From breathtaking natural wonders like the Great Lakes to the revving engine of a historic “muscle” car, Michigan has a unique character. With a rich history and a booming present, The Wolverine State welcomes all to experience everything that has made the state a true icon of American culture.
The Great Outdoors
Aside from being surrounded by the Great Lakes, Michigan has 64,980 inland lakes and ponds so that no one in Michigan is far from a natural water source. With the four seasons in full display each year, it’s no surprise that Michiganders appreciate their beautiful state and the fun activities the state has to offer year ‘round.
Michigan makes the cut nationally, as well. To name just a few honors, Western Michigan’s Kalamazoo became famous for Glenn Miller and His Orchestra’s recording of “(I’ve Got a Gal in) Kalamazoo” in 1942. But more recently, it was on the list of the ten “Nicest Cities in America” by Reader’s Digest, Good Morning America and 10Best.com. Sleeping Bear Dunes, on Michigan’s northwestern shoreline, was named “The most beautiful place in America” by Good Morning America. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Shoreline was authorized as a national park in 1970, with Congress wanting to preserve the Great Lakes as the “third coast.” As a National Shoreline, Sleeping Bear is now preserved much like Cape Hatteras or Big Sur.
Find out more about Michigan’s seasons before planning your activities.
The Motor City
Detroit has long been recognized as the heart of the American automotive industry, hence it’s nickname “Motor City.” As the historic home to the Big Three – Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors – Detroit is still known around the globe as the Motor City. Today, with its high profile at the iconic Renaissance Center on the Detroit River, General Motors is still headquartered in Detroit. Ford’s headquarters are just down the road in Dearborn, and Chrysler, now part of Fiat-Chrysler, has its American headquarters in the northern suburb of Auburn Hills. In addition, many global suppliers have major operations and headquarters in southeastern Michigan.
To learn more about the auto industry, plan a visit to Dearborn’s The Henry Ford (also known as the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village). Learn the history behind the first assembly lines that Henry Ford created, or sign up for a tour of Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant, where you can get a firsthand look at how workers and robots come together to build the F-150 truck. If you’re interested in a more sensory auto experience, visit the world’s largest one-day annual automotive event, the Woodward Dream Cruise. Every August, classic car aficionados – owners and spectators alike – congregate to enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane watching or cruising in muscle cars, hot rods, and custom cars. Or marvel at the sleekest, newest cars available by attending the North American International Auto Show, one of the largest auto shows in America.
The Birth of Motown
It would be difficult to name a record company whose influence has been as far-reaching as Motown. Songwriter Barry Gordy opened the Motown Record Corporation in 1959, the name based on Detroit’s nickname as “Motor City.”
Motown went to release hit after hit of radio-friendly upbeat music, and its influence is still felt today across genres, from pop to rock to hip-hop. Motown has gifted American music with extremely successful, multi-platinum artists like Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, the Jackson 5, The Supremes, The Temptations, and Lionel Richie.
Music remains the lifeblood of Michigan arts and culture. Aside from Motown, Michigan is also credited as the birthplace of punk and techno. Some of today’s biggest hip-hop moguls have looked to Motown founder Berry Gordy as inspiration for running their own record companies.
Living in Michigan
Loving the idea of being a Michigander already? Picture yourself living in idyllic neighborhoods in Oakland County and make that dream come true. Connect with real estate agents who can help you explore more of what Michigan has to offer. Contact Vanderhoef Properties at (248) 953-3305 or email Sales(at)VanderhoefProperties(dotted)com today and live in one of the best neighborhoods in Michigan.