Huron River and B2B Trail: Top Adventures Every U-M Graduate Must Do

ANN ARBOR, MI — The University of Michigan’s Class of Spring 2025 has finished their academic journey and traditionally threw their hats in the air during commencement.

After this past Saturday’s graduation ceremony at Michigan Stadium, numerous graduates will depart shortly to embark on their professional careers across the nation and globally.

For those who have been preoccupied with their studies and haven’t had the chance to thoroughly experience Ann Arbor outside of university grounds, here are five activities you should try before departing from town.

Drift along the Huron River

The recreational season has begun along the Huron River, meandering through the town adjacent to picturesque natural reserves and parks.

The journey from Argo to Gallup is notably favored, and the city’s Argo livery, which rents out kayaks, tubes, and various watercraft, has commenced operations for the season. It is available from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.

The journey of 3.7 miles from Argo Pond to Gallup Park lasts approximately 1.5 hours, and visitors can use return shuttles to make their way back.

The rental prices are $28 for a solo kayak, $35 for a double kayak, $85 for a five-person raft, and $14 for an inflatable tube. Many thrill-seekers use these tubes to navigate the rapids of Argo Cascades before hiking back along a riverside trail to ride again.

Paddleboards can also be leased for $25 per session of up to two hours at Argo Pond. Additionally, extended tours from Barton to Gallup along the river can be reserved.

Find out more.

Explore the B2B Trail

The Border-to-Border Trail is another popular attraction winding along the river in Ann Arbor.

Walk, run, bike or ride a scooter along the paved path from Bandemer Park out to the city’s east side past Gallup Park and enjoy scenic stops along the way.

A new trail extension is under construction to extend from Bandemer Park across the Barton Nature Area and ultimately connect with various sections located beyond the city limits toward the western side. However, at present, those seeking an exciting journey have the option to travel eastward along the trail from Ann Arbor right into the Ypsilanti region and return if desired.

See the trail map.

Catch a show at a historic theater

Ann Arbor has two historic movie palaces filled with character and charm downtown: the Michigan Theater on Liberty Street and the State Theatre on State Street.

Both community gems are operated by nonprofit Marquee Arts, which keeps them steadily booked with a wide array of new and classic films, as well as live comedy and theater shows and concerts in the main auditorium of the Michigan Theater.

The Michigan Theater with its dazzling golden decor was built in the 1920s and has been carefully preserved.

The State Theatre was constructed in the 1940s and, despite being partitioned and rearranged, has undergone renovations to revive its distinctive Art Deco style.

See current showings.

Explore Ann Arbor’s musical landscape.

Ann Arbor boasts a vibrant live music scene that can be explored through various methods.

There are complimentary events such as the
May Music Fest
occurring on Sunday afternoon, May 4, in the Water Hill area, featuring performances by local musicians taking place on porches, lawns, and driveways, the event aims to engage the community.
Sonic Lunch concert series
On Thursdays at Liberty Plaza from June through August, along with several other festivals.

The Ark, a nonprofit venue for folk and roots music located on Main Street, boasts a storied past dating back to the 1960s. It hosts live performances in a cozy environment more than 300 days annually and is regarded as one of the premier venues of its genre nationwide.

Some
upcoming concerts
It features the Wildwoods, Dave Bruzza from Greensky Bluegrass, and the Arcadian Wild. Additionally, the venue hosts open mic nights, with the upcoming event scheduled for Tuesday, May 6.

To get a grittier vibe, check out the Blind Pig on First Street, which was a beloved spot for Nirvana.
Upcoming shows
This features singer-songwriter Frank Turner along with a ’90s themed night where they perform cover versions of Radiohead, Green Day, System of a Down, and others.

On Monday, May 5, there will be a Blind Pig comedy performance, followed by a Moth storytelling competition on Tuesday, May 6.

Explore Ann Arbor’s top hiking paths

Nicknamed Tree Town, Ann Arbor is renowned for blending city living with natural charm, featuring countless acres dedicated to parks and outdoor spaces ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

There are miles upon miles of dirt trails that wind through wooded, hilly landscapes and scenic riverside areas, some with steeper inclines than others.

Close to the UM campus, most students know about Nichols Arboretum.

However, you’ll also find places like Bird Hills, Cedar Bend, the Bluffs, Argo Nature Area, the Kuebler Langford/Hilltop natural reserves, Furstenberg Nature Area, Barton Nature Area, Eberwhite Woods, Miller Nature Area, Black Bond Woods, Sunset Brooks Nature Area, and many others.