Midland MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Midland, Michigan.
1. Dow Gardens
BOTANICAL PARADISE YEAR-ROUND
Dow Gardens offers visitors 110 acres of meticulously maintained botanical gardens that showcase beauty throughout all four seasons. Guests can explore diverse plant collections, charming bridges, and tranquil water features designed to create a peaceful retreat from everyday life. The gardens host regular seasonal events including spring flower displays, summer concerts, autumn color tours, and winter light festivals.
2. The Tridge
ICONIC THREE-WAY FOOTBRIDGE
The Tridge stands as one of Midland's most distinctive landmarks - a unique three-way pedestrian bridge spanning the convergence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers. Its three legs connect to Chippewassee Park, St. Charles Park Softball Fields, and the Downtown Riverfront area, serving as a central hub for community activities. The structure is illuminated with special color schemes throughout the year for various holidays and celebrations, making it a picturesque spot for evening visits.
3. Chippewa Nature Center
WILDERNESS EDUCATION DESTINATION
Chippewa Nature Center invites nature enthusiasts to explore over 1,500 acres of woodlands, wetlands, rivers and upland fields. Visitors can enjoy miles of hiking trails, a Nature Center building with interactive exhibits, and regular programs focused on environmental education and appreciation. The center changes with the seasons, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities from spring migrations to winter animal tracking experiences.
4. Midland Center for the Arts
CULTURAL HUB AND SHOWCASE
Midland Center for the Arts serves as the cultural heart of the region, housing two performance venues, two museums, art studios, and lecture spaces. Visitors can enjoy Broadway productions, symphony performances, art exhibitions, and interactive science displays all within this comprehensive facility. The center's diverse programming ensures there's something appealing for every interest, from children's theater to sophisticated chamber music.
5. Dow Diamond
PREMIER BASEBALL EXPERIENCE
Dow Diamond welcomes baseball fans as the home stadium of the Great Lakes Loons, a Single-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The modern facility offers exceptional amenities including comfortable seating, diverse concession options, and family-friendly entertainment between innings. Beyond baseball, the venue hosts community events, concerts, and private functions throughout the year.
6. Midland Area Farmers Market
LOCAL HARVEST GATHERING PLACE
Midland Area Farmers Market brings together local growers, artisans, and food producers in a vibrant community marketplace. Shoppers can browse fresh seasonal produce, handcrafted goods, baked treats, and specialty foods while connecting directly with the people who created them. The market creates a festive atmosphere with occasional live music, cooking demonstrations, and special events throughout its operating season.
7. Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens
AMERICA'S LONGEST CANOPY WALK
Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens features America's longest canopy walk, suspending visitors up to four stories high among the trees. The 1,400-foot elevated pathway provides breathtaking views of ponds, meadows, and woodlands from three different arms extending through the forest. Additional attractions include a playground, apple orchard, and visitor center, making it an engaging destination for nature lovers of all ages.
8. Pere Marquette Rail Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL PATHWAY
Pere Marquette Rail Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a 30-mile paved path perfect for biking, walking, running, and inline skating. The trail follows a former railroad corridor, providing a flat, accessible route through scenic landscapes connecting Midland to Clare. Travelers along the path will discover charming small towns, river views, forests, and wildlife, with convenient rest areas, benches, and access points throughout.
9. Alden B. Dow Home & Studio
ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE TOUR
Alden B. Dow Home & Studio welcomes architecture enthusiasts to tour one of America's 25 Best Historic Homes, designed by the innovative mid-century architect himself. Visitors marvel at the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, with dramatic overhangs, geometric forms, and rooms built over a pond with underwater windows. The guided experience showcases Dow's philosophy of integrating nature, science, art, and architecture in harmonious design.
10. Midland City Forest
OUTDOOR RECREATION WONDERLAND
Midland City Forest provides year-round outdoor recreation opportunities across its expansive natural area. Summer visitors enjoy hiking trails, mountain biking paths, disc golf, and picnic facilities nestled among towering trees. Winter transforms the forest into a snow sports destination featuring a toboggan run, ice skating rink, cross-country ski trails, and sledding hills for cold-weather fun.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY DESTINATIONS
Shopping in Midland offers diverse retail experiences from charming downtown boutiques to convenient shopping centers. Visitors can browse locally-owned specialty shops for unique gifts, clothing, home décor, and artisanal products not found in chain stores. The shopping districts feature pedestrian-friendly layouts with plenty of dining options for refreshment breaks between purchases.
12. Dining
CULINARY ADVENTURES AWAIT
Dining in Midland presents an impressive array of culinary options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants serving diverse cuisines. Food enthusiasts can sample farm-to-table creations featuring local Michigan ingredients, international flavors, and classic American comfort foods. The city's growing food scene includes craft breweries, artisanal coffee shops, and seasonal outdoor dining spaces perfect for relaxed meals.
13. Hiking
NATURAL TRAIL EXPERIENCES
Hiking in Midland offers nature lovers miles of well-maintained trails winding through diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and river corridors. Explorers of all ability levels can find suitable paths ranging from easy boardwalks to more challenging woodland routes with varying terrain. The trail networks connect many of Midland's parks and natural areas, allowing hikers to customize their outdoor adventures while observing local wildlife and seasonal landscapes.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S PARADISE WATERWAYS
Fishing in Midland provides anglers with abundant opportunities at the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers, plus nearby lakes and streams. Enthusiasts can try their luck catching various species including bass, walleye, pike, and panfish depending on the season and location. Public access points, fishing platforms, and boat launches make it convenient for everyone from casual hobbyists to dedicated sportsmen to enjoy a day on the water.
15. Camping
OVERNIGHT WILDERNESS RETREATS
Camping near Midland offers outdoor enthusiasts several options for overnight nature immersion ranging from developed campgrounds to more rustic experiences. Campers can enjoy amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, shower facilities, and recreational activities depending on their chosen location. The surrounding natural areas provide perfect settings for stargazing, wildlife watching, and creating lasting outdoor memories just minutes from city conveniences.