Share State

Michigan

State Motto

Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam, circumspice (If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you)

State Motto of Michigan

Michigan State Information

Michigan, located in the Great Lakes region of the United States, is a state renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich industrial heritage. With its vast shoreline along four of the five Great Lakes, including Lake Michigan, it offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to hiking and skiing. The state is also home to vibrant urban centers like Detroit, a hub of automotive innovation and culture, and Grand Rapids, known for its burgeoning arts scene. Michigan's diverse landscapes encompass everything from lush forests and rolling hills to the iconic Mackinac Bridge connecting its two peninsulas. The state's automotive industry has played a pivotal role in American history, and it continues to be a center for manufacturing and technology. Michigan's residents take pride in their state's natural wonders, cultural contributions, and its role as a bridge between the Midwest and the Great Lakes.

What's in a name?

Named after Lake Michigan, derived from the Ojibwe word 'mishigami,' meaning 'large lake.'

State Nickname of Michigan

Michigan Geography

Map of the State of Michigan

Download maps of Michigan

Area: 96,714 sq mi (250,489 km²), 11th
Highest Point: Mount Arvon; 1,979 ft (184 m), 38th
Lowest Point: Lake Erie; 571 ft (53 m)
Bordering States: Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin
Area Codes: Area Codes of Michigan
Zip Codes: Zip Codes of Michigan

Michigan is characterized by its diverse geography. The state is divided into two distinct peninsulas, with the Lower Peninsula occupying the southern portion and the Upper Peninsula to the north, separated by the Straits of Mackinac. Michigan boasts over 11,000 inland lakes, including the Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie—which make up a significant portion of its border. The state's landscape features rolling hills, fertile plains, and dense forests, particularly in the north. The Great Lakes shoreline is dotted with picturesque beaches and harbors. Michigan's geography plays a pivotal role in its economy, as it is known for its automotive industry, agriculture, and natural beauty, offering abundant outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Michigan Economy

The economy of Michigan is highly diversified, with key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and healthcare. Historically known as the "Automotive Capital of the World," Michigan remains a hub for the automotive industry, with major companies like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler headquartered or having a significant presence in the state. Beyond automotive, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and defense industries also play a crucial role in Michigan's economy. The state is home to numerous research universities and tech companies, fostering innovation and growth in sectors such as information technology, robotics, and renewable energy. Additionally, agriculture is a significant contributor, with Michigan being a leading producer of various crops, including cherries, blueberries, and apples. Tourism, centered around the Great Lakes and cultural attractions, further bolsters the state's economic landscape. While Michigan has experienced economic challenges in the past, it continues to adapt and diversify, positioning itself as a dynamic player in the national economy.

Agriculture

Top 3 crops / livestock for Michigan

  • Soybeans
  • Corn
  • Hogs

Industry

Top 3 industries for Michigan

  • Automotive Manufacturing
  • Technology
  • Agriculture

Michigan State Symbols

State Flag

State Flag of Michigan

State Seal

State Seal of Michigan

State Quarter

State Quarter of Michigan

State Bird

State Bird of MichiganRobin

State Flower

State Flower of MichiganApple Blossom

State Tree

State Tree of MichiganEastern White Pine

State Mammal

State Mammal of MichiganWhite-Tailed Deer

State Fish

State Fish of MichiganBrook Trout
Photo of Ted Grajeda

Ted Grajeda

The50UnitedStates.com Owner

The 50 United States is a Ted Grajeda project created to provide everyone with a fun and interactive way to learn about the great 50 states of the USA. Learn more

USA Word Search

State Quizzes & Flashcards

Test your knowledge of the 50 States of the USA with these fun and interactive quizzes & flashcards!

Fee USA Maps

Download and printout hundreds of state maps. Each state map comes in PDF format, with capitals and cities, both labeled and blank. Visit FreeVectorMaps.com for thousands of free world, country and USA maps. View all USA Maps