We here in the Mitten State are mighty proud of all the great things that have come out of it. Obviously, Michigan’s revolutionizing of the automotive industry is our biggest claim to fame, but there are also tons of everyday things that are beloved near and far. We think these things – some only available in Michigan, others that have changed the U.S. forever – are pretty special. Without further ado, here’s a list of things made in Michigan and things invented in Michigan. Prepare to be impressed!

1. Gerber

Gerber / Facebook
What started as recipes for the baby of founder Daniel Frank Gerber, transformed the way we Americans feed our wee ones forever.

2. Faygo

Faygo Beverages Inc. / Facebook
We can't think of a state more proud of its pop than Michigan is of Faygo.

3. Cherry Republic, Traverse City

Cherry Republic / Facebook
Dark chocolate-covered cherries? Cherry salsa? Cherry artisan mustard?! This shop has managed to find countless ways to bank on one of Michigan's most beloved fruits.

4. Carhartt

Carhartt / Facebook
The clothing made by this Dearborn-based company embodies that tough, resilient Michigan work ethic.

5. Bon Bon Bon, Detroit, Hamtramck

Bon Bon Bon / Facebook
These perfectly packaged, gourmet treats come in Michigan-themed varieties like Boston Cooler, Paczki, and Faygo Red Pop. Bon Apetit!

6. Wolverine

Wolverine Boots & Apparel / Facebook
These super durable work boots, from the west Michigan city of Rockford, have increasingly become fashionable.

7. Vlasic

Vlasic Pickles / Facebook
Inspired by recipes from Michigan's Polish immigrant community, these are one of the most popular pickles around. Fun fact: That iconic mascot stork was introduced by the company in 1974, combining the notion that storks deliver babies and pregnant women LOVE eating pickles.

8. Vernors

Better Made Snack Foods / Facebook
Michigan's very own Vernors put American ginger ale on the map, but surprisingly, you really can't find the brand outside of Michigan.

9. Stormy Kromer Hats

Stormy Kromer / Facebook
Originally founded in Wisconsin, the makers of these classic caps, popular among outdoorsy types, relocated production to Ironwood.

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10. Slow Jams

Slow Jams Jam / Facebook
The makers of these delicious jams are known for sourcing their ingredients locally. Lots of Mitten Love in every jar.

11. Shinola

Shinola / Facebook
This relatively new company, makers of fine watches and bicycles, made a splash when it opened shop in Detroit, by using the city's grit as street cred.

12. Sanders Candy

Sanders / Facebook
This legendary chocolate maker has been Michanders' sweet fix for generations. Pictured here, Sanders bumpy cakes - another only-in-Michigan classic.

13. Mackinac Island Fudge

Original Murdick's Fudge / Facebook
The fudge found on Mackinac Island is so good it drives an entire tourism industry. Pictured here, a sweet treat from Original Murdick's Fudge.

14. McClure's Pickles

McClure's / Facebook
We Michiganders LOVE our pickles. And the spicy spears made by McClure's pack a serious kick.

15. Kellogg's

Kellogg's / Facebook
Cereal has been synonymous with American breakfasts for more than a century. You can thank Battle Creek-based Kellogg's for that.

16. Jiffy Mix

JIFFY Mix / Facebook
Created in 1930 by the Chelsea Milling Company, the Jiffy Mixes transformed how we prepare baked goods in the home forever.

17. Hudsonville Ice Cream

Hudsonville Ice Cream / Facebook
This local ice cream maker has a lot of love for Michigan, with limited edition flavors like Lake Superior Thaw, Tiger Traxx, and Grand Hotel Pecan Ball.

18. Germack Pistachio Co.

Germack Pistachio Co. / Facebook
You're nuts if you don't love the snacks made by this local roaster.

These are but a sampling of all the great “Made in Michigan” creations we love. Which are your go-to Mitten State things? Tell us in the comments below!

Feeling extra proud to be from Michigan? You should! Show off your state pride when you purchase something from Wear Your Roots.

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More to Explore

Living In Michigan

Beth C. | February 05, 2024

What are the most famous landmarks in Michigan?

Traveling through the Mitten State is always a great idea, especially if you make a point of visiting the following most famous landmarks in Michigan:

  • Detroit Institute of Arts
  • Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
  • Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
  • Matthaei Botanical Gardens
  • Michigan Stadium
  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
  • Gilmore Car Museum
  • Kitch-iti-kipi
  • Tahquamenon Falls State Park
  • Greenfield Village
  • Presque Isle Park
  • Fisher Building
  • Hiawatha National Forest
  • Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum
  • Silver Lake State Park

 

How many of these famous Michigan landmarks have you experienced?

What are the most popular state parks in Michigan?

For nature lovers, there's hardly a better option than exploring the great outdoors. Check out the following list of the most popular state parks in Michigan:

  • Palms Book State Park
  • Tahquamenon Falls State Park
  • Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
  • South Higgins Lake State Park
  • Wilderness State Park
  • Ludington State Park
  • Sleepy Hollow State Park
  • Warren Dunes State Park
  • Holland State Park
  • Mackinac Island State Park
  • Presque Isle Park
  • Thompson's Harbor State Park
  • Fayette Historic State Park
  • Duck Lake State Park
  • William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor

 

Curious to learn more about these incredible outdoor spaces? Check out our ultimate guide to exploring state parks in Michigan.

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