Page from A. J. Davis Scrapbook II, also known as Blue Book, displayed with architectural sketches and annotations — A historical scrapbook page from A. J. Davis Scrapbook II, known as the Blue Book, featuring architectural drawings and notes related to album collections

Amdahl 470V/6 mainframe computer with console and staff at University of Michigan — Second production model of Amdahl 470V/6 mainframe computer at University of Michigan Computing Center, showing I/O Channels, CPU, main storage, and performance monitor console with staff present.

Arthur J Lacy with University of Michigan Democratic Club group photo 1898 — Historical black and white photo of Arthur J Lacy and members of the University of Michigan Democratic Club in 1898, featuring two rows of men with names listed in the 1898 Michiganensian.

University Hall west view after 1879 remodeling — University Hall built in 1872, shown from the west after its 1879 remodeling, image from the period 1872-1896

Black and white copy print of sepia original portrait of John Monteith — Black and white copy print of the sepia original portrait of John Monteith from the Bentley Historical Library digital collection at University of Michigan.

Cabinet card portrait of Joseph Beal Steere, Professor of Zoology and Paleontology and Museum Curator — Vintage cabinet card portrait of Joseph Beal Steere, who was a Professor of Zoology and Paleontology from 1876 to 1894 and Curator of Museum, from the Bentley Historical Library collection.

University of Michigan campus aerial view with historic buildings and green spaces — Aerial view of the University of Michigan campus showcasing historic buildings and lush green spaces in Ann Arbor.

University of Michigan Student Army Training Corps unloading lumber from Detroit for road work and auto mechanics class — Historic image of University of Michigan Student Army Training Corps students unloading lumber brought from Detroit after an eighty mile trip for their road work and auto mechanics class.

Carpentry class at University of Michigan with students working on wood projects — Historic image of a carpentry class at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor showing students engaged in woodworking projects

Mess Hall building at University of Michigan Ann Arbor — Historic Mess Hall at University of Michigan located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, featuring classic architecture and large windows.

Colored elevation of Mason Hall architectural plan with handwritten inscription dated April 8th, 1840 — Colored elevation drawing of Mason Hall with ink inscription stating adoption date April 8th, 1840 by University Board of Regents, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Consumer Sentiment Index graph from 1952 to 2022 showing fluctuations in consumer confidence — Graph illustrating the Consumer Sentiment Index trends over 70 years from 1952 through 2022 reflecting changes in consumer confidence

About the University of Michigan

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor combines academic achievement, rich history, campus traditions, and a college-town atmosphere. Its campus brings together historic and contemporary architecture, cultural venues, and natural attractions.

The university is consistently ranked among the world’s top public universities, with strengths in social sciences, engineering, medicine, psychology, and business. It serves nearly 50,000 students from all 50 U.S. states and over 99 countries, and offers more than 250 undergraduate majors, 200 master’s programs, and 100 doctoral degrees. Its research and innovation contribute to advances in science, technology, and the humanities.

U-M’s student body represents all 50 states and over 100 countries, and the university maintains a strong commitment to inclusivity (Niche). The academic atmosphere is known for rigorous study and a collaborative community.

History

The University of Michigan was founded in Detroit in 1817 as a preparatory school and relocated to Ann Arbor in 1837. The move was enabled by a 40-acre land donation, now the site of the Diag. Early campus life was rustic: faculty grazed livestock on the grounds, and wheat was grown as part of staff compensation. By 1866, the university had become the largest in the nation and helped establish Ann Arbor as an educational hub.

Harris Hall, completed in 1909, is a historic Tudor Revival building on campus. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it has served academic and community purposes over the decades.

What to See

Campus landmarks

The Diag The campus’s symbolic heart, marked by an iconic brass “M.” It is a central green space flanked by Hatcher Library and Angell Hall.
Law Quadrangle Gothic architecture and tranquil courtyards. It is open daily, from dawn to dusk.
Michigan Union and Michigan League Historic student centers and event venues. The Union has dining and study spaces.
The Cube A large rotating sculpture; spinning it is a Michigan tradition.
Burton Memorial and Lurie Towers Carillon concerts can be heard during visits.
North Campus Home to the engineering, art, and music schools.
Michigan Stadium (“The Big House”) The largest stadium in the U.S., with over 107,000 seats.
Yost Ice Arena and Crisler Center Home to hockey and basketball.
Harris Hall A historic campus building whose exterior is accessible year-round.

The university’s online campus tour offers a virtual preview of key landmarks.

Campus life and culture

Student traditions include the Orientation Fountain Walk, in which new students cross a campus fountain to mark their entry into the community. Graduates walk the reverse route, signifying their transition to alumni.

U-M has over 1,400 clubs and, in another count, over 1,600 student organizations. The university also has Big Ten athletics and extensive intramural sports. First-year students are guaranteed housing in 18 residence halls, and dining options focus on sustainability. Campus resources include counseling, food assistance, and health services (Student Life Impact Report). Security includes 24/7 patrols and emergency phones (Student Life).

Campus museums include UMMA and the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology. Performances include those of the University Musical Society at Hill Auditorium. The Ann Arbor Summer Festival is another local event (Ann Arbor Summer Festival).

Practical Visiting Information

Hours and tickets

Outdoor spaces The Diag and other outdoor landmarks are open from dawn to dusk year-round.
Buildings Facilities such as the Michigan Union, libraries, and museums generally operate Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–5 PM. Check individual locations for updated hours.
Michigan Union Open daily, 7 AM–11 PM.
Hatcher Graduate Library Open weekdays, 8 AM–11 PM.
Guided campus tours Available Monday–Saturday and last 60–90 minutes. Advance tickets are required; book via the University of Michigan Tours website.
Self-guided tours Free, with downloadable maps or official mobile apps.
Michigan Stadium tours Typically Monday–Friday, 10 AM–3 PM; hours may vary during football season. Tickets are approximately $10 and can be purchased via Michigan Athletics.
Harris Hall tours Guided tours include Harris Hall. Tickets are approximately $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12. Book through the official visitor center.

Open houses, cultural festivals, and lectures take place throughout the year; check the university events calendar for details.

Accessibility and getting around

The campus has paved paths, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are permitted, and accommodations are available for visitors with disabilities. Most buildings and paths are wheelchair friendly; see the university’s accessibility information.

The campus is walkable, and a free blue bus system connects key areas. North Campus is accessible by free campus buses. Visitor parking is available but limited during events. The Harris Hall area has paved, wheelchair-accessible walkways, but nearby parking is limited; public transportation or university shuttles can be used.

Tips

Reserve tours and tickets in advance, especially during major events. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather and vibrant campus life. Wear walking shoes and check the weather forecast.

Seasonal events and heritage days may provide limited interior access to Harris Hall; check the university events calendar for updates. Harris Hall is best photographed in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon, and interior photography is restricted.

For navigation and updates, use the Audiala app. For interactive maps and real-time updates, consider the Audiala app.

Nearby Places

Ann Arbor attractions

Nichols Arboretum Free entry, open from dawn to dusk; its trails, gardens, and famous Peony Garden are among the area’s attractions.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens Features trails and gardens.
The Ark A folk music venue described as one of the country’s best.
Downtown Ann Arbor Restaurants, independent shops, galleries, and year-round festivals.
Zingerman’s Delicatessen Known for gourmet sandwiches; open daily, 8 AM–8 PM.
State Theater and Kerrytown Market Local culture and shopping.
Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market Open Saturdays year-round, 7 AM–3 PM.

Nearby Harris Hall sites include the Michigan Union, Hill Auditorium, the Law School, UMMA, and Nichols Arboretum.

Getting to Ann Arbor

Taxi, rideshare, and shuttle services connect Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) to Ann Arbor.

FAQ

Is Harris Hall open to the public?

The exterior is accessible year-round. Interiors may be closed due to redevelopment.

Are there fees to visit Harris Hall?

Exterior viewing is free; guided tours require tickets.

Can I take photos inside Harris Hall?

Interior photography is restricted.