Ypsilanti is a small city (population 22,000) immediately to the east of Ann Arbor and just west of metropolitan Detroit. For decades a manufacturing town, Ypsilanti today is increasingly becoming a creative and cultural center, particularly as Ann Arbor has become more expensive, making Ypsilanti's lower cost of living very attractive. The presence of Eastern Michigan University helps keep Ypsilanti's average age at a low 24, and the city is generally considered politically progressive. Ypsilanti has the second-largest contiguous historic district in Michigan, behind only much-larger Grand Rapids.

The two central commercial districts of downtown and Depot Town are home to many regionally-known restaurants (Sidetrack, Dalat, Haab's, Cady's, Abe's Coney Island), coffee shops (Luwak Cafe, Bombadill's, Ugly Mug), and bars (Elbow Room, Tap Room, Pub 13), as well as grocery stores (Dos Hermanos, Ypsilanti Co-op), art galleries (What is That?), and microbreweries/brewpubs (Corner Brewery/Arbor Brewing Company, Frog Island Brewery). Depot Town is home to the last Hudson automobile dealership, now used to house the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum.

Two parks (Frog Island and Riverside) designed by Frederick Law Olmstead's sons lie on the banks of the Huron River between Depot Town and downtown. These parks host numerous large events throughout the summer, including the Michigan Brewer's Guild Summer Festival, Michigan's largest Elvis Fest, the Orphan Car Show, and Ypsilanti's Heritage Festival.