Michigan Trade Partner Hub
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Recommended tour operator partners: Specialist Operators
Get to know the state: Where Is Michigan? | Michigan’s Cities | Out-Of-Town Destinations | Michigan’s Outdoor Wonders | Sports
Essential information: When to Visit | Flights | Essential Travel Info
FAQs: Your most frequently asked questions
Imagery, training & key contacts: Imagery | Training Requests | Key Contacts
YouTube & social media: Keep Falling For Michigan | Socials
Where Is Michigan?
Michigan is situated in the Great Lakes region of the United States, bordered by four of the five Great Lakes – Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie. Its distinct mitten-shaped geography and diverse landscapes encompass bustling urban centres, serene rural areas, and expansive freshwater coastlines.
Michigan’s Cities
With a number of vibrant cities each with its own unique identity. The state is home to a variety of ethnic enclaves, museums, and art galleries.
Detroit
Detroit, Michigan’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and a dynamic culture. Detroit is also known as the “Motor City” and the birthplace of the American auto industry. Car giants like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler all have their roots in Detroit, and the city’s history is intertwined with the development of the car. Visitors can explore this legacy at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.
Detroit’s music heritage is legendary. In 1959 Motown Records was born, this revolutionised the music scene, iconic artists like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder and the Temptations, and many more brought their soulful sounds to the world stage. The Motown music is a must-visit for any music lover! The city pulsates with a dynamic music scene, epitomised by its rich heritage in Motown, techno, jazz, rock, and hip-hop genres.
Don’t miss out on Detroit’s vibrant street art, murals by renowned artists and local talent adorn buildings throughout the city transforming the streets into vibrant colours. Explore Eastern Market for a unique shopping experience where you can find locally made crafts and eat delicious food from around the world. Whether you are craving comforting soul food or a fine dining experience Detroit has you covered.
Traverse City
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is a hub for craft breweries, a haven for art and culture and a huge appreciation for natural beauty. Grand Rapids offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors. Hike or bike the scenic trails along the Grand River, relax or kayak on the calm waters of Reeds Lake, or explore the natural beauty of Millennium Park.
Holland
Lansing
Out-Of-Town Destinations
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a ruggedly beautiful expanse known for its pristine wilderness and outdoor recreational opportunities, while Mackinac Island, nestled between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, charms visitors with its historic Victorian architecture and ban on motor vehicles, offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) is a land of stark beauty and rich history. Covered in vast forests, lapped by freshwater seas, and dotted with charming towns, it offers a true escape into nature.
The UP is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With plenty of hiking trails along many famous lakeshores, kayak crystal-clear waters or even visit Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Three Great Lakes touch the UP, Superior, Michigan and Huron. The UP is dotted with charming towns, each with its own unique character. Explore the shops and galleries of Marquette, visit the historical sites of Houghton, relax in the natural beauty of Munising or Visit Sault Ste Marie the oldest town in Michigan, here you can visit the Soo Locks, built in 1855, these locks connect Lake Superior to Lake Huron and beyond.
Adventure awaits in every direction – explore vast wilderness, uncover soul-stirring history, and discover a landscape that will leave you breathless. The UP is the perfect place to visit year ‘round! Especially Spring, Summer and Fall. If you want to visit during the winter months, the UP transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for people looking to explore snow sports. So many activities are on offer during Winter, such as skiing, snowboarding snowmobiling, dog sledding, fat tire biking, ice climbing, ice fishing are all on offer!
Mackinac Island
This beautifully historic town, given the nickname “Jewel of the Great Lakes” is a popular tourist destination. Mostly known for its historic sites, natural beauty, and car-free streets.
One of the most distinctive features of Mackinac Island is the absence of cars. The primary mode of transportation is by bike, horse-drawn carriage, or simply by foot. This unique trait is what gives the island a very relaxed atmosphere. You can hike or bike around the 8-mile island on the M-185, this is the only state highway in the USA where all vehicles are banned.
Mackinac Island is home to Fort Mackinac, steeped in history. Built by the British during the American Revolutionary War. This 18th-century military fort is a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors to Mackinac Island can enjoy hiking and biking trails around the island. Explore the limestone arch Rock formation and take in the beauty of the surrounding lakes.
Stay at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. This National Historic landmark boasts the worlds longest porch, a perfect spot to relax and sit in a rocking chair to soak in the beauty of the Straits of Mackinac
We can’t talk about Mackinac Island and not mention Fudge. Mackinac Island is famous for its fudge, and you will find numerous fudge shops throughout the island. Whilst on the island visitors can also visit a variety of unique/ boutique stores.
Overall, Mackinac is a charming destination that offers something for everybody. If you’re looking for a relaxing break or you want to be active and see the beautiful settings Mackinac Island will please.
Michigan’s Outdoor Wonders
Michigan’s outdoor wonders encompass its Great Lakes, numerous inland lakes, and picturesque national and state parks. From the sandy shores of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore to the rugged cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the state offers diverse landscapes. Additionally, the Upper Peninsula provides ideal spots for witnessing the northern lights along Lake Superior’s south shore, making Michigan a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking natural beauty and adventure. There are Six State Parks that are home protected Dark Sky Preserves. Additionally Michigan is home to Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Keweenaw Dark Sky Park and Dr T.K. Lawless Park, which are the only internationally designated preserves in the state.
National/ State Parks and Lakes
Michigan is known for its stunning natural beauty, with four Great Lakes bordering the state and over 11,000 inland lakes, along with vast forests. It has some of the world’s best hiking trails and kayaking spots. Michigan boasts some incredible national and state parks, offering diverse landscapes, rich history, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Michigan’s national and state parks offer a fantastic escape for anyone seeking outdoor adventure, historical exploration, or simply a scenic getaway to reconnect with nature. We recommend visiting the following:
- The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Isle Royale National Park
This is just a small sampling of Michigan’s incredible parks. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.
Northern Lights
- Due to minimal light pollution, the Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is generally considered the best region in Michigan to view the northern lights
- Anywhere along the south shore of Lake Superior is ideal. Locations like Brimley, Whitefish Point, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Autrain, Marquette, Big Bay, Skanee, Eagle River, Eagle Harbor, and Copper Harbor are all good starting points
- The best time to see the northern lights is during the equinoxes (around September 22nd and March 20th) as the night sky is darker for longer stretches. However, auroral activity can peak at any time
- Aurora forecast websites and apps can help you predict solar activity and increase your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon
Michigan Sports
Michigan boasts a strong sports scene across professional and college teams! Michigan is a passionate sports state with a winning tradition across various collegiate and professional levels. College football takes centre stage with powerhouses like the University of Michigan Wolverines and their rivals, the Michigan State Spartans. Basketball brings fierce competition as well, with both universities boasting dedicated fan bases.
Detroit’s most famous teams:
Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
Detroit Tigers (MLB)
Detroit Pistons (NBA)
Detroit Lions (NFL)
With over 500 courses scattered across the state, both public and private, Michigan is a haven for golfers of all skill levels. Tee off on championship layouts that challenge even the pros, or relax on scenic public courses nestled amidst rolling hills and crystal-clear lakes. Summer provides ideal playing conditions, but many courses extend their season well into fall, allowing golfers to enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage as a stunning backdrop to their game. To explore the incredible variety of courses Michigan has to offer, Read This guide to beautiful Michigan golf courses across the state.
When To Visit
With the longest freshwater coastline in the United States, pristine beaches, lakes that feel like oceans, glorious sunrises, and sunsets, travellers who want to experience the best of the outdoors, the snow-capped peaks, fresh powder, water sports and abundance of natural wilderness Michigan will be a revelation. The skies, free of light pollution, also make it the perfect place to observe night-time skies scattered with stars, and daytime skies that are the deepest blue.
The best time to visit Michigan will depend on what it is you would like to do whilst you’re there. Below you’ll find a breakdown of each season including what weather to expect…
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Michigan in the summer time is perfect for swimming, hiking, biking and camping. There are also a plethora of festivals that take place during the summer time. During summer months you can expect highs of 26-28°C.
Autumn (Sept-Nov)
Autumn (Fall) is a beautiful time to visit. With a more comfortable climate, there is a big focus on outdoor activities and in general fewer crowds. Autumn brings beautiful colour to Michigan’s landscapes and temperatures start to decrease, ranging 7-21°C.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
This time of year is great for winter sport enthusiasts with plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. Winters in Michigan are usually snowy and very cold with a temperature range of -1 to -6°C.
Spring (Mar-May)
With the flowers starting to bloom it’s a great time to visit and enjoy everything Michigan has to offer with still fewer crowds than summer. Spring weather can be quite unpredictable. This transitional season sees temperatures range from 4-21°C.
Essential Travel Information
- UK and Irish leisure travellers will need to apply for an ESTA before travelling
- General Tipping – Average range: 15% to 20% of the bill is the standard tip for good service at full-service restaurants
- Michigan currently observes Eastern Standard Time (EST) throughout the year. Since the UK is currently on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during winter months, there’s a 5-hour time difference
Flights
The State of Michigan in the American Midwest is known as The Great Lakes State, the principal airport is Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). The flight time from the UK is approximately 8 hours and 35 minutes.
Travelling into Detroit Metropolitan airport, Michigan has never been easier with daily flights each week from London Heathrow into Detroit with Delta Virgin Atlantic. Iceland Air also serves regional cities via Reykjavik into Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
Your Most Frequently Asked Questions
What's the weather in Michigan like throughout the year?
Michigan has all four seasons, with distinct beauty in each. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers warm weather for swimming and spending time outdoors, fall boasts stunning foliage, and winter provides opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Read on in the dedicated ‘When To Visit‘ section.
What Are Some Of The State Parks To Visit?
With so many options to choose from, we recommend checking out Pure Michigan’s Extensive List of Beautiful Michigan State Parks.
What Is There For Families To Enjoy In Michigan?
Michigan is a fantastic destination for a family holiday, offering a wonderful mix of outdoor activities, historical sites, cultural experiences, and fun attractions. Click here for some ideas for family-friendly activities to consider for your trip including beaches, gardens and water parks.
What Does Michigan Have To Offer As A Foodie Destination?
Michigan offers a delightful range of culinary experiences, from fresh takes on classic American cuisine to regional specialties you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s a glimpse into what awaits your taste buds in Michigan:
- Mackinac Island Fudge
- Detroit-Style Pizza
- Coney Dogs
- Cherries – Make time to go pick your own!
- Wineries
- Breweries
For more details of dining options, take a look here.
Is Michigan Still Considered An Automotive Industry Powerhouse?
Michigan is known as the “Automotive Capital of the World”. The Detroit area is home to three major American automobile manufacturers (Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler), many automotive suppliers, and a large number of engineers and designers who work in the industry. The auto industry has had a significant impact on the state’s economy and culture.
Imagery, Training & Key Contacts
Imagery
Training Requests
Register and complete your journey to become a Pure Michigan Expert at a pace that suits you, learn about this amazing region – your customers will thank you for it. Visit Pure Michigan Expert.
Key Contacts
UK and Irish representation office c/o: Cellet Marketing and Public Relations Ltd:
lauren@cellet.co.uk
yolanda@cellet.co.uk
01295722816
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