How Big Is Michigan? See Its Size in Miles, Acres, and How It Compares to Other States

In terms of square miles, Michigan is one of the larger states in the USA. The Mitten State is bigger than Florida, Ohio, and Minnesota. However, compared to the largest states in the U.S., like Texas or Alaska, it doesn’t even come close. But how big is Michigan? This article details the state’s size in square miles, acres, and kilometers.

How Big is Michigan in Acres, Kilometers, and Miles?

How Big is Michigan Compared to the Largest State?

Alaska, the largest state in the U.S., is seven times larger than Michigan. In fact, this massive state is bigger than Montana, California, and Texas combined. Furthermore, Alaska is six times wider and almost four times taller than Michigan. For example, Alaska measures 1420 miles from north to south. Additionally, Alaska boasts 50% of the entire United States coastline, 6,640 miles to be exact.

How Big is Michigan Compared to the Smallest State?

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, is 62 times smaller than Michigan. For example, this tiny state has an area of 1,212 square miles. Furthermore, 169 square miles consist of water, so 1,045 square miles is land.

Wildlife in Michigan

Michigan is home to diverse wildlife thanks to the Great Lakes and surrounding vegetation, which they rely on to survive. Here are three interesting species found in the Mitten State:

Moose

Unfortunately, the moose population in the Mitten State severely declined in the 1800s when logging caused habitat loss. Furthermore, hunting was unregulated and deadly parasites ensured the population couldn’t recover. However, in the 80s, a herd was brought to Michigan from Canada, and today the population is thriving in the Upper Peninsula. However, it is not always easy to find them. The best place to spot a moose in this state is by visiting the Seney National Wildlife Refuge or Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

Bobcat

These wild cats occur primarily on the northern side of Michigan, which consists of swamps, forests, and bushy areas. They prefer this area because it is easy to find prey, and there are plenty of hiding spots to avoid larger predators. The upper peninsula is brimming with wildlife like fawns, rodents, snowshoe hares, birds, goats, and deer.

Bobcats can survive in nearly any habitat because they are highly adaptable. But, they do prefer environments like swamps, woodlands, forests, deserts, and sub-urban areas. Therefore, the Mitten State is an excellent area for these cats.

White-tailed deer

White-tailed deer occur in every county in Michigan. However, they have different habitats for summer and winter. For example, during the colder months, deer will migrate from the north to the south in search of food.

Popular Attractions in Michigan

While a complete tour of Michigan will take several days, it is worth it. This state has so many popular attractions; you must see them all. But, if you don’t have the time or money, here are seven things you must see and experience while in the Mitten State:

Henry Ford Museum

If you are a big history buff, this is definitely your attraction. And, even better, if you also love cars. There is a lot to see here. There is something for everyone, from the Presidential Limousines exhibit to the aviation exhibit. There is a lot to learn about the legacy of American innovators from the 18^th to the 20^th century. The Henry Ford Museum is located in Dearborn, Michigan.

University of Michigan

The University of Michigan is truly a sight to behold. Besides being one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the USA, it also has incredible sports teams, like the mighty Wolverines. The 2,800-acre campus includes the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, Natural History Museum, Mattaei Botanical Gardens, Power Center for the Performing Arts, and Michigan’s Museum of Art.

As a visitor, you don’t have to wander this university alone; they offer guided tours Monday through Friday. You can expect to see a variety of places on the tour, like:

• Residence halls
• Student union buildings
• Athletic facilities
• Libraries

The University of Michigan is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Mackinac Island

One of the best attractions in the Mitten State is Mackinac Island, which attracts both locals and tourists. While under 1,000 permanent residents are on the island, thousands of seasonal workers and tourists visit each year. But what attracts people to Mackinac Island? The breathtaking views and landscape, of course. Furthermore, people enjoy how remote and relaxing it can be. Additionally, it is an incredible location for adventurers who want to explore. For example, many hikers visit the island’s state park to find Arch Rock, a famous limestone arch.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

One of the most beautiful places in the U.S. is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This Michigan park consists of 70,000 acres of land, just waiting to be explored. Its beauty is indescribable with the lush forests, breathtaking lakeside views, and miles of sand beach. There is an activity for everyone, like hiking through Maple Beach Forest, climbing the dunes, or swimming in the lake. Furthermore, guests can visit the historic South Manitou Island Lighthouse and Glen Haven Village. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in Empire, MI.

Detroit Institute of Arts

If the outdoors and history aren’t your thing, maybe the Detroit Institute of Arts is more up your alley. This institute boasts the USA’s largest and most significant art collection. For example, it holds over 60,000 creative and unique artworks that will take your breath away. Collections include masterpieces from famous artists from Asia, Africa, and America. They also hold workshops and lectures here if you want to find the artist in you.

Colonial Michilimackinac

The Colonial Michilimackinac is an 18^th-century fort, which is now an interactive new-age museum. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent views from the fortress lookouts or navigate through numerous historical exhibits. The museum offers guests the chance to experience what it was like during revolutionary times in 1776 when America fought for independence.

Belle Isle

Sitting in the middle of the Detroit River lies the Belle Isle, a city-owned island park. Belle Isle is owned and operated by the city of Detroit, which is easily accessible over the MacArthur Bridge. This island has been popular with locals and tourists since the late-19^th century. However, it only officially became a state park in 2014. Furthermore, Belle Isle is recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. While this island is the third-largest in the Detroit River, it is the most well-known and frequently visited. There is a lot to explore on the island, providing tourists with fresh air and plenty of recreational activities. Just some of the facilities on the island include:

• The Belle Isle Aquarium
• A museum
• The Belle Isle Conservatory
• Nature center

In addition, this island is notorious for outdoor recreation like cycling, picnics, golfing, and boating. Lastly, Belle Isle has some of the most amazing views of the Detroit skyline.