The best reasons to visit Michigan

Reason # 1 The motor city

Maybe I’m a bit biased since I come from Detroit, but I think Detroit is a great reason to visit Michigan. Ignore, for a moment, the old decrepit houses and the dilapidated neighborhoods, and think about the rich and vibrant culture and historical monuments of the city. Detroit is home to “The Big 3” and “Motown,” after all. I don’t care how much negative press you’ve heard about the city, don’t tell me you haven’t driven a Big 3 car or been in love with a Motown song. The current decline of the city is certainly no reason not to visit it. Just make sure you keep the doors closed (by the way, that was a joke).

Reason # 2 The weather

Depending on who you ask, this can be a pro or a con. Michigan’s weather, and perhaps the Midwest as a whole, probably isn’t like anything you’ve ever felt. Only in this region will you wear shorts and short-sleeved shirts one day and shiver in a jacket the next. It can be really confusing, but I think that’s what makes our little section of America unique. After all, you can’t really enjoy a place until you’ve seen the best and the worst.

Reason # 3 Universities

Michigan is without a doubt home to some of the best schools in the country. The US News and World Report may tell you otherwise, but don’t be fooled. John Kennedy once referred to Harvard as the “Michigan of the East”; a true testament to the academic caliber of the school.

But the University of Michgan is not alone. There’s also Michigan State University, Wayne State University, Central Michigan University, Lawrence Technological University, and a host of other “‘names of regions here’: University of Michigan.”

Reason # 4 The Great Lakes

The Midwest region is home to some of the most beautiful lakes you have ever encountered. Your breath will instantly melt away as you stand on a warm Michigan beach and gaze out over the beautiful waters of your favorite lake. This reason can triumph over the rest.

Reason # 5 Sports teams

So the Detroit Lions haven’t done so well in recent years. The Tigers almost made it to the World Series this year. The NBA is in the middle of a lockdown, so we won’t mention the Detroit Pistons. The Red Wings are probably the most consistent team we have, and while I don’t follow hockey, it seems like they are winning the Stanley Cup every two years.

Plus, there’s all the college teams – the Big House (University of Michigan) is one of the most popular sports venues in the country.