Ferry Field - Image 1
1 / 10

Ferry Field Ann Arbor

4.7
·64 reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

Historic track and field venue, famed for Jesse Owens' 1935 records. A public space honoring athletic legacy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for running

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Ferry Field - Image 1

Ferry Field Ann Arbor

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, ideal for running

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic track and field venue, famed for Jesse Owens' 1935 records. A public space honoring athletic legacy.

4.7
(64 reviews)

"Such a gorgeous field! Very well maintained and lots of history there."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Practice Schedules

Public access is limited during UM track practices. Check schedules to avoid disappointment. :calendar:

Respect Outer Lanes

Use lanes 3 & 4 for cool-downs to not disturb athletes training. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jesse Owens' Historic Performance

Jesse Owens' Historic Performance

Ferry Field Track

Commemorates Jesse Owens' legendary 1935 meet where he set three world records and tied another in 45 minutes.

World Athletics Heritage Plaque

World Athletics Heritage Plaque

Ferry Field

A significant marker honoring Jesse Owens' iconic track and field legacy and his achievements at this site.

Community Events & Tailgates

Community Events & Tailgates

Ferry Field

Hosts various community events, including 5k races and large tailgate parties, especially during homecoming.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Understand Ferry Field's Legacy

Ferry Field is a historic track and field venue, most famous for Jesse Owens' incredible performance in 1935. While its future is uncertain, it remains a public facility for running and events. Check for practice times before visiting.

Public Access & Etiquette

The track at Ferry Field is generally open to the public when not in use for official practices or events. Be mindful of student-athletes and clubs using the facility. Stick to outer lanes for recovery laps to avoid disrupting training.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, ideal for running
Crowd
Low
When
Event days
Why
Experience lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ann Arbor, Michigan #annarbor #michigan #detroit
@o.detetive77
6.3K likes • 61.3K views

Check Practice Schedules

Public access is limited during UM track practices. Check schedules to avoid disappointment. :calendar:

Respect Outer Lanes

Use lanes 3 & 4 for cool-downs to not disturb athletes training. :athletic_shoe:

I will literally never forget this moment #fyp #annarbor #foryoupage #michigan
@kendall.murray
4.4K likes • 64.5K views
The (first annual?) Ferry Field 5k is in the books. 📚 A huge thank you goes out to our friend @oliviakwiat for putting together this grassroots women's time trial. Highlights include... 👉 @sarahkbrewer pacing several women to sub-19:00, just three days before defending her PhD dissertation 👉 @_kellybabcock and @eshortie247 using their radiant, rallying spirits to keep the pack together for as ...
playmakersracing
271 likes • 13.5K views

Historic Marker Visit

See the monument commemorating Jesse Owens' incredible achievements. :camerawithflash:

Event Day Buzz

Experience the energy of 5k races or homecoming tailgates. :tada:

2nd Annual Ferry Field 5k #annarbor #5k
ricosamigos
37 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Practice Schedules

Public access is limited during UM track practices. Check schedules to avoid disappointment. :calendar:

Respect Outer Lanes

Use lanes 3 & 4 for cool-downs to not disturb athletes training. :athletic_shoe:

Historic Marker Visit

See the monument commemorating Jesse Owens' incredible achievements. :camerawithflash:

Event Day Buzz

Experience the energy of 5k races or homecoming tailgates. :tada:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(64 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ferry Field for its historical significance, particularly its connection to Jesse Owens, and its accessibility as a public facility. While some note its maintenance can vary seasonally and its future is uncertain, many appreciate it as a well-maintained, gorgeous field with a rich past.

"Free and accessible. One of the best public facilities around. Not maintained in the winter but usually lanes one and two are still available you around. No there are other individuals, clubs and teams that use this facility so recovery laps need to be taken on lanes three and four."

Ward Freeman

"I had the pleasure of providing balloon decor for a corporate tailgate party"

Top Notch Balloon Creations

"Such a gorgeous field! Very well maintained and lots of history there."

RETIREDMCO1199 “God is good!”

What People Like

Historic Jesse Owens site
Free public access
Well-maintained field

What People Dislike

Future uncertain
Seasonal maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ferry Field is located on the University of Michigan's campus in Ann Arbor. It's accessible by car, with nearby parking options, and is also reachable via public transportation routes serving the university area. TikTok

Parking availability can vary, especially on event days or during university hours. It's advisable to check the University of Michigan's parking services for the most up-to-date information on visitor parking lots near Ferry Field. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Ferry Field is generally open to the public for running and recreation when not in use for official university practices or events. Reddit

No, general access to Ferry Field for public use does not require a ticket. However, specific events held at Ferry Field may have their own admission policies. Instagram

There are no set operating hours for public access as it's an outdoor facility. However, access is restricted during scheduled university practices and events. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Reddit

🎫 🏃 Onsite Experience

Absolutely! Ferry Field features an outdoor track that is available for public use, provided it's not occupied by university teams or events. Reddit

Ferry Field is historically significant as the site where Jesse Owens set three world records and tied another in a single afternoon in 1935. It's recognized by the World Athletics Heritage Plaque. Instagram

While primarily an outdoor track and field venue, basic amenities like restrooms might be available depending on event schedules. It's a public facility focused on athletic activities. TikTok

Ferry Field hosts various events, including 5k races, community gatherings, and large tailgate parties, particularly during homecoming celebrations for the University of Michigan. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The World Athletics Heritage Plaque commemorating Jesse Owens is a prime photo opportunity. The track itself and the surrounding campus provide scenic backdrops. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed during public access times and most events. However, professional photography or filming may require special permits. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Athletes & Runners

Ferry Field offers a historic outdoor track for your running needs. Remember that it's a shared space, so be mindful of official practices and use outer lanes for recovery to respect student-athletes. Reddit The track is generally accessible during daylight hours when not in use for events. Reddit

It's a unique experience to run on a track with such a rich athletic history, especially knowing Jesse Owens' legendary feats took place here. Instagram

History Buffs & Sports Fans

For those interested in sports history, Ferry Field is a must-visit. The World Athletics Heritage Plaque commemorates Jesse Owens' unparalleled performance in 1935, making it a significant historical site. Instagram+1

Take time to appreciate the legacy of this venue and the iconic athletes who have graced its surface. It's a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in athletic history. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Jesse Owens at Ferry Field

Ferry Field holds a special place in track and field history thanks to the legendary Jesse Owens. On May 25, 1935, during the Big Ten Conference meet held here, Owens delivered a performance for the ages. In a span of just 45 minutes, he set three world records and tied another in the 100-meter dash. This incredible feat cemented his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time and made Ferry Field a landmark of athletic achievement. Instagram+1

The site is now marked by the World Athletics Heritage Plaque, a testament to its historical significance. This plaque not only honors Owens' individual accomplishments but also his enduring impact on the sport. Visitors can see this marker and reflect on the extraordinary moments that unfolded on this very ground. Instagram

While the future of the facility has been a topic of discussion, its current status as a public track and its historical importance remain. It's a place where athletic history was made, and it continues to be a site for community events and recreation. Reddit

Public Access and Community Use

Ferry Field serves as a valuable public amenity in Ann Arbor, offering an outdoor track for recreational runners and fitness enthusiasts. As noted by locals, the track is generally open to the public when not in use for official University of Michigan track and field practices or scheduled events. Reddit

When visiting, it's important to be considerate of the athletes who use the facility for training. Redditors suggest using the outer lanes (lanes three and four) for recovery laps or cool-downs to avoid disrupting the training sessions of individuals, clubs, and teams. This simple etiquette ensures a positive experience for everyone. Reddit

Beyond individual use, Ferry Field is a hub for community events. It has hosted events like the Ferry Field 5k races and large tailgate parties, particularly during homecoming weekends for the University of Michigan. These events highlight the field's role in bringing the Ann Arbor community together. Instagram+1

You may also like