Bounded by four of the five Great Lakes, plus Lake Saint Clair, Michigan has the longest freshwater shoreline in the United States. Never more than 85 miles from open Great Lakes water, residents make use of their beautiful shoreline through outdoor activities and weekend retreats. A population of more than 10 million people, Michigan is densely populated in the largest city of Detroit.
     As the only bi-peninsular state, the Lower Peninsula is sometimes dubbed as “the mitten,” referring to its shape. The Upper Peninsula is separated from the lower by the Straits of Mackinac, a five mile channel that joins Lake Huron to Lake Michigan. Economically important for tourism and its natural resources, the Upper Peninsula provides lumber, iron and copper. Michigan is rich in historical significance and landmarks while offering a combination of the serenity of the dunes and beaches of the lakefront, a vast assortment of outdoor activities and unique attractions with big-city excitement and amenities.
     Diversity in lifestyles, geography, economy and weather provide several housing types throughout the state. Vacation and investment properties are found along the coast and sprawling land lots inland. New developments, master-planned communities and golf course housing are popping up around metro areas. Condominiums and town homes are found closer to the city, while suburban tree-lined streets welcome residents home.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: The Great Lakes State State Capital: Lansing State Flower: Apple Blossom State Bird: Robin

     Michigan is the land of the great outdoors. With more than 3,200 miles of shoreline, 11,000 inland lakes, 5,600 miles of snowmobile trails, dozens of downhill ski resorts and four national parks, there is a multitude of outdoor fun to entertain any whim. Sculpted by wind and water, the sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in

the Upper Peninsula are one of Michigan’s most majestic natural wonders. Lake shore destinations include beach towns, Harbor County and Michigan’s west coast to name a few. The bays, beaches and boutiques along the shoreline of the Lower Peninsula include Traverse City, Petoskey/Harbor Springs, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Frankfort and Manistee.
     The local boutiques and galleries reflect the expressions of local artisans. Canoe along the rivers of the Manistee County, charter fishing for perch and Coho in Benzie County, take in the historic charm of Petoskey or enjoy a gourmet restaurant alongside one of the world’s most beautiful harbors in Charlevoix. From sand dunes to sailing, fishing to horseback riding, Lake Michigan beach towns offers adventure and fun for the entire family.
     Points of interest in the state include historic sites, such as the many lighthouses, museums and tours as well as battlegrounds, bridges, historic churches, farms, forts, mines, theatres and more. Residents can trace the history of the Underground Railroad, or visit Fort Mackinac that was constructed by British soldiers during the American Revolution.

      If the hustle and bustle of city life is more your speed, one can enjoy Detroit's unique collection of attractions, professional sports and culture. Residents can’t pass up America's Greatest History Attraction, The Henry Ford. One can cruise around Greenfield Village in a model T and go inside the world's largest automotive complex at the Ford Rouge Factory Tour. Or explore the most significant exhibition of baseball artifacts and history at the “Baseball as America” exhibit in Henry Ford Museum. Professional sports teams are primarily located in Detroit, including the NBA’s Pistons, MLB’s Tigers, NFL’s Lions and NHL’s Red Wings. Additionally, Michigan’s schools and colleges such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, rank among the country’s best. Therefore, Michigan's workforce is well educated and highly skilled.
     The economy in Michigan is a leader in information technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. Even though the state is known as the birthplace of the automobile, Michigan’s economy leads in other areas, including computer software, aerospace, cereal and furniture to name a few. Michigan is also a leading grower of fruit, including apples, cherries, blueberries, grapes and peaches.
      Michigan is an exceptionally convenient transportation hub, centrally located in the crossroads of America, Michigan’s transportation systems make it simple to get around. With 38 deep water ports, the Detroit Metropolitan Airport and four interstates crossing the state, residents can commute or get away easily.