Susan McLeary a.k.a. Passionflower Sue

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A Florist’s Guide to Ann Arbor, Michigan: Sue’s Studio and Beyond

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Michigan, Ann Arbor is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural tapestry, academic excellence, and a thriving arts scene.

For those visiting me for an in-person two-day learning intensive, this guide is a great resource for nearby accommodations and additional inspiration. For all florists visiting Southeast Michigan, Ann Arbor it offers a plethora of enjoyable and interesting opportunities.

Explore Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, Michigan brims with opportunities for florists and visual artists to learn, explore, and find inspiration. Whether you’re attending an intensive workshop at my studio, seeking creative rejuvenation, or simply exploring this vibrant city, Ann Arbor welcomes you with open arms and countless possibilities. 

In crafting this guide, I aim to provide a comprehensive overview that not only assists in planning your visit but also inspires you to discover the unique charm and creative potential of Ann Arbor. My hope is that this guide encourages you to explore my little city, and helps you make the most of your visit!

  1. Getting there

  2. Places to stay

  3. Things to do

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Plan your trip

TRAVELING TO ANN ARBOR

For air travelers, Ann Arbor is just 25-minute drive from the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Upon landing, several transportation options are available including rental cars, taxis, and on-demand ride services like Uber offering convenient transfers to the city center.

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RECOMMENDED ANN ARBOR HOTELS

Ann Arbor boasts a variety of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. I suggest considering the local area you’d like to be closest to, so I’ve curated a selection both in the downtown area and near my studio.

Hotels downtown:

  1. Bell Tower Hotel - Offering elegance and comfort, the Bell Tower Hotel is steps away from the university and downtown’s bustling shops and restaurants.

  2. The Graduate - Situated near the University of Michigan, this hotel offers a unique, collegiate-themed ambiance, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's academic vibe.

  3. Burnt Toast Inn - For a cozy, home-away-from-home experience, this B&B provides charming rooms with delightful breakfasts, ideal for starting your day on a high note.

  4. Residence Inn Ann Arbor Downtown- nestled right downtown, this new hotel is perfectly situated, steps away from city center and the Kerrytown district. 

Hotels near my studio, each one reliable and comfortable, with the added bonus of proximity to many of my favorite cafes and restaurants:

  1. Sheraton, Ann Arbor Hotel 

  2. The Kensington 

  3. Hyatt Place

  4. Even Hotel 

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ENJOY YOUR TIME

RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND EDIBLE INSPIRATION

Good coffee and delicious food are as important to me as flowers! Here’s a list of my go-to cafes, restaurants, and cocktail bars. Several are close to my studio, and the rest are downtown. 

Local Attractions

MATTHAEI BOTANICAL GARDENS AND NICOLS ARBORETUM

A must-visit for florists, the University of Michigan's Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum offer a stunning array of plants, flowers, and natural landscapes. Spanning over 300 acres, these spaces provide endless inspiration, with seasonal displays, native plant gardens, and tranquil trails.

ANN ARBOR FARMER’S MARKET

Located in the historic Kerrytown neighborhood, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market is a treasure trove for florists and artists alike. With vendors selling locally-grown flowers, plants, and artisanal crafts, it’s a fantastic place to find inspiration in the colors and textures of Michigan’s local flora.

ART GALLERIES

For visual artists like us, the city’s vibrant arts scene is not to be missed. Ann Arbor Art Center, Gallery Project, and the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) offer a wealth of exhibitions, workshops, and events that stimulate creativity and provide networking opportunities with fellow artists.

DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR

With its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, downtown Ann Arbor is perfect for leisurely strolls and casual exploration. The area’s architectural charm and lively atmosphere make it a delightful backdrop for creative inspiration. Be sure to give yourself a little time to explore the shops in the Nichols Arcade, the collection of artful shops at First and Liberty, including Downtown Home and Garden and The Ann Arbor Art Center, and the cluster of beautiful shops along Fourth Avenue. Dear Golden, Today, Tea Haus, and Literati are a few of my favorites. 

KERRYTOWN DISTRICT

Known for its historic buildings, biweekly farmers market,  and artful retailers, Kerrytown is Ann Arbor’s hub for artisanal foods, crafts, and cozy independent shops. This charming walkable neighborhood is also close to the Argo-Barton loop, an easy hike around the Huron river. Don’t miss popping into Thistle & Bess, Malofta Vintage, and Found for inspiring home and lifestyle items, and then grab lunch at Zingerman’s, Monahan’s Seafood Market, or Pizza Pazza. Also, be sure to stop in at Lowertown for a delicious coffee or craft cocktail! 

NATURE TRAILS & PARKS

Also, we have a beautiful river, with walking trails and parks! The Barton Argo loop is one of my favorites.

CRAVING A FLORAL MENTOR?

For detailed instruction and floral theory deep-dives, book an in-studio intensive with me or check out my extensive library of self-paced online classes.

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