Discover budget-friendly ways for U-M students to explore Ann Arbor without breaking the bank.
Ann Arbor has plenty to offer for students looking to balance fun with finances. Stretching your dollar isn’t hard if you know where to go and how to take advantage of student discounts. With your MCard in hand, you can access savings on dining, entertainment, and transportation. This guide will take you through the best affordable spots and activities in the city to help you enjoy your time without overspending.
1. Affordable Dining Options
a. Cheap Eats
- Fleetwood Diner: This retro 24-hour diner serves comfort food with a unique twist. Hippie Hash, a filling mix of hash browns, vegetables, and cheese, is a favorite for both vegetarians and meat lovers.
- Jerusalem Garden: Located downtown, this Mediterranean gem offers affordable dishes like falafel wraps and lentil soup. Portions are generous, making it an excellent value for a quick bite.
- Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger: This Ann Arbor staple allows you to stack your burger just the way you like it. Customizing patties and toppings lets you control the price, and it’s a fun place to eat with friends.
b. Coffee Shops and Cafés
- Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea: With multiple locations in Ann Arbor, Sweetwaters offers a cozy environment for late-night studying. Look for discounted pastries as closing time approaches.
- Marco’s Pizza: Students get 25% off pickup orders with an MCard. Their signature three-cheese blend and fresh dough make it a great option for affordable, shareable meals.
- Azal Coffee: Located in nearby Dearborn, Azal gives students 20% off all in-store drinks. Their Yemeni coffee blends stand out for their robust flavor and traditional preparation.
c. Farmers Markets
- Ann Arbor Farmers Market: This Kerrytown market features fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. Arriving early gives you access to the best selection, while shopping near closing might get you discounts on unsold items.
Budget Tips: Bring cash to avoid card fees, shop for in-season produce to save money, and split larger purchases like fruits or baked goods with roommates.
2. Free or Low-Cost Activities
a. Exploring Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- Nichols Arboretum: This sprawling green space has scenic trails perfect for walking, jogging, or finding a quiet corner to read. The spring peony garden is especially popular.
- Gallup Park: Situated along the Huron River, Gallup Park offers kayak and canoe rentals at affordable rates. Trails and picnic areas make it a great spot for a low-cost outing with friends.
b. Visiting Campus and Local Museums
- University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA): This museum features rotating exhibits and a permanent collection of art from around the world. Entry is free, making it a must-visit for students.
- Kelsey Museum of Archaeology: A smaller but equally fascinating museum with artifacts from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Admission is free, and it’s a great way to add some culture to your day.
c. Self-Guided Walking Tours
- Historic Neighborhoods: Kerrytown and the Old Fourth Ward are lined with historic homes, unique shops, and cobblestone streets.
- Iconic Spots: Take a stroll through the Diag, snap photos in Graffiti Alley, or browse the specialty shops in Nickels Arcade. These places are not only budget-friendly but also quintessentially Ann Arbor.
3. Budget-Friendly Entertainment
a. Music and Theater
- Michigan Theater and State Theatre: Students with an MCard can purchase $8.50 tickets or opt for a $12.99 monthly subscription for unlimited shows. The $5 daily ticket deals and 10% off concessions make it even more affordable.
- Theatre Nova: Known for its pay-what-you-can tickets at the door and discounted Student Saturdays. This intimate venue is ideal for catching contemporary and innovative plays.
- The Ark: Students receive a $1 rebate on Ark-produced shows and can attend the free Artist Spotlight series on the fourth Tuesday of each month.
- Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase: Students enjoy 50% off general admission, making it a perfect option for a fun night filled with laughs.
- Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra: A great choice for classical music lovers, with students receiving 50% off most tickets.
b. Seasonal Events and Festivals
- Ann Arbor Summer Festival’s Top of the Park: Free outdoor movies and live music create the perfect summer vibe for students.
- Ann Arbor Art Fair: Free entry allows you to browse impressive artwork, and food vendors offer affordable dining options while you’re out.
c. Game Nights and Trivia
- Local Trivia Nights: Many bars and cafés host trivia nights with no entry fee. It’s a fun way to test your knowledge while enjoying affordable drinks or snacks.
- Pinball Pete’s: This arcade offers retro games and pinball machines at wallet-friendly prices, perfect for a nostalgic and fun evening.
4. Affordable Shopping
a. Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops
- PTO Thrift Shop: This student-friendly store offers affordable clothing, furniture, and accessories. Proceeds benefit local schools.
- The Getup Vintage: Known for its carefully curated collection, it’s a hotspot for finding unique, stylish items at budget-friendly prices.
b. Local Markets
- Kerrytown Shops: Known for handmade crafts and unique souvenirs, these shops allow you to pick up gifts or decor on a student budget.
5. Transportation on a Budget
a. Walking and Biking
- Walking: Many attractions and student essentials are within walking distance of the campus. Scenic routes like the Diag and the Huron River paths add enjoyment to your daily errands.
- Biking: ArborBike rentals are an economical option for students without their own bikes. For a long-term solution, check out second-hand bike shops around town.
b. Public Transit
- TheRide: The city’s public transit system is an excellent resource for budget-conscious students. Students ride for free with a valid yellow MCard. Routes like Route 4 to Briarwood Mall or Route 22 to grocery stores are especially useful for students.
c. Rideshare and Car Rentals
For occasional trips requiring a car, students can take advantage of discounted rideshare and rental services.
- Uber and Lyft: Frequently offer student discounts or promo codes for first-time users. Subscribe to their newsletters and check apps regularly to find freebies.
- Zipcar: A great option for short-term car rentals, perfect for grocery runs or day trips. Students can sign up using their MCard for discounted membership rates.
Tips for Saving Money in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is brimming with opportunities to save money if you know where to look. These practical tips can help you stretch your budget while making the most of your time as a student.
- Always carry your MCard to unlock discounts across town.
- Attend free campus events hosted by student groups or the university.
- Use apps like Too Good To Go to grab discounted meals from local restaurants.
- Split rent and utilities with roommates to share costs effectively.
- Opt for free Wi-Fi spots like libraries, coffee shops, or campus facilities for online work.
- Take advantage of campus resources such as libraries and gyms to avoid paying for external services.
- Cook meals at home and shop at farmers’ markets to save on dining out.
- Watch for happy hour specials at local eateries to enjoy affordable meals.
- Join student organizations and attend meetings, which often include free food or refreshments.
- Stay active on local Facebook groups or online forums to find deals, giveaways, or second-hand items.
Conclusion
Ann Arbor is a city rich with opportunities to enjoy life on a budget. You can explore the city’s best dining spots, cultural events, and natural beauty without putting a strain on your finances. Remember to carry your MCard everywhere—it’s more than just an ID; it’s your gateway to discounts, free rides, and exclusive perks.
