Michigan is a state in the United States, set in the Great Lakes region of North America. It is often called the Great Lakes State or the Wolverine State, and it is recognised by the abbreviation MI. Its geography is shaped by two peninsulas, which give the state a long coastline along several of the Great Lakes and a varied landscape for visitors to explore.
What the state is known for
Michigan is known for its automotive industry, and that history is part of its character. Detroit, the largest city in the state, is closely associated with car making, and visitors interested in how industry shaped a region will find that theme running through the state's towns and cities.
Getting oriented
- Lansing is the state capital.
- Detroit is the largest city and the best-known urban centre.
- The two peninsulas give the state its distinctive shape and much of its lakeside scenery.
Because Michigan is large and divided into two peninsulas, a visit works best when it is planned around one region at a time. Travellers who enjoy lakes, coastlines and open landscapes will find the state's geography its main draw, while those drawn to cities and industrial history can focus on Detroit and the surrounding area.
Whether Michigan suits you depends on what you want from a trip. If you are interested in the Great Lakes, the car industry, or a state that combines big-city and waterfront experiences, it is a destination worth considering.
