26 Reasons We Love Ann Arbor

Attitude Every time we visit Ann Arbor, Michigan (population: 112,000), we come back raving--about the vibrant downtown, the eclectic cuisine, the affordable galleries, the sleek museums and, of course, that infectious college-town energy. Just 45 minutes west of Detroit, the University of Michigan's hometown makes a colorful (and tasty) weekend getaway.

Big Blue The University of Michigan blends into downtown Ann Arbor. Take a stroll on the 3,200-acre campus (pictured). 734/764-1817; umich.edu

Ceramics Motawi Tileworks makes Arts and Crafts-style tiles for homes, plus clocks, pendants and other goodies. Come Thursdays for tours. See Midwest Living's review. (734) 213-0017; www.motawi.com

Downtown districts Main Street, State Street and Kerrytown are different, but they share this: almost no chain businesses. (800) 888-9487; visitannarbor.org

Espresso Love Breakfast Stout This smoky, coffee-infused ale is our fave among Arbor Brewing Company's beers. (734) 213-1393; arborbrewing.com

Fried pig's head Sounds awful, tastes great. Try it with mustard at Grange Kitchen and Bar, a fabulous farm-to-table spot downtown. (734) 995-2107; grangekitchenandbar.com