What is your Michigan county known for? A look at all 83

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By Jessica Shepherd | jessica_shepherd@mlive.com

From the largest to the smallest, every Michigan county has a claim to fame. There is one thing each and every county is known for, from Alcona to Wexford. Whether it's recreation, a landmark, a well-known native or something completely random, we have compiled a list of the most notable things about each of our 83 lovely counties.

Of course, there are other things for which these places are known. We always want to discuss our wonderful state and all it has to offer. If you have something to say about our list, leave us a comment.

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Photo by Cathy Layman | MLive.com

Alcona County

On this list, and any other that displays Michigan counties in alphabetic order, Alcona comes first. Maybe that seems like a silly thing for the county to be known for, but think about it for a minute. Alcona always appears at the top of the list, making it top of mind. This is such a special honor for the county that the Alcona flag features the phrase "First of 83." If you visit the county website, you see "1st of 83" proudly displayed. Thanks, Alcona County, for kicking off this list.

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Photo by Cory Morse | MLive.com

Alger County

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful spots in Michigan. In Alger County, this special span of lakeshore along Lake Superior is lined with multicolored cliffs. This is a favorite area for kayaking, since you can get a breathtaking view of Pictured Rocks from the water.

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Photo by Katie Alaimo | MLive.com

Allegan County

The Allegan County Fair has been called the most popular county fair in the state by USA Today. Since it was first held in 1852, the fair has grown, offering nine days every September of food, rides, games, animals and more. In the past several decades, the fair has become known for the national musical acts it attracts. Artists like Kid Rock, Britney Spears, KISS, Def Leppard, Carrie Underwood and many others have taken to the Allegan County Fair stage.

More info: allegancountyfair.com

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Alpena County

Alpena County is one of the best destinations in the state for shipwreck tours. Home to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the water near Alpena is full of sunken treasures that are preserved by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Visitors can explore by ship, including glass-bottom boats, or train for a dive into the historic waters.

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Photo by Fritz Klug | MLive.com

Antrim County

Short's Brewing Company is one of Michigan's most beloved breweries. With their production facility in Elk Rapids and the brewpub in Bellaire, Short's is a major reason tourists head to Antrim County. We love this place so much, MLive named it Michigan's Best Brewery back in 2013.

More info: shortsbrewing.com

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Photo by Alexander Cohn | MLive.com

Arenac County

Rifle River is the hot spot for outdoor recreation in Arenac County. Hop in a canoe and float down the river or grab your fishing pole and bait some sucker. If you are looking for a summer vacation spot, there are plenty of campgrounds along the Rifle. The waterway is also known as the setting for an arrest that sparked a landmark First Amendment case.

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Baraga County

Mount Arvon is the highest point in the state. Located in the Huron Mountain Range, the peak is 1,979 feet tall. While it is a modest height, as far as peaks go, it is the tops for our state. If you make it to the top, you'll get a lovely view. Then you can head back down and travel about 10 miles to visit Lake Superior.

More info: Things to do in the U.P.

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Photo by Katie Alaimo | MLive.com

Barry County

The Gilmore Car Museum is North America's largest auto museum. Car lovers flock to this place to see the more than 400 antique cars and motorcycles you'll find here. They also offer special exhibits, outdoor car shows, a 1930s-style Shell gas station, a fully-restored 1941 diner and more. You'll also find a collection of automobile mascots, automobile artwork and an automobile research library.

More info: gilmorecarmuseum.org

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Bay County

Iconic pop star Madonna was born in Bay County Aug. 16, 1958. While the Material Girl is often asked why she dislikes her hometown, she has actually stated she has "great affection" for Bay City. She also likes to set the record straight any time someone claims she was born in Detroit. No matter what controversy has surrounded Madonna's relationship with Bay City in the past, this international star is definitely Bay County's biggest claim to fame.

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Benzie County

On Michiganders' lists of favorite inland lakes, you'll find Crystal Lake toward the top. Of 11,000 inland lakes throughout the state, it's one of the largest. It is also crystal clear, as the name would suggest. There are lakeside resorts where you can stay in order to enjoy the view, along with some time on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

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Berrien County

Based on its location and beautiful scenery, it makes sense that Berrien County is a favorite vacation spot of Chicagoans. This county on the southwest edge of Michigan has beautiful Lake Michigan beaches lines with dunes, such as the gorgeous Warren Dunes. During the summer months, you are sure to run into those escaping the hustle and bustle of Chicago to enjoy some pure Michigan relaxation. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll find Chicago sports teams on TV. If you love the Cubs, visit the Getaway Grille & Cubbie Bar in Bridgman.

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Branch County

If you are traveling along the historic US-12 Heritage Trail, you'll find Branch County is your halfway point between Detroit and Chicago. Once used as the major route to travel between the two destinations, Branch County became a stop for travelers. Today, the route is no longer the main roadway connecting Chicago and Detroit but the history of US-12 remains.

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Calhoun County

Calhoun County is known as the birthplace of the cereal industry. More specifically, Battle Creek is where the Kellogg Company was born and where it still remains today. Another cereal giant, Post, was also founded here but has since moved its headquarters. According to heritagebattlecreek.org, in the early 1900s, there were more than 30 cereal companies in Battle Creek.

Related: We miss the heyday of Cereal City USA

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Cass County

If you are a cat lover, you should be thankful that Cass County is the birthplace of kitty litter. Edward Lowe was a Cassopolis resident who came up with a solution for his neighbor's cat box problems. That work as a good neighbor turned into a lifetime of selling and perfecting kitty litter. He was the man behind the Tidy Cat brand, and though he died in 1995, Lowe left behind the Edward Lowe Foundation to help other entrepreneurs.

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Charlevoix County

Have you seen the mushrooms houses? Over the course of five decades, Architect Earl Young created 30 properties in Charlevoix County that are each unique but share a similar style. Some call them mushroom houses while others call them fairy houses or hobbit houses. No matter what you call them, Charlevoix is the only place they can be seen.

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Cheboygan County

Cheboygan County is the gateway to the Upper Peninsula. You have to go through this county, located at the tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, if you want to get to the wondrous U.P. The southern end of the Mackinac Bridge is found here. Make sure to stop in Mackinaw City while you're here.

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Photo by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Chippewa County

Chippewa County is home to the oldest city in Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie. Founded in 1668 by French missionaries, the area was known for an abundance of fishing and fur. The city, which shares a name with its Canadian neighbor across the water, is also credited as one of the oldest cities in the U.S.

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Photo by Jeff Schrier | MLive.com

Clare County

After the members of the Clare Police Department saved a local historic bakery, they made some changes that garnered national attention. They named the shop Cops & Doughnuts, slapped bacon on pastries and watched business boom. Self-described as 100-percent cop-owned, Cops & Doughnuts now has five Michigan locations, one Indiana location and ships its products to customers worldwide.

Related: BuzzFeed lists Cops & Doughnuts treat among 33 to 'try before you die'

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Clinton County

If you live in Michigan and you are looking for peppermint or spearmint, Clinton County is the place for you. This mid-Michigan county is the state's leader in mint production and they're proud of it. Each August, they hold the St. Johns Mint Festival to celebrate the county's abundant mint crops.

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Photo by Amanda Ray | MLive.com

Crawford County

Primarily located in Crawford County, Camp Grayling is the largest U.S. National Guard training facility in the country. Founded in 1913, the base is used to train active and reserve components of all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as law enforcement personnel. Maneuver courses, large artillery and tank ranges are among the training highlights.

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Delta County

Even some who have never visited the U.P. have seen Jeff Daniel's film "Escanaba in da Moonlight." Daniels, a Michigan native, wrote, directed and starred in the 2001 film. He was also responsible for the play of the same name, which is still performed by community theaters. The movie version of the hunting comedy was filmed in the Delta County area.

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Photo by Mark Felix | MLive.com

Dickinson County

Dickinson County has a rich history in many ways but perhaps the most notable thing about the area is its large number of successful coaches. Michigan State University basketball coach Tom Izzo is likely the most well-known coach from the area, but he isn't the only one. Izzo's buddy, former NFL head coach and current NFL Network analyst Steve Mariucci is from the same Dickinson County town of Iron Mountain. That's not all! Former Green Bay Packer coach Gene Ronzani and current Concordia University Chicago coach Randy Awrey also grew up here.

Related: 8 interesting facts about Iron Mountain

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Eaton County

The ledges of Grand Ledge are a must-visit highlight of Eaton County. Head to Fitzgerald Park or Oak Park to take in the sight of these rock formations that are hundreds of millions of years old. Some rock climbers take to the Oak Park ledges for the Lower Peninsula's only natural outdoor rock climbing experience, but there is controversy surrounding the idea of climbing the ledges.

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Emmet County

The official state stone of Michigan, the Petoskey stone, can only be found in a small geographic area within the state. As you might guess from the name of the city Petoskey, Emmet County is a prime spot to seek out the beautiful fossils. Head to the shoreline to find these distinct stones, since their beautiful pattern comes to life in the water.

Related: State confiscates 93-pound Petoskey stone from Michigan man

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Genesee County

In Genesee County's major city, Flint, you'll find historic Saginaw Street. Lined with bricks, the roadway includes arches that display Flint's "Vehicle City" moniker, referring to the thriving carriage-making industry that once existed here. On Saginaw Street, located in the heart of downtown, you'll find iconic Genesee County events like Back to the Bricks and the Crim Festival of Races.

Related: Why Flint's Vehicle City nickname has nothing to do with cars

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Gladwin County

Gladwin County is the thermoforming capital of the world. What is thermoforming, you ask? It is the heating process that makes plastic into usable products. In the book "Gladwin County" by Rick Sigsby, Gaylord Brown is credited with the prevalence of the industry in Gladwin County and, more specifically, Beaverton.

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Gogebic County

While the western Lower Peninsula is often referred to as "West Michigan," Gogebic County should really hold that name, since it is the westernmost county in the state. This former mining hub is bordered by Lake Superior to the north and Wisconsin to the south, forming the western point of the undeniably-gorgeous U.P. Side note for Lions fans: Look out! This is Packer country.

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Grand Traverse County

Cherries might be small but they are a big deal in Grand Traverse County. Michigan produces more tart cherries than any other state and Grand Traverse County is in the heart of the region where most of those cherries grow. You'll find lots of delicious sweet cherries here too. To celebrate the abundant cherry crops, Traverse City holds the annual National Cherry Festival each summer. You'll also find the world's largest cherry pie pan here.

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Photo by Jeff Schrier | MLive.com

Gratiot County

Gratiot County is home to the largest wind farm in the state. Gratiot Wind Farm, in the northeast corner of the county, has a whopping 133 turbines. You will spot them while traveling through the county on M-46 or U.S. 127. Power produced by the wind farm is purchased by DTE Energy.

Read more about Michigan's wind farms here

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Photo by Monetta Harr | MLive.com

Hillsdale County

If you love antiques, Hillsdale County has a lot to offer you. Sometimes referred to as the antique capital of the world, the county's small village of Allen is definitely the most antique-filled area in the state. Head down M-12 and you'll spot antique shops a-plenty.

Take a look at this MLive story on Allen

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Houghton County

If you spend time in Houghton County, you will know a lot more about Finnish culture. From the 1870 through the 1930s, an influx of immigrants from Finland moved to the U.S., with Michigan gaining the greatest number of Finnish residents. That Finnish heritage is still very prevalent today in the Upper Peninsula, particularly in Houghton County. Some of the Finland-related highlights you'll find here are Finlandia University, the Suomi Home Bakery & Restaurant and place names like Tapiola and Nisula.

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Huron County

If you travel to Huron County, you'll find yourself in the tip of Michigan's Thumb. Of course you know Michigan's Lower Peninsula is shaped like a mitten and Huron County is easy to find on a map, because it shapes the tip of the state's only defined digit. This is a great place to enjoy Lake Huron, which surrounds the Thumb.

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Ingham County

You could say the true headquarters of Michigan is located in Ingham County, since it's home to the state capitol. Lansing, the largest city in Ingham County, is where you'll find the Michigan legislature, the Michigan Supreme Court and the office of the governor. Any bill that affects Michiganders is signed into law here.

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Ionia County

Known as the "world's largest free fair," the Ionia Free Fair is a big deal. Started in 1915, the fair is a summer staple for residents of Ionia County and beyond. If you visit the fair, held in July, you'll find 10 days of animals, games, rides, crafts, food and more.

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Iosco County

In 2006, Michigan honored Oscoda with the title of "official home of Paul Bunyan" because the local paper was allegedly the first to ever write about the legendary lumberjack. Each year in September, Oscoda celebrates Bunyan with a festival. A statue of the famed lumberjack stands in Oscoda Township's Furtaw Field.

Find out more about Paul Bunyan Days in Oscoda

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Photo by Mary Alt | MLive.com

Iron County

Perhaps it won't surprise you that Iron County's history centers around iron ore. While there are other U.P. locales that can boast a history of iron mining, this county literally got its name from the commodity. While the iron mines here are now inactive, you can learn all about the mining history of Iron County by visiting the more than 70 buildings comprising the Iron County Multiple Resource Area.

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Isabella County

Isabella County is home of the Chippewas in more ways than one. Home to the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan, here's where you'll find the Isabella Indian Reservation. You'll also find Central Michigan University in Isabella County, where they're called the Chippewas. Fire up, Chips!

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Jackson County

During a convention held in 1854, Jackson County became the birthplace of the Republican Party. While there has been controversy surrounding the true location where the GOP got its start, we do know the first official meeting of the party was held in Jackson during the Under the Oaks convention. A large gathering of anti-slavery activists gathered and chose official Republican candidates for an upcoming election.

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Kalamazoo County

Long before the craft beer boom, Bell's Brewery was creating delicious brews that stand the test of time (and competition). Recently named the best beer in America, Two-Hearted Ale is a staple across the country. The release of Oberon each year is the sign that summer is near. You can find both the Bell's production facility in Comstock Township and Bell's Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. This county is Bell's country and they're proud of it.

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Kalkaska County

Kalkaska County is all about the trout. In addition to holding the annual National Trout Festival, the county is home to a large trout fountain known as the National Trout Memorial. Of course, there is also trout fishing and the delicious Trout Town Tavern & Eatery in Kalkaska.

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Kent County

Kent County is home to Michigan's beer capital, often referred to as Beer City USA. While Grand Rapids is obviously a brewery hub, serving as home to Founders and many other craft beer producers, the entire county has gotten in on the action. No matter where you travel in Kent County its likely you are within close proximity to one of the more than 30 breweries located here.

Related: Grand Rapids has 'Best Beer Scene in America' USA Today poll says

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Keweenaw County

When you hear "Keweenaw," you almost certainly think of the word "peninsula." The Keweenaw Peninsula is a beautiful peninsula within a peninsula. The tip of the peninsula is Keweenaw County, filled with a rich copper-mining history, gorgeous beaches and spectacular views of Lake Superior.

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Lake County

Idlewild is a historic resort in Lake County, which served as one of the first vacation destinations that catered to the African-American population. The resort, which opened in 1915, boasted thousands of visitors and attracted several big-name musicians, including Louis Armstrong and The Temptations. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a music festival is held each summer to commemorate the resort's history.

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Lapeer County

If you love bowling, you need to head to Lapeer County. Specifically, you need to visit Gerlach's Bowling Center where you'll find the state's largest bowling pro shop in the basement. The owner of Gerlach's, Dan Gerlach, boasts a collection of 5,000 bowling balls and they are all available to purchase. You can even snag a scented bowling ball or a ball displaying the image of your favorite cartoon character.

Related: Michigan's Best bowling alley

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Photo by Joel Bissell | MLive.com

Leelanau County

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is arguably the most beautiful place in the entire country. Anywhere you land along the shoreline will leave you speechless as you take in the glory of Lake Michigan and gorgeous sugar-sand shores. You'll also find two islands, a lighthouse, campgrounds and more. This is a must-visit destination for any Michigander.

Related: 6 magnificent Michigan Dunes you need to visit this summer 

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Photo by Mike Mulholland | MLive.com

Lenawee County

On the northeast edge of Lenawee County, in the Irish Hills area, you'll find Michigan International Speedway. Those who love NASCAR converge on the area, south of Brooklyn, during race weekends. The track is also home to the Faster Horses Festival and includes a camping area for concert-goers and race attendees.

Related: 50 favorite photos from Faster Horses 2017

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Livingston County

Hell does freeze over every year in Michigan. The small, unincorporated community of Hell, Michigan completely embraces its unusual name, making it a favorite destination for those with a sense of humor. You can go kayaking in Hell, go shopping in Hell or even get married in Hell. Of course, you can't forget about Hellfest and its annual hearse parade.

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Luce County

While the beautiful Tahquamenon State Park is split between two Michigan counties, the magnificent Upper Falls of Tahquamenon are located in Luce County. One of the most voluminous falls east of the Mississippi, the Upper Falls have a noticeably brown color created by the tannins from cedar swamps that make their way into the water. Tourists swarm to this area during the summer months to view the 50-foot drop of the Tahquamenon River at the Upper Falls.

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Mackinac County

Mackinac Island is like no other place and Michiganders (along with a ton of other annual guests) totally appreciate its unique charm. One of Michigan's most-visited destinations, the island is famous for fudge, historic sights, beautiful views and a lack of motorized traffic. It is a summer vacation requirement to ride a tandem bike to the Grand Hotel for a pecan ball before attending the Lilac Festival Grand Parade.

Related: Your ultimate guide to Mackinac Island from food to drinks and more

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Macomb County

Singer and rapper Kid Rock was known as Robert Ritchie when he was born Jan. 17, 1971 in Romeo, Michigan. In addition to his music, Kid Rock is known for voicing his conservative political views. Having sold tens of millions of albums worldwide, the Romeo native's most widely recognized songs include "All Summer Long," "Picture" and "Bawitdaba."

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Manistee County

If you want to drive the span of one of the country's most beautiful scenic roadways, you'll have to start (or end) here. The start of the beloved M-22 scenic drive can be found here northeast of Manistee, off of US-31 near Little River Casino and Resort. The 116-mile stretch of highway is a particularly popular drive during the fall months, when autumn leaves transform the colors of Michigan's many trees.

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Photo by Cory Morse | MLive.com

Marquette County

It's hard to pinpoint just one thing Marquette County is known for, but if we're forced to do it, we have to pick Presque Isle Park. The park offers up beautiful views of Lake Superior, pebble-covered beaches, hiking trails, playground equipment for the kids and (of course) the beloved Black Rocks. The area known as Black Rocks is the spot where many, many Northern Michigan University students have jumped off a 15-foot cliff into the icy waters of the northernmost Great Lake. The cliff is so adored by the locals, there is even a brewery named Blackrocks.

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Mason County

The only coal-fired passenger vessel that still operates on Lake Michigan, the S.S. Badger is also the largest car ferry to ever travel on Lake Michigan. Shuttling passengers between Ludington and Manitowac, Wisconsin, the Badger offers four-hour trips across the big lake from mid-May through mid-October so you can take your car to Wisconsin without any driving.

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Photo by Monica Scott | MLive.com

Mecosta County

One of Michigan's 15 public universities, Ferris State University is based in Mecosta County's largest city Big Rapids. Founded in 1884 as Big Rapids Industrial School, Ferris is known for its pharmacy program. While the main campus of the Bulldogs is located in Big Rapids, there are 19 Ferris locations throughout Michigan.

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Menominee County

The southernmost point in the Upper Peninsula, Menominee County has perhaps the most serious ties to Wisconsin of any county in the state. The county seat of Menominee is located right on the Michigan-Wisconsin border and directly next to the Wisconsin city of Marinette. The two cities collaborate in many ways, including by sharing a chamber of commerce, a YMCA, a Salvation Army and other organizations. The two cities are sometimes referred to as "twin cities."

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Midland County

The Dow Chemical Company, one of the largest chemical companies in the world, was founded in Midland County in 1897. Thousands of people are employed at the company's headquarters in Midland. The company is currently finalizing a merger with DuPont.

Related: What you need to know about Dow's latest investments in Michigan

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Missaukee County

Christmas lovers should all be grateful for Missaukee County, because this area produces a whole lot of Christmas trees. According to the USDA Census of Agriculture, Missaukee County is Michigan's leading producer of Christmas trees and the nation's sixth largest producer of the yuletide plant. Each year, the area celebrates its prosperous relationship with trees at the Festival of the Pines, held in Lake City.

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Monroe County

Perhaps Monroe County's most notable resident ever, General George Armstrong Custer spent his childhood here and attended local schools. While Custer wasn't born in Monroe County and later moved away, he is celebrated locally with the George Armstrong Custer Equestrian Memorial. The statue, also known as "Sighting the Enemy," was unveiled in 1910.

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Montcalm County

The successful supermarket chain Meijer was founded in the Montcalm County city of Greenville in 1934. Michigan residents will get a kick out of the fact that when Hendrik Meijer opened the first store, it was called "Meijer's." The chain has branched out over the years, with stores in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. While the origins of Meijer are traced back to Montcalm County, the company's headquarters is located in Kent County.

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Montmorency County

Montmorency County, and more specifically its county seat Atlanta, proudly calls itself the Elk Capital of Michigan. The website elkcapital.net is even locked down to share the good word about this rural northern Lower Peninsula county. If you really want to celebrate the Elk Capital nickname, head to the Atlanta post office, where you'll find a taxidermied elk behind glass. If you didn't already guess, hunting is a big deal here.

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Muskegon County

Muskegon County is home to Michigan's Adventure, the largest amusement park and water park in the state. This place is home to rollercoasters, games, water rides, wave pools, carnival-style rides and more. If you are looking for a thrill within Michigan, this is the place for you. Fun fact: This place was originally called Deer Park.

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Newaygo County

Gerber Products Company, of baby food fame, was founded in Newaygo County in 1927. More specifically, the company was founded in Fremont by Daniel and Dorothy Gerber. Now a subsidiary of Nestle, Gerber is still headquartered in Fremont where it employs 1,300 workers.

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Oakland County

If you are a Michigander, it's likely you have memories of visiting Pine Knob for an outdoor concert. Okay, we know it's technically called DTE Energy Music Theatre now, but it will always be Pine Knob to us. Regardless of the name, concertgoers like the above-pictured Hanson fans, have lost it while watching their favorite acts at this seasonal Michigan venue for 45 years.

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Photo by Joel Bissell | MLive.com

Oceana County

Oceana County is known as the Asparagus Capital of the World and, according to the USDA Agriculture Census, the region is the largest producer of asparagus at least within the U.S. Every year, the county celebrates by holding the National Asparagus Festival and crowning the Asparagus Queen. The abundant crop even sparked a documentary called "Asparagus! Stalking the American Life."

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Ogemaw County

No, Ogemaw County isn't the only place in Michigan where you'll find a smiley face water tower. But the city of West Branch is more proud of this big, smiling face in the sky than any other community in the state. The small city in the northeastern Lower Peninsula has the motto "City with a Smile" staring right at you if you visit their website. According to the website, "Smiley" is a symbol of the town's hospitality.

Related: The weird, wonderful water towers of Michigan

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Ontanagon County

The Porcupine Mountains are a beautiful destination for both the casual observer and the hardcore hiker. Also called the Porkies, this area is known for the beautiful views from Lake of the Clouds, as well as some of the most intense backpacking trails in the state. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, the largest state park in Michigan, is home to a ski area and an annual music festival.

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Osceola County

Osceola County is known for being a transportation crossroads. Specifically, Reed City was formerly the crossroads for two major railroads that now serve as rail trails for non-motorized transportation and recreation. The Pere Marquette and White Pine trails intersect here and you will spot the word "crossroads" on many signs and banners in the county's largest city.

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Oscoda County

If you've been through Oscoda County and you didn't stop at Ma Deeter's, the locals will tell you that was a big mistake. This nearly century-old bar and restaurant is a staple of the northern Lower Peninsula, located in the small community of Luzerne. Named after the woman who first owned the log cabin eatery, Ma Deeter's suffered a fire in 2016 and the entire restaurant had to be rebuilt. This photo shows the old Ma Deeter's building before the fire.

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Otsego County

Choosing Otsego County as your Michigan golf destination is a hole in one. The area is home to the Gaylord Golf Mecca, with 15 courses ready and waiting for both casual and serious golfers. Some of these courses have been designed by golf greats. There are even golf schools in the area to help you master the game.

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Ottawa County

Rich with Dutch heritage, Ottawa County celebrates the culture of many locals each year with the country's largest tulip festival, Tulip Time. Attendees of the annual Holland festival enjoy live entertainment, parades, fireworks, klompen dancing, a Dutch market and many, many tulips. The popular festival has spanned nearly nine decades, attracting visitors from around the world.

Related: Dutch heritage celebrated at Tulip Time Volksparade in Holland

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Presque Isle County

The world's largest limestone quarry is located in the coastal city of Rogers City in Presque Isle County. Production at the quarry started in 1912 and continues with millions of tons of limestone coming out of Rogers City each year. Both the quarry and the Rogers City port are named Calcite, after the main ingredient in limestone.

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Roscommon County

No matter the season, Houghton Lake is a source of recreation for residents of Roscommon County and beyond. Out of Michigan's 11,000 inland lakes, this is the largest. Houghton Lake is the site of the huge winter festival Tip-Up Town that celebrates ice fishing and general winter fun. An unincorporated community of the same name is located to the west of the lake.

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Photo by Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

Saginaw County

Known for chicken and a seemingly endless list of festivals, Frankenmuth is a top tourist destination in Michigan. You've surely seen the many billboards for our state's Little Bavaria and, if you've visited, you known this small city is jam packed with shops, restaurants, hotels and other storefronts catering to visitors. One of the hottest attractions in Frankenmuth is the world's largest Christmas store, Bronner's Christmas Wonderland.

Related: A look at Bronner's through the years

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Photo by Gus Burns | MLive.com

St. Clair County

Sharing a name with this county, the St. Clair River is a big deal. It serves as an international boundary between Canada and the U.S. and you'll find lots of cargo vessels making their way along this waterway. On the shores of the St. Clair River, in the city of St. Clair, you'll find the world's longest freshwater boardwalk. Plus, the delta of the St. Clair River, flowing into Lake St. Clair, is the largest freshwater delta in the world.

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Photo by Daytona Niles | MLive.com

St. Joseph County

St. Joseph County is home to a village that is small in size and population but big on magic. Colon is the Magic Capital of the World, with events, shops and even grave sites there to prove it. You'll find a four-day magic convention here each summer, the beloved Abbott's Magic Company and a cemetery where famous magician Harry Blackstone Sr. is buried. To really understand how magical this community is, you'll have to visit.

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Photo by Chris Fryer | MLive.com

Sanilac County

Soybeans are used for a variety of purposes, from animal feed to cooking oil to shampoo. There is a huge demand for soybeans and, in Sanilac County, farmers are heeding the call. According to the most recent USDA Agriculture Census, Sanilac County produces more soybeans than any other Michigan county.

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Photo by Howard Meyerson | MLive.com

Schoolcraft County

Next time you are traveling through the U.P., you should visit the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful, serene slice of Michigan outdoors is especially precious for bird lovers, since it is home to more than 200 types of birds. You'll also surely spot other species of Michigan wildlife when you wander through the nearly 100,000-acre refuge maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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Shiawassee County

Do you want to see a castle here in Michigan? Head to Curwood Castle in Owosso. Built in the 1920s by writer James Curwood, the unique building now serves as a museum. Perhaps surprisingly, there are no eating or sleeping areas in the yellow stucco building, mainly used for entertaining and writing. The Curwood Festival is held each year to celebrate James Curwood.

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Photo by Dan Staudacher | MLive.com

Tuscola County

Open to the public from mid-May through September, the Thumb Octagon Barn acts as a museum focused on agriculture. The interesting barn, standing 70-feet tall, was constructed in 1924. On the premises, you'll find a one-room schoolhouse, a cider mill, a blacksmith shop, a covered bridge and more.

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Photo by Carly Geraci | MLive.com

Van Buren County

While there is plenty of fruit coming out of Van Buren County, blueberries always steal the show. First in blueberry production within Michigan and the entire nation, the area celebrates these small, flavorful berries each year during the National Blueberry Festival. It's said the soil here is perfect to grow the berries that are perfect for preserves, baking or eating straight from the bush.

Related: 30 messy faces from the Kids Blueberry Pie Eating Contest

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Photo by Melanie Maxwell | MLive.com

Washtenaw County

From academics to sports, the University of Michigan really is the Big House in Washtenaw County. The state's first university, U of M is a renowned research university with more than half a million living alumni. Located in the county seat of Ann Arbor, the university has a large sports following, with many fans following the Wolverines as they navigate the Big Ten.

Related: Keep up with the Wolverines here 

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Photo by Tanya Moutzalias | MLive.com

Wayne County

Wayne County is the home of the Motor City. Michigan's largest city, Detroit, is know across the globe for serving as the birthplace of the automotive industry. This is where Henry Ford developed his assembly line and you'll see his name memorialized in many places here. The automotive history is heavily celebrated in the area and you can find an event that centers around cars any time of year.

Related: Auto events around Detroit for car-lovers

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Photo by Jim DuFresne | MLive.com

Wexford County

The oldest ski resort in Michigan, and one of the oldest in the country, Caberfae Peaks is located outside of Cadillac in Wexford County. First opened in 1938, it currently has 34 runs. Visitors will also find a golf course, a banquet center, a lodge and more.

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More Michigan fun

The most unusual place in each of Michigan's 83 counties

The most famous person from each of Michigan's 83 counties

How each county in Michigan got its name

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