Arbor Vitae is a beautiful and hip loft right near Wazoo Records on State Street. It's definitely a place to hit if you love the younger Ann Arbor townie circles -- you'll probably see the hot barista from Cafe Ambrosia there and maybe that kid you fought at the 8 Ball. They host amazing shows for local musicians. I've seen Fred Thomas, Actual Birds, and many others. I've also been to hot dance parties as well. They even host art openings. They'll also probably have a New Year's Eve party if you want to skip the bar chaos -- this is a much better place to kick it.
The best thing: if you creep out using the fire escape and climb onto the roof, you will get a spectacular view of the area. You see a church rooftop as well as the brick from the ivy covered house next door, but also all the State Street businesses. It is one of my favorite spots in the city to just sit late at night and chill with friends.
What I love about watching a show there is the intimacy. You can sit in a circle and watch the performance, but you can also see other people in the audience. It takes the sound to another level. In contrast to that, the dance parties are amazing. I met my astro-physicist friend at one of their dance parties.
It can get crowded since it is a loft and a living space for people during the day, but you'll find your favorite (and possibly least favorite -- but that makes it more interesting!) people from around town during that late night. He offered me a swig of his vodka from a bag. He recognized me from my job. Then this absolutely FOINE guy recognized me from my job and asked me out. Then this guy I actually detest recognized me from my job, and that sucked big time. Intimate spaces have their pros and cons, definitely -- but if you hear about a show or party here, give it a try. read more
