Reason #1 The Motor City
Maybe I’m a little biased since I’m from Detroit, but I think Detroit is a great reason to visit Michigan. Ignore, for a moment, the decrepit old houses and deteriorating neighborhoods, and think of the city’s rich and vibrant culture and historic monuments. After all, Detroit is home to “The Big 3” and “Motown.” 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 fallen in love with a Motown song. The current decline of the city is certainly no reason not to visit it. Just be sure to keep your doors locked (that was a joke, by the way).
Reason #2 Weather
Depending on who you ask, this can be a pro or a con. Michigan’s weather, and perhaps the Midwest as a whole, is probably unlike 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 its best and worst.
Reason #3 Colleges
Michigan is without a doubt home to some of the best schools in the country. Maybe US News and World Report will tell you otherwise, but don’t be disappointed. 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 Michigan is not alone. There’s also Michigan State University, Wayne State University, Central Michigan University, Lawrence Technological University, and a host of other “‘region names here’: University of Michigan.”
Reason #4 The Great Lakes
The Midwest region is home to some of the most beautiful lakes you will ever come across. One’s breath will melt instantly as he stands on a warm Michigan beach and gazes out at the beautiful waters of his favorite lake. This reason can triumph over the rest.
Reason #5 Sports teams
So the Detroit Lions haven’t done as well in recent years. The Tigers almost made it to the World Series this year. The NBA is in the midst of a lockout, so we won’t mention the Detroit Pistons. The Red Wings are probably the most consistent team we have, and even though I don’t follow hockey, they seem to be winning the Stanley Cup every other year.
Plus, there’s all the varsity teams: Big House (University of Michigan) is one of the most popular sporting venues in the country.