’s largest performing arts venue, popular for symphonic orchestra concerts, dance productions, lectures and rock concerts. Most events are open to the public.
The university’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens provide serene space near the North Campus core to see an experimental farm, hike trails and study native and non-native plants indoors, a pleasant spot to spend a wintry afternoon. Visit the Nichols Arboretum on the Main Campus to appreciate natural plantings including a huge peony garden and colorful lilacs and rhododendrons.
Fly to the Detroit Metropolitan International Airport and drive or take a taxi or shuttle the 25 miles (40 kilometers) to the University of Michigan campus. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, coffee shops and bars near campus. Note that accommodations fill during special school events, such as big football games or graduation, so book a place to stay well in advance of your visit.