Vibrant Michigan

Michigan is a beautiful and vibrant place to visit. From its thrilling amusement parks to the spectacular Tulip festival there is always something new to see. Imagine yourself flying at speeds of 40 to 50 miles per hour down a track more then 50 feet in the air. Or picture yourself in the middle of a bright and wondrously uplifting tulip field in spring. These are just a few of the great things Michigan has to offer.

Journey with me for a while as our imagination takes us on a trip through the sights of Michigan. Can you see it? Maybe just a little: but keep walking, we'll get you there. Our first stop is "The Motor City", maybe better known to you as "Detroit".

This city has a lot to offer our great nation from culture, to casinos, as well as a number of theaters and halls where some of the greatest performers of all time entertain. Old and new performers and entertainers started in this fair city as well as continue to perform here today. Older generations of performing artists such as The Temptations and Four Tops started here, to new performers like Boys to Men. Also frequenting the motor city is the world of wrestling. See the excitement and jaw jerking action of the WWE live from our very own Cobo Hall. If you're a sports fan you might also enjoy the sweat slinging and stick flying combat of the Detroit Red Wings.

Aside from all the thrills of the sports world Detroit has stunning museums and exceptional events at its Opera House. Still expanding - it is one of the largest cities in Michigan.Next on our voyage we arrive in Grand Rapids.

This is a growing city with its numerous projects and interesting communities. There are many places to visit. The newly constructed Van Andel Center is opening up space for larger events every year.

The crowds gather to see the incredible concerts, games and shows that appear every month. Grand Rapids has many cultural sites such as the Veterans Park, Heritage Hill and several museums which provide excellent learning for you and your family. The Gerald R. Ford museum and the Grand Rapids Art Museum provide exhibits and events for spectators year around. Its latest exhibits are featuring Aztec art and Egyptian artifacts dating back centuries; a cultural experience for all ages.

As we enter the greater Grand Rapids area we encounter their state of the art facilities for cancer and research. A new addition to this area is the "Lacks Cancer and Research Facility". This old yet still developing city is in current development of several condominiums providing affordable and comfortable living for thousands of new residents. Yes, Grand Rapids is the second largest city in this great state and draws thousands yearly to its ever growing population.The next exciting place in our journey is Michigan Adventure. This amazing park provides a nice getaway in the heat of the summer with great events for students and families.

Michigan Adventure has an amusement park as well as a water park with exciting rides and games for everyone.They provide education and learning for school across the World. From events such as Physics Day to Armed Forces Day they include people from every culture in the world. Physics Day provides students a chance to see various experiments first hand out of the class room and gives them a chance to learn hands on, making learning fun.

This park is open from June 1st to August 31st and provides an excellent vacation spot for the entire family.Are you a flower person? The last place we visit is the beautiful scenery of the tulips at the festival in Holland, Michigan. The Tulip Festival brings over 2 million visitors every year to this beautiful showplace. The Latin festival is held on the first Saturday of tulip time and is an opportunity to explore Latin culture through music, dance and art.

This attracts artists and musicians from across the globe.Visit the Holland museum on 10th St. or The Park Theatre located on River Ave that provides shows and events all year. Holland also has a large following for budding artists whatever your talent. Enjoy Open Mic Night at "Lemonjello's", open to all forms of art: poetry, music, story.

and more. While you're there visit the prestigious Hope College.As you can see Michigan has a lot to offer and though I can't speak on all its cities, I can tell you this state is growing rapidly each year and providing wonderful services for families around the world.

Here's some food for thought - in 1849 Michigan was the first state to have a state fair in the United States; now fairs in the U.S. are some of the biggest attractions today; who knew? Been nice traveling with you and hope you visit soon!.

By: Michael Russell