Ann Arbor, Michigan, sometimes called the People's Republic of Ann Arbor, is more than just the home of the University of Michigan. Ann Arbor is full of great restaurants, museums, galleries, parks, and shops. Here are a few local favorites that deserve a visit.

Ann Arbor is not short on parks or other beautiful outdoor spaces. Nichols Arboretum is located between Gallup Park and the University of Michigan. The Arb is a series of dirt and bark trails that wind up and down a large hill and trace through the woods along the Huron River.

Along with the Arb, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens are another set of gardens managed by the U of M. The Botanical Gardens have a conservatory that is a great destination for the winter. It can get up to 80 degrees on sunny, winter days making it a great place to stroll or read a book on the chairs spread throughout the conservatory.

The Michigan Theater, located in downtown Ann Arbor, on Liberty Street is an historic theater built in the silent film era. It includes a working theater pipe organ that is still played before movies on the weekends. The Michigan has two screens - the Historic Auditorium and the Screening Room. The Theater usually plays less mainstream films including independent films and documentaries but also hosts live performances from musicians, comedians, and orchestras.

Tucked between the Law School and the Business School of the University of Michigan, Dominick's is a great place to meet. They are known for their sangria as well as the ample amount of sitting both inside and out. Located at 812 Monroe Street.

Spicy is my weakness and Earthen Jar has become my weakly fix. A vegetarian, Indian buffet, Earthen Jar is one of those random, eclectic restaurants that makes Ann Arbor so unique. Not a lot of seating inside but the food is well worth it! Located on S. 5th Avenue.

The best place for subs and sandwiches! Located at 205 S. 4th Avenue.

Morgan & York is a specialty food store located on Packard Avenue. Very similar to Zingerman's, except that Morgan & York has a very extensive wine room with bottles from the world over. Also one of the only places in town to get Lucques olives. Located at 1928 Packard Street.

Ann Arbor is home to many yoga and pilates studios but the Yoga and Nia Wellness Studio is one of the best! The studio has two great rooms with to practice in with warm painted walls and hardwood floors. They offer a wide variety of yoga (e.g., hatha, anusara, vinyasa), pilates, and nia classes. Also, if you are a resident of Ann Arbor your first class is free - another great reason to check them out!

Bubble tea is a popular drink that originated from Taiwan and Bubble Island is one of the best places in Ann Arbor to get it. Located off at 1220 S. University Avenue.

One thing Ann Arbor has ample of are nice restaurants. Eve is the creation of chef Eve Aronoff, a recent contestant on Bravo's Top Chef. The atmosphere is intimate and warm and the menu is a blend of French, African, Cuban, and Vietnamese cooking. Located in Kerrytown on 415 N. 5th Avenue.

In March 2009, the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) opened a 53,000-square-foot expansion and finished a major restoration of the historic, 41,000-square-foot home, Alumni Memorial Hall. The museum includes over 18,000 pieces of art and is located at 525 South State Street.