7 Hills Every Michigander Is Willing To Die On

The Great Lake State is in the Midwest with some of the friendliest residents. Sure, we have a Michigan accent, but we like it that way! Every Michigander loves our freshwater lakes, football, and even a superstition or two. We’ll defend our traditions and opinions, and for those living in Michigan, these are the hills we will die on.

1. “Pop” vs. “Soda”

"Soda" is not in our vocabulary; when we want a Coca-Cola or a Faygo, we ask for a "pop." In the 1860s, bottlers in Michigan referred to drinks as "pop" because of the sound they would make when opened and it’s stuck around ever since. Michigan's not the only state that uses this regional variation—it's also common throughout the Midwest, including Minnesota and Ohio.

2. “Ope” Is a Real Word

Michiganders use the word "ope" as a way to say "excuse me." If you’re walking in a busy area, you may say to someone, "Ope, I’ll squeeze right past ya!" to weave in between the crowds of people. It’s just another one of those unique words and phrases only used by Michiganders.

3. Michigan Is Better Than Ohio

Michigan vs. Ohio State is the biggest college football rivalry in the country. Michiganders love football and make a point to ruffle Ohio fans' feathers whenever we can. Many fans famously refer to this rivalry as "The Game."

4. Speaking of Football, It’s Detroit vs. Everybody

The Detroit Lions may be the poorest-run NFL franchise in the country, but we stand behind them! Michiganders tune in each week to watch the Lions lose because we hold out hope that someday the team will turn around. But even if they never make it to the Super Bowl—a feat that’s still yet to happen—we’ll still be here rooting for them.

5. Melon Heads Are Real

What is growing up in Michigan like? Funny you should ask. Life in Michigan is not always rainbows and unicorns—rather, our mythical creatures are much creepier. Growing up in Michigan, you may have heard tales of the dreaded melon heads that roam the forests of Allegan County and the nearby Felt Mansion with their giant, oversized heads. The superstition is often mentioned to frighten children off from going into the woods at night, or they may be stalked by the otherworldly creatures.

6. A Day at the Lake Is Superior To Everything Else

We are known as the Great Lake State for a reason. We have the amazing Lake Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior—or "HOMES" as we refer to the five—and incredible inland lakes like Torch Lake. We proudly have the largest freshwater system in the world. We never have to worry about annoying saltwater that makes us thirsty or ocean breeze corrosion that eats away at beachfront cottages.

7. “Meijer” Is Pronounced “Meijers”

Our most popular grocery chain in Michigan is Meijer, but locals pronounce it "Meijers." We also go so far as to add an extra "s" to many other store names, such as "Aldis" or "JoAnns." It's just one of the facts about Michigan life we've all come to terms with.

Living in Michigan can be a unique experience, to be sure, but there are certain things that unite us all—like our pride in our roots. Are there any Michigan beliefs that you think belong on the list? Let us know!

Thirsting to breathe in the Michigan air? Before you book your trip to this stunning region, be sure to download Only In Your State's Itinerary Planner. It'll help you to plan the perfect trip!