Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor
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Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor

4.6
·391 reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor

Nickels Arcade Ann Arbor

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(391 reviews)

"A gorgeous arcade stuffed with great shops and a truly quintessentially Ann Arbor experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ 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.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 391 reviews

Type

Shopping Mall

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bon Bon Bon Chocolates

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

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

Unique Local Boutiques

Throughout the arcade

Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, and curiosities from Ann Arbor's independent retailers.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

The entire arcade

Admire the stunning dome architecture and timeless design of this early 20th-century marketplace.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Historic Charm

Step back in time at Nickels Arcade, a century-old gem. This covered walkway is packed with unique local shops, from artisanal chocolates to vintage games. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and discovering hidden treasures.

Plan Your Visit Wisely

While Nickels Arcade is charming, some visitors note it's more about the atmosphere than extensive shopping. Consider it a delightful detour for unique finds and a taste of Ann Arbor's history, rather than a full-day destination.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Lively atmosphere, fresh goods
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

my brother proceeded to absolutely whoop my ass after I ran 180 MPH into the barrier wall and did a spinning flip in the air that destroyed my hood #arcade #daytona #arcadegame #annarbor #DAYUHTOHNAAA #LETSGOAUHAWAY
@gaybabyoatmeal
29.8K likes • 224.2K views

☕ Grab a Coffee

Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break! Reddit

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade. TikTok

Nickels Arcade #cuocsongomy #review #xuhuong #khampha #trainghiem #michigan #viral #annarbor #khuongmichigan @Khương Michigan @Khương Michigan @Khương Michigan
@phnhatkhuong
11.1K likes • 107.8K views
Check out Nickels Arcade! Just a short walk from YOUnion Ann Arbor ☀️
sagaannarbor
12 likes • 671 views

📸 Capture the Vibe

The architecture and eclectic shops make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Discover

Take your time to wander through the arcade and soak in its historic atmosphere. Instagram

Welcome back to Post-It Notes! 🎬 We’re starting the season in one of Ann Arbor’s most iconic spots: Nickels Arcade. But we didn’t just walk the arcade… We went underneath it. 👀 ✨ Toured the rarely seen “catacombs” 🍫 Scored chocolates from Bon Bon Bon 📜 And uncovered a bit of A2 history you can’t see from street level Think you know Nickels Arcade? Think again. 🎥 Watch to the end for a sweet su...
oliviapostrealestate
16 likes • 529 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Grab a Coffee

Comet Coffee inside the arcade offers great coffee and pastries. Perfect for a break! Reddit

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

From chocolates to vintage games, discover hidden gems in this historic Ann Arbor arcade. TikTok

📸 Capture the Vibe

The architecture and eclectic shops make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Discover

Take your time to wander through the arcade and soak in its historic atmosphere. Instagram

🕹️ Hit the Games

Don't miss Pinball Pete's nearby for a dose of classic arcade fun! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(391 reviews)

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

Historic architecture
Unique local shops
Artisanal chocolates

What People Dislike

Limited retail options

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. Instagram+1

Yes, Nickels Arcade is very close to the University of Michigan campus, making it a popular spot for students and visitors alike. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Absolutely! Nickels Arcade is a 261-foot-long gallery that connects State Street directly to Maynard Street, offering two convenient entry points. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

There are no entrance fees for the shops. You only pay for any purchases you make. TikTok

Yes, Nickels Arcade is open year-round, though holiday magic is particularly present during the festive season. Instagram

While some visitors have brought pets like dogs into the arcade (e.g., Stitch the malamute Instagram), 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. Instagram+3

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

Yes, the independent shops within Nickels Arcade are perfect for finding unique souvenirs, local crafts, and distinctive gifts. Instagram+1

🍽️ ☕ 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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

Yes, Comet Coffee offers pastries, and Bon Bon Bon has delightful chocolate treats, making it ideal for a quick snack while exploring. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The symmetry, unique color palettes, and vintage feel of Nickels Arcade lend themselves perfectly to Wes Anderson-inspired photography. Instagram

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. Instagram

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from shop owners before taking extensive photos inside their establishments. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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