Ann Arbor Art Fair 2023. Source: @AnnArborArtFair
The Ann Arbor Art Fair captivates nearly half a million visitors over a vibrant three-day extravaganza every July. Renowned as the largest juried art fair nationwide, it showcases the talents of almost 1,000 artists, spanning an impressive 30-city-block footprint throughout downtown Ann Arbor. The Ann Arbor Art Fair will be held from July 18 to July 20, 2024, with event times as follows:
- Thursday, July 18: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Friday, July 19: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday, July 20: 10 AM – 8 PM
Here are our tips for embracing the art fair and getting the most out of it.
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Explore 3 Different Art Fairs
Ann Arbor Art Fair 2024 Map.
Although to most, the Ann Arbor Art Fair appears to be one giant fair it is composed of three unique, independently juried art fairs.
- Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original: Established in 1960, this original art fair is located on North University, Ingalls Mall, and East Washington.
- The Guild’s Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair: Established in 1970, this fair is owned and operated by The Guild of Artists & Artisans and is located on Main Street, East Liberty, State Street, and South University.
- Ann Arbor State Street District Art Fair: Established in 1967, the State Street Art Fair is located on State Street, East Liberty, North University, Maynard, East William, and Thompson.
2. Plan Your Visit!
Ann Arbor Art Fair 2023. Source: @AnnArborArtFair.
The Art Fair is huge and can be overwhelming. Instead of trying to see all of the art at once, split your art fair adventure into two or more visits. You won’t feel as rushed, you’ll be less tired, and you’ll have more fun. You can also decide which artists you want to see ahead of time as well as explore special events and music performances. Browse artists on the Ann Arbor Art Fair website and use this map to determine who you want to see.
3. Figure Out Transit Ahead of Time
Figure out your transportation plan in advance!
Driving around downtown Ann Arbor and parking can be very difficult during the art fair. It’s a good idea to plan whether you’ll park and ride, take transit from home, cycle, or simply park in a garage.
Park and Ride:
Use shuttles to go to and from Ann Arbor Art Fair. Park and Ride lots are located behind JCPenney at Briarwood Mall (100 Briarwood Circle) and Huron High School (2727 Fuller Rd.). Round-trip tickets cost $8 but are free for children 5 years old and younger. Parking is free at both locations. They will run every 10-15 minutes during these times:
- Thursday, July 18 – Friday, July 19: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday, July 20: 9 AM – 9 PM
TheRide Buses:
Use public buses operated by the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) to get around town. Adult tickets cost $1.50 for a one-way ticket and $3.00 for a day pass. Rides are free for children age 5 and younger. During summer weekends, Ann Arbor District Library and Ypsilanti District Library cardholders can use fixed-route buses for free. Buy tickets for TheRide when getting in buses, online, with the EZ Fare mobile application, or in person at several locations in Ann Arbor.
Visitors can park at a Park & Ride lot operated by TheRide outside of the city and use a bus to get downtown. Lots are located on TheRide fixed bus routes, and all-day parking is free.
Park in a Garage:
While many try to avoid the cost of parking in a parking garage, it’s often the most painless way to get to the art fair. Parking structures are a good bet for all-day parking. There are several to choose from that are a short walk away from the art fair. Parking fees are $20 per day or $10 after 5:00 PM. Available structures include:
- Ashley + Main Structure
- Ashley + Main Lot
- Fourth Ave. + Washington Structure
- William + Fourth Ave. Structure
- Ashley + William Lot
4. Go Early and Prepare for Unpredictable Weather
Our number one tip is to go in the morning. Beat the crowds and beat the heat. Remember to bring your water bottle and wear comfortable shoes. The weather during the art fair is famously unpredictable. It’s often super hot, and many years there’s a huge thunderstorm. Be prepared for everything and bring a bag with an umbrella, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
5. Shop for Deals at Ann Arbor Stores
Many downtown boutiques and stores have big sales during the art fair. It’s worth walking around and popping into your favorite spots to see if they have sales.
Here are some to check out: The Himalayan Bazaar, Bivouac, The M Den, Rock Paper Scissors, and Pitaya.
6. Leave Town!
A windy day at Empire Beach, Empire MI
Many locals moan and groan about the art fair because of the influx of tourists and traffic. So if you’ve already attended the art fair many times, it could be a good opportunity to go on a Lake Michigan weekend getaway. You can even rent out your house to folks coming to Ann Arbor for Art Fair.
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The Ann Arbor Art Fair offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse artistic talent, enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, and find great deals at local stores. By planning and following these tips, you can make the most of your visit. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any further Ann Arbor-related questions!
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