Welcome to Ypsilanti!
Now that you’re here, you’re probably wondering whether there’s anything to do between classes and all-night study sessions. Have no fear — here are six ideas to jump-start your Ypsi adventures!
Depot Town
Located a short walk from campus, Depot Town features a host of great activities for students of all ages. Want food? Try Aubree’s, Sidetracks or Cafe Luwak. If history’s your thing, stop by the Yankee Air Museum or the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Collection. Or, just enjoy a stroll past the historic storefronts. Depot Town is a must-see. (http://www.depottown.org)
Frog Island Park
Enjoy scenic views of the river or the woods. Pack a lunch, some music and a Frisbee to make a picnic, or stroll from Frog Island across the bridge to Riverside Park. There’s ample room for football, soccer and a track for running. Frog Island Park is also a great place to watch the trains scream past.
Tower Inn
Adjacent to campus, residing in the shadow of Ypsilanti’s famous water tower, Tower Inn is a great place to go for a tasty lunch on a budget or for some drinks after class. If you’re looking for some extra entertainment, Tower’s got it. Sunday nights are comedy nights, featuring an open mic for aspiring comics; and a headliner and local improv group, The Corner Comedy Troupe. Every Wednesday, get your rock star on with karaoke night, hosted by Stoo’s Karaoke. Both shows begin at 10, as does happy hour, which includes half off all appetizers.
(http://www.towerinncafe.com)
Wiard’s Orchard
Owned by the Wiard family since 1853, Wiard’s Orchard features a cider mill/country store, a country fair and their haunted house, Night Terrors. Whether you want to enjoy some cider and donuts or participate in the 19 attractions included in the admission price for the country fair, there is something for everyone and every budget at Wiard’s. Beginning September 26, Wiard’s opens Night Terrors, a haunted house including 115 live monsters, and, according to Rose Timbers of Wiard’s, “in your face, close-up terror.” (http://www.wiards.com)
Elbow Room
Elbow Room is Ypsilanti’s top spot for live bands, but they offer much more. Every Thursday night is Mofo Karaoke, where you get on stage and fulfill your rock star fantasy. Once a month, Rockin’ Rummage comes in and provides an opportunity to buy and sell rock memorabilia and other fun stuff. The Elbow Room also features “Elbow Deep,” Ypsilanti’s only gay dance night on the last Tuesday of every month, complete with great dance music and a drag show. (http://www.ypsielbow.com)
Bombadill’s
Located on Michigan Avenue, Bombadill’s is one of Ypsilanti’s premier coffee shops. Their baked goods are homemade, their sandwiches are first-rate and their staff serves you with a smile. Cushy seating might present a challenge for studying, but makes quiet talks over good lattes as easy as a homemade brownie. If you enjoy Euchre, make sure you stop by on Thursday nights for Euchre Night or live acoustic guitar music on Friday nights. (http://www.bombadills.com)
No matter what your taste, Ypsilanti has enough fun to satisfy any appetite. So don’t let your world end where campus hits Cross Street. Get out there and enjoy your time in Ypsilanti.
After you’re done with your all-night study session, of course.