Ann Arbor holds a rich tapestry of history woven through its streets and landmarks. The city seamlessly combines its academic legacy with cultural heritage. Architectural gems, storied institutions, and remnants of bygone eras invite exploration at every turn.
The sites capture Ann Arbor’s past – window into the events, people, and innovations that shaped the community. Whether you’re wandering downtown or delving into the University of Michigan campus, Ann Arbor guarantees a memorable journey through history.
1. First National Bank Building
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he First National Bank Building, erected in 1929, stands as a testament to the prosperity and ambition of early 20th-century Ann Arbor. This Art Deco landmark commands attention with its intricate façade and towering presence in the downtown area. Inside, visitors can appreciate its terrazzo flooring and fine ornamental details, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
Why It’s Historic
This building reflects the economic growth of Ann Arbor during the roaring ‘20s. It symbolizes the confidence of the time and is a proud example of Art Deco design. For history enthusiasts, it offers a glimpse into an era of architectural innovation and community pride.
2. Kempf House Museum
Built in 1853, the Kempf House Museum captures the charm of 19th-century Ann Arbor. This Greek Revival home served as the residence of the Kempf family, local pioneers who contributed to the city’s early development. Today, it serves as a cultural landmark, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that bring the past to life.
Why It’s Historic
As one of the oldest homes in Ann Arbor, the Kempf House reflects the city’s formative years. Its collection of historic furniture, musical instruments, and other artifacts offers a vivid look at the lifestyle of a burgeoning Midwest community. The house also regularly hosts events and tours, making it a living repository of local history.
3. Michigan Central Railroad Ann Arbor Depot
Built in the 1880s, the Michigan Central Railroad Ann Arbor Depot is a Romanesque-style building that was once the heart of the city’s transportation network. The depot served as a vital link connecting Ann Arbor to Michigan’s industrial hubs and beyond. Its arched windows and brickwork retain the charm of its bustling past.
Why It’s Historic
The depot represents Ann Arbor’s role in the industrial and transportation revolutions of the 19th century. Historical plaques offer insight into its significance, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone intrigued by the evolution of travel and trade in the region. Its architectural features are a delight for fans of Romanesque design.
4. University of Michigan Campus
The University of Michigan campus is a historical and architectural gem woven into the fabric of Ann Arbor. As one of the oldest public universities in the United States, its grounds reflect centuries of academic tradition and cultural evolution. Walking through the campus feels like stepping into a living museum, where each building tells its own story. It’s not just a place of learning—it’s a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers.
The campus features iconic structures that blend academic purpose with aesthetic appeal. From the Gothic arches of the Law Quadrangle to the commanding presence of Burton Memorial Tower, the university offers landmarks that both inspire and educate.
- The Law Quadrangle: This Gothic Revival masterpiece is one of the most photographed spots on campus. Its intricate carvings, grand stone arches, and tranquil courtyard create a contemplative atmosphere. The Quadrangle’s buildings, including the library, were a gift from law graduate William Cook, making it both an architectural and philanthropic legacy.
- Hill Auditorium: Designed by renowned architect Albert Kahn in 1913, Hill Auditorium has hosted world-class performances and thought-provoking lectures for over a century. Its acoustics are legendary, drawing artists and audiences from around the world.
- University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA): UMMA is an architectural dialogue between history and modernity. Its original Beaux-Arts building is complemented by a sleek contemporary addition. Inside, you’ll find a global collection that spans centuries and cultures.
- Angell Hall: The grand neoclassical columns of Angell Hall are an unmistakable campus landmark. As home to the philosophy and language departments, it’s not just a hub of academia but also a visual anchor on State Street.
- Burton Memorial Tower: This iconic clock tower is more than a timekeeper—it’s a soundscape. Housing the university’s carillon, its chimes are an audible reminder of campus life. The tower stands as a tribute to university president Marion Leroy Burton.
- Tappan Hall: Built in 1894, Tappan Hall is the oldest academic building on campus. Its modest size contrasts with its rich legacy, now home to the Department of the History of Art.
- Kelsey Museum of Archaeology: The Kelsey Museum bridges ancient history with modern scholarship. Its collection of over 100,000 artifacts, including Roman mosaics and Egyptian sarcophagi, offers a deep dive into ancient Mediterranean civilizations.
The University of Michigan campus is a gateway to exploring history through architecture, art, and academia. Its buildings reflect the university’s storied past while continuing to shape its vibrant present.
5. Nickels Arcade
Nickels Arcade, completed in 1918, is a glass-roofed passage that merges history and functionality. The arcade’s distinctive design provides a sheltered, light-filled space for boutique shops and cafes. As you walk through, the terrazzo flooring and original decorative ironwork transport you to the early 20th century, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Why It’s Historic
One of the last remaining arcades of its kind, Nickels Arcade is a rare example of early commercial architecture. Its preservation ensures a glimpse into Ann Arbor’s past, blending shopping with a historical ambiance that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Notable Mentions Just Outside Ann Arbor
1. Eloise Asylum
Eloise Asylum, established in 1839, is steeped in both historical significance and chilling intrigue. Once a psychiatric hospital, the site expanded to include a tuberculosis sanatorium and a poorhouse. Today, it serves as a destination for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. Haunted attractions and escape rooms give visitors a hands-on experience of the asylum’s eerie past, while historic tours delve into its compassionate yet tragic history. The walk-through tour, lasting 35-40 minutes, offers a glimpse into the mysterious and somber chapters of its storied existence.
2. Ford Rouge Factory
The Ford Rouge Factory Tour is a fascinating journey into America’s industrial heart. Located in Dearborn, this five-part experience starts in the Legacy Gallery, showcasing iconic vehicles produced at the historic Rouge Complex. Visitors can learn about Ford’s innovative history in the Legacy Theater and witness modern manufacturing in the Manufacturing Innovation Theater. From the observation deck, sweeping views include the living roof atop the Dearborn Truck Plant. An elevated walkway offers a glimpse of the assembly line for the legendary Ford F-150, highlighting sustainable practices that balance community, business, and the environment.
3. Guardian Building
The Guardian Building, a National Historic Landmark, is a Detroit treasure often referred to as the “Cathedral of Finance.” Built in 1929, its art deco style captivates visitors with a lavish interior featuring a 150-foot main lobby, vaulted ceilings, and columns of Italian Travertine marble. A Tiffany & Co. glass clock and an Ezra Winter mural add to the grandeur. Free to enter, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour or join a Pure Detroit tour for deeper insights. Located in downtown Detroit, this architectural masterpiece offers a glimpse into the opulence of the city’s financial heyday.
Conclusion
Ann Arbor and its surroundings are a historian’s playground, filled with landmarks that echo stories of innovation, culture, and progress. Whether you’re walking through the University of Michigan campus, exploring downtown, or venturing slightly farther afield, these sites promise a meaningful journey into the past. It’s impossible to take in everything in a single visit, so don’t hesitate to return and uncover more layers of Ann Arbor’s rich historical tapestry.
