Discover Dearborn
September 1, 2022
Exploring the beauty of Dearborn, Michigan
Whether you plan to commute or live nearby at an off-campus housing facility, you’ll want to get to know University of Michigan-Dearborn’s surrounding city and neighboring towns. Located in the heart of southeast Michigan, Dearborn offers its own unique attractions as well as convenient methods of transportation to attractions in nearby Detroit and Ann Arbor. Here, five must-visit attractions in the Dearborn area.
The Henry Ford
Dearborn is known for its role as a manufacturing hub for the automotive industry, largely due to auto pioneer Henry Ford. Today, Dearborn is home to the Ford Motor Co. world headquarters. The Henry Ford, a museum where visitors can learn about the company’s contributions to the auto industry since its founding in the early 20th century, is located less than 3 miles away from the UM-Dearborn campus. (Fun fact: UM-Dearborn is based on the property of Henry Ford’s former estate.)
Dearborn Culture
On top of its place as a central figure in the history of America’s auto industry, Dearborn is also one of the most culturally rich locales in the country. As one Michigan’s largest cities, Dearborn is also home to the largest Muslim population in the United States. Enjoy a meal at one of the city’s acclaimed Middle Eastern restaurants, such as James Beard Award-winning eatery Al Ameer, or visit the Islamic Center of America, the largest mosque in North America.
Downtown Detroit
As a city that borders Detroit, Dearborn is easily accessible to the much buzzed-about action in the metropolitan city. In a short drive, bus ride, or rideshare, you’ll be able to catch a sporting event, performance, or concert at Little Caesars Arena; stop in to see an exhibit at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, or the Motown Museum; or take in the sights at the famous Campus Martius Park.
Ann Arbor Life
One benefit of being a part of the Michigan family is having access to many of the facilities on UM-Dearborn’s sister campus in Ann Arbor. Students have the opportunity to purchase student tickets for sporting events and performances. You’ll also qualify for student discounts on select events. And, if you’re interested, you may even consider joining a club or student activity at the Ann Arbor campus. Given Dearborn’s location less than 40 miles east of Ann Arbor, you may not mind the commute for say, marching band or cheer practice, or simply to watch a sporting event or performance at The Big House.