Memories That Made Ann Arbor Feel Like Home by Pavan Prativada

 Memories That Made Ann Arbor Feel Like Home

Written by Pavan Prativada

Summer Orientation Peer Advisor 

Graduate Student 

Hyderabad, India

Ann Arbor has a way of surprising you. Some places here are more than just scenic spots – they’re where memories are made, friendships grow stronger, and homesickness fades for a while. For me, three places in Ann Arbor hold that magic: kayaking on the Huron River, afternoons at Nichols Arboretum, and quiet drives along Huron River Drive.

Nichols Arboretum – A Place for Many Firsts

Tip: Wear comfy shoes, bring a frisbee or snacks, and don’t forget your camera – every visit feels new.

The Arb is where so many of my “firsts” happened. My first snowfall, first snowball fight, first ultimate frisbee game – all right there. One November afternoon, my friends Roshan and Kevin and I were caught up in a snowball fight when Kevin’s phone accidentally captured the exact moment a snowball smacked him on the head – still one of our favorite memories. We walked along snowy paths, benches blanketed in white, laughing and kicking snow around until we couldn’t feel our fingers.

A few months later, spring brought the Arb back to life. Fresh green grass, sunlight breaking through the trees, and that first hint of warmth after months of cold. We grabbed snacks, sunscreen, a blanket, a soccer ball and a frisbee, and spent the whole day playing until sunset. We were sore and exhausted the next morning, but it was absolutely worth it.

Huron River Drive – My Go-To Escape

Tip: The drive is beautiful year-round, but fall colors and nearby cider mills make it unforgettable.

Driving has always been my therapy, and Huron River Drive is my favorite escape whenever I feel homesick or overwhelmed by school and life’s uncertainties. The winding road hugs the river, framed by trees that change with every season – bright green in summer, golden in fall, and pure white in winter.

One winter afternoon, my friends and I pulled over by Barton Nature Area and found the river completely frozen. We carefully stepped onto the ice, laughing and sliding around like kids, and ended up making snow angels right there on the frozen river. It’s one of those memories that will stay with me forever. Little parks line the drive, making it perfect for solo trips or peaceful dates.

Kayaking & Tubing on the Huron River

Tip: Wear quick-dry clothes, sandals, and keep your phone safe – you’re definitely getting splashed.

Kayaking and tubing are my favorite summer activities in Ann Arbor. I remember my first time kayaking with friends – we rented a couple of canoes and paddled from Argo to Gallup. At first, it was calm and easy, but soon we hit a few mini waterfalls, and the boat rocked and splashed water all over us. Shoes, shorts, everything was soaked, but we couldn’t stop laughing. Later, the river smoothed out, the sun was warm, and all we heard was the sound of paddles dipping into the water.

Another day, we went tubing. Just us, floating under green trees, drifting along for hours. No rush, no plans, just sunshine and quiet conversations. Whether you’re the adventurous type navigating rapids or someone who’d rather relax with a book or a drink in hand, the Huron River has something for everyone.