Michigan

By Jamie F

Michigan: The Great Lake State, the home of the Wolverines, and the birthplace of the Model-T. This one of a kind state has a lot of undiscovered activities and attractions that can appeal to people of all kinds. Being from Minnesota, we feel proud to be along the border of the great Lake Superior, it is hard to imagine what pride the doubled peninsula state must hold for owning the shore line of 4 of the 5  biggest freshwater lakes in the world. From the lakes, and natural wonders, to the historical places and culture, tourists could have a wonderful time discovering these lost treasures.

I have made a list of some of the many places to visit while you visit the great state of Michigan…

First on our road trip is Copper Harbor! Copper Harbor got its name from being a major port for shipping…well, I think you could figure it out…. copper! By 1870, the copper mines were nearly depleted and are no longer in use today. Now, Copper Harbor has become a recreational spot for many, and one of its landmarks is the famous Copper Harbor Lighthouse.

After our visit in Copper Harbor, let’s travel a little further down state and check out Munising. Hundreds of people travel to this Michigan town in the middle of winter to try out an extreme sport…..ICE CLIMBING!!! For all of you outdoor rec. enthusiasts, you know that winter won't slow you down, from skiing to snowmobiling, there is always something to do. Now ice climbing can be added to the list!

Okay, so not all of you want to freeze looking up at that supersized, frozen icicle, but Michigan has a lot more to offer. Take the beautiful Tahquamenon Falls, for instance. This is one of nature's many wonders that is just waiting for you….and it’s here all year round!

Arch Rock

A little off of the coast, in between the main two peninsulas that make up Michigan, is the one and only Mackinac Island, where you take a step back in time. This is one of the few places in the world that don't allow motorized vehicles- kind of weird for the state known for vehicle production, isn't it? Instead, you can take a ride on a horse drawn carriage where ever you want to go. Mackinac Island also has many other features such as the Grand Hotel and the Arch rock.

Grand Hotel

Michigan, being a state greatly influenced by the Great Lakes, had many ships sailing the waters. With many ships comes more potential for shipwrecks, and let me ask, who has ever seen a ship wreck? Visiting the Alpena Shipwreck would be the highlight of the trip!!! You would be given scuba gear and then are free to look around.

Finally, you should really visit the Henry Ford Museum. Detroit, MI is known worldwide for their use of the assembly line to mass produce the one and only Model-T! The Henry Ford Museum has a large collection of vintage cars that you would be able to enjoy.