Taking the Night Off in Ann Arbor? Try these staying-in tips!

 
Good news, it is officially Saturday night. You have been waiting for this day for the entire week! There were times when you felt the end was nowhere in sight; however, you stuck it out like a trooper and finally made it to the weekend. Last night, you spent your Friday evening dancing away at this week’s fraternity party. Your Welcome Week Steve Madden pumps have taken quite the toll on your now-pretty-sore ankles. On top of that, most of your Saturday afternoons have consisted of incredibly exciting, yet tiring, football games. As awesome as your weekend has been so far, it might be time to sign yourself up for a relaxing evening with your close friends.  Everyone needs a break from going out once in a while, right?
 
Ann Arbor is arguably one of the most exciting college towns in the country; not only is it full of life, it is also full of some incredible and down to earth people. When you go to a Big Ten School like the University of Michigan, there is never a dull moment. Too many students overlook the entertaining opportunities that the city of Ann Arbor offers to its residents. Most weekends are full of concerts, exhibitions, plays, guest speakers, movies, and even incredible shoe sales! Here are a few ideas to help you branch out this Saturday night.
 
1. Catch a movie: The Michigan and State Theatres are the two main cinemas in downtown Ann Arbor. They might not be playing the latest Blockbuster flick with Jennifer Aniston this weekend, but you are bound to see something just as good. Grab your friends, popcorn, and a box of candy and make your way down State Street.

2. You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream (or froyo): The trend in Hollywood for the last several years has been frozen yogurt. Frozen yogurt is just as delicious as real ice cream, if not better. The fruity taste and light calories appeal to countless celebrities.  How else do you think they fit into those red carpet dresses? Amer’s on State Street serves some of the best frozen yogurt in town. You can pick from several intriguing flavors and top off your masterpiece with an array of fresh fruits, nuts, and candied treats.
 

3. Do some shopping: What fashionista can honestly say that she does not enjoy the occasional retail therapy? Ann Arbor provides girls with an unlimited amount of places to drop some serious cash. The stores range incredibly in both style and pricing. There are places you can splurge like Poshh or Bivouac, and places you can score a bargain like Ragstock. If you need a new outfit for next Friday night, check out Pitaya, or if you are looking for a new Michigan shirt for next week’s home game, stop by the M Den.
 
4. Get in touch with your nature side: Who says a girl can’t enjoy some outdoor activities? The Nichols Arboretum, better known on campus as “The Arb,” is one of the prettiest places in Ann Arbor. The Arb is an endless park with a stunning variety of trees, plants, hills, and even a river. It is an awesome place for a good workout, whether you are jogging on the trails or playing softball with some friends. It is also an intimate place to bring that special someone; skip the usual dinner date, instead opt for this untraditional evening out. What’s more romantic than bringing your guy for a picnic by the water? After all, there is a stone heart masterpiece hidden beneath the current.
 
 
5. Acoustic melodies: Sometimes a stressful school week, a crazy Friday night, and a thrilling Saturday morning football game can really suck the energy right out of you. Grabbing dinner and enjoying some live music might just be exactly what you need. Potbelly on State Street provides not only great sandwiches, but they also provide some of the best tunes. Potbelly frequently features local artists who love sharing their talents and skills with others. So next time you want to spice up dinner, grab some food and enjoy some soulful entertainment.