Ann Arbor, or A2 as it’s lovingly referred to by the people who call this quaint township home, can barely scrape together a population of 114,000 people, but it still attracts tourists, students and sports fans alike to its tree-lined streets. Named Ann Arbor after the founders’ wives and the fact that there is foliage absolutely everywhere, this tranquil Great Lakes town is the perfect leafy respite for dwellers of Shanghai’s urban jungle.

The home of the impressively scholastic University of Michigan, Ann Arbor plays host to a variety of internationally renowned professors and keg-standing frat boys – a contradiction that gives A2 the unique flair typical of a highly-ranked college town. Greek houses complete with beach volleyball courts sit across from the scenic Law Quad and all-night pizza joints neighbour restaurants that co-eds would only deign to step into when their parents are footing the bill – but that’s where Ann Arbor’s charm lies, and darn it, it’s an exceptionally charming town.

Do

Visitors and tree-hugging residents can while away the hours in the shade of nature with the Nichols Arboretum and Matthei Botanical Gardens. Founded by the University in 1907, “The Arb” (1610 Washington Heights, Tel: +001 734 647 7600) offers 123 acres of hills and a breathtaking night view of the whole city, not to mention a heck of a lot of trees from just about everywhere in North America. The designers of the Matthei Botanical Gardens (1800 North Dixboro Road, Tel: +001 734 647 7600) had picnics in mind when they created this picture perfect plot. Before heading over to check out the 300 acre garden that boasts a conservatory, butterfly garden and a handful of artfully-dressed flamingos, fill up a basket with sandwiches from Zingerman’s Deli (422 Detroit Street, Tel: +001 734 663 DELI). They put the best meat between bread in America according to Vanity Fair, and their desserts are nothing to sniff at either.

Tourists who like seeing the fruits of their labours can head to Makielski's Berry Farm (7130 Platt Road, Tel: +001 734 572 0060) during late summer to snatch up buckets of blackberries and raspberries. After reaching through briars and filling up on these seasonal fruits, pickers can also purchase a jar of raspberry honey to guarantee that the berry-picking adventure lasts through the harshest of winters.

Shop

The success of Ann Arbor’s “Shop Local” campaign can be attributed to the town’s local mindset of preferring its historic buildings to remain free of corporate control. Held every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer, the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market (315 Detroit Street) exemplifies the community-oriented nature of the town. In addition to local produce, the Farmer’s Market serves up flowers, cheese and much more. The same location doubles as the Ann Arbor Artisan Market on Sundays. Visitors can head back to the open-air market to snatch up handmade goods, like soaps and magic wands, for unique souvenirs.

The distinct smell of leather-bound volumes and aging pages reminds shoppers that Westside Book Shop (113 W Liberty Street, Tel: +001 734 995 1891) sells the best variety of used and rare books. The crowded shelves overflow onto the floor, but the friendly staff is on hand to help sift through the ancient tomes. Those who are more musical than literary can walk just a few blocks to Encore Records (417 E Liberty Street, Tel: +001 734 662 6776); the store is just the spot to pan for melodious gold among an impressive collection of used records.