Michigan: Land of Lakes

Michigan, Photo: Aaron Burden

Michigan is often referred to as the "Great Lakes State" due to its unique geography, which includes access to four of the five Great Lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie. The Great Lakes touch seven other states and two Canadian provinces. Michigan is so cool. I wish I remembered my time there but I was young and I cannot recall a thing from this state. Instead please enjoy these fun facts:

• Michigan is known as the automobile capital of the world. It's home to the "Big Three" automakers: Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. Detroit, the state's largest city, is often referred to as the "Motor City."

• Michigan is one of the top producers of cherries in the United States. Traverse City, located in the northwest part of the Lower Peninsula, is particularly famous for its cherry orchards and hosts the National Cherry Festival every year.

• Michigan boasts the title of having the most lighthouses of any U.S. state. With its extensive coastline along the Great Lakes, particularly along Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior, Michigan is home to over 120 lighthouses.
  

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If you want to visit Michigan, here's a list of possible things to see and do:

1. Great Lakes: Explore the beautiful coastline of Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and sunbathing on sandy beaches or take a scenic drive along the Great Lakes Circle Tour.

2. Mackinac Island: Visit Mackinac Island, a charming island in Lake Huron known for its Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and fudge shops. Explore historic sites like Fort Mackinac and enjoy outdoor activities such as biking and hiking.

3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Discover the towering sand dunes and pristine beaches of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Hike the trails, go dune climbing, or simply relax on the shore and enjoy the breathtaking views.

4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Marvel at the colorful sandstone cliffs and pristine shoreline of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, located along Lake Superior. Take a boat tour to see the towering cliffs, sea caves, and waterfalls up close.

5. Detroit: Explore the revitalized city of Detroit, known for its rich automotive history, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, and Detroit Riverfront, or catch a game at Comerica Park or Ford Field.

6. Mackinac Bridge: Drive or walk across the iconic Mackinac Bridge, which spans the Straits of Mackinac and connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and islands from the bridge's observation areas.

7. Michigan State Capitol: Take a tour of the Michigan State Capitol building in Lansing, an architectural masterpiece that showcases the state's history and government. Explore the historic chambers, rotunda, and legislative offices.

8. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Immerse yourself in American history at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn. Explore exhibits on transportation, technology, and innovation, including historic automobiles, airplanes, and locomotives.

9. Frankenmuth: Experience Bavarian charm in Frankenmuth, a picturesque town known for its Bavarian-style architecture, delicious German cuisine, and unique shops. Don't miss attractions like Bronner's Christmas Wonderland and the Bavarian Belle Riverboat.

10. Wine Country: Discover Michigan's burgeoning wine country in regions like the Leelanau Peninsula and the Old Mission Peninsula. Take a wine tour to visit vineyards and wineries, sample local wines, and enjoy scenic views of the countryside.

If you want more suggestions on what to do in Michigan, I suggest you check out their tourism website.