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So you are planning on visiting the University of Michigan? We are so excited for you to explore Ann Arbor and see campus for yourself! Whether you are visiting for the first time or are returning for a closer look, self-guided tours are a great way to experience campus at your own pace. From iconic landmarks to quiet study spots, here are some must-see places to help you get a true feel for life as a Wolverine.

Start at the heart of campus: The Diag

This open green and brick space is where people cross paths all day long. You’ll see students heading to class, campus organizations sharing information, and friends catching up between lectures. In warmer months, you can see students putting up hammocks and doing work in the grass. In the colder months you can see students having massive snowball fights and building snowmen. While walking around the Diag, take a moment to find the Block “M” in the center. The M is seen as the center of campus – but be careful not to step on it because legend says that if you do, you will fail your first blue book exam!

Make sure to take your time and also look up to see the Burton Memorial Tower. If you visit at the right time, you might catch a live performance of the carillon filling the air with music. It’s one of those uniquely Michigan moments that makes campus feel both grand and welcoming.

From the Diag, you’re just steps away from many of Michigan’s most iconic buildings.

Explore the Michigan Union

Just off the Diag, the Michigan Union is one of the oldest student unions in the country. Inside, you’ll find study spaces, dining options, student organization offices, and plenty of places to sit and imagine your future here.

Don’t forget to stop by The Cube sculpture outside the Union! Despite its size, you can spin The Cube for some interactive fun. It’s a favorite photo spot and a small example of the creative energy you’ll find across campus.

Step into the Law Quad

The Law Quad is often what the University of Michigan is known for, especially when it comes to architecture.

With its Gothic-style buildings, arched walkways, and quiet courtyard, the Law Quad feels like something out of a storybook. It’s one of the most photographed spots on campus and one of the most peaceful. Even on a busy day, it offers a calm space to reflect and take in the beauty of Michigan’s historic campus. You can see students throwing footballs and studying in the grass during warmer months. It's not just a place for photo-op but a place of gathering and community.

Visit a library (seriously)

Libraries are more than study spaces; they're windows into academic life.

Step inside the Hatcher Graduate Library to see its classic reading rooms, or visit the Shapiro Undergraduate Library (the “UGLi”) to experience a lively student study environment. These spaces give you a real sense of how Wolverines collaborate, focus, and build community through learning. Taking a walk through the libraries also allows you to become familiar with where you could study in the future.

Take the M-Bus to North Campus

If you have time, consider heading to North Campus. The M-Bus which is free to everyone is a great method of transportation as opposed to driving.

Home to Michigan Engineering Engineering, the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design, the School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and more, North Campus has a distinct feel with modern buildings, open spaces, and a creative, innovative energy.

A self-guided tour gives you the freedom to explore what matters most to you. Sit in a common area. Listen to the sounds around you. Picture yourself walking to class, meeting new friends, and discovering new interests. At Michigan, there are countless ways to shape your experience. We hope your visit helps you see not only our campus, but your potential place within it. And if you’re interested in a more formal tour experience, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions offers tours led by student tour guides.