
Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor
A historic, covered arcade in Ann Arbor connecting State and Maynard Streets, filled with unique local shops and charming architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, covered arcade in Ann Arbor connecting State and Maynard Streets, filled with unique local shops and charming architecture.
"A gorgeous arcade stuffed with great shops and a truly quintessentially Ann Arbor experience."

☕ Grab a Coffee
Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break!
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bon Bon Bon Chocolates
Inside Nickels Arcade
Indulge in exquisite, handcrafted chocolates that are as beautiful as they are delicious. A true culinary delight!

Vintage Arcade Games
Pinball Pete's (nearby)
Relive classic gaming memories with a wide array of pinball and arcade machines. Pure retro fun!

Unique Local Boutiques
Throughout the arcade
Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, and curiosities from Ann Arbor's independent retailers.

Historic Architecture
The entire arcade
Admire the stunning dome architecture and timeless design of this early 20th-century marketplace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Grab a Coffee
Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break!
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The architecture and eclectic shops make for fantastic photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Discover
Take your time to wander through the arcade and soak in its historic atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Grab a Coffee
Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break!
🛍️ Explore Unique Shops
From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The architecture and eclectic shops make for fantastic photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Discover
Take your time to wander through the arcade and soak in its historic atmosphere.
🕹️ Hit the Games
Don't miss Pinball Pete's nearby for a dose of classic arcade fun!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nickels Arcade is cherished as a historic and charming spot in Ann Arbor, praised for its unique local shops and beautiful architecture. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to discover artisanal treats and one-of-a-kind items. While some note it's more about the ambiance than extensive retail, it's considered a quintessential Ann Arbor experience.
"Love it here! Such a cool spot, if you go there you have to try BonBonBon and their chocolate creations! Here you can check all the antiques and crafts, go to the barber or have your electronics fixed, need a new frame or some amazing wall art? Just go there, how about some coffee and pastries 🥐 ? They have it too…
Perfect place for a slow stroll ☺️"
Rediane Longoria
"A great historic spot with unique shops and beautiful architecture. Great for a quick stroll and local finds!"
Kemaya samuels
"Very neat building. Not much here other than some local shops. Worth a quick stop to take in the building and grab a cup of coffee."
Nick Edens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nickels Arcade is conveniently located in downtown Ann Arbor, linking State Street and Maynard Street. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the downtown area. Parking is available in nearby garages like the Maynard Street Garage or Liberty Square Garage.
Yes, Nickels Arcade is very close to the University of Michigan campus, making it a popular spot for students and visitors alike.
Downtown Ann Arbor is very walkable. For longer distances, TheRide offers public bus services. Many visitors find that walking is the easiest way to explore the area around Nickels Arcade.
Yes, several parking garages are available near Nickels Arcade, including the Maynard Street Garage and Liberty Square Garage. Street parking may also be available but can be limited.
Absolutely! Nickels Arcade is a 261-foot-long gallery that connects State Street directly to Maynard Street, offering two convenient entry points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Nickels Arcade. It's a public walkway and shopping area, so you can freely explore its shops and architecture.
The arcade itself is generally accessible during daylight hours, but individual shop hours may vary. It's best to check the specific hours for any shops you plan to visit. Some shops are open until Christmas daily.
There are no entrance fees for the shops. You only pay for any purchases you make.
Yes, Nickels Arcade is open year-round, though holiday magic is particularly present during the festive season.
While some visitors have brought pets like dogs into the arcade (e.g., Stitch the malamute ), it's always best to check with individual shop owners regarding their pet policies, as not all may be pet-friendly.
🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience
Nickels Arcade hosts a variety of unique local shops, including artisanal chocolate makers like Bon Bon Bon, vintage clothing stores, gift shops, a barber shop, a florist, and even an old-fashioned tobacconist.
It's a fantastic place for unique finds and supporting local businesses. While not a large mall, it offers a curated selection of specialty shops you won't find elsewhere.
The atmosphere is often described as comfortable, chill, and historic. It's a great place for a slow stroll and to soak in the vintage charm.
While Nickels Arcade itself doesn't house arcades, the very popular Pinball Pete's, known for its extensive collection of arcade and pinball games, is located just nearby.
Yes, the independent shops within Nickels Arcade are perfect for finding unique souvenirs, local crafts, and distinctive gifts.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Comet Coffee is a popular spot located within Nickels Arcade, offering coffee and pastries. It's a great place to relax and refuel.
While Nickels Arcade is primarily a shopping destination, it features excellent spots like Bon Bon Bon for artisanal chocolates and Comet Coffee for beverages and pastries.
The standout food specialty is undoubtedly the handcrafted chocolates from Bon Bon Bon. You can also find coffee and other baked goods at Comet Coffee.
Yes, Comet Coffee offers pastries, and Bon Bon Bon has delightful chocolate treats, making it ideal for a quick snack while exploring.
Nickels Arcade focuses more on specialty shops and cafes rather than full-service restaurants. For a wider dining selection, explore the surrounding downtown Ann Arbor area.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire arcade is a photographer's dream! Focus on the unique dome architecture, the intricate details of the shopfronts, and the vibrant displays of the local boutiques. The black and white aesthetic is particularly striking.
Absolutely! The symmetry, unique color palettes, and vintage feel of Nickels Arcade lend themselves perfectly to Wes Anderson-inspired photography.
Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting as the arcade lights begin to glow. However, the unique atmosphere can be captured at any time.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from shop owners before taking extensive photos inside their establishments.
Don't miss the iconic dome ceiling, the vintage storefronts, and the overall sense of historic preservation. The 'catacombs' beneath the arcade also offer a unique photographic perspective if accessible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ann Arbor's History
Walking through Nickels Arcade is like stepping back in time. The preserved storefronts and the overall ambiance evoke a sense of nostalgia. Visitors can explore the 'catacombs' beneath the arcade, which offer a rarely seen glimpse into its infrastructure and history, adding another layer to the visitor experience. This historical context makes Nickels Arcade more than just a shopping destination; it's a living piece of Ann Arbor's past.
The Unique Shopping Experience
This concentration of small businesses fosters a strong sense of community and local pride. Many of these shops have been part of the arcade for years, contributing to its established character. The experience of shopping here is often described as comfortable and chill, encouraging visitors to take their time and discover hidden treasures. It's an ideal spot for finding unique gifts or personal treats that reflect the spirit of Ann Arbor.
Photography Opportunities
Whether you're capturing the intricate details of the shops, the play of light through the dome, or the general atmosphere, Nickels Arcade offers endless possibilities. Black and white photography can particularly enhance the timeless quality of the arcade. Visitors are encouraged to explore different angles and perspectives to capture the essence of this Ann Arbor landmark. Remember to be respectful of the shops and other visitors while taking photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit