Nestled in the heart of Michigan, Ypsilanti is consistently recognized for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to a high quality of life. It may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of renowned locales, but its charm hasn’t gone unnoticed. The city has been recognized for its community engagement, sustainability efforts, and more. The city has been awarded the Tree City USA designation for 40 years straight! The city also hosts a variety of exciting annual events, like the Ypsilanti Heritage Festival and the Frog Island Art Fair. You can also check out aviation history at Thunder Over Michigan, or indulge in in your motorcycle interests at Ton-Up Motorcycle & Music Festival.
From the historic depot town with its vibrant buildings and unique businesses to campus life at Eastern Michigan to the open parks and busy streets along Michigan Avenue, Ypsilanti is full of life of all kinds. It’s a big city with many different corners of action and activity, bringing something for everyone to the table.
Absolutely! There’s a stunning natural environment in Ypsilanti with different recreational opportunities and scenic landscapes that can cater to outdoor enthusiasts. The Huron River winds through the city, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and scenic walks.
Beyond nature and outdoor areas, Ypsilanti offers a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and performance spaces showcasing local talent, such as the Neighborhood Talent Group. Check out the Riverside Arts Center to see what might be playing! There are also a variety of museums in Ypsi, such as the Automotive Museum, Michigan Firehouse Museum, Ypsilanti Historical Museum, and the Michigan Flight Museum.
Whether it’s exploring the expansive parks, enjoying the arts, or visiting historical sites, there’s something for everyone!
No! Contrary to popular belief, living in Ypsilanti is surprisingly affordable. The city’s cost of living is competitive, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. According to Payscale, the cost of living in Ypsilanti is 15% lower than the national average.
The Huron River is the cardiovascular system of Ypsilanti, weaving and winding through bridges and nature trails. It’s one of the city’s most captivating features. With miles of waterways, the river is a focal point for recreational activities and scenic beauty. Each park along its banks offers a unique experience, from Riverside Park’s lush greenery to Frog Island Park’s vibrant community events.
Downstream of the Huron in Ypsilanti Township is Ford Lake. You can access this lake at either Ford Lake Park or Lakeside Park, both of which have boat launches and picnic shelters. The lake’s dam, the Ford Lake Dam, is a National Historic Landmark. Downstream of the dam, you can access the Huron River at North Hydro Park. The Huron River is truly the heart of Ypsilanti, so be sure to check out the boat launches, fishing spots, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and bike trails that run along the river.
Ypsilanti has a rich history that dates back to the 1820s. Ypsi was named after the Greek hero Demetrios Ypsilanti, whose bust stands in the wake of the famous Ypsilanti Water Tower between the American and Greek flags.
A city close to metro Detroit, Ypsilanti played a role in the automotive industry producing the “ACE” car by Apex Motors from 1920 to 1922. The city also played a critical role in WWII, mass-producing heavy bombers for the war effort at the Willow Run bomber plant.
Museums throughout the city provide immersive experiences, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore its fascinating past. Today, residents and visitors can visit the Michigan Flight Museum, Ypsilanti Historical Museum, the Michigan Firehouse Museum, or the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum.
Rated among the top business and education programs in the state, Eastern Michigan is a proud part of Ypsilanti and its history. Eastern Michigan University, a public university with over 18,000 students, hosted the first 4-year program in the nation, setting an industry standard for students everywhere.
Additionally, the school trained soldiers during WWII, contributing again to the city’s importance in the war effort. Today, it is home to a diverse collection of students, of all ages, nationalities, languages and sexes, and offers a wide array of degrees for reasonable student cost. The university offers a variety of cultural events, lectures, and performances that are open to the public. Additionally, EMU’s athletic programs provide exciting options for sports fans.
Ypsilanti has some incredible spots for foodies. Whether you crave beer from local breweries, farm-to-table cuisine at upscale eateries, or comfort food at cafes, Ypsilanti has it all.
The Bomber Restaurant is one of the most popular diners in Ypsilanti, and was established in 1936 to serve workers at the nearby Willow Run bomber plant.
Michiganders know how great Coney Island is, and in Ypsi you can try either Leo’s Coney Island or Antonio’s Coney Island. You can also grab some Latin-inspired breakfast at Encuentro Latino which serves authentic Guatemalan food.
Check out Dom Bakeries for coffee, donuts and other sweet treats. The family-owned bakery was named one of Yelp’s top 100 doughnut shops in the nation. Or grab a local flavor of coffee at Hyperion Coffee Co. Other local coffee spots include Northern Grind Coffee, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, or Cafe Liv.
When in Depot Town, be sure to check out Maiz, home of great Mexican cuisine and fresh, absolutely delicious chips (and they are free)! Also check out Sidetrack Bar & Grill, an Ypsi classic along the train tracks and old train station. You can also grab some pizza at Tower Inn Cafe or Aubree’s.
Enjoy a casual atmosphere and local craft beers at places like The Taproom or Ypsi Alehouse. University students will love places like Wurst Bar, where they can expect delicious brats, burgers, and great beer.
There’s also 734 Brewing Company, where you can find brews that connect to the Ypsi community. Or you can check out McShane’s Irish Pub where you can catch the Lions game while enjoying some good Irish meals.
Mash Ypsilanti offers whiskey tastings and live music, while the downstairs of Bobcat Bonnie’s also has Keystone Bar & Arcade for a fun-filled game night with drinks. You can also check out the Ypsi Cocktail Club for locally crafted cocktails.
Looking to make a move to the Ypsilanti area? Lombardo Homes has several wonderful communities for you to choose from. Discover why this charming city is not just a destination, but a place to build a fulfilling life.
