32 Perks Of Living In Michigan Despite The Economy

Detroit may have filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy, but it isn't all bad here in The Great Lakes State.

1. We somewhat get to experience all four seasons.

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The weather in Michigan is kind of a joke, as we really only have two seasons: winter and summer, but at least we get to watch the leaves change in the "fall" and the flowers pop back up again during our weeklong “spring".

2. Sometimes all in one day.

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3. We're pretty much the most recognizable state on the U.S. map.

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Yeah, there's Florida, and Texas is pretty big, but do those states look like a mitten surrounded by lakes? Nope.

4. Speaking of being mitten-shaped, we get to flawlessly use our own hands as a map.

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"Oh, where are you going to this weekend?" *points to pinky finger* "Right around here."

It's the most convenient thing ever.

5. Standing on top of a sand dune is one of the most beautiful landscapes you could ever see.

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It's truly breathtaking.

6. Because this is your view. Welcome to Lake Michigan!

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7. And, hey, if you're not feeling Lake Michigan then no worries; you have three other Great Lakes to choose from.

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Not counting Lake Ontario, of course, as it doesn't exactly touch Michigan (and it would be a trip to make).

And if you aren't feeling the Great Lakes (like Lake Superior, which is featured above) you have 11,000 inland ones, too.

8. Michigan is also great for people who like to ski and snowboard.

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Since its pretty much winter six months out of the year, you'll always have plenty of time to ski.

Pictured is Boyne Mountain.

9. Love the outdoors? Perfect.

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You'll have something to do year-round, whether it's kayaking (picture above, taken on Lake Superior), fishing, rafting, or even rock climbing.

10. Sunbathing in the summer is totally acceptable, despite what the temperature says.

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11. We're home to world famous fried chicken.

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The city of Frankenmuth is a little German-styled town, dedicated to preserving and providing a somewhat authentic view on Bavarian culture. Frankenmuth is a top destination by Michiganders for quick day-trips, not only for its beautiful town but also for it's chicken.

12. And fudge.

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An island resort located on Lake Huron, Mackinac Island, is known for three things: its ban on all motor-vehicles, the fact that it's now a National Historic Landmark, and -most importantly- its fudge.

13. You get 10 cents for recycling cans in Michigan, which is double than some other states.

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So 240 = $24. That's easy money and a good deed.

14. We also have one of the longest bridges in the world.

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At 8,614-feet long, the Mackinac Bridge is the third largest suspension bridge in the world, connecting the lower peninsula of Michigan to its upper peninsula.

15. And Michigan is probably home to your favorite cereal. Jealous? You should be.

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The Kellogg's brand was founded in Michigan in 1906.

16. We have an awesomely fishy hockey tradition, too.

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WE THROW OCTOPI ON THE ICE. WHY? BECAUSE WE CAN.

And because the eight legs symbolized the eight wins the Red Wings needed to win the Stanley Cup in 1952. Needless to say, the tradition stuck ever since. Now, with 16 wins needed, two inflatable octopi hang above the ice during playoff runs.

17. Speaking of hockey: Go Red Wings!

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18. Michigan's Adventure is the little sister theme park to Cedar Point, one of the best amusement parks in America.

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Exhibit A:

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19. Motown music originated here.

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Motown Records was founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy and has served some of the best musicians in the world, like Diana Ross and the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson. You're welcome.

20. Just a city boy, born and raised in...

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*screams with unashamed amounts of pride* SOUTH DETROIT.

21. Michigan has great universities.

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The University of Michigan (pictured above) is considered an Ivy League school (public Ivy) and was actually the first established university in the U.S., founded in 1817.

And Michigan State University is one of the largest universities in America.

22. And the Michigan vs. Michigan State argument is always fun to have.

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23. Our football team is possibly the worst in the league, but at least the fans continue to stay pessimistically and optimistically dedicated.

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We come together as a community to love/hate our own football team. Now that's pride.

24. Cherries.

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25. Navigating the city is easy, so you probably won't get lost.

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26. If you've got a few hours to spare you could easily take a trip to Canada.

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Which is pretty cool, 'cause some of us are only a couple hours away from unlimited amounts of Tim Horton's restaurants.

27. If you don't like Ohio State, pretty much everyone in Michigan agrees with you.

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Sorry, Ohio State. It's a football thing.

28. You are offered the convenience of Michigan Lefts!

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Which is basically a legal U-turn.

29. Construction barrels are sort of the undocumented state flower (or bush, rather).

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Michigan has five seasons: fall, winter, spring, summer, and construction season.

30. Public school doesn't start until after Labor Day.

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31. Michigan is home to Meijer, Walmart's rival.

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32. And the biggest perk about living in Michigan is that it's fun to watch people's reactions when you say you're from Detroit.

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