Michigan 101
A Traveler’s Guide
This is your first visit as a tourist to the American State known as “The Land Of Lakes” and are wondering how to reach your hotel. Well, firstly you could download apps “Uber” or “Lyft” on your smartphone which are the best cab options available in the State. Secondly, note that many cab drivers are friendly and could give you great ideas for sightseeing. Well, if you don't want to opt for a cab, there is another option of car rentals. Some of the trusted options are Expedia, Enterprise, Hertz, Avis.
Extended Stay America is a good budget hotel to put up and they also have small kitchen inside the rooms. Other budget hotels would include Red Roof Inn, Days Inn, Quality Inn. These could be found in various cities of Michigan.
Michigan is also know for Deer sighting. If you are lucky you could spot a Deer in the neighboring areas. For Groceries, Pharmacy, and other household needs, you can visit Walmart (Budget store with low prices), Meijer, Joe’s (For vegetables), Walgreens (Pharmacy), 7 Eleven (Superstore and Pharmacy), CVS (Pharmacy).
Also another interesting fact is that the shape of Michigan State on the map looks like a mitten.
When it comes to visiting popular tourist places or things to do while in Michigan, let’s explore the myriad options available;
- Fishing:
You could visit one of the many state parks for fishing. Yes, Fishing is one of the popular leisure activities since Michigan has the longest freshwater coastline in the United States.
2. Visit Frankenmuth:
Filled with Bavarian charm, you can take a ride on horse drawn carriages, go for a lunch date, and even shop for Christmas gifts and ornaments at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.
3. Tulip Festival:
If you happen to visit Michigan around April-May, you can visit Holland. During the festival time, millions of blooms form patchwork fields of color and people make merry and dancers flock the streets.
4. Visit Detroit:
Detroit is know as the “Motor City” and is home to the Big Three Automakers Ford, General Motors and Chrysler. Downtown Detroit is where you can trace these office buildings.
5. Visit Henry Ford and Greenfield Village:
The Henry Ford Museum showcases the exhibits and work of the great auto legend. You can also visit the Greenfield Village where you will explore what life looked like in the 19th Century.
6. Mackinac Island:
The island is known for being carless. The hustle and bustle on the streets is from horse drawn carriage taxis and bike riders. The island is also home to delicious fudge and delectable restaurants. Don't forget to visit the Fort Mackinac too.
7. Traverse City:
It is one of the most popular vacation destination in Michigan. It also hosts the annual Cherry Festival and is known for wineries.
8. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore:
The breathtaking picturesque view of this place will make you go “Wow”. It boasts of outstanding natural features like forests, beaches, dune formations. Frequently mentioned favorites include the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving Station, canoe trips on the Crystal and Platte Rivers, and the biking and hiking trails.
9. Belle Isle Park:
Situated on the Detroit river, the expansive park houses many attractions like Conservatory, Museum, Aquarium and Memorial Fountain
10. University of Michigan:
The University is one of the top rated Universities of the world. The Ann Arbor campus is a home to more than 40,000 graduate and undergraduate students annually.
11. Detroit Zoo:
The Zoo has an impressive variety of animals in multiple habitats representing all parts of the world. It is quite popular among kids of all ages.
12. Pictured Rocks National Seashore:
It is located on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Its a wild beauty on the Lake Superior shore. It’s an experience in itself. The Sandstone Cliffs, Waterfalls, Sand Dunes, Inland Lakes and Deep Forests set the perfect mood for an adventurous holiday. The Pictured Rocks gets it’s name from the colors of Copper, Iron, and Manganese Oxide found in the rocks. Hiking, Camping and boating are common activities here.
I am sure you would explore more on the internet. Websites like tripadvisor.com, michigan.org offer plethora of information on best tourist places in and around Michigan. Also, remember the National emergency helpline number 911 used in case of reporting any kind of emergency like medical emergency, requesting an ambulance, reporting a fire or crime.
Wishing you a wonderful stay!!
