Downtown Ypsilanti has many great spots and specialities to offer, many of which are often overlooked. If you’re looking for an area that is a little less busy this summer, you might want to plan a day downtown Ypsi, a place that Eastern Michigan University students should appreciate more.
COFFEE AND BAR
I’ve walked downtown many times and I’ve always walked past Ziggy's, never having the chance to check it out. After looking up what it has to offer, Ziggy's has me sold on a great downtown hangout spot. The pictures on the website really demonstrate the fantastic vibe this place gives. It has live music and scheduled shows with a bar. If you are under 21 or not really into drinking, Ziggy's offers coffee beverages as well. Personally, I love this because I am a mid-day coffee drinker. It is definitely a place I will be checking out.
If you are looking for somewhere for small talk with a friend, I would suggest visiting Bridge Community Cafe. It is a great coffee shop. The menu contains coffee drinks inspired by each zodiac sign and vegan food items. It also has many pop-ups whether it be the collaboration with other Ypsilanti businesses or their Monday Mercado, where they give local vendors a space to sell.
GRUB
If you’re looking for a bite to eat downtown, Encuentro Latino and Bobcat Bonnie's exceed expectations. Encuentro Latino offers an amazing variety of Guatemalan food, my personal favorite being the pupusas. It is family-friendly and the staff is very welcoming and kind. Bobcat Bonnie's has a variety of foods and drinks to offer and located in the basement is the Keystone Bar & Arcade which is awesome. It definitely adds a unique aspect to Bobcat Bonnie's. So after munching, you can head downstairs to play the classics with family or friends.
FUN
I think the most fun comes from treats and shopping. So grab your coffee from Bridge and head over to the shops. The Ypsilanti Thrift Shop has great selections. It’s affordable and you can be sustainable and buy some cute clothes. Located near the thrift shop is the farmers market, so you can get twice as much shopping done, and you are supporting local vendors. GO! Ice Cream has the yummiest ice cream and on a hot day with the welcoming ambiance, the ice cream is so much tastier. It’s great because you can grab the scoops and start walking around downtown. Downtown Ypsilanti wouldn’t be able to call itself fun without The Rocket. It’s such a great candy and toy store, you can always find the most interesting objects and candy there. You could buy something new every time or just stop by to see the cool things they have to offer.
