Why Michigan?
Arts and Culture
A magnet for talent, the natural beauty of our area has long attracted and inspired generations of artists and performers. Museums and historic sites celebrate our heritage and ethnic diversity, while cultural centers and art galleries offer a wide array of works and collectibles from local crafters to internationally acclaimed artists who maintain summer residences here. Even the most seasoned culturist will appreciate year round access to music, theater and productions from classic to modern. And festival-goers will delight in a wealth of events that commemorate arts and crafts; history and heritage; music; homes and gardens; seasons; food; boats; and more.
Education
We get outstanding grades for education by offering some of Michigan’s finest public, private and charter K-12 programs. At North Central Michigan College in Petoskey, students can complete the first two to three years of coursework through NCMC; then enroll in classes through NCMC’s “University Center” to obtain their under, or post-graduate degrees from some of Michigan’s leading universities including Michigan State, Central Michigan, Ferris, Lake Superior State, Lawrence Tech and Spring Arbor.
Health Care
Here’s to good health. Few regions of any size offer the quality, variety and access to health care that you'll find in Northern Michigan. With two nationally recognized regional hospitals, a comprehensive array of specialists, and an extensive network of primary care clinics, excellent medical attention is never more than a few miles away. Additionally, numerous educational programs and outreach services are committed to improving the health and well-being of every resident.
History
Our history is as diverse as the Native American Tribes, French Fur Traders, English Settlers, and other ethnic groups, who for centuries have been lured to the beauty of our region and abundance of natural resource-based industries like fishing, fur trading, logging and tourism. In the early to mid 20th century, railroads, steamships and a burgeoning auto industry contributed to the rise in popularity of our area as a four season travel destination, and summer getaway to many wealthy families and prominent residents from St. Louis, Chicago and elsewhere, including Ernest Hemingway, whose “Nick Adams Stories” are believed to have been inspired by his time spent in Northern Michigan.
Recreation
It won’t take long to realize that you can park and recreate just about anywhere! You’ll be amazed by abundant opportunities to bike along Lake Michigan’s majestic shoreline; hike through pristine forests and amid rolling sand dunes; boat through miles of inland waterways; cast a line into crystal clear waters; tee it up on top rated golf courses; or simply take a dip in one of 11,000 inland lakes, or along 3,177 miles of great lakes shoreline. And when the snow flies, ski, snowshoe and snowmobile on trails rated the best in the Midwest.
Michigan State Park System Best in the Nation
A longtime leader in outdoor recreation, Michigan can now officially boast being No. 1, receiving the 2011 National Recreation and Park Association Gold Medal for the top state park system in the nation. Click here for the complete story.
Shopping and Dining
Our charming and quaint downtowns reveal some of the best shopping and dining the Midwest has to offer. Nestled in clapboard buildings with geranium-filled window boxes are specialty stores brimming with the latest trends in apparel and accessories; sporting goods; home furnishings; gifts and toys; bookstores; custom jewelers; art galleries and antique shops; as well as familiar favorites, for your convenience.
Gastronomically speaking, there is something for every discriminating palate, from irresistible bakeries and coffee shops, to great casual eateries and award-winning fine dining restaurants. Local specialties include “planked” whitefish, hand dipped ice cream, and melt-in-your mouth fudge.
Life in Northern Michigan
