After one of the coldest, snowiest winters in southeastern Michigan history, weve spent this week eagerly embracing the first warm breezes of the season. Now that its safe to wander beyond the confines of your home, school or office, weve put together a list of four perfect spring activities.
1. The Nichols Arboretum
The Nichols Arboretum (known to locals as the Arb) is one of the most bountiful outdoor landscapes in the region. The 123-acre park features beautiful trails, a stunning collection of plants, shrubs and blossoms, and scenic pathways along the Huron River. Large, open fields provide space for picnicking, sunning, Frisbee games and more. While the Arboretum offers something to see year-round (yes, even in February), we cant think of a better way to spend a warm spring day than taking in newly budding greenery.
One of Arbs best features is its location: the park is within walking or biking distance of many Ann Arbor neighborhoods, especially those located on the citys northeast side. Maintained by the University of Michigan, the Arb is free and open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset.
The Nichols Arboretum: 1610 Washington Hts., Ann Arbor, MI 48109
2. Your own backyard
Now that the snows melted, youve undoubtedly realized just how much TLC your garden needs this spring. Luckily, Ann Arbor and its surrounding areas are full of fantastic yard work and spring-cleaning resources for any green thumb.
Downtown Home and Garden is a 100-year-old shop in downtown Ann Arbor that offers gardening equipment, durable outdoor furniture and more. We also like The Grow Show, a locally owned hydroponic and organic materials supply shop in Pittsfield Township.
If any large branches fell into your yard during one this winters many storms, you can email the City of Ann Arbor with a removal request. Make sure to include your address, contact information and the location of the debris youd like removed.
Downtown Home and Garden: 210 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
The Grow Show: 4095 Stone School Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
3. Chelsea SculptureWalk
Located in the nearby town of Chelsea, SculptureWalk is an annual community arts project featuring 12 sculptures throughout Chelseas historic downtown area. Grab yourself a brochure and enjoy a self-guided walking tour, or meet at the Chelsea District Library or River Gallery for a docent tour. Along the way, make sure to check out Chelseas specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes. The juried committee selects new sculptures every summer, so get outside and check out the 2013/14 works while you still can!
River Gallery: 120 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118
Chelsea District Library: 221 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118
4. Dominicks
Any long-time Ann Arbor resident will tell you that the annual springtime opening of Dominicks a beloved eatery located next to the University of Michigans law school is a revered seasonal event. The Ann Arbor institution is so closely tied to outdoor enjoyment that it shuts down between the University of Michigans Thanksgiving and Spring breaks. Known primarily for its pizza, sangria and outdoor courtyard, the restaurants fun and casual ambiance keeps locals coming back for more.
Dominicks: 812 Monroe St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
