The Ypsilanti Heritage Festival takes place across multiple venues in the heart of Ypsilanti, Michigan, including Riverside Park on the banks of the Huron River, the historic Depot Town district, and Downtown Ypsilanti.
The primary festival location, Riverside Park offers beautiful grounds along the Huron River where you'll find the main entertainment stages, Beer Garden, and many vendor booths. The park's natural setting provides shade and scenic views.
This historic commercial district adjacent to the park is home to unique shops, restaurants, and museums that remain open during the festival. Brick streets and historic architecture provide a charming backdrop.
Connected to Riverside Park via pedestrian bridges, Frog Island Park expands the festival footprint and hosts additional activities and entertainment throughout the weekend.
Select festival activities extend into downtown Ypsilanti, connecting the Depot Town area with the broader community. Historic buildings and local businesses welcome festival visitors.
Take Washtenaw Avenue east toward Ypsilanti. Continue on Washtenaw into Ypsilanti, then turn right onto Huron Street. Follow Huron Street to reach Depot Town and Riverside Park. The drive takes approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
Take I-94 West to Exit 183 (Huron Street). Turn left onto Huron Street and continue south toward Depot Town. Alternatively, exit at Washtenaw Avenue and follow it west into Ypsilanti.
The Huron Street exit provides the most direct access to the festival grounds. Follow signs toward downtown Ypsilanti and Depot Town.
Exit at Washtenaw Avenue and head east toward Ypsilanti. Continue on Washtenaw into the city, then follow directional signage to festival parking areas.
Parking during the Heritage Festival requires planning, as the festival's popularity means nearby lots fill quickly:
We recommend arriving early, especially on Saturday when crowds are largest. Consider walking or biking if you live nearby, or use ride-sharing services to avoid parking challenges entirely.
The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) provides bus service connecting Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and surrounding communities. Check current schedules for routes serving the festival area.
Ypsilanti's location along the Border-to-Border Trail makes bicycling an excellent option for regional visitors. Bike parking is available near the festival grounds.
Services operate throughout the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti area. Designate a pickup/drop-off point near the festival to avoid congested areas.
The Heritage Festival strives to be accessible to all visitors:
Contact us in advance if you have specific accessibility needs, and we'll do our best to accommodate your requirements.
Printed festival maps are available at information booths throughout the grounds. Maps show vendor locations, entertainment stages, restrooms, first aid stations, and other key facilities. We recommend picking up a map upon arrival to plan your festival experience.