Things to Do in Ypsilanti: The Ultimate Pure Michigan Guide
Tucked between Ann Arbor and Detroit, the small city of Ypsilanti is quintessentially under-the-radar when it comes to tourism. Because of some awesome new dining establishments and funky retail popping up throughout the city, Ypsilanti is starting to see some long overdue accolades from travelers. Here’s a list of our top picks for hidden gem attractions in Ypsilanti.
1. Explore Funky Retail at The Rocket, Unicorn Feed and Supply and This, That & the ODDer Things
These retailers are known for quirky, fun, and 100% unique products. From hippopotamus tea-infusers to a plethora of cat stickers, crazy stuffed monsters and avocado pool floats, you’ll find interesting gifts (for yourself or others) in Ypsilanti.
2. Learn Automotive History at the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum
The Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum is housed in a former Hudson dealership, displaying several cars including Kaiser-Frazer, General Motors, and featured car #92, a 1952 Hudson Hornet race car owned by former NASCAR Champion Herb Thomas. The museum preserves an important era in American History, and hosts special events and car shows annually.
3. Enjoy Retro Dining at Gabriel’s Cheese Steak Hoagies, Chick-Inn and Kluck’s Drive-In
Ypsi is home to several historic, casual eateries that are absolutely beloved by locals and often go unnoticed by visitors. Gabriel’s Cheese Steak Hoagies serves up meaty, cheesy gifts from heaven that are well-known in southeastern Michigan and remains one of the most popular restaurants in Ypsilanti after almost sixty years in business. The Chick-Inn has been around even longer (it opened in 1953) and is locally-famous for its milkshakes and curly fries. Its main competitor, Kluck’s, has some of the same menu items but is possibly best known for its Sloppy Joe sandwich - and also serves ice cream. More of a hot dog fan? Check out Bill’s Hot Dog Stand, which was ranked the #1 hot dog in Michigan.
4. Sip at Hyperion Coffee Company
Hyperion Coffee Company, a hidden gem in historic Depot Town, specializes in single origin coffee. Roasting and serving beautiful coffees, the Hyperion team has over 25 years of experience in specialty coffee. You'll enjoy your exceptional coffee experience here.
5. See Public Art at the Ypsilanti District Library Park
You’ll find tons of inspiring art throughout Ypsilanti, on exterior walls and in parks and knitted onto bike racks. Go on an artistic scavenger hunt to find Harriet Tubman in the Ypsilanti District Library park, colorful murals downtown, and “yarn bombing” throughout the city. If you’d rather explore indoor art, consider checking out what's happening at the Riverside Arts Center, 22 North Gallery, and The Gallery at Stone & Spoon.