So I have some experience with large school game days as my daughter goes to UGA. A couple weeks ago I saw that parents day was in October so I booked a room, unfortunately its 3 miles from campus. ( I have stayed at the Graduate the last couple times which is super convenient) Obviously rooms get scooped early and I am sure its near impossible to park near campus nor get into a restaurant without a reservation. So do any of the experienced Michigan parents, or students, have any words of wisdom or suggestions? I am sure some of you have tackled ( sorry, that was lame) the best approach to parents day/ and or game days. Thanks in advance.
Parent day and game day are different experiences. Parent day and game day just get there early and there are parking lots all around. Usually not an issue on campus. Restaurants depends on where your going to eat. Sometimes it’s fun being part of the crowd and waiting on line, meeting other people /parents etc. Don’t worry.,the shops will have plenty of Michigan gear on sale ?. If going to a nicer restaurant then I would call and ask but wouldn’t assume they will be on time. But to me it’s more fun going to some standbys on campus and just being part of the crowd.
We do arbnb when we stay in Ann Arbor. Much cheaper and more accessible even on game days and last minute.
Game day, I have gotten lucky with some street parking on central. But my sons on north campus and I can get a parking lot sticker for $5.00 that lasts for 3 days and take the bus with him to central then walk to the game. Also I love walking to the games. To me it builds up the excitement especially on a Michigan State or Ohio State game day. Also you can grab cheap food like hot dogs, pizza and burgers that are being sold along the streets as you walk to the stadium. Game day food, nothing exciting.
If you haven’t been to a game in the big house get there a bit early. It’s an event. They do a nice job with it.
@Knowsstuff Appreciate all the info. I did not know about the parking sticker, sounds great. I am sure parents day and game day are different but our parents weekend Oct 4-6, also has Iowa in town. Should be allot of fun.
That should be a decent game also Iowa can be hit or miss but when they play good, watch out. Yea, can’t beat $5.00 on North. Otherwise it’s like $20.00 in a lot on central which isn’t too bad but taking the bus back to North after a game is an adventure for sure. Pro Tip : Hold on tight!! The bus takes turns fast… 
@Knowsstuff Yes, we got a taste of the bus for Campus day. I worked in NYC for 30 years so the subways taught me well, the wife…not so much.
Game day its packed tight. Seriously but fun when your a student. As a parent. Hmmm… ?
There is plenty of parking downtown if you go in early. The municipal lots are cheaper since they charge by the hour even on game day. Try the lot on Washington between State and Division. Under worse case the lot on Ann between Main and First almost always has spots. There is a free university lot off 3rd between Liberty and Washington, it’s hidden and a bit hard to find the entrance. Otherwise take the bus (use Google maps for times), fare is $1.50.
@TooOld4School Thank you. Sounds like you have done this a few times. Appreciate it.