Bay City is a must-visit if you want to experience the true Michigan charm and beauty. Saginaw is a beautiful city with a great variety of things to do and see, thanks to its location on both Saginaw Bay and the Saginaw River. Bay City is a great place to visit whether you’re interested in history, the outdoors, or delicious cuisine. In this detailed travel guide, we’ll show you all the best things to do in Bay City MI.
Discover the Natural Beauty
Saginaw Bay and Saginaw River
The beautiful Saginaw Bay, with its calm seas and lovely shoreline, is a major draw for visitors to Bay City. Saginaw Bay is a great place to go fishing, swimming, or just take a stroll on the beach. Renting a kayak or paddleboard and exploring the bay’s secluded inlets and coves is a great option for the more adventurous traveler.
The Saginaw River, which runs through the middle of town, is another attractive natural feature. Learn about the ecology and culture of this important waterway on a relaxing river cruise. Wildlife like herons and bald eagles are frequently spotted near riverbanks.
Tobico Marsh
The beautiful Tobico Marsh can be reached in less than half an hour from Bay City. The rich biodiversity of this 1,850-acre freshwater coastal wetland makes it an ideal location for birding and trekking. Tobico Marsh is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy nature thanks to its well-kept pathways and boardwalks.
Explore Bay City’s Cultural Attractions
Downtown Bay City
The central district of Bay City is a thriving center of entertainment, retail, and dining. It’s the perfect destination to spend the afternoon, with all the cute shops, museums, and cafés lining the streets. Visit the Bay City Antiques Centre for a taste of local history, and don’t miss the chance to see the old architecture that gives the city its distinctive look.
Appledore Tall Ships
Visit the Appledore Tall Ships anchored in the Saginaw River for a one-of-a-kind maritime adventure. Tours of these magnificent ships provide an engaging introduction to Bay City’s maritime past. It’s a wonderful chance to see the waterfront while getting an education in sailing and the Great Lakes.
Delta College Planetarium
The Delta College Planetarium is a fantastic experience for anybody interested in space and the stars. This cutting-edge venue, housed on the Delta College campus, presents entertaining and instructive presentations and events. Discover new astronomical wonders and deepen your understanding of the cosmos as you travel to new celestial locations.
Savor Culinary Delights
Real Seafood
You can’t enjoy your time in Bay City without trying some of the fresh seafood restaurants have to offer. The downtown Bay City restaurant Real Seafood is known for its excellent seafood and the freshness of its catch. Enjoy fresh seafood including lobster, crab, or fish while overlooking the water at this restaurant. Things to do in Bay City MI.
St. Laurent Brothers
St. Laurent Brothers is a staple in the community and a great place to satisfy your sweet craving. This family-owned confectionary has been providing delicious treats to the people of Bay City since 1904. Enjoy a classic ice cream sundae or a box of their carefully prepared chocolates.
Immerse Yourself in History
USS Edson
The USS Edson is a decommissioned Navy destroyer turned floating museum, and history fans will enjoy a trip there. Visit the many levels of the ship to find out more about its history and the lives lost by the crew. Exploring the seafaring past of Saginaw Bay is a fascinating adventure.
City Hall
City Hall in Bay City is a beautiful piece of architecture that everyone should see. Designed in the elaborate Beaux-Arts style, this landmark structure is truly breathtaking inside and out. You may take in the sights and read up on municipal politics and history at the same time.
Entertainment and Culture
State Theatre of Bay City
The State Theatre of Bay City is a great place to see a movie or a live concert. This landmark hosts a wide variety of activities, from modern musicals and plays to screenings of old films. Explore Bay City’s cultural scene by checking their schedule of future concerts.
Street Star Bridge
Views of the Saginaw River and downtown Bay City are stunning from a walk along the Street Star Bridge. This is an ideal location for taking breathtaking pictures, especially around sunset. The bridge itself is an impressive work of architecture and a popular tourist attraction.
Relax at Bay City State Park
Outdoorsy types will love Bay City State Park. It’s a great place to spend the day unwinding and having fun, with all the sandy beaches, picnic places, and trails. This gorgeous natural environment on the beaches of Lake Huron is perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and birding.
Plan Your Visit
All sorts of people may find some things to do in Bay City MI. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Bay City, from kayaking on Saginaw Bay to canoeing down the Saginaw River to shopping in the historic district. Try some of the regional specialties and learn about the city’s past at the USS Edson and City Hall. Whether you’re in Bay City for a quick weekend trip or a longer vacation, you’ll have a great time.
To get the most out of your time in Bay City, don’t forget to include the following activities and sights. Come and see for yourself why this community on Michigan’s Saginaw Bay is so special.
