Travel Information for Michigan
Posted By:
Mandy Phillips
on 30 November, 2006
From the bustling metropolis of Detroit to the wide open stretches of wilderness and lakes, Michigan is a state known for its friendly Midwest charm, snow-capped winters, freshwater lakes and rivers, and a distinct culture that is all its own.
Southeast Michigan is anchored by Detroit, the largest city in the state and the eleventh largest in the country. Detroit is historically known as the center for the automotive industry, and is the cultural and economic stronghold of Michigan. Professional sports, world-class museums, and other attractions draw visitors to Southeast Michigan. Ann Arbor is also located in Southeast Michigan, and is home to the University of Michigan. The state capital of Lansing is located in Central Michigan, and is home to popular professional and collegiate sports. Class-A Minor League Baseball highlights summers in Central Michigan, while the year-round sports of Big Ten Conference stronghold Michigan State University maintains a loyal fan base in Central Michigan and throughout the region.
Western Michigan is home to the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, which boasts sandy dunes and beaches that serve as an inland freshwater "ocean" playground. Watch the sun set over the lake for natural experiences, or head into Grand Rapids to enjoy all of the excitement of the city. The Grand Rapids area is home to attractions like the Fredrick Meijer Gardens, Van Andel Museum Center, the Gerald R. Ford Museum, and many other popular attractions. The incredible lakeshores continue into Northern Michigan, and the Mackinac Island area is a favorite place to explore and enjoy the beaches of Lake Michigan. Some of the best fudge in the world is made the old-fashioned way here, so be sure to pick some up as you travel through and explore the quaint shops, quiet resorts, and relaxing way of life of the region (in fact, only pedestrian traffic is allowed on Mackinac Island. Sunsets and sunrises are often stunning here, so be sure to bring along a camera.
The Upper Peninsula is disconnected from the rest of the state, and perhaps for that reason has its own distinct culture. Close proximity to Ontario, Canada has influenced the dialect in this mostly rural region. It is the untouched natural wonders of the Upper Peninsula that make it quiet unlike anywhere else, and several state & national parks and public beaches beckon outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe.
With large cities built over decades and large stretches of pristine land untouched for centuries, Michigan is a diverse and intriguing state that serves as a melting pot for culture and recreation. Different experiences await throughout the state, so visitors should take care to explore it all and enjoy it all.
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