University of Michigan Walking Tour (Self Guided), Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is a home to the sprawling University of Michigan – one of America’s best public educational institutions, attracting top students and faculty from all over the world.

Founded in 1817 in Detroit as the University of Michigania, 20 years before the territory became a state, this university is Michigan's oldest. The school was moved to Ann Arbor in 1837. Among its alumni there are eight heads of state or government, including President of the United States Gerald Ford.

The University of Michigan offers a rich tradition of academic excellence, unparalleled athletics, and a vibrant, diverse community. On top of that, its heritage comprises a wealth of cultural and science-focused institutions, such as the University of Michigan Museum of Art – displaying works from around the globe and spanning centuries; and the Museum of Natural History whose collections began as early as 1837.

Also on the U-M campus there are multiple architectural and historical sights, namely:

The Law Quadrangle – a Weymouth granite and Indiana limestone edifice, inspired by Oxford and Cambridge architecture; completed in 1933.

Ross School of Business – established since 1924; in its current location since 1948.

President's House – the official home of the President of the University of Michigan.

College of Literature, Science and the Arts – established in 1841 with just seven students and two teachers; nowadays the largest unit at U-M in terms of student enrollment.

Kelsey Museum of Archaeology – operational since 1928; houses a collection of more than 100,000 objects from Ancient Greece to Mesopotamia.

To acquaint yourself more fully with these and other landmarks of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, take this self-guided walking tour.