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stablished as a city in 1823 Michigan’s second oldest city was named after General Demetrius Ypsilanti, a hero in the Greek war for independence. Judge Woodward of Detroit was so impressed and fascinated by General Ypsilanti’s military successes that he named this settlement on the Huron River after the war hero. Ypsilanti would eventually encompass several area settlements that were established to take advantage of both the Huron River and existing Indian trails. The most famous of which was the Sauk trail. In 1935 a military road following the path of the Sauk trail opened from Chicago to Detroit and the railroad followed three years later. Originally named Chicago Road, the byway would become Michigan Ave. providing a major source of industry and anchor Ypsilanti’s downtown commercial district.
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he history of Ypsi is still present and vibrant in today’s shops, dining and entertainment scene. The downtown area consists of two distinct districts “Downtown” and “Depot Town.” Only minutes apart they utilize their beautifully preserved historic areas to add interest to the variety of cultures present in the art, music and shopping.
must see in ypsi Michigan Firehouse Museum
Encompassing over 26,000 square feet, the Museum is an educational treasure trove that includes an original 1898 firehouse and modern, multilevel exhibit display area.
Automotive Heritage Museum
The collection of the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum includes 30 vintage automobiles with a historical connection to Ypsilanti. A 1933 Hudson Terraplane K Series Coach is the oldest in the collection up through a 1991 Chevrolet Caprice Police vehicle manufactured at Willow Run.
Tour the Tower
The tower was designed by William R. Coats and constructed as part of an elaborate city waterworks project that began in 1889. Located on the highest point in Ypsilanti, the tower was completed in 1890 at a cost of $21,435.63. Spur Studios is a collection of private work spaces for artists, musicians and other creative people who need a place to get things done.
The Bomber Historic family restaurant featured on Food Network's Top 5 Over-indulgences.
Sidetrack Bar & Grill Hottest gourmet burger bar in the area rated in the top 20 in the USA by GQ magazine. Over a dozen microbrews on tap, outdoor seating.
Ypsilanti Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 106 W. Michigan Avenue
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
For more information contact: media@ypsilanti.org 734.483.4444