TRAVEL

In Michigan, Every City Tells a Story

From vibrant downtowns and world-class art to urban green spaces and outdoor exploration, Michigan's cities offer endless opportunities to discover something new.

Zeke Anders

Just minutes from downtown, Belle Isle Park offers a scenic retreat along the Detroit River. The 982-acre island is home to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, one of the nation's oldest conservatories and a cherished Detroit landmark.

Photographs byZeke Anders

Published September 17, 2026

Michigan's cities are more than their skylines and landmarks. They are places alive with culture, creativity, and an unmistakable energy that welcomes you from the moment you arrive. That sense of discovery, of experiencing something for the very first time, is what makes every visit unforgettable. So whether you're exploring a vibrant downtown, strolling along a waterfront, taking in world-class art, or finding a new favorite restaurant, each corner offers a new perspective on the people, places, and character that shape a city's story.

This year, as Pure Michigan celebrates its 20th anniversary, four inspiring storytellers were invited to reimagine the iconic commercials that helped define the Great Lakes State and capture its spirit through the seasons.

“When visiting Michigan’s cities, it’s never the same experience twice. That’s why the idea of a ‘first-time feeling’ resonates so deeply with me.” — Zeke Anders

To capture the unique personalities of Michigan's cities, Detroit-raised cinematographer Zeke Anders created a contemporary interpretation of the beloved First Time Feeling spot. His journey took him to Detroit and Grand Rapids where he documented striking urban landscapes, renowned architecture, and authentic moments of everyday connection.

Discover the places he explored and the moments that showcase Michigan's cities at their finest.

Zeke Anders — A cornerstone of Detroit's cultural landscape, the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) houses more than 60,000 works, including masterpieces by Monet and Matisse and standout collections of contemporary African American art.

Zeke Anders — Inside, visitors will find beauty around every corner, from the grandeur of Diego Rivera's iconic Detroit Industry Murals to the museum's ornate architectural details.

Zeke Anders — Inside, visitors will find beauty around every corner, from the grandeur of Diego Rivera's iconic Detroit Industry Murals to the museum's ornate architectural details.

Zeke Anders — Just across from the DIA, the Michigan Science Center combines interactive exhibits, hands-on learning, and family-friendly fun in the heart of the cultural district. A ride on the beloved Rainbow Escalator, a retro tunnel of colorful neon lights, is practically a Detroit rite of passage.

Zeke Anders — Few places tell Detroit's story quite like Michigan Central Station. Opened in 1913, closed for decades, and restored by Ford Motor Company in 2024, it stands as a powerful symbol of the city's resilience, ingenuity, and innovation.

Zeke Anders — Few places tell Detroit's story quite like Michigan Central Station. Opened in 1913, closed for decades, and restored by Ford Motor Company in 2024, it stands as a powerful symbol of the city's resilience, ingenuity, and innovation.

Zeke Anders — From the sounds of Motown to world-class orchestral performances, music has long shaped Detroit's identity. Home to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the historic Orchestra Hall offers visitors a chance to unplug, reconnect, and experience the magic of live music.

Zeke Anders — Detroit's food scene is as diverse as the city itself. From fine dining at The Apparatus Room to neighborhood staples like Mudgie's Deli to global cuisines found throughout the city, you'll find a mix of longstanding traditions and modern culinary creativity on every menu.

Zeke Anders — Detroit's food scene is as diverse as the city itself. From fine dining at The Apparatus Room to neighborhood staples like Mudgie's Deli to global cuisines found throughout the city, you'll find a mix of longstanding traditions and modern culinary creativity on every menu.

Zeke Anders — For a stay with both style and comfort, look no further than Shinola Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s one of Detroit’s many distinctive places to stay, blending historic architecture, handcrafted luxury, and timeless character.

Zeke Anders — From the sights, sounds, and flavors of Eastern Market to community hubs like the William Davidson Sport House, Detroit's public spaces make it easy to gather, explore, and connect.

Zeke Anders — From the sights, sounds, and flavors of Eastern Market to community hubs like the William Davidson Sport House, Detroit's public spaces make it easy to gather, explore, and connect.

Zeke Anders — About three hours west of Detroit, Grand Rapids is known for its vibrant public art, celebrated craft beverage scene, and easy access to nature. A standout attraction is Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where art, culture, and the natural world come together in unexpected ways.

Zeke Anders — As the first sculpture in what would become the Meijer Gardens Sculpture Park, Alexander Liberman's Aria remains one of its most iconic works. Painted a striking red and standing more than 42 feet tall, the sculpture invites visitors to walk around, beneath, and through its canopy-like forms.

Zeke Anders — In addition to housing the Midwest's most comprehensive outdoor sculpture collection, the 158-acre attraction offers indoor and outdoor gardens, nature trails, a five-acre Children's Garden, and the state's largest tropical conservatory.

Zeke Anders — In addition to housing the Midwest's most comprehensive outdoor sculpture collection, the 158-acre attraction offers indoor and outdoor gardens, nature trails, a five-acre Children's Garden, and the state's largest tropical conservatory.

Zeke Anders — Exploring downtown Grand Rapids is all about discovery, where shops like Oh, Hello Co. contribute to the city’s vibrant mix of retail, art, and community spaces. Inside, visitors will find thoughtfully curated gifts, beautifully designed stationery, and greeting cards for every occasion.

Zeke Anders — From inventive restaurants to neighborhood taprooms, Grand Rapids serves up a food scene that is both inviting and distinctly local. At Archival Brewing, centuries-old traditions inspire thoughtfully crafted beers and seasonal fare that offer a taste of history.

Zeke Anders — From inventive restaurants to neighborhood taprooms, Grand Rapids serves up a food scene that is both inviting and distinctly local. At Archival Brewing, centuries-old traditions inspire thoughtfully crafted beers and seasonal fare that offer a taste of history.

Zeke Anders — At the heart of downtown, Calder Plaza hosts festivals, markets, and community events throughout the year. The space is also home to La Grande Vitesse, Alexander Calder's iconic sculpture and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.

Zeke Anders — Every city leaves its own impression. From Detroit to Grand Rapids and beyond, Michigan's cities offer endless opportunities to explore vibrant neighborhoods, meet welcoming locals, and uncover something unexpected around every corner.

Your trip begins at michigan.org

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