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Experience the Best of Ann Arbor Living With Norfolk Homes

May 16, 2025

There’s a reason that Ann Arbor consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States. Tucked in the heart of southwest Michigan, this vibrant, culturally rich city blends small-town charm with big-city energy. Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, walkable neighborhoods or the unbeatable food scene, Ann Arbor delivers a lifestyle that’s hard to match. If you’re considering a move here—or are already house hunting in one of our new home communities in Ann Arbor at Norfolk Homes—read on to take a closer look at everything you can experience each day when you call this city home.  

A Thriving Cultural Hub—The University of Michigan

At the heart of Ann Arbor is the University of Michigan, one of the top public universities in the country, and its presence gives the city even more energy, diversity and opportunity. Beyond its academic reputation, the university supports a robust calendar of public events—from world-class performances at the Power Center for the Performing Arts to lectures from global leaders and incredible art exhibitions at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. For sports fans, there’s nothing quite like a fall Saturday at “The Big House”, the largest stadium in the U.S., where the Wolverines bring the community together with unbeatable school spirit. 

An Unbeatable Food Scene 

From casual bites to fine dining, Ann Arbor’s culinary landscape rivals much larger cities. Locals love the iconic Zingerman’s Delicatessen, where artisan sandwiches draw lines out the door. For elevated fare, The Chop House delivers classic steakhouse charm, while Pacific Rim serves up elegant dishes in a serene setting. 

If you’re craving something sweet, you definitely won’t want to skip Blank Slate Creamery, where handcrafted ice cream is made from quality ingredients—from traditional flavors to some out of the box options. Brunch lovers should also check out The Jagged Fork, one of several standout spots serving creative breakfast plates in a cozy, modern setting. 

Endless Things to Do—All Year Long

Ann Arbor isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to explore, and no matter the season, the city offers endless opportunities for recreation, culture and connection. Nature lovers can spend sunny afternoons kayaking down the Huron River, walking through the scenic paths of the Nichols Arboretum or biking along the extensive Border-to-Border Trail, which winds through parks, neighborhoods and natural areas. 

If you’re drawn to the arts, you’ll find no shortage of entertainment. Catch an independent film, stage production or musical concerts at the Michigan Theater, enjoy live music at The Ark—considered one of the top music clubs in the world—or stroll the Ann Arbor Art Fair in July, one of the largest and most beloved in the nation. 

Families will also appreciate how easy it is to find a fun activity that everyone will enjoy. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and the Leslie Science & Nature Center offer interactive exhibits that engage and educate, while the seasonal farmers markets make it easy to enjoy the fresh air and the company of your neighbors all year long. 

A Place That Feels Like Home

While you’ll always find plenty of things to do in Ann Arbor, the greatest benefit of living here is the sense of balance it brings. It’s a place where innovation and tradition coexist, where coffee shops and bookstores thrive and where community matters. At Norfolk Homes, we believe your surroundings should inspire you, and there’s no better place to build your future than in a city as vibrant as Ann Arbor. If you’re ready to explore new homes in Ann Arbor or want to take a closer look at some of our communities in Ann Arbor or in the surrounding cities, give us a call at (734) 336-1912 or fill out our online form today.