48 Hours in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Construction at Michigan Stadium (the Big House) - University of Michigan's Football Stadium

While Detroit endures nonstop bad publicity, nearby Ann Arbor thrives. It remains not only the home of the University of Michigan, but the center of research and technology for the entire automotive industry, including Asian brands like Toyota and Hyundai. It is a magnet town for people transferred to the area from abroad or urban centers like New York and San Francisco to work in the auto industry or for the university.

Open up the Ann Arbor Observer's monthly calendar and you will find a river of musical performances, lectures, classes, theater and social connections for every possible niche group or interest - from quilters and beekeepers to LGBT. It all adds up to a great place to live and visit.