The Upper Peninsula is a true crowning gem of our beloved Great Lakes State. The entire region is rich with history, culture, and absolutely stunning scenery. For Michiganders from the Lower Peninsula, the U.P. can sometimes feel like an entirely different state — but there’s always room to learn. Here are 10 things that most Yoopers want the rest of Michigan to know.
1. We’ve got a rich mining history, and we’re fiercely proud of it.
The Upper Peninsula was once at the forefront of the copper mining industry, and this shaped much of our region’s early history. We want our Lower Peninsula friends to remember and acknowledge this fascinating past — because it made us who we are today.
2. There’s more the the U.P. than just Pictured Rocks and Mackinac Island.
While these attractions are two of our most beautiful, we want our fellow Michiganders to know that the U.P. is simply brimming with natural beauty. Dive from cliffs in Marquette, marvel at the springs of Kitch-iti-Kipi, and explore one of many waterfalls throughout the peninsula.
3. The beer simply tastes better up here.
While the entire state is known for a slew of awesome breweries, there’s something special about beer that's brewed right here in our own neighborhoods. If it’s your first time to the U.P., we recommend grabbing a pint at Blackrocks Brewery or Keweenaw Brewing Company.
4. We call you names out of love.
You call us Yoopers, and we call you trolls or flatlanders. There’s not meant to be bad blood associated with the names. These are terms of endearment — unless you make fun of our accent, that is!
5. Some of us root for non-Michigan sports teams, and that’s okay.
When it comes to football, many Yoopers root for the Green Bay Packers instead of the Detroit Lions. While we can’t call ourselves full-fledged cheeseheads, we certainly hold an affinity for some Wisconsin sports. Please don’t take it personally.
6. Our diet consists of more than just pasties.
The Upper Peninsula is home to some of the state’s best fishing locales and finest agricultural products. And, contrary to popular belief, we don’t have pasties for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not that we would complain about indulging in these delicious treats more frequently.
7. We’re home to some of Michigan’s best universities.
We’re just as proud of Michigan State and the University of Michigan as you are, but Northern Michigan University and Michigan Tech are frequently overlooked by people below the Mighty Mac. These schools perfectly combine quality education with serene natural surroundings.
8. We’ll probably beat you in a game of euchre.
Like many Michiganders, we Yoopers take card-playing seriously in our neck of the woods... and we might just have to challenge you to a hand of euchre to prove it.
9. Your complaints about snow make us laugh.
We know snow is a hassle no matter where you live, but snowfall in the Upper Peninsula is a whole different ballgame. Sometimes we can’t help but chuckle when our friends and family in the Lower Peninsula seem terribly distraught by a few inches of snow.
10. We’d love to show you around.
We’re incredibly proud to be from the Upper Peninsula, and our towns are full of friendly people who welcome visitors in every season. No matter when you visit, we promise you won’t be disappointed. We might even make you an "honorary Yooper."
We know this list only scratches the surface of what Yoopers would like to communicate to the rest of our beautiful state. If you’re from the Upper Peninsula, please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
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