Ann Arbor

Why: This great university town is home to Zingerman’s Roadhouse, a newish offshoot of the legendary Zingerman’s Deli, which arguably has done more to bring back artisanal food than any other American entity. 2501 Jackson Ave., 734-663-3663

How: Ann Arbor is half an hour west of the Detroit Metro Airport. Nonstops (Northwest) started at $365 at presstime; you can connect in Chicago for half the price.

Stay: AA is not a great hotel town, but the coolest digs in the area can be found at the Westin at the Detroit Metro Airport (rates start at $99).  It’s a stylish, sedate haven with all the facilities of a full-service hotel. 734-942-6500

Eat: Chef Alex Young is working to single-handedly bring back lost regional American foods—from Carolina barbecue to pimento cheese to authentic grits. His menu includes dry-aged steaks, amazing mac and cheese, and fresh lake and ocean fish.

Pack: A cooler to bring home stellar meats, cheeses, creamery products, and baked goods from Zingerman’s flagship deli.

P.S.: Detroit is a little more than an hour away if you’re so inclined.