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Michigan is undoubtedly one of the best states to live in during the fall season, especially in Ann Arbor. Nothing is better than enjoying a pumpkin flavored drink or snack and strolling through the city to appreciate the transition of the trees. Here are some of the best spots to make the most of your fall — it surely flies by!

Nichols Arboretum 

Nichols Arboretum is a must-see during the fall. As the arboretum consists of 3.5 miles of scenic walking trails, 123 acres, and 110 different species of trees, the view is spectacular in the fall. If you are looking to decompress from assignments and exams, going on a hike or sitting by the river to see the stunning orange leaves fall from the trees is the best way to do so. In addition, if you are looking to make studying far more enjoyable, grab a blanket and your homework and bring your work outdoors to create the perfect zen vibe for your study session. 

The Nichols Arboretum truly makes you feel like you could be in the Upper Peninsula during the fall months and is the perfect place to go this fall when you need an escape or to reconnect with nature.

Enjoy Fall Flavors and Scenery Right on Campus

Grab your friends and head to any MDining cafe to try various fall treats throughout the season! This includes a caramel apple oat chai and classic pumpkin spice lattes. Make it a goal to try all of the festive food and drink items at each of the MDining cafes. This makes for a great study break or a fun weekend tradition!

Once you grab your fall drinks and snacks, take a stroll around campus to enjoy the lovely autumn breeze and become mesmerized by the stunning colors of the trees right on campus. I recommend walking through the Law Quad, the Diag, and Ingalls Mall. All three of these locations not only have gorgeous trees but also wonderful architecture that makes you feel like you are in a fall movie. My favorite part of the fall scenery is the leaves of the vines on all of the buildings around campus. The North University Building specifically becomes an ombre of fall colors. The photo below is of the North University Building I took in fall of 2025.

I hope you enjoy the fall treats and make sure to appreciate the beauty of your very own campus. Remember to take brain breaks to appreciate the season around you!

Check Out Ann Arbor’s Local Cider Mills

As there are many wonderful places to enjoy fall on campus, there are also fantastic traditional cider mills a short commute from campus. I highly recommend going to one if you are not from the Midwest or unfamiliar with cider mills. Wiard’s Orchard and Dexter Cider Mill are near campus and have pumpkin patches, caramel apples, and all the cider and doughnuts you can imagine! This traditional fall activity is a great way to immerse into the Ann Arbor community and to make sure you get outside this season!

Although cider mills are fun, there are plenty of fall scenes and activities walkable from or directly on campus. Get outside, appreciate the beauty, and enjoy a Michigan fall because it doesn’t get any better than this!