Kelsey Museum of Archaeology — Attraction in Ann Arbor

What I really loved was the emphasis on every day objects. There aren't the huge monuments you see other places. Instead, you have grains found near a hearth, pots, small decorative objects, etc. Of course, since there is Egyptian stuff, there is also a cat mummy and a raptor mummy.

I particularly enjoyed the Etruscan section.

The focus is on Mediterranean ancient civilizations. Objects come from U of M digs. The gift shop had some really fun stuff.

My only complaint, as someone who is mobility impaired, was the lack of places to sit in the museum. A few places to rest would have enabled me to spend more time enjoying the museum.There is plenty of space to maneuver a wheelchair. There is an elevator to get to second floor exhibits, which staff were quick to point out to me. There are a few steps to the gift shop.

Free, donations accepted. Parking, when U of M is in session, is going to be tricky. Right around the corner from many places to get...

A great little museum with free admission, but accepts donations. Well worth scheduling a few hours to wander and closely examine/appreciate the workmanship of the artifacts there.

Lots of pieces from Egypt, and lots of pottery and glasswork, but certainly a fun variety of other pieces in general. Anyone with experience in, or a vague idea about the processes of flintknapping, glassblowing, the firing of earthenwares, carving and turning, some gemsetting and metalwork, and just a general interest in the production of material culture will certainly find multiple things to happily examine and appreciate.

The staff was friendly & helpful, and that is...

We had such a lovely time at this museum—10/10 recommend for anyone interested in ancient or Egyptian history! I love exploring art and history museums, and this hidden gem houses so many fascinating pieces I’d never seen before. Some of my favorite artifacts were “hidden” in the drawers, so be sure to open those beneath the display cases — there’s so much to discover! The collections of children’s toys and shoes were especially touching, and the cat mummy was a personal favorite. We’ll definitely be back for the new exhibit in spring 2026. An absolute hidden gem...