SIX18 TRAVEL

When you think of Ann Arbor, you likely think of the University of Michigan. In some ways, the two are synonymous; you're bound to bump shoulders with students along Main Street when class is in session, and it's impossible not to feel the buzz in the air when football season arrives. But in other ways, Ann Arbor has an identity all its own. The city has a certain quirkiness to it, evidenced by its secret fairy doors and unique festivals like Apple Daze in the fall and FestiFools in the spring. Ann Arbor has the goods to impress foodies as well – even former President Barack Obama devoured the famous Reuben sandwich at Zingerman's Deli. And the town isn't nicknamed the "City of Trees" for nothing; visitors can paddle and hike their way down the lush Huron River Water Trail or behold the glory of peony season at the Matthaei Botanical Garden in early summer. No matter what time of year you visit, you're likely to discover a side of Ann Arbor you didn't know was there – and wonder why you didn't book a trip to this Michigan gem sooner.