Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor
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Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor

4.6
·391 reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

A historic, covered arcade in Ann Arbor connecting State and Maynard Streets, filled with unique local shops and charming architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor

Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic, covered arcade in Ann Arbor connecting State and Maynard Streets, filled with unique local shops and charming architecture.

4.6
(391 reviews)

"A gorgeous arcade stuffed with great shops and a truly quintessentially Ann Arbor experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Grab a Coffee

Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break!

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bon Bon Bon Chocolates

Bon Bon Bon Chocolates

Inside Nickels Arcade

Indulge in exquisite, handcrafted chocolates that are as beautiful as they are delicious. A true culinary delight!

Vintage Arcade Games

Vintage Arcade Games

Pinball Pete's (nearby)

Relive classic gaming memories with a wide array of pinball and arcade machines. Pure retro fun!

Unique Local Boutiques

Unique Local Boutiques

Throughout the arcade

Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, and curiosities from Ann Arbor's independent retailers.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

The entire arcade

Admire the stunning dome architecture and timeless design of this early 20th-century marketplace.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Historic Charm

Step back in time at Nickels Arcade, a century-old gem. This covered walkway is packed with unique local shops, from artisanal chocolates to vintage games. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and discovering hidden treasures.

Plan Your Visit Wisely

While Nickels Arcade is charming, some visitors note it's more about the atmosphere than extensive shopping. Consider it a delightful detour for unique finds and a taste of Ann Arbor's history, rather than a full-day destination.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Lively atmosphere, fresh goods
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

my brother proceeded to absolutely whoop my ass after I ran 180 MPH into the barrier wall and did a spinning flip in the air that destroyed my hood #arcade #daytona #arcadegame #annarbor #DAYUHTOHNAAA #LETSGOAUHAWAY
@gaybabyoatmeal
29.8K likes • 224.2K views

☕ Grab a Coffee

Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break! Reddit

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade. TikTok

Nickels Arcade #cuocsongomy #review #xuhuong #khampha #trainghiem #michigan #viral #annarbor #khuongmichigan @Khương Michigan @Khương Michigan @Khương Michigan
@phnhatkhuong
11.1K likes • 107.8K views
Check out Nickels Arcade! Just a short walk from YOUnion Ann Arbor ☀️
sagaannarbor
12 likes • 671 views

📸 Capture the Vibe

The architecture and eclectic shops make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Discover

Take your time to wander through the arcade and soak in its historic atmosphere. Instagram

Welcome back to Post-It Notes! 🎬 We’re starting the season in one of Ann Arbor’s most iconic spots: Nickels Arcade. But we didn’t just walk the arcade… We went underneath it. 👀 ✨ Toured the rarely seen “catacombs” 🍫 Scored chocolates from Bon Bon Bon 📜 And uncovered a bit of A2 history you can’t see from street level Think you know Nickels Arcade? Think again. 🎥 Watch to the end for a sweet su...
oliviapostrealestate
16 likes • 529 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Grab a Coffee

Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break! Reddit

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade. TikTok

📸 Capture the Vibe

The architecture and eclectic shops make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Discover

Take your time to wander through the arcade and soak in its historic atmosphere. Instagram

🕹️ Hit the Games

Don't miss Pinball Pete's nearby for a dose of classic arcade fun! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(391 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nickels Arcade is cherished as a historic and charming spot in Ann Arbor, praised for its unique local shops and beautiful architecture. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to discover artisanal treats and one-of-a-kind items. While some note it's more about the ambiance than extensive retail, it's considered a quintessential Ann Arbor experience.

"Love it here! Such a cool spot, if you go there you have to try BonBonBon and their chocolate creations! Here you can check all the antiques and crafts, go to the barber or have your electronics fixed, need a new frame or some amazing wall art? Just go there, how about some coffee and pastries 🥐 ? They have it too…
Perfect place for a slow stroll ☺️"

Rediane Longoria

"A great historic spot with unique shops and beautiful architecture. Great for a quick stroll and local finds!"

Kemaya samuels

"Very neat building. Not much here other than some local shops. Worth a quick stop to take in the building and grab a cup of coffee."

Nick Edens

What People Like

Historic architecture
Unique local shops
Artisanal chocolates

What People Dislike

Limited retail options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Nickels Arcade is conveniently located in downtown Ann Arbor, linking State Street and Maynard Street. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the downtown area. Parking is available in nearby garages like the Maynard Street Garage or Liberty Square Garage. Instagram+1

Yes, Nickels Arcade is very close to the University of Michigan campus, making it a popular spot for students and visitors alike. Instagram+1

Downtown Ann Arbor is very walkable. For longer distances, TheRide offers public bus services. Many visitors find that walking is the easiest way to explore the area around Nickels Arcade. Instagram

Yes, several parking garages are available near Nickels Arcade, including the Maynard Street Garage and Liberty Square Garage. Street parking may also be available but can be limited. Instagram

Absolutely! Nickels Arcade is a 261-foot-long gallery that connects State Street directly to Maynard Street, offering two convenient entry points. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter Nickels Arcade. It's a public walkway and shopping area, so you can freely explore its shops and architecture. TikTok

The arcade itself is generally accessible during daylight hours, but individual shop hours may vary. It's best to check the specific hours for any shops you plan to visit. Some shops are open until Christmas daily. Instagram

There are no entrance fees for the shops. You only pay for any purchases you make. TikTok

Yes, Nickels Arcade is open year-round, though holiday magic is particularly present during the festive season. Instagram

While some visitors have brought pets like dogs into the arcade (e.g., Stitch the malamute Instagram), it's always best to check with individual shop owners regarding their pet policies, as not all may be pet-friendly.

🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience

Nickels Arcade hosts a variety of unique local shops, including artisanal chocolate makers like Bon Bon Bon, vintage clothing stores, gift shops, a barber shop, a florist, and even an old-fashioned tobacconist. Instagram+3

It's a fantastic place for unique finds and supporting local businesses. While not a large mall, it offers a curated selection of specialty shops you won't find elsewhere. Instagram+1

The atmosphere is often described as comfortable, chill, and historic. It's a great place for a slow stroll and to soak in the vintage charm. Instagram+1

While Nickels Arcade itself doesn't house arcades, the very popular Pinball Pete's, known for its extensive collection of arcade and pinball games, is located just nearby. TikTok

Yes, the independent shops within Nickels Arcade are perfect for finding unique souvenirs, local crafts, and distinctive gifts. Instagram+1

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Comet Coffee is a popular spot located within Nickels Arcade, offering coffee and pastries. It's a great place to relax and refuel. InstagramReddit

While Nickels Arcade is primarily a shopping destination, it features excellent spots like Bon Bon Bon for artisanal chocolates and Comet Coffee for beverages and pastries. InstagramReddit

The standout food specialty is undoubtedly the handcrafted chocolates from Bon Bon Bon. You can also find coffee and other baked goods at Comet Coffee. InstagramReddit

Yes, Comet Coffee offers pastries, and Bon Bon Bon has delightful chocolate treats, making it ideal for a quick snack while exploring. InstagramReddit

Nickels Arcade focuses more on specialty shops and cafes rather than full-service restaurants. For a wider dining selection, explore the surrounding downtown Ann Arbor area. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire arcade is a photographer's dream! Focus on the unique dome architecture, the intricate details of the shopfronts, and the vibrant displays of the local boutiques. The black and white aesthetic is particularly striking. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The symmetry, unique color palettes, and vintage feel of Nickels Arcade lend themselves perfectly to Wes Anderson-inspired photography. Instagram

Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting as the arcade lights begin to glow. However, the unique atmosphere can be captured at any time. Instagram

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from shop owners before taking extensive photos inside their establishments. Instagram

Don't miss the iconic dome ceiling, the vintage storefronts, and the overall sense of historic preservation. The 'catacombs' beneath the arcade also offer a unique photographic perspective if accessible. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nickels Arcade offers a delightful experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the unique shops, especially the colorful chocolates at Bon Bon Bon Instagram and the nearby arcade games at Pinball Pete's.TikTok The historic architecture provides a visually engaging environment for a leisurely stroll. It's a great place for a short outing where children can discover interesting items and enjoy a sweet treat.

🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds

For those who love discovering one-of-a-kind items, Nickels Arcade is a must-visit. The arcade is packed with independent boutiques offering everything from artisanal goods and vintage clothing to unique gifts and specialty items. Instagram+1 It's the perfect place to find something truly special that you won't see anywhere else, supporting local Ann Arbor businesses in the process.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Nickels Arcade to be a treasure trove of visual inspiration. The historic architecture, the charming shopfronts, and the overall vintage aesthetic provide ample opportunities for stunning shots. Instagram+1 Capture the iconic dome, the unique displays, and the 'Wes Anderson' vibes that make this arcade so photogenic. It's an excellent location for both casual snaps and more artistic endeavors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Ann Arbor's History

Nickels Arcade, built between 1915 and 1918, is a significant historical landmark in Ann Arbor. It was designed by architect Hermann Pipp and constructed by A.R. Cole & Co. for Tom E. Nickels, the grandson of a local meat shop owner. Instagram The arcade was conceived as a modern marketplace, a concept that was quite innovative for its time. Its enduring architecture, characterized by a distinctive dome, has preserved its charm and historical integrity for over a century. Instagram+1

Walking through Nickels Arcade is like stepping back in time. The preserved storefronts and the overall ambiance evoke a sense of nostalgia. Visitors can explore the 'catacombs' beneath the arcade, which offer a rarely seen glimpse into its infrastructure and history, adding another layer to the visitor experience. Instagram This historical context makes Nickels Arcade more than just a shopping destination; it's a living piece of Ann Arbor's past.

The Unique Shopping Experience

Nickels Arcade is celebrated for its collection of independent and unique local shops, offering a refreshing alternative to mainstream retail. Visitors can find everything from artisanal chocolates at Bon Bon Bon, renowned for their exquisite creations,Instagram to curated menswear at Van Boven, praised for its quality and style. [^Review] The arcade also houses a florist, a barber shop, and gift shops, providing a diverse range of products and services. Instagram+1

This concentration of small businesses fosters a strong sense of community and local pride. Many of these shops have been part of the arcade for years, contributing to its established character. Instagram The experience of shopping here is often described as comfortable and chill, encouraging visitors to take their time and discover hidden treasures. Instagram It's an ideal spot for finding unique gifts or personal treats that reflect the spirit of Ann Arbor.

Photography Opportunities

The architectural beauty and eclectic nature of Nickels Arcade make it a prime location for photography enthusiasts. The iconic dome ceiling, the vintage storefronts, and the overall historic ambiance create a visually rich environment. Instagram+1 Photographers often highlight the arcade's 'Wes Anderson vibes,' noting its symmetry, unique color palettes, and nostalgic feel, which are perfect for creating stylized shots. Instagram

Whether you're capturing the intricate details of the shops, the play of light through the dome, or the general atmosphere, Nickels Arcade offers endless possibilities. Black and white photography can particularly enhance the timeless quality of the arcade. Instagram Visitors are encouraged to explore different angles and perspectives to capture the essence of this Ann Arbor landmark. Remember to be respectful of the shops and other visitors while taking photos.

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