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2024 April 23 - Weekly Travelogue - Michigan - website header

 

By Tom Kirvan 

From natural splendor to urban treasures

The Great Lakes State. A Water Winter Wonderland. The Mitten State.

These are just a few of the monikers for Michigan, the 10th most populous state in the nation with nearly 10 million residents.

In the heart of the Midwest, Michigan stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of the United States. Its capital city, Lansing, serves as a hub of government and culture, centrally located amidst the rolling landscapes of the Lower Peninsula. Nearby East Lansing is best known as the home of Michigan State University, a Big Ten school with approximately 50,000 students. Its conference counterpart is the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, boasting more than 50,000 students and one of the premier law schools in the country.

Michigan's distinctive geographic features are as varied as they are stunning. The state is renowned for its Great Lakes coastline, boasting more freshwater shoreline than any other state in the country. The Upper Peninsula, separated from the Lower Peninsula by the Straits of Mackinac, offers rugged wilderness, dense forests, and serene lakeshores. The highest point of elevation in Michigan is Mount Arvon, rising 1,979 feet above sea level in the Upper Peninsula.

One must-see tourist attraction that captures the essence of Michigan's natural splendor is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Located along the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula – and stretching some 42 miles, this breathtaking expanse of colorful sandstone cliffs, pristine beaches, and cascading waterfalls draws visitors from far and wide.

But beyond Pictured Rocks, Michigan boasts a wealth of other major tourist destinations, each offering its own unique allure:

  • Mackinac Island: Situated in the Straits of Mackinac, this charming island is a step back in time, with horse-drawn carriages and Victorian architecture. Visitors can explore historic Fort Mackinac, bike around the island, or indulge in the island's famous fudge.
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Along the northeastern shore of Lake Michigan lies this stunning stretch of sand dunes, forests, and inviting beaches. The towering dunes offer unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding countryside dotted with orchards and vineyards.
  • Detroit: Known as the Motor City, Detroit is the birthplace of the American automotive industry. Visitors can explore the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in nearby Dearborn, marvel at the art deco architecture of the Guardian Building, or catch a game at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers.
  • Grand Rapids: Located in the western part of the state, Grand Rapids is known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and outdoor recreation opportunities along the Grand River, the longest river in the state. The city is home to the magnificent Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, and the annual ArtPrize competition. It also is the birthplace of Primerus.
  • Traverse City: Nestled along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike. Visitors can explore the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes, sample locally made wines on the Old Mission Peninsula, or indulge in cherry-themed treats during the annual Cherry Festival in July.
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2024 April 23 - Weekly Travelogue - Michigan World Map - navy

Fast Facts

Capital: Lansing
Language: English
Population: 10.1 million
Economic Engines: Auto manufacturing, tourism
Must-see Attraction: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Primerus Members:

Michigan's two peninsulas are connected by the iconic Mackinac Bridge, which spans 5 miles across the Straits of Mackinac. This engineering marvel not only facilitates travel between the peninsulas, but also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to its Great Lakes connections, Michigan shares a border with Canada, further enriching its cultural and economic ties. The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and the Ambassador Bridge serve as vital links between Detroit, Michigan's largest city, and Windsor, Ontario, facilitating trade, travel, and cultural exchange between the two nations. In 2025, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is scheduled to open, providing another vital link between Detroit and Windsor across the mile-wide Detroit River.

Within Detroit, visitors can explore the world-renowned Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), home to an extensive collection of art spanning centuries and continents. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Van Gogh, the DIA offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Notable highlights include Diego Rivera's monumental fresco "Detroit Industry" and Vincent van Gogh's "Self-Portrait." 

And for those seeking leisure and recreation, Michigan's golf courses offer an unparalleled experience. With lush green fairways set against stunning natural backdrops, golf enthusiasts can tee off at renowned courses such as Arcadia Bluffs, Bay Harbor Golf Club, and Treetops Resort, among many other spectacular layouts.

For those who prefer the nautical side of life, Michigan has more than 11,000 inland lakes and tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams to captivate boating and viewing interests.

And if you’re wondering why Michigan has been tabbed as the “Mitten State,” the reason can be traced to the hand-like shape of the Lower Peninsula, including the distinctive “Thumb” that is known far and wide by Michiganders.