ypsi a progressive city with a funny name Ypsilanti—generally referred to as “Ypsi” by the locals—was established as a village in 1823. Originally called Woodruff ’s Grove, founders changed the name to Ypsilanti in 1825 in honor of General Demetrius Ypsilanti, a hero in the Greek war for independence. People have struggled to pronounce the name of our fair city ever since. (It’s ip-suh-lan-tee, by the way.)
Young families are discovering Ypsi and breathing new life into the city, putting down roots, investing in the community, and creating new traditions. Longtime Ypsilantians help preserve our rich heritage, making this city what it is today. And students from our hometown college—Eastern Michigan University—continue to inject fresh ideas into the region.
THE CULTURE It’s been said that Ypsilanti is the Brooklyn to Ann Arbor’s Manhattan. Despite Ann Arbor’s reputation as a regional bohemian cultural center, many creative people are flocking to Ypsilanti to live and work. A vibrant underground arts scene is emerging, encouraged by less expensive land and more affordable housing options.
THE ART Tucked away in a corner of Ypsi sits SPUR Studios—an art incubator that’s home to writers, painters, musicians, graphic designers, and a variety of other artists. Its 30 studio spaces have been booked solid since the incubator opened in early 2010, speaking to the community’s homespun spirit. This creativity drives handmade and
The best indie artists our city and region have to offer come together twice a year for DIYpsi, a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that will take care of everyone on your list.
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