Looking for something to do when the weather is inclement or the kids are off on break? Luckily, Ann Arbor has plenty of museums to visit whether the Michigan weather is cooperating or not.
Here are some museums that make leaving the house well worth it, especially if you are seeking air conditioned activities in the summer or somewhere cozy, warm, and fun in the winter. Bring the kids for an inexpensive, enriching activity that will keep them busy.
Museum of Natural History University of Michigan
The University of Michigan, Natural History Museum, is a FREE activity. Located downtown, enjoy exhibits that explore the natural world, from start systems to dinosaurs. Photo: UMNHM
The UMNH museum recommends the Palmer Parking Structure at 200 Washtenaw Avenue for parking.
This museum has something for everyone – the Exploring Michigan exhibit celebrates our state’s rich geological formations, prehistoric life forms, and diverse ecosystems. Experience life-size dioramas of Michigan’s varied habitats and wildlife and hands-on activities that engage people of all ages.
The museum is informed by the University of Michigan researchers’ findings, and throughout the museum, you’ll see current research projects by U-M faculty at kiosks. For current exhibits, click here. For current planetarium and dome theater shows, click here.
The Palmer Visitor Parking Structure at 200 Washtenaw Avenue is north of the museum and is the recommended parking structure for visitors of the museum.
Hands-On Museum
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum seeks to create moments of discovery that inspire curiosity, exploration, and respect for STEM and the natural world. Toyota STEAM Park Photo: Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
The recommended parking garage for the Hands-On Museum is located at 220 N. Ashley, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.
Ann Arbor locals have fond memories of taking their children to the Hand’s Museum or even visiting it as a child. The museum is open Sunday, Tuesday-Saturday from 10-5. Admission is $16 or free for members.
The newly finished Toyota Steam Park results from over two decades of work with Toyota. It features interactive mechanical exhibits, such as Window Maze Ball Machine, Airfoil, and a first-in-the-world digital Roulette Curve.
Parking is available at Ann and Ashley Parking Structure at 220 North Ashley Street.
University of Michigan Museum of Art
The art at UMMA is culturally and historically rich, with categories ranging from Photography to Asian Art to Decorative Arts and Designs. Photo: UMMA
For parking there is metered street parking around the Museum and two parking structures two blocks away on Maynard Street and South Forest Avenue.
The University of Michigan Museum of Art, or the UMMA, is another free opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy some art. Visit the UMMA website for the current list of constantly changing exhibits. For current exhibits, UMMA Gift Shop always carries unique, curated products with new selections. Categories include Creativity, Japanese Culture, Fine-Art, and Contemporary Design.
The UMMA cafe offers salads, sandwiches, coffee, tea, and pastries. It is an excellent place to sit down and get some work done or take a quick break from touring the museum.
There is metered street parking around the Museum. Two parking structures are about two blocks away with Maynard Parking Structure on 324 Maynard Street between E. Liberty & E. William, and Forest Parking Structure on the corner of 650 South Forest Avenue and Willard Street.
University of Michigan Computer and Video Game Archive
The University of Michigan Video Game Archive. Photo: CVGA
For parking, a parking garage is available at 650 South Forest Avenue.
Located in the Shapiro Library on the University of Michigan’s Central Campus, The Computer and Video Game Archive offers an extensive collection of video games, consoles, board games, and more from the 1970s to today.
It is entertaining for everyone – from researchers to video game fanatics to newcomers. Try out the original Playstation or the Pacman table! To enjoy, reserve a spot at least two hours before.
There is some metered parking available around campus, and a parking garage is available at 650 South Forest Avenue.
Kelsey Museum of Archeology
Kelsey Museum of Archeology Exhibit. Photo: Kelsey Museum
When visiting Kelsey Museum of Archaeology you will find metered parking on Maynard Street, State Street, and East William Street. Metered parking is free after 6 PM on Mondays through Saturdays and all day on Sundays.
The Kelsey Museum of Archaeology houses more than 100,000 artifacts, of which approximately 1,500 are on permanent display; in addition, the museum mounts 2–3 special exhibitions annually.
As an exhibit museum at a public university, the Kelsey embraces a vigorous public outreach mission, engaging with residents and visitors of all ages from kindergarten through retirement. It also serves as the headquarters of the University of Michigan’s Classical Art and Archaeology graduate program. To view their exhibits, click this link.
Fun Year-Round in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is full of things to do during the hot and cold weather, from restaurants to shopping and these great museums. If you have any questions about the city, I am here to answer!
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