Every state has it’s quirks and Michigan is no exception. Our residents are unique in every aspect. We are used to gorgeous 90 degree summer days, below zero freezing temps in the winter and everything in between! Below you will find 10 things Michiganders do or say that helps explain how unique we truly are.
If you are from Michigan you probably know we are often referred to as ‘Michiganders’ a nickname many of us are proud to represent! Every state has its little quirks and we are no different.
10 Things Michiganders Do or Say
When asked where we live, Michiganders often use their hand to point to where they live. When your state is shaped like a mitten it becomes a convenient way to show people the general region and direction of your home town.
We call soda, pop. In my experience this is a dead giveaway that you’re from Michigan. If you are traveling anywhere in the south the moment you ask for pop it’s a dead giveaway you are a Michigander.
Up North generally refers to anywhere north of the mid-Michigan area.
We have Michigan turn arounds. What’s a Michigan turn around? Most Michiganders refer to them as a Michigan left or a U-turn. Michigan turn arounds generally take place on a 4 lane street that’s divided in the center. The driver can make a left and turn back onto the other side of the road
Upper Peninsula residents are referred to as “Yoopers” whereas Lower Peninsula residents are known as “trolls”. I’m a Troll that married a Yooper
Michiganders often refer to liquor stores as “party stores”. This often confuses residents from other states.
We call the Mackinac Bridge the Mighty Mac.
If you hear the word pasty it’s not someone’s skin tone. Pasty refers to a savory meat-filled pastry made famous by miners in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
We have become expert winter drivers. Just throwing it out there, with all the ice and snow storms you get a lot of winter driving practice. We may not enjoy winter driving but we can handle it.
Michiganders often have nicknames for Michigan towns and cities. You might refer to Traverse City as ‘TC’, Detroit as the ‘D’, Grand Rapids as ‘GR’ and Kalamazoo as ‘K-Zoo.’
