Michigan Car Rental

Guide to Michigan

Geography

The state of Michigan is often called the ‘Great Lakes State’ due to the fact that four lakes share borders with Michigan: Superior, Huron, Michigan, and Erie. It has over 3,000 miles of freshwater shoreline.

Climate

Michigan is classified as having a humid continental climate and is characterized by its distinct summers and winters with a fairly even distribution of precipitation throughout the year. The best time to visit Michigan is from late spring in May to mid-autumn in October. The days are warm in the spring and fall, making it a great time to enjoy fishing and boating on the lakes.

Culture

For centuries, many Native American tribes have called this state their home such as the Kickapoo and Ojibwe. The descendants of many of these tribes still live here today.

Things to do

Go fishing with friends

All those miles of freshwater shoreline offer excellent fishing opportunities for budding anglers. Fishing is a family-friendly sport popular in Michigan. Pack a picnic and drive out to your nearest lake and spend a day catching trout or bass. Do note that you will need a fishing permit ($10 for 24-hours if you’re visiting or $24/$76 for a whole year for residents/non-residents, respectively

Hike or bike the Iron Belle Trail

The Iron Belle Trail links a network of pathways creating 2000 miles of hiking and biking. It passes through more than half of Michigan’s counties and several hundred towns. Parts of the trail coincide with already existing city bike routes, sidewalks, and nature trails through the North Country National Scenic Trail. This would be a really unique and memorable way to experience Michigan.

Learn about the different local cultures

Enrich your experience by engaging with the local culture up close and personal. The Thumbcoast Heritage Tour, Quincy Mine Tours, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour are few such examples. If you consider yourself as a history nerd then places like the Museum of Ojibwa culture, Eyaawing Museum, and Cultural Center are must-sees.

Eating Out in Michigan

From artfully prepared five-star cuisine to mouth-watering, slow-cooked, bar-b-que at authentic roadhouses, Michigan has it all. Try out some of Michigan’s world-famous fudge – a chewy treat made with milk, sugar, and chocolate - at La Dolce Vita. The Bearded Dogg Lounge is an eclectically decorated eatery with a constantly changing menu but the Walleye (a local variety of fish freshly caught in the Michigan lakes) and the Dogg Snack are popular staples.

Michigan Transport

Flying to Michigan

There are over 200 airports in Michigan, with the largest one being Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).

Public transportation in Michigan

The larger cities – like Detroit and Ann Arbor - have excellent public transit systems due to the fact that there are several colleges and universities located here. 

Driving in Michigan

Michigan has a really strong network of bus services, making it very efficient to travel in and around the state. The state shares nine international crossings with Canada. Car rental is a popular choice among visitors looking to experience the best of the Great Lakes State with flexibility and convenience. The most trustworthy car rental agencies are Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Budget.