Call us biased, but we think Michigan is a pretty fantastic place to live and visit. We’ll even take it a step further and argue that Michigan isn’t just fantastic – it also one of the coolest spots around. If you don’t believe us, read on to find out why the Great Lakes State deserves its status as an awesome destination.
1. Outdoor attractions galore
From Sleeping Bear Dunes to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan is simply overflowing with wonderful ways to get outside and be active. Whether you’re a mountain biking daredevil or more apt to enjoy a leisurely hike, you’ll find an awesome option here in Michigan.
2. Amazing live music venues
Whether you’re enjoying an outdoor summer concert at Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids or appreciating the beauty of Detroit’s Fox Theater, there’s no shortage of wonderful venues to see your favorite artists. Music fans in Michigan are treated to some truly amazing shows.
3. One word: beer
Nothing is more hip than craft beer, and Michigan is an oasis for those who love to imbibe. With countless breweries, bars, and locally owned distilleries to choose from, there’s so much to discover when it comes to Michigan’s beer scene. Whether you’re hanging out at New Holland or sipping on a pint from Founders, you’ll never be thirsty here.
4. Food, food, and more food
From foodie-approved eateries to classic Michigan dishes, it’s pretty much impossible to visit Michigan without finding a tasty food item to love. Indulge in some Mackinac Island fudge, try a delicious pasty, or grab a couple of coney dogs in the Motor City. Is your mouth watering yet?
5. There’s no better place for a beach day
Our Great Lakes offer up some of the most perfect conditions imaginable for heading to the beach: our lack of saltwater means no sharks or other scary ocean creatures, and our shorelines are absolutely breathtaking. Some Michigan beaches feature water so blue that you might swear you’ve been transported to the Caribbean!
6. We’ve got plenty of smart cookies
If you’re looking for a great education, you’ll undoubtedly find it in Michigan. With some of the nation’s top public universities (we’re looking at you, University of Michigan and Michigan State), along with plenty of fantastic smaller schools (Aquinas College, anyone?), you’ll find the perfect fit for your education here.
7. Some of our attractions are wonderfully weird
There’s nothing cooler than being a little weird, right? Don’t worry: Michigan has you covered when it comes to the wonderfully odd. From our quirky habits to our strange attractions, you’ll find plenty of options for challenging the norm. Favorites include the Mystery Spot in St. Ignace, the little town of Hell, and Grand Haven’s fantastic musical fountain. What’s not to love?
8. Sports? We’ve got those too
If you’re a sports fanatic, you won’t be disappointed here in Michigan. Actually, let’s amend that: you might be disappointed by the Detroit Lions, but you’ll still have plenty of fun rooting them on. Nothing beats a day out at Comerica Park to see the Tigers play, and our Red Wings are always a blast to watch. As if that weren’t enough, we take college sports pretty seriously in Michigan, too!
9. "Midwest nice" is a real thing
At the end of the day, nothing is cooler than kindness. Call us cheesy, but we truly believe this to be true. Here in the Great Lakes State, you’ll be met with waves and smiles from perfect strangers, not to mention all sorts of hospitality when you’re traveling throughout the state. If that’s not cool, we don’t know what is.
Tell us, fellow Michiganders: why do you think Michigan is the coolest state in America? We’re always eager to hear your suggestions, so drop us a line in the comment section below!
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