State Street District
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State Street District

4.6
·491k reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

Vibrant hub of Ann Arbor, known for unique shops, diverse dining, and lively events like the Art Fair.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

CrowdLow
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State Street District

State Street District

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vibrant hub of Ann Arbor, known for unique shops, diverse dining, and lively events like the Art Fair.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"State Street District is a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment with a lively community feel."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore unique boutiques and bookstores like Literati and Vault of Midnight.

🎨 Art Fair Must-Do

Don't miss the Ann Arbor Art Fair for art, music, and artisan goods.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Independent Boutiques & Bookstores

Independent Boutiques & Bookstores

State Street

Discover unique treasures in local shops and get lost in the aisles of charming bookstores.

TikTok
Ann Arbor Art Fair

Ann Arbor Art Fair

State Street District

Experience a massive celebration of art with thousands of artisans and live music.

Instagram
Game Day Tailgate

Game Day Tailgate

State Street

Join the electric atmosphere for Michigan football game watches with giant screens and food.

Instagram
Glimmer Gifts + Goods

Glimmer Gifts + Goods

State Street District

Explore a unique retail shop offering one-of-a-kind gifts and artisanal goods.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

State Street District is a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Explore unique local boutiques and bookstores, and don't miss the diverse culinary scene. Plan your visit around local events for an even richer experience. TikTok

Event-Driven Exploration

The district truly comes alive during its many festivals and events, like the renowned Ann Arbor Art Fair. Check the local calendar before you go to catch live music, art showcases, and community gatherings. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Crowd
Low
When
Art Fair dates
Why
Experience vibrant festivals and live music.
Crowd
High
When
Football game days
Why
Immerse in the energetic game-day spirit.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

SAVE for your next trip to Ann Arbor! Tree Town is filled with so many fun things to do this summer. Which of these would be your first pick on a visit here? 1️⃣ Walk around downtown to visit all of the amazing local shops and bookstores, like @literatibookstore and @vaultofmidnight 2️⃣ Dive into A2’s incredible food scene. Make sure you visit @kerrytownshops, @sparrowmarket and the @a2market on...
@brimitchelltravels
3.3K likes • 223.6K views

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore unique boutiques and bookstores like Literati and Vault of Midnight. TikTok

🎨 Art Fair Must-Do

Don't miss the Ann Arbor Art Fair for art, music, and artisan goods. Instagram

View of State Street from the alleyway.. . . . #chicago #Chicagodowntown #chicagoplaces #chicagoloop #chicahophotographer #chicagosouthloop #explore #explorechicago State Street, Chicago Theatre, Downtown Chicago
chicago.lg
701 likes • 7.6K views
🖼️ The @annarborartfair is going on through Saturday July 20th in @annarbor. 3️⃣fairs are combined into one huge fair! Street Art Fair, The Original, State Street District Art Fair, and The Guild’s Summer Art Fair will amaze you. 🎨 Get up close and purchase goods from thousands of local, national and even international artisans! 🎶 Enjoy live music at the Fountain Stage. 🖌️ Make sure you visi...
michiganmomofone
459 likes • 43.3K views

🏈 Game Day Excitement

Join the tailgate for Michigan football games on State Street. Instagram

🎁 Unique Gift Finds

Discover special items at Glimmer Gifts + Goods. Instagram

We're excited to announce the opening of Glimmer Gifts + Goods, a truly unique new retail shop in the State Street District! You could just see the glimmer in owner Lisa Zahn's eyes as she cut the ribbon along with the MBA Board and Media Borough officials! ✨🎀🎉 Whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind birthday gift, special something for a teacher or co-worker, housewarming present, or thoughtf...
visitmediapa
114 likes • 3.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Shop Local Gems

Explore unique boutiques and bookstores like Literati and Vault of Midnight. TikTok

🎨 Art Fair Must-Do

Don't miss the Ann Arbor Art Fair for art, music, and artisan goods. Instagram

🏈 Game Day Excitement

Join the tailgate for Michigan football games on State Street. Instagram

🎁 Unique Gift Finds

Discover special items at Glimmer Gifts + Goods. Instagram

🍔 Local Eats

Try local favorites like Blimpy Burger for a true Ann Arbor taste. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the State Street District's vibrant atmosphere, diverse shopping, and excellent dining options. The district truly shines during its many festivals and events, offering a lively community feel. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and it can get crowded during popular events.

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Unique local shops
Diverse dining

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Crowds during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The State Street District is easily accessible in downtown Ann Arbor. If driving, there are several parking garages and street parking options available. Public transportation, including TheRide bus system, also serves the area frequently. Many visitors find it convenient to walk around the district once they arrive. TikTok

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours or events. The Maynard Street Garage and Liberty Square Garage are popular options. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles. Instagram

Absolutely! The State Street District is very walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions located close to each other. It's the best way to soak in the atmosphere. TikTok

Yes, TheRide, Ann Arbor's public bus system, has numerous routes that stop in or near the State Street District, making it a convenient option for visitors. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended to fully experience the charm of the State Street District. You can easily discover hidden gems and enjoy the street's lively ambiance. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the State Street District itself is a public area and does not require tickets for general access. However, specific events held within the district, like concerts or ticketed festivals, may require admission. Instagram

Shop hours can vary, but most boutiques and bookstores on State Street are typically open from late morning to early evening, with extended hours on weekends. It's always a good idea to check individual store hours online before your visit. TikTok

The Ann Arbor Art Fair is generally free to attend, allowing visitors to browse and enjoy the art and entertainment without an admission fee. Instagram

While service animals are always welcome, many shops and restaurants may have policies against pets. It's best to keep your furry friends at home or check with individual establishments. Instagram

Weekends and evenings can be busy, especially during events or football game days. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning or early afternoon. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

State Street is known for its diverse range of independent shops, including unique boutiques, bookstores like Literati, and specialty stores such as Vault of Midnight for comics and games. TikTok

The district offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries and cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can find everything from quick bites to international cuisine. Reddit

Yes, several cafes offer great coffee and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a break while exploring the district. TikTok

Don't miss out on local favorites! Redditors often recommend places like Blimpy Burger for a classic burger experience. Reddit

Absolutely! Shops like Glimmer Gifts + Goods offer unique, artisanal items perfect for souvenirs or gifts. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Spots

Capture the vibrant street life, unique storefronts, and the iconic Ann Arbor Theatre. The alleys can offer interesting perspectives, as seen in some local shots. Instagram

Yes, the colorful murals, charming shop facades, and the general buzz of the street provide plenty of Instagrammable moments. Look for unique architectural details and lively street scenes. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for capturing the district's ambiance. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer crowds and softer light. Instagram

Yes, events like the Ann Arbor Art Fair offer dynamic and colorful scenes perfect for photography, but be mindful of crowds and other attendees. Instagram

The historic Chicago Theatre marquee and the general streetscape of State Street itself are popular subjects for photographers. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The State Street District offers a family-friendly environment with plenty of opportunities for exploration. Kids will enjoy browsing the unique toy and book sections in stores like Literati Bookstore and Vault of Midnight. The lively atmosphere during events like the Ann Arbor Art Fair can also be exciting for children, with colorful displays and street performers. TikTokInstagram

When hunger strikes, numerous casual dining options cater to younger palates. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as exploring can lead to spontaneous discoveries. The walkable nature of the district makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and many shops are welcoming to families. TikTok

🛍️ Shoppers & Art Enthusiasts

For those who love to shop and appreciate art, State Street is a paradise. The district is renowned for its independent boutiques and artisan shops, offering everything from unique fashion to handcrafted goods. The Ann Arbor Art Fair is a major draw, providing an unparalleled opportunity to view and purchase works from a vast array of artists. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the fair, year-round galleries and shops like Glimmer Gifts + Goods offer curated selections of art and artisanal products. Take your time to wander through the streets, discover hidden gems, and engage with local creators. It’s an ideal destination for finding distinctive pieces and supporting local talent. Instagram

🏈 Sports Fans

If you're a fan of Michigan football, a visit to the State Street District during game season is a must. The area buzzes with energy, hosting game-watch tailgates with large screens and a lively crowd. It's the perfect place to experience the passionate #GoBlue spirit and feel the community's excitement. Instagram

Even outside of game days, the district's connection to the University of Michigan is evident. You'll find plenty of spirit wear and memorabilia in local shops. The overall atmosphere is one of youthful energy and strong community pride, making it an engaging spot for any sports enthusiast. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ann Arbor Art Fair Experience

The Ann Arbor Art Fair is a major highlight for the State Street District, transforming it into a massive outdoor gallery. This event, often held in July, combines multiple art fairs into one spectacular showcase, featuring thousands of artists from local, national, and international backgrounds. Visitors can expect to find a diverse range of art, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and ceramics. Instagram

Beyond the visual arts, the fair is a sensory delight with live music performances scattered throughout the district, adding to the festive atmosphere. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover and purchase unique pieces directly from the creators, making for a memorable souvenir or a significant addition to any art collection. The sheer scale and vibrancy of the fair make it a must-attend event for anyone visiting Ann Arbor during its run. Instagram

Pro-tip: Arrive early to beat the biggest crowds and have more time to explore the vast array of art. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking, and be prepared for potentially warm weather. Instagram

Game Day Spirit on State Street

When the Michigan Wolverines are playing, State Street transforms into a hub of electrifying energy. The district embraces the Michigan football spirit with dedicated game-watch events, often featuring giant screens set up in public spaces. This creates a communal atmosphere where fans can gather, cheer, and celebrate the team's performance. Instagram

These game-watch tailgates are more than just watching a game; they are a full-blown experience. Expect food vendors, entertainment, and a sea of maize and blue. It's a chance for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the passionate culture of Michigan football, even if they aren't at the stadium. The collective excitement is palpable and offers a unique glimpse into the local identity. Instagram

Planning your visit: If you're a football fan, timing your trip to coincide with a home game can be incredibly rewarding. Be aware that the district will be very crowded, so plan your transportation and dining accordingly. Instagram

Exploring Local Boutiques and Bookstores

State Street is a haven for shoppers seeking unique finds beyond typical chain stores. The district boasts a collection of independent boutiques and beloved local bookstores, offering a more personal and curated shopping experience. Stores like Literati Bookstore and Vault of Midnight are frequently highlighted for their extensive selections and inviting atmospheres. TikTok

These establishments are more than just places to buy things; they are community hubs. You can spend hours browsing shelves, discovering new authors, or finding one-of-a-kind gifts. The charm of these shops lies in their individuality and the passion of their owners, making a stroll down State Street a delightful adventure for any shopper. TikTok

Insider tip: Don't be afraid to chat with the shop owners or staff; they often have great recommendations for other local spots or hidden gems within the district. TikTok

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