We Detroiters are a diverse bunch. Our city is home to residents from all backgrounds, walks of life, and cultures — and this is part of what makes Detroit so wonderful. But despite our differences, we also have our fair share of commonalities. Here are twelve things that each and every true Detroit has probably done at least once.
If you’re a football fan, it can be difficult explaining to your non-Detroit fans why you continue to stick by the Lions. It’s something that’s tough to put into words: but we just can’t seem to tear ourselves away from our team, no matter how poorly they perform. Every Detroiter has suffered through anti-Lions jokes from time to time, but that won’t stop us from putting up a fight!
Okay, let’s admit it: sometimes the Lions don’t quite come through for us the way we expect them to. There’s nothing worse than hyping up your team among friends, only to suffer the humiliation of a devastating defeat.
There’s no denying that we Detroiters love our coney dogs — but we’re not immune to a touch of heartburn now and then. If you’re a coney dog faithful, chances are that you’ve overindulged at least once during your time in the Motor City. Never fear, though: this is where our next item comes in!
Every true Detroiter knows that Vernor’s is the secret to soothing an unsettled stomach. Whether you’re feeling nauseous after a long night of drinking or battling that coney dog-induced heartburn, one quick sip of Vernor’s should have you feeling right as rain in no time!
It’s always been "pop," and it always will be! At least for those of us from Detroit or Michigan as a whole. If you’ve ever visited pals who don’t live in the Midwest, chances are good that you've been made fun of for your strong anti-"soda" beliefs. There’s just no budging on this one.
6. Rolled your eyes at that "South Detroit" lyric.
You know the song and you know the line: "Born and raised in South Detroit." Every Detroiter has had to disappoint a few out-of-town karaoke partners with the news that South Detroit isn’t a real place. In fact, South Detroit might put you smack dab in the middle of the Detroit River.
7. Questioned whether someone was REALLY from Detroit.
It’s an age-old scenario: you meet someone, tell them you’re from Detroit, and watch their eyes light up excitedly as they announce that they’re also from the Motor City. Except they’re not. We’re looking at you, people from Ferndale, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester… the list goes on. Next time, just tell us you’re from Metro Detroit!
We don’t have anything bad to say about Chicago or New York-style pizza, but we’re pretty protective of our Detroit-style pies. In fact, most Detroiters have probably seen their out-of-town friends roll their eyes at repeated descriptions of how much better square pizza tastes. There’s just something about the shape! Trust us!
When you see something on a regular basis, it’s easy to take its beauty for granted. Such is the case with our gorgeous Detroit Riverfront walkway, which seems to stretch on endlessly on warm summer days. Every once in a while, though, you’ll find yourself struck by the scenic views and wonderful community atmosphere of the Riverfront — there’s truly nothing better.
Hey, it’s right across the bridge. Why not go explore Windsor for the day? After all, our neighbors across the border have a lot to offer. From casinos to a riverfront sculpture park to all sorts of classic Canadian hospitality, there’s really nothing NOT to love about Ontario. The best part? You can be back in your own bed before midnight.
11. Wondered why you didn’t live somewhere warmer.
On an extra-chilly winter night in the Motor City, it can be easy to curse the weather gods and ask yourself why you chose to live in such a cold part of the country. Michigan winters are no joke, and Detroit gets its fair share of freezing weather. Every Detroiter is guilty of daydreaming about what life might be like in a more tropical — or even moderate — climate.
No matter how many times we battle negative stereotypes about our city, there’s an undeniable sense of pride that comes with being from Detroit. From our musical legends to our sports teams to our unique and storied past, there’s so much to love about the Motor City. We’ll admit that our city is far from perfect — but that doesn’t mean we’ll stop fighting for the betterment of our wonderful hometown.
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Tell, us Detroiters: did we leave any items off our list? We’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and ideas in the comment section below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
We Detroiters are an undeniably diverse bunch, but there are a few things that most of us can agree on. After all, we’re all united by our shared experiences in the Motor City, and this gives us a unique perspective on everything from food to fashion to the great outdoors. If you’re lucky enough to call Detroit home, here are nine things you likely adore about life in Detroit.
We’ll kick off our list with a fun Detroit favorite: Vernors ginger ale! For most Detroiters, Vernors is so much more than a casual beverage: it’s also a medicinal drink when stomach aches strike, a base for delicious Vernors floats, and a symbol of the Motor City. There’s nothing more soothing than taking a sip.
Whether you’re a fan of the Tigers, the Lions, the Pistons, the Red Wings, or all of the above, you know that Detroit residents don’t take sporting events lightly. We’ve been known to paint our faces, wave signs, lead cheers, and spend hours every year supporting our favorite teams. Sports are a staple for those of us who call Detroit home.
From Slows to coney dogs to authentic cuisine from Mexicantown, there’s no shortage of deliciousness just waiting to be enjoyed here in the Motor City. We might just be the most underrated city in America when it comes to foodie-friendly locations, but those of us who are living in Detroit are happy to indulge.
Those who aren’t from Detroit might not understand, but we’ve been known to kick off hockey games by tossing a live octopus onto the ice rink. That’s right: Detroiters adore traditions, from the silly to the more celebratory, like ice skating in Campus Martius Park every Christmas or checking out the Woodward Dream Cruise. Our annual events allow us to stay connected to our past, present, and future.
If you’ve ever met someone from Detroit, you know that we’re proud of where we’re from. After all, what other major American city offers such quick access to Canada? Who else has overcome the sorts of obstacles that we have? Which other city is so woefully misunderstood? We’re always eager to boast about the many improvements and innovations that our hometown can claim.
Growing up in Detroit I certainly know it really does get cold here in the D, and while wintertime has its benefits, most of us simply adore warmer weather. After another long, trying winter season, there’s nothing better than heading outside to shop at Eastern Market, making our way along the Dequindre Cut, enjoying craft beer on patios throughout town, or simply basking in the sunshine. Post-winter Detroit is a special place to be.
In recent years, the Detroit River has only grown in popularity as its Riverwalk has become a key attraction in the Motor City. There’s something calming about spending time along the waterfront, and our river is no exception: it offers scenic views, soothing breezes, and a gathering place that brings together Detroit residents from all age groups and backgrounds.
Here in Detroit, we play just as hard as we work. As the home of Motown, there’s always a musical performance to be found throughout the city, whether we’re heading to the Fox Theatre or enjoying a stadium-sized concert at Ford Field. In addition to music venues, we’ve got casinos, nightlife, restaurants, and festivals galore. We sure do love to have a good time.
More than anything else on this list, those who live in Detroit love each other. Our connections to the community are unbreakable and far-reaching, whether our families have lived here for generations or we’ve only established bonds in recent years. There’s just something unspoken and special about the experience of calling the Motor City home, and we’ll defend our neighbors with everything we have.
We want to hear from you, Detroiters: Are there any other well-loved attractions, activities, or items that should have been included on our list? What are some of your favorite elements of the city? Feel free to leave a comment to share your thoughts on more things to love about Detroit!
