Michigan spans two time zones (Eastern and Central) and has a rich history tied to its unique geography. This guide explains how time works in Michigan, where the time zones apply, and how it all came to be.

Tip: I recommend booking the hotel before you go. If you are working out your travel dates, book a refundable hotel room.

Table of Contents

Overview of Michigan

  • Region: Midwest United States
  • Capital: Lansing
  • Largest City: Detroit
  • Population Rank: Among the most populous U.S. states
  • Geography: Only U.S. state made of two peninsulas (Upper and Lower)

Time Zone Breakdown

  • Primary Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
  • Secondary Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT), used in 4 western Upper Peninsula counties:
    • Iron County
    • Gogebic County
    • Dickinson County
    • Menominee County

Geography and Regional Time Zones

Lower Peninsula

  • Entirely in the Eastern Time Zone
  • Surrounded by water, includes Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids

Upper Peninsula

  • Mostly in the Eastern Time Zone
  • Western border counties observe Central Time
  • Known for forests, wildlife, and low population density
  • Largest city: Marquette (approx. 20,000 residents)

Economy and Tourism

  • Major Industries: Automotive, manufacturing, technology, agriculture
  • Automakers: Ford, General Motors, Fiat Chrysler headquartered in Michigan
  • Tourism: Huge draw from Great Lakes, forests, and outdoor recreation
  • Popular activities: boating, fishing, kayaking

History of Timekeeping in Michigan

  • Pre-1883: Time set by sun’s position—no uniform standard
  • 1883: Time zones introduced; Michigan initially used Central Time
  • 1942: Most of Michigan switched to Eastern Time
  • 1973: Most of the Upper Peninsula also shifted to Eastern Time

Time Zone Technical Details

Eastern Time Zone (ET)

  • Standard Time: Eastern Standard Time (EST) – UTC-5
  • Daylight Time: Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) – UTC-4
  • Abbreviations: ET, EST, EDT

Central Time Zone (CT)

  • Standard Time: Central Standard Time (CST) – UTC-6
  • Daylight Time: Central Daylight Time (CDT) – UTC-5
  • Abbreviations: CT, CST, CDT

Daylight Saving Time

  • Observed Statewide (both ET and CT regions)
  • Begins: Second Sunday in March
  • Ends: First Sunday in November
  • Example: In 2018, DST ran from March 11 to November 4

Plan Your Trip