Detroit, nicknamed Motor City, for its huge role in the automotive industry, is the largest city in Michigan, and also one of the largest in the United States. It is also one of the oldest cities in the Midwest. The ethnic composition of Detroit plays a huge role in the culture with large pockets of African Americans, Bulgarians, Belgians and Arabs residing within the city. Detroit offers a number of entertainment options from a wide array of theater possibilities, including Broadway productions, big-name concerts and smaller plays and shows. There are three casinos in the city and a diverse nightlife including bars, lounges and clubs.

Flint is the epitome of a blue collar town, with much of the area's economy a result of General Motors plants. As the third largest city in Michigan, Flint has approximately 125,000 residents. Flint is home to several colleges and museums. Kettering University, Baker College and a satellite branch of the University of Michigan are all located in Flint. Flint has several art galleries, a planetarium with multimedia and laser shows, and the For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum.

Lansing is the state capital of Michigan and home to huge Michigan State University. The University offers the public an art museum, a history museum of the university and the state, and a planetarium. With a population of around 120,000, Lansing is a substantial sized city offering up tours of the State Capital, riverboat cruises and a number of galleries and museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lansing has three nature centers, as well as the Riverfront Park and Trail.