10 Popular Things That Don’t Exist in Michigan Anymore

Here are 10 popular things that no longer exist in the Great Lakes State as of 2026.

1. Rite Aid (Statewide Exit)

Following the same trend seen in neighboring states, the "neighborhood drug store" era for Rite Aid in Michigan has officially ended. As of early 2026, all 186 Michigan locations have shuttered or been converted into other brands like Walgreens. For many small towns in Michigan, the loss of the green-and-white sign meant losing a primary pharmacy and community hub.

2. The Original Borders Books (Ann Arbor)

While the national chain collapsed years ago, its absence is still felt most acutely in its birthplace. Founded right in Ann Arbor, Borders was a global literary giant that defined the "mega-bookstore" experience. While local gems like Literati have filled the void, the massive flagship presence of Borders in downtown Ann Arbor is now a piece of Michigan history.

3. Joann Fabrics (Physical Stores)

In a major blow to Michigan’s robust crafting and DIY community, Joann Fabrics completed its statewide exit in late 2025. Following a total bankruptcy liquidation, all 41 Michigan locations—from Grand Rapids to Detroit—have closed their doors, leaving local makers to rely on independent shops or online orders for their sewing and crafting supplies.

4. Party City

If you’re planning a graduation or birthday party in Michigan this spring, you’ll have to look somewhere other than Party City. The retail giant, which had been a staple for party supplies across the state for decades, officially shuttered all 21 of its Michigan locations by the start of 2026 after a final, unsuccessful pivot to e-commerce.

5. 89X (The Legendary Alt-Rock Station)

For decades, 89.3 FM (89X) was the soundtrack for Southeast Michigan and Windsor, serving as the premier destination for alternative and indie rock. However, the station famously flipped formats to country, ending an era of "The Morning X" and legendary 89X birthday bashes that defined the musical tastes of generations of Detroiters.

6. Value City Furniture (Statewide)

A major name in Michigan's suburban shopping centers for over 50 years, Value City Furniture began its total brand liquidation in January 2026. All Michigan stores are scheduled to be closed by the end of the year, ending a run for the budget-friendly furniture giant that many Michiganders used to furnish their first homes.

7. TGI Fridays (West Michigan)

While one lonely location reportedly hangs on in Southfield, the "flair" and frozen appetizers of TGI Fridays have effectively vanished from West Michigan. The chain shuttered its final Grand Rapids and surrounding locations this year, reflecting a broader statewide shift away from traditional "casual dining" chains.

8. The Pontiac Silverdome (The Structure)

Though the Lions moved to Ford Field years ago, the massive, silent presence of the Pontiac Silverdome remained a landmark on the Michigan horizon for decades. Following years of decay and partial demolition, the site has finally been cleared and repurposed, meaning you can no longer see the once-great home of Wrestlemania III and the 1994 World Cup.

9. Kum & Go (The Brand)

Michigan had a very brief and strange relationship with the Kum & Go gas station brand. After a monumental expansion into West Michigan, the chain was almost immediately acquired by Maverik, which then sold the locations to Casey’s General Store. By 2026, the Kum & Go name has been completely scrubbed from the Michigan landscape.

10. The "Unrestricted" Tipped Wage

As of January 1, 2026, the way Michigan servers and bartenders are paid has fundamentally changed. Under the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act, the traditional sub-minimum tipped wage is being phased out. Tipped workers must now earn at least 40% of the state’s general minimum wage ($13.73/hr) as their base, with the gap closing entirely in the coming years.