blog - pure michigan

How Michigan’s Tourism Industry Fuels $54.8B in Jobs, Growth, and Community Impact

Michigan’s tourism industry isn’t just about summer vacations and weekend getaways; it’s a powerhouse economic engine for the state. A new report reveals that in 2024 Michigan attracted record numbers of visitors and dollars, translating fun and leisure into serious economic growth. From the shores of the Great Lakes to the streets of Detroit, tourism is boosting businesses, creating jobs, and even helping fund community services through tax revenue. This article breaks down the latest findings in a conversational, insider tone, the kind of perspective you’d get from a lifelong Michigander who’s watched this growth firsthand. Let’s dive into how Pure Michigan adventures are paying off for our local economy and what it means for families and communities…

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Where Does “Up North” Begin in Michigan? 5 Landmarks That Define the Line

Ask ten Michiganders where "Up North" begins, and you’ll get twelve different answers. Some point to a highway exit. Others name a favorite lake town. A few insist it doesn’t start until you cross the Mackinac Bridge.

But that's what makes the idea of "Up North" so special: it's both a destination and a feeling.

It’s the first time you see more pine trees than power lines. It’s the moment traffic clears and the air smells like wood smoke and water. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, pulling up to a lakeside cabin, or just passing a handmade pasty sign on the side of the road, the experience is universal: you’ve left the grind behind and entered the best version of Michigan.

Still, there are some clear turning points. If you’ve ever driven north…

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Michigan Lake Towns Travel Guide: Insider Tips for a Perfect Getaway

Michigan’s lake towns are the stuff of summer legends. Every year, when the weather warms, families across the state (and especially from Metro Detroit) pack up the car and head “Up North” for a dose of sun, sand, and small-town charm. It’s a time-honored tradition in the Great Lakes State, after all, no point in Michigan is more than 85 miles from one of the Great Lakes, and you’re never more than a few miles from an inland lake. With so much water everywhere, it’s no wonder Michigan boasts dozens of storybook lakefront communities that have been delighting visitors for generations. From Lake Michigan’s resort beaches to Lake Huron’s historic harbors and the wild shores of Lake Superior, each town offers its own slice of paradise. This insider’s guide,…

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Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes Like a Local: What to See, Do, and Know Before You Go

There’s a reason Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beloved summertime pilgrimage for Metro Detroiters. This 35-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline – with golden sand dunes soaring 400+ feet above shimmering blue waters – was even crowned “the Most Beautiful Place in America” in 2011. Blending breathtaking natural beauty with small-town Up North charm, Sleeping Bear Dunes offers the ultimate Michigan beaches escape and a playground for family travel in Michigan. Whether you’re a newcomer planning your first Lake Michigan summer vacation or a local who’s been “Up North” countless times, this guide will show you what to see, do, and know – all with a friendly local twist. From can’t-miss sights like the Dune Climb and Pierce Stocking Scenic…

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Why the Upper Peninsula is the Most Magical Part of Michigan

There’s a place in Michigan so enchanting that even lifelong residents speak of it with awe. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) feels like a world apart – a land of towering pine forests, sparkling waterfalls, and charming small towns frozen in time. The moment you cross the majestic Mackinac Bridge and head north, you enter a realm of natural beauty and nostalgia that families and seasoned travelers cherish. Even the folklore here is larger-than-life – campfire tales speak of Paul Bunyan and Hiawatha canoeing through “root beer”–colored falls, and sometimes the Northern Lights themselves dance overhead. It’s no wonder many consider the U.P. “God’s Country,” a place where everyday worries melt away amid untouched wilderness. Whether you’re planning a…

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Mackinac Island Do’s and Don’ts: Expert Tips for Families and First-Time Visitors

Nestled in the Straits of Mackinac between Michigan’s peninsulas, Mackinac Island is a beloved getaway that feels frozen in time. This charming island draws over a million visitors each year with its horse-drawn carriages, historic forts, and famous homemade fudge. It’s a place where cars have been banned since 1898, so the only traffic jams you’ll encounter are bicycles and horses. Visiting Mackinac Island is like stepping back to a simpler era, and a little insider knowledge goes a long way in making the most of your trip.

Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, Facebook

In this guide, we’ve compiled 15 essential “Do’s” and 15 “Don’ts” for visiting Mackinac Island – consider these your ultimate Mackinac Island tips and things to know before visiting. From…

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Charming Small Towns in Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas

**Updated September 10, 2025

Michigan is brimming with charming small towns that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and friendly vibes. From the wilderness of the Upper Peninsula to the beachy havens of the Lower Peninsula, these pint-sized destinations prove you don’t need a big city for a big experience. Whether you’re planning weekend getaways in Michigan or an epic road trip, our guide now covers 26 of the best small towns in Michigan, 11 in the Upper Peninsula and 15 in the Lower Peninsula , that capture pure Michigan charm. Each town has its own unique attractions: think waterfall hikes, historic downtowns, cozy festivals, and maybe even a pasty or some fudge. So grab a cup of coffee (or a craft beer) and let’s explore…

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Why Leaving Michigan Is Hard: 25 Iconic Things Every Michigander Misses

What exactly is it about Michigan that grabs hold and doesn't let go? Whether it's the first time feeling the refreshing splash of the Great Lakes or savoring cherished seasonal traditions, the Mitten State has a knack for becoming unforgettable. Sure, residents often gripe about the relentless winters and roads peppered with potholes, but leave the state, and even these quirks become fond memories. Those who've moved away often find themselves reminiscing about all the small details and local charm that once seemed ordinary. For anyone lucky enough to still live in Michigan—or anyone contemplating a move—here are 25 iconic experiences you'll undoubtedly miss if you ever leave.

1. The Great Lakes and Sandy Beaches

Michigan is blessed with…

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Michigan's Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip: 9 Must-See Scenic Locations

Planning a road trip in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the state's most stunning natural landscapes. For those living in Michigan or considering moving to Michigan, embarking on Michigan's Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip is a perfect way to experience the state’s hidden gems. This carefully curated journey will take you to nine must-see scenic locations, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Michigan’s waterfalls. From the majestic Potawatomi Falls near the Wisconsin border to the awe-inspiring Tahquamenon Falls in McMillan Township, this route covers the full length of the UP in just over eight hours. Whether you're drawn to the serene allure of Munising Falls or the rugged charm of Gabbro Falls, this epic…

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