Michigan Travelers Urged: Do Not Visit Russia in 2025

If you were dreaming of getting out of Michigan and sipping vodka while doing a little Cold War-themed sightseeing in Moscow, go ahead and cancel those plans now. The U.S. Department of State has reissued its Level 4: Do Not Travel Advisory for Russia as of May 8, 2025.

This isn't just a suggestion. It's one of those big flashing red sirens with foghorns and maybe a giant bald eagle screeching, "Don't go to Russia!"

Michigan Travelers Warned Russia is a No-Go

Photo by Ivan Shimko on Unsplash

According to the State Department, you should not travel to Russia due to a laundry list of terrible things that could happen to you, making a trip to Detroit look like a visit to a butterfly garden. Here are some highlights:

The continuing war between Russia and Ukraine (nothing puts a damper on a visit to the Kremlin like a drone attack).
The risk of harassment or wrongful detention (ever been in a Russian prison?).
The very real possibility of terrorism.

U.S. citizens who are currently in Russia are being urged to leave as soon as possible, even forgoing the 20-minute Michigan goodbye.

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Why? Because Uncle Sam can't offer a whole lot of help if (when) you find yourself in an international jam in Red Square, let alone Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Going Anyway? Here's What You'll Need

Photo by Random Institute on Unsplash

Do you think the State Department is messing around? According to the reissued Level 4 travel alert, if you go, expect to have your items searched, including your phone (your chats aren't safe from prying eyes).

Still planning a Russian getaway from Michigan? Here's what the Feds recommend you do if you decide to ignore the travel alert and go to Russia anyway:

A will
Designate a power of attorney
Have a plan for your kids, your pets, and your Beanie Baby collection
An emergency contact plan with someone who isn't also in Russia
An understanding that the U.S. government might not be able to help you

Again, not a drill. This is the real deal.

If you're aching to feel like a fish out of water, consider traveling to Michigan's Snobbiest City. See the complete 100-city countdown below.

The 100 Snobbiest Cities in Michigan in 2025: Complete Countdown

WARNING: The following countdown requires a sense of humor. I asked ChatGPT to use US Census data, including median household income, the percentage of college degree holders, median home value, the percentage of residents working in management, population density, and more, to determine the 100 Snobbiest Cities in Michigan. Here's the countdown to #1:

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow