Best College Bars near The University of Michigan

by Sr. Editor on March 15, 2010

If you are a new student at The University of Michigan, you will fall in love with Ann Arbor. As a college town, Ann Arbor has many charming local dives and funky places to discover. The area surrounding the campus of The University of Michigan is alive with local bars favored by U-M Students. Whether you are in the mood for trivia, karaoke or a cheap beer after a week of classes, here are the most popular bars where you will find your fellow U-M classmates.

Image by: N0Nick (Flickr)

Brown Jug Restaurant
1204 S. University Ave.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 761-3355

This campus favorite is a versatile place where you can take a date, take your parents out when they come in town or just wind down and have a beer. The Brown Jug Restaurant is easy on your wallet too, as many college students agree that prices are reasonable, even downright cheap. If you are going to experience their libations, try one of the 10 different Long Island iced teas. (Tip: The green dinosaur is the most popular.) If you are looking for something good to eat, the veggie pizza is highly recommended along with the Feisty Feta & Greek pita bread.

Good Time Charley’s
1140 S. University Ave.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 668-8411

Described as the epitome of an Ann Arbor college bar, Good Time Charley’s is the bar of choice for many students at the University of Michigan. If you are going for heavily loaded drinks, you will appreciate that the Long Island iced teas are served in a pickle jar. This bar also has just about every flavor of shots imaginable. Good Time Charley’s gets packed on the weekend, so if you are looking for a place to meet other students, you will have no problem finding them here. Conveniently positioned on the corner of South University Avenue and Church Street, Good Time Charley’s is within walking distance to the University’s dorms –which is a good thing if you’ve had one of the Long Island iced teas.

Rick’s American Cafe
611 Church St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 996-2747

Offering a typical American varsity vibe, Rick’s American Café is everything you may imagine a college bar to be. With their tag line “The Most Fun You Can Have with Your Clothes On,” Rick’s promises the flirtatious, sexy college party experience with flowing alcohol and live entertainment every night of the week. Honored by Playboy as “College Bar of the Month” and named “Best Campus Bar in Ann Arbor” by the “Michigan Daily,” Rick’s American Cafe is one of the busiest bars on the University of Michigan’s campus since it opened in 1979.

Blue Leprechaun
1220 S. University Ave. #109
Ann Arbor, MI 48113
(734) 665-7777

The Blue Leprechaun is one step up from a college dive bar. It is a bit classier than the typical college bar in Ann Arbor and is often frequented by more a more distinguished college crowd, including grad students and professors. Overzealous fraternity boys and sorority girls are generally not found drinking here. The fireplace in the front room gives this bar a cozy, pub feel. The Blue Leprechaun has live music, karaoke and a hip lounge downstairs that has a more laid-back atmosphere than the bar upstairs. If you are looking for a drink and dinner deal, Tuesday nights are “Everything is Half Off for Grad Students Nights,” which may explain why so many grad students like to hang out here. If you are tired of pizza and hamburgers, this is a great place to go for some Irish comfort food, such as fish and chips or Sheppard’s pie.

Grizzly Peak Brewing
120 West Washington St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 741-7325

This is another brew pub that is popular among a college crowd with a more distinct palate. For those who enjoy the taste of beer and are not just looking for a cheap buzz, this pub will blow you away with its list of fine imports and locally brewed beer. They offer a great list of rotating and seasonal brew. Patrons enjoy a bustling bar with good spirits, food and a dim, warm environment. As a local favorite, this pub draws a diverse, lively crowd. While it may not be located on campus, many college students go here to treat themselves. If your parents are in town and offer to take you to dinner, take advantage of their offer and order something nice for yourself, such as the spicy, beer-steamed mussels or the pretzel-encrusted salmon with a Black & Tan brownie beer.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Detroit.

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Discover the Best Apartments near the University of Michigan

by Sr. Editor on March 11, 2010

istock/ FotografiaBasica
Photo Credit: iStock/FotografiaBasica

College students attending the University of Michigan have a lot to be proud of, with the university consistently ranked as one of the premier public schools in the nation and its home city of Ann Arbor serving as a thriving, fun place to live.

In Ann Arbor, you’ll never lack for things to see and do, from the world-class performing arts center to the country’s largest college-owned football stadium to the nightlife, restaurants and charming neighborhoods throughout the city. And if that’s not enough, just down the road is metropolitan Detroit, the largest city in the state and the eleventh most populous city in the country.

If you’re looking for a place to live near the University of Michigan, consider the following places, noted for their look, amenities and proximity to campus.

What: Woodbury Gardens, 1245 Astor Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Why We Like It: Located just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan, Woodbury Gardens offers 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments ranging from 760 to 1460 square feet. If you’re interested in being pampered, the complex offers a complete concierge service who will feed your pets, water your plants and have your groceries delivered. You could walk to the university, or you could take the AATA bus, which is located just a few feet from the entrance to the complex. On your way out, grab the weekly continental breakfast provided by the staff.

What: Woodland Mews, 275 Fieldcrest Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Why We Like It: Woodland Mews is a complex for the active-minded University of Michigan student. Located just south of the University of Michigan golf course, the complex includes bike trails, a huge pool overlooking a lake and a fitness center. Floor plans – some with fireplaces – include flats, townhomes and apartments, and furnished units are available. One townhome floor plan offers the rare three-bedroom, three-bathroom arrangement, which is perfect for splitting with two roommates.

What: The Ponds at Georgetown, 2511 Packard Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Why We Like It: Designed for those with roommates, The Ponds at Georgetown apartments all have two bathrooms, a fireplace, a washer and a dryer. Athletes will love the heated swimming pool, whirlpool and 24-hour fitness center, and gourmands will enjoy the fully equipped kitchen that includes a microwave. When you need to relax, step onto the apartment balcony, which looks over glorious woods and a pond, or indulge in retail therapy at the nearby Georgetown Mall Shopping Center.

What: Arbor Landings Apartments, 545 Landings Boulevard, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Why We Like It: Though it’s the farthest on our list from the University of Michigan campus, Arbor Landings offers convenient access to campus via the AATA bus service line. Arbor Landings is all about options: Choose from 13 different floor plans, ranging from 817 to 1,299 square feet, and live near I-94, Highway 14 and Maple Village Shopping Center. Fitness enthusiasts will adore the yoga room, exercise trail and bike storage, and those who work from home will enjoy the poolside and clubhouse Wi-Fi.

What: Willowtree Apartments and Towers, 1819 Willowtree Lane, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Why We Like It: If you’re a student at the University of Michigan’s North Campus, which is where engineering and computer science majors will spend most of their time, Willowtree Apartments are just a few blocks away. As the name suggests, Willowtree offers a peaceful, park-like setting that is close to the shops and restaurants of downtown Ann Arbor. If budget is a deciding factor, you can choose from two studio apartments and two one-bedroom options, as well as seven two-bedroom layouts.

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Give Your Apartment Medicine Cabinet a Check-Up

by Sr. Editor on February 15, 2010

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Photo Credit: iStock Photo/HannamariaH

Colds and the flu usually strike at the end of winter or beginning of spring. Are you and your medicine cabinet prepared to handle another cold, allergy and cough season?

In addition to readying you for spring, cleaning out your medicine cabinet also ensures you get rid of dangerous or outdated medicines. First, know what to get rid of. Throw out expired and old medicines and consolidate nearly empty bottles and duplicates to get rid of clutter. Don’t leave old pills lying out in open trash cans and available to the curious hands and noses of young children and pets; dispose of them securely

Next, inventory what you have and learn what to add, especially if you’re living in cold-prone, windy areas such as Detroit. Make sure you have the following items in your medicine cabinet:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Primarily known as a pain reliever, acetaminophen is also a fever-reducer.

Aloe vera: This soothing, oft-green gel treats burns.

Antihistamine (Benadryl): This over-the-counter medication calms allergy symptoms such as nasal inflammation, sneezing, runny noses and eye irritation. It’s also a lifesaver for allergic reactions and bug bites.

Antiseptics: Hydrogen peroxide and alcohol clean cuts and scrapes to help prevent infection.

Antiseptic creams or ointments (Neosporin): These prevent infection in cuts and scrapes and reduce scarring.

Bandages: Stock up on bandages in various sizes so you can cover and protect any wound.

Cold, cough and flu medicines: So you’re not treating symptoms you don’t have, purchase different over-the-counter cold, cough and flu medications, such as decongestants (for coughs), expectorants and cough suppressants, depending on the symptoms you typically have.

Cortisone cream: This topical ointment reduces inflammation and calms itchy insect bites and rashes.

Gauze bandages and adhesive tape: These two items are crucial for covering larger wounds.

Heating and cooling packs: Ice reduces fevers and swelling, while heat eases cramps and stomach aches.

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): This pain reliever also reduces inflammation and swelling.

Medicine dropper or medicine cup: You need some accurate medical-use measure for dispensing liquid medications.

Nose spray: Decongestant nasal sprays quickly open up nasal passages by constricting blood vessels in the lining of the nose. Saline sprays help moisturize dry or irritated nostrils.

Thermometer: Purchase a digital or chemical-dot thermometer for checking temperatures, and know which temperatures are too high for all ages.

Tweezers: Find good tweezers with more pointy ends for removing splinters or ticks.

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Paint the Town Red with Healthier Fast Food Choices

by Sr. Editor on February 3, 2010

Eating Healthy on the Road

You’re eating better, exercising more and you even quit smoking to protect yourself against heart disease. Congratulations, you deserve to wear red on Feb. 5, National Wear Red Day, to help raise awareness of heart disease prevention.

But what else can you do in the fight against heart disease, which is predicted to kill about 400,000 Americans in 2010 alone? For starters, you can learn about which fast-food restaurants have healthy dining options, in case you’re traveling and have to stop somewhere for a quick bite to eat.

Of course, since fast food is often high in sodium, the best option is to bring along your own food. But if you have to stop for fast food and only eat it occasionally, the following options are healthiest in terms of fat and calories.

Panera Bread:
• Half turkey-artichoke on foccacia with a bowl of black bean soup or garden vegetable soup.

McAlister’s:
• Chipotle Chicken Wrap
• Build-Your-Own Deli Sandwich: Smoked Turkey on Wheat or Harvest Wheat (no cheese or mayo) with any mustard and lots of vegetables
• Spud Ole’ (no cheese)
• Grilled Chicken Spud (cheese is ok)

McDonalds:
• Egg McMuffin
• Sausage Burrito
• English muffin, 1 packet of grape jam, Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait
• Two regular hamburgers (no cheese, no mayo) with a side salad, snack size Fruit and Walnut salad or Apple Dippers
• Grilled Chicken Classic Sandwich with mustard or barbecue sauce
• Caesar salad with grilled chicken, Newman’s Own Balsamic Vinaigrette, Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait
• Big Mac, side salad or Apple Dippers
• Quarter Pounder (no cheese), side salad or Apple Dippers
• Vanilla reduced fat ice cream cone

Kentucky Fried Chicken:
• Grilled chicken breast and wing
• Grilled chicken thigh and drumstick
• Original Recipe Sandwich without sauce
• Triple Crunch Zinger Sandwich without sauce
• Tender Roast Sandwich without sauce
• Honey BBQ Flavored Sandwich
• Colonels Crispy Strips, three pieces
• Spicy Crispy Strips, three pieces
• Honey BBQ Strips, three pieces
• Blazin Strips, three pieces
• Mashed potatoes with gravy
• Corn on the cob
• BBQ baked beans
• Green beans

Chick-Fil-A:
• Chicken breakfast burrito
• Two scrambled eggs, two bacon slices, medium fruit cup
• Two scrambled eggs, 1 breakfast filet, medium fruit cup
• Chargrilled Chicken Sandwich (no sauce), carrot side salad
• Chargrilled Chicken Cool Wrap with one packet light Italian dressing, medium fruit cup
• Chargrilled Chicken Garden Salad, one packet Reduced Fat Berry Balsamic Vinaigrette, small bowl of Chicken Soup
• Southwest Chargrilled Salad (no tortilla strips), one packet fat-free honey mustard dressing or low-fat ranch dressing
• Chick-Fil-A Chicken Sandwich on wheat bun without butter, side salad, fat-free honey mustard dressing
• Chargrilled Chicken and Fruit Salad, one packet Reduced Fat Berry Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
• 8-count Chick-Fil-A Nuggets, one packet buffalo sauce, side salad, light Italian dressing, small Icedream cone

Taco Bell:
• Fresco Bean Burrito
• Two Fresco Soft Tacos with Pintos (no cheese) as a side
• Three Fresco Crunchy Tacos with Pintos (no cheese) as a side
• Two Fresco Ranchero Chicken Soft Tacos with Pintos (no cheese) as a side
• Two Fresco Grilled Steak Soft Tacos with Pintos (no cheese) as a side
• Grilled Chicken Burrito
• Fresco Burrito Supreme with Chicken with Pintos (no cheese) as a side
• Fresco Burrito Supreme with Steak with Pintos (no cheese) as a side
• Fresco Fiesta Chicken Burrito

Wendy’s:
• Junior Hamburger with a small chili on the side
• Grilled Chicken Sandwich and a side salad
• Large chili with saltine crackers
• Baked potato, broccoli and cheese
• Baked potato, sour cream and chives
• Ultimate Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Arby’s:
• Hot Ham ‘N Cheese
• Baked potato
• Market Fresh Santa Fe Salad with grilled chicken
• Market Fresh Martha’s Vineyard Salad
• Market Fresh Mini Turkey and Cheese Sandwich
• Market Fresh Mini Ham and Cheese Sandwich
• Junior Roast Beef Sandwich

As with anything, moderation is key in losing weight and preventing heart disease. But it’s nice to know that healthier options are available when you have to grab a quick meal outside your Detroit apartment.

For more information on preventing heart disease, visit the American Heart Association or the Center for Disease Control.

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Best Places with Free Wi-Fi in Metro Detroit

by Sr. Editor on January 20, 2010

If you are looking for a place in the Detroit area to plunk your laptop down and get some work done, you’ll probably need a place that allows you to access the internet. Here is a list of the best places in the Detroit metro area to get a coffee, a beer, some food and best of all, free wireless internet access.


Photo by: Ed Yourdon on Flickr Creative Commons

Detroit Coffee Shops with Free Wi-Fi

Toast
203 Pierce St
Birmingham, MI 48009

If you happen to be in the trendy Detroit suburb of Birmingham, Toast is a comfy visit for some coffee and some gourmet food in a casual, comfortable atmosphere. While they also serve lunch and dinner, Toast is most notable for its signature breakfast. Try the Alice in Wonderland Omelet with beets.

Java Hutt
207 S Old Woodward Ave
Birmingham, Michigan 48009

The best thing about this coffee shop located in the trendy neighborhood of Birmingham is that it is open 24 hours a day. You can find college students pecking away at their laptops at all hours of the night. Enjoy one of their specialty coffee drinks or sandwiches while you surf the net.

Bean & Leaf
106 S Main Street
Royal Oak, MI 48962

Bean & Leaf is located in a busy area of Royal Oak in the Detroit Metro area. Independently owned and operated by a family that lives in the area, it is the perfect place to frequent if you support using Environmentally-friendly cups and drinking fair-trade coffee.

Detroit Bars with Free Wi-Fi

Jacoby’s German Biergarten
624 Brush St
Detroit, MI 48226

Jacoby’s has been a favorite downtown Detroit eatery and hangout since 1904 and thankfully, is still thriving today. Located in Bricktown Detroit at the corner of Brush and Congress, Jacoby’s German Biergarten is an old-fashioned institution with a wide variety of domestic, international and German beer.

Woodbridge Pub
5169 Trumbull Ave
Detroit, MI 48208

This pub has great food and drink specials if you are looking for a long session “drink and link.” This pub is a favorite among locals who like to be connected to the internet as well as hooked up with alcohol. If you happen to be in the neighborhood on a Sunday, check out the $11 bottomless mimosas.

Motor City Brewing Works
470 West Canfield Street
Detroit, MI 48201-1220

Located just south of Detroit’s culture center, this is a good bar for getting to know strangers. The intimate and cozy atmosphere is conducive for socializing. This micro brewery is the second oldest in the state of Michigan and not many people know that in addition to being a small and friendly drinking hole, it also is has free Wi-Fi.

Detroit Restaurants with Free Wi-Fi

24 Grille
204 Michigan Ave
Detroit, MI 48226

If you are looking for an upscale place to dine, 24 Grille in downtown Detroit has you covered and connected. The entrance has a huge rectangular bar with more than two dozen comfortable seats to get to work.

Bucharest Grill
2040 Park Ave
Detroit, MI 48226

If you like the flavors of the Middle East, Mediterranean and Eastern Europe, you will love the Bucharest Grill in downtown Detroit. Park Bar is trendy neighborhood bar that attracts young adults who are looking to relax, drink a beer and dine on the finest Chicken Shawarma in Detroit.

Lily’s Seafood
410 S Washington Ave
Royal Oak, MI 48067

This popular seafood restaurant in Royal Oak has it all: a kid-friendly menu, a happy hour, a romantic atmosphere and best of all, free Wi-Fi. Lily’s seafood restaurant has a lot of character and the food is not too shabby either. Lily’s Seafood was voted Best Seafood by the Detroit News, Real Detroit, Metro Times and Arts Beasts and Eats to name a few.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Detroit. Browse the many apartment listings in trendy areas of the Detroit metro area such as Royal Oak, Ferndale and Birmingham.

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