March 19, 2024
Bay City Michigan - Ferris Wheel

31 Interesting Things To Do In Mid-Michigan

Have you ever visited a new place and felt “wow” about it? For many tourists, it happens in Michigan. So we explored and found these 31 things to do in mid-Michigan. This checklist will keep you busy.

There is So Much To Chose in Mid-Michigan

Choosing favorites is unfair, but we can’t help ourselves with these Michigan Vacation Spots. From romantic getaways to beautiful drives, biking trails, and sandy beaches, We even found that Michigan has a beautiful slice of Europe right here in mid-Michigan. 

While the abundance of waterways dominates the state, much of it is covered in endless forests and shorelines, showing that Michigan has something for everyone. 

We’ve outlined some of the best places in Bay City, Frankenmuth, Saginaw, and Midland that you should add to your travel bucket list this year.

These scenic spots are not only beautiful, but also have a rich historical and cultural heritage. You can customize a series of pins to leave deep memories of your journey.

You can design pins that feature various attractions in Michigan, including Great Falls, Bay City, St. Joseph’s Church, and more. You can give a product from EnamelPins Inc as a personalized gift to your family and friends. Let them experience the local customs and traditions of Michigan.

Things to Do in Bay City Michigan

Things To Do In Mid-Michigan - Bay City
Tall Ships Event in Bay City

Bay City, Michigan, is located at the base of Lake Huron, near Saginaw Bay, with roughly 11.2 square miles of land in the city. Even though the population is only around 35,000, the town has the vibe of a much larger city. The summer activities along the river are not to be missed. However, you’ll be more fascinated by its beautiful architecture, fantastic music festivals, libraries, and museums if you know that the famous singer Madonna was born here.

Start at the Bay City Antiques Center, then head over to the Third Street Star Bridge, Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum, the State Theatre, Sunrise Pedal Trolley, and the Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center before finishing up your visit at the Bay County Library for an all-around Bay City experience.

Things to Do in Frankenmuth Michigan

Things To Do In Mid-Michigan - Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Cafe

“Willkommen” (the German word for welcome) is the standard greeting in Frankenmuth, and you’ll be sure to experience the warm sentiment and German influence that surrounds the town during your stay in Michigan’s Little Bavaria. After all, despite Frankenmuth being just about three square miles in size, it attracts more than three million people each year.

Things To Do In Mid-Michigan - Zehnder's
Zehnder’s

Start by having dinner at Bavarian Inn and Zehnder’s, then head over to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland (if you’re visiting in December). ConsidNext, maker visiting Frankenmuth Aerial Park, Bavarian Belle River Boat, and Michigan Heroes Museum before finishing your visit at the Frankenmuth Carriage Rides for an all-around Frankenmuth City experience.

Things to Do in Saginaw Michigan

Things To Do In Mid-Michigan - Saginaw
Saginaw Bean Sign – Photo by Chris Pagan

Saginaw may not be as popular as other cities in the United States, but don’t be fooled by its small area. Located in Mid Michigan, Saginaw is a tiny but lovely tourist attraction. Before European settlement, Saginaw was the cultural and economic hub for native American tribes in Michigan. The city of Saginaw, with its diverse neighborhoods ranging from historic downtown to riverfront communities and natural attractions such as the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, provides an abundance of outdoor and indoor adventures for visitors. 

Sip Teas at Japanese Cultural Center and Tea House, explore the Castle Museum of Saginaw County History, find fun for the whole family at Mid-Michigan Children’s Museum, Children’s Zoo at Celebration Square, and Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum. Finish your tour by visiting the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge. 

Things to Do in Midland Michigan

Things To Do In Mid-Michigan  - Dow Gardens
Dow Gardens – Photo by Gio Bartlett

Midland is the county seat of Midland County, located near several towns and cities, including Lansing (81 miles away) and Saginaw (30 miles away). With natural settings and downtown cityscapes to rugged terrain and upscale splurges, your stay in Midland will be a wonderful mix of opportunities.

No matter whether you spend your time satisfying your taste buds at Laskos Restaurant or Cafe Zinc, visiting The Alden B. Dow Home & Studio, exploring Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens, biking at Pere Marquette Rail Trail, or researching the 1,200-acre refuge of woodlands and wetlands that is Chippewa Nature Center, there is much to do, see, taste, and remember in this town.

If you want more details on the top ten Midland Mi Museums, visit our sister site.

Things to Do in Pinconning Michigan

Pinconning is a city located in Bay County, Michigan, United States. It has a population of around 1,700 people and is known for its cheese production and its location on the shores of Lake Huron. The city has a rich history, including being a lumber town in the 19th century, and is home to several historical sites, parks, and recreational areas.

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Pinconning is known as the cheese capital of Michigan

Visit the Pinconning Cheese Factory: This historic cheese factory offers tours and tastings of their famous Pinconning style of cheddar cheese, and visitors can learn about the cheese-making process and the history of the factory. The town has several cheese shops and is known as the cheese capital of Micihgan.

Visit the Bay City State Recreation Area: This park is located just a short drive from Pinconning and offers sandy beaches, fishing and boating opportunities, camping, and trails for hiking and biking. It’s a great place to take in the beauty of Lake Huron and enjoy some outdoor recreation.

Things to Do In Mt. Pleasant Michigan

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CMU Football Game Tailgate

Mount Pleasant is a city located in Isabella County. It has a population of around 26,000 people and is the county seat of Isabella County. The city is home to Central Michigan University, and has a thriving cultural and arts scene. Mount Pleasant is also a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating, and is surrounded by several state parks and nature preserves.

Mt. Pleasant, Michigan offers a variety of activities for visitors. Here are three things to consider doing during your visit:

Central Michigan University: Take a tour of Central Michigan University and explore the campus. The university has a rich history and offers a variety of cultural and educational events for visitors. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort: Enjoy a night of entertainment and gambling at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. This casino features a variety of slot machines, table games, and live entertainment. Mount Pleasant Discovery Museum: Take a trip to the Mount Pleasant Discovery Museum, a hands-on educational facility that is perfect for families and kids. This museum features interactive exhibits on science, technology, engineering, and math.

Fun Things To Do In Mid-Michigan This Weekend

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Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Mid-Michigan

Gather your closest friends, hop in the car, and head out on the road for the vacation of a lifetime as you travel through some of the top places to visit in Bay City, Frankenmuth, Saginaw, and Midland.

Feature cover image of Bay City by Damien Perez

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Things To Do In Mid-Michigan

Avatar Of Michaela Nolte

Michaela Nolte

Michaela is a history buff and loves to export historical markers and old buildings and seeks stories about Michigan and Great Lakes history. When she is not writing, you can find her with a good book sipping wine on the beach.

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