# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Maps

How to Find a Map of Michigan

Three Great Lakes surround and divide the state of Michigan into the Upper and Lower peninsulas. In the north along the Canadian border, travelers will encounter Lake Superior and Lake Huron, while another large inland lake, called Michigan, separates this state from Illinois and Wisconsin. As with most water bodies, these lakes are indented with numerous inlets and coves. To navigate your way around these places, a map is a great value. Fortunately, the state of Michigan issues a new road map annually that is available to all motorists for free.

Instructions

Before Departure
- 1
  Contact the Michigan Department of Transportation by phone or email. See resources for more information.
- 2
  Supply your home address to the office. Request a map via mail. Or, view the map online in PDF form.
- 3
  Bring the map with you when you travel.
Upon Arrival
- 4
  Drive to Michigan. Not every highway will have a place where you can get a free map issued by the department of transportation, but there should be commercially printed state maps for sale at most service stations.
- 5
  Stop at a welcome center as you enter the state. Michigan has 14 centers across the state at the following destinations: Ironwood, Iron Mountain, Menominee, Marquette, Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, Mackinaw City, Clare, Port Huron, Detroit, Monroe, Dundee, Coldwater and New Buffalo.
- 6
  Pick up your free copy of the current state map.