Founded 161 years ago, Eastern Michigan University has had multiple local businesses that have been students favorite spots to study, relax and chill with friends. Places that have lasted over the years (such as Sidetracks, Frog Island Park and Abe’s) have known the footsteps of the past.
Thousands of people have sat in the same spots, ordered the same food and given their money to places that have been around since before most of us were even alive. Everyone has his or her favorite spot, but what are really the top places to visit?
As October rolls in, the need for Halloween costumes increases and where to find one becomes a frequently asked question.
Cross Street’s costume shop Fantasy Attic offers a huge variety of costumes, accessories and makeup for the shopper. In addition it provides a rental shop that helps the consumers find just what they’re seeking for the holiday season.
“The Ypsi/Arbor Bowling Ally is one of my favorite places to go,” said Christopher Hallums, junior public relations major. “They provide an atmosphere that is easy to enjoy. Plus, Monday night is ‘College Night,’ so it is only one dollar per game, and a dollar for shoes. You can’t beat it.”
The Ypsilanti Co-op offers up many options for any palate or food preference. Local farmers help stock the shelves and tables with organic vegetables, breads and meats. Other options include the two farmer’s markets located in Depot Town (on Saturday) and Key Bank’s parking lot (on Tuesday). Each provides stands from local farmers, bakers and artists. With fair prices and a location close to campus, it’s a great way to spend the day and your money.
If you are looking for dinner and drinks, Sidetrack Bar and Grill might be right up your alley. With seating for almost 160 (varying slightly by season), this bar embraces Benjamin Franklin’s words of “Beer is proof that god Loves us and wants us to be happy.”
“The food is delicious. Their cheeseburgers are some of the best I’ve ever had,” said Scott Humes, Master Heath Economics student. “It’s an over-all, great restaurant and I enjoy taking my wife there.”
Another popular food stop to visit in Ypsi’s Depot Town is Cafe Luwak’s coffee and sandwich shop. An interesting twist to this shop is it hosts local artists’ paintings and art on its walls that are up for sale. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Cafe Luwak offers many delights, and it delivers.
However, for those who want to stay on campus, University Park is just a step or two away.
“Big Bob’s Lake House is a great place to go to just relax,” senior Jessie James T. Collins said. “During the summertime, you forget that you are in the middle of campus and you imagine that you are in a park instead of campus. In the winter you can go ice skating and it’s like being a small child again, playing by the water.”
A good source of historic humor is the Ypsilanti Water Tower. This landmark is a must see not only for historical value, but also for its phallic shape.
EMU