Good to see you have gotten into birdwatching, the rewards can be quite fruitful if you have good timing, good sense, and a bit of luck. Best place to watch birds depends on what type of birds you like.
Here is a site that might be handy for you:
http://www.birding.com/wheretobird/michigan.aspMost of the time, bird watching is best done away from human settlements, such as in the countryside. Waterfowl are good for birdwatching because they are abundant, especially in the US. If you intend to see raptors, specific locations are better, most of which I don't know of in the US.
Then again, surprisingly, many birds choose to roost or reside in rural/urban centres, even the CBD! Falcons like to make their nests on ledges on skyscrapers.
Another great place, is, the zoo!
Although, it doesn't give you the same sense of achievement...
Finally, if all else fails, go to Africa, practically anywhere in Africa's grassland/savannah. Not only should you find plenty of biodiversity, but you will not be bird-less (I guarantee) - there are an estimated 2 billion quelia birds on the plains of Africa!
- Knights -