Michigan – the Great Lakes State, where the waters are as vast as the state’s natural beauty, and every season brings something new to enjoy. Whether you’re cruising along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, experiencing the pulse of Detroit, or exploring the quiet woods of the Upper Peninsula, Michigan has a way of making you fall in love with its unique charm. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in Michigan, here are 10 things only true Michiganders will understand.
We take our Great Lakes very seriously
If you’re from Michigan, you know that the Great Lakes are more than just bodies of water—they’re our playgrounds, our life source, and our pride. Whether it’s Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, or one of the smaller lakes, we cherish every inch of them. Don’t even think about calling them “just lakes”—they’re “Great Lakes,” and they’re a big deal.
The “Yooper” vs. “Troll” rivalry is real
If you’ve been to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (the U.P.), you’ve heard the terms “Yooper” and “Troll.” Yoopers are people from the U.P. (above the Mackinac Bridge), and Trolls are those who live below the bridge. It’s all in good fun, but there’s definitely a playful rivalry. Yoopers like to boast about their ruggedness, while Trolls tend to think they’re more refined. It’s all part of what makes Michigan unique.
We love our Michigan football (and our Michigan State football)
Michigan has two powerhouse college football teams—the University of Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State University Spartans—and no one is ever neutral. Whether you’re tailgating in Ann Arbor or East Lansing, don’t expect any small talk if your team loses. The rivalry is fierce, and it’s a topic of conversation all year long.
We know how to appreciate a true “Michigan summer”
Michigan summers are nothing short of magical. Whether it’s spending long days at the beach, having a barbecue in the backyard, or taking a boat out on the lake, summer here feels like paradise. And when the temperature hits the 80s, you’ll hear Michiganders talking about how it’s the best weather ever—because it usually doesn’t last long!
You can’t have a proper pasty unless it’s from the U.P.
Michigan is known for its pasty, a meat and vegetable pie with roots in the Upper Peninsula. It’s a beloved comfort food here, and a true Yooper will tell you that no one does it better. If you’re visiting Michigan, don’t skip a chance to try one—whether it’s homemade or from a local pasty shop, it’s a must-try dish.
We know the secret to dealing with winter: embrace it
Michigan winters are long and cold, but we’ve learned to love them. Snowshoeing, skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling are part of our winter culture. Michiganders don’t shy away from the cold—we just bundle up and get outside to enjoy it. After all, if we didn’t embrace the winter, we’d be stuck indoors for months!
The Mackinac Bridge is the gateway to another world
If you’re from Michigan, you know that crossing the Mackinac Bridge feels like crossing into a whole new world. Whether you’re heading to the U.P. or returning from a visit, the bridge’s towering presence reminds you that Michigan is not just a state—it’s an experience. Locals are often quick to point out that it’s the “longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere,” but honestly, it’s the view that makes it iconic.
The Detroit love is real
Detroit isn’t just a city; it’s a cultural hub for Michigan. From the Motown legacy to the resurgence of the motor city, Detroit is where music, art, and innovation come together. Whether you’re attending a Tigers game, experiencing the Detroit Auto Show, or listening to live music, there’s an undeniable energy in the city that locals love to brag about.
We know the importance of the “Coney dog”
The Coney dog is a Michigan staple, and every Michigander has their go-to place for this delicious treat. A hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and onions—it’s the ultimate comfort food, especially after a night out. Detroit is home to two legendary spots, Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island, but every city and town has their own take on this iconic dish.
We embrace the weirdness of Michigan
Michigan isn’t afraid to be quirky, and we take pride in that. From the world’s largest Christmas store in Frankenmuth to the mysterious “Kalamazoo” (yes, it’s real, and yes, we love to say it), Michigan has a charm that’s unmatched. The state’s weirdness is part of what makes it so lovable, and we’re always up for a fun road trip to explore some of its oddities.
Living in Michigan is about more than just beautiful lakes and great sports—it’s about embracing the seasons, the food, the culture, and the unique spirit that makes the state so special. Whether you’re cheering for your team, enjoying a beach day, or exploring the wild beauty of the U.P., Michigan always has something new to offer. So next time someone asks you about Michigan, just smile and say, “You haven’t truly seen the world until you’ve seen it through a Michigan lens.”
