Midland Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Midland, Michigan? Discover the top things to do, places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive tour guide for Midland.


Introduction to Midland

Midland is a city in central Michigan, located in the Midwest of the United States. The city is known for its rich culture, wide variety of outdoor activities, and stunning natural scenery. Midland is also home to Dow Chemical Company, one of the largest chemical companies in the world.

List of Places to Visit in Midland

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Midland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Midland Center for the Arts: This cultural center includes an art museum, theater, and educational programs.
  • Herbert H. Dow Historical Museum: Learn about the history of Dow and the city of Midland.
  • Alden B. Dow Home and Studio: Visit the residence and workplace of architect Alden B. Dow.
  • Dow Gardens: Botanical gardens with over 110 acres of themed gardens, walking trails, and a butterfly house.

Natural Attractions of Midland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chippewa Nature Center: Over 1,200 acres of trails, wetlands, and forests for hiking and birdwatching.
  • Tridge: A three-way pedestrian bridge that connects downtown Midland to parks and trails.
  • Pere Marquette Rail Trail: A 30-mile trail for biking and hiking that passes through Midland.
  • Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens: 75 acres of forest with walking trails, a canopy walk, and a playground.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midland

Midland offers a variety of biking and hiking routes, including:

  • Pere Marquette Rail Trail: A 30-mile trail that begins in Midland and runs to Clare.
  • Chippewa Nature Center Trails: Over 19 miles of trails through wetlands and forests.
  • Midland City Forest: 520 acres of trails, including a mountain biking trail system.
  • Sylvan Solace Preserve Trail: A 1.5-mile trail through a forested wetland.

Best Things to Do in Midland: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to do in Midland:

  • Canopy Walk at Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens: A 1,400-foot elevated walkway through the forest canopy.
  • Dow Diamond: Home to the minor league baseball team, the Great Lakes Loons.
  • Bay City Tall Ship Celebration: A biennial celebration of tall ships on the Saginaw River.
  • Midland Balloon Festival: A festival featuring hot air balloon rides and a night glow event.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midland

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Midland:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio
2 Visit the Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest
3 Spend the day hiking at Chippewa Nature Center
4 Take a tour of the Herbert H. Dow Historical Museum
5 Bike the Pere Marquette Rail Trail
6 Attend a Great Lakes Loons baseball game
7 Relax on the Tridge and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Midland

Midland has a thriving food and drink scene, with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ginger beef from the Lucky House: A Chinese dish made with beef, ginger, and green onions.
  • BBQ from Ruckle’s: A local favorite with brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.
  • Michigan Cherry Salad from The Table: A salad made with mixed greens, bleu cheese, Michigan cherries, and a cherry vinaigrette.

Local Beverages

  • 8 Degrees Plato: A craft beer and wine bar.
  • Grape Beginnings Winery: A winery located in downtown Midland.
  • Midland Brewing Company: A brewery with a tasting room and outdoor patio.

Where to Stay in Midland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Midland has a variety of lodging options, including:

  • The H Hotel: A luxury hotel in downtown Midland.
  • Sleep Inn: An affordable option with complimentary breakfast.
  • Midland Motor Inn: A budget-friendly option with both standard and deluxe rooms.

What to Buy in Midland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Midland:

  • Dow Chemical Company memorabilia: T-shirts, hats, and other merchandise featuring the Dow logo.
  • Michigan-made products: Cherry products, maple syrup, and handmade crafts.
  • Art from local artists: Visit the galleries at Midland Center for the Arts for unique pieces of art.

Local Culture and Customs of Midland

Midland residents are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. The city values education, arts, and culture, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental conservation.

Best Time to Visit Midland

Midland is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and outdoor activities. Fall is also a great time to visit for colorful foliage and fall festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midland

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Midland:

Do:

  • Be friendly and open to meeting new people.
  • Respect the natural areas and wildlife when hiking and biking.
  • Explore the local food and drink scene.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Ignore traffic laws while biking or driving.
  • Overlook the cultural and historical attractions in downtown Midland.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midland

Midland is a safe city, with low crime rates and a friendly community. However, visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

Health in Midland

Midland has several hospitals and medical facilities, including MidMichigan Medical Center and Midland Community Health Services. It is recommended to have medical insurance when traveling to Midland.

Getting to Midland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Midland

The closest international airport to Midland is MBS International Airport, located approximately 15 miles away. Other nearby airports include Flint Bishop International Airport and Bishop International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Midland

Greyhound Bus Lines has a station in neighboring Bay City, located approximately 13 miles away.

Other Options

Midland is easily accessible by car, with major highways running through the area. Amtrak has a station in Port Huron, approximately 120 miles away.

How to Get Around in Midland

Midland is a walkable city, with many of the attractions located within walking distance of each other. Biking is also a popular option, with bike lanes and designated trails throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Midland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to explore after visiting Midland:

  • Frankenmuth: A Bavarian-style village known for its specialty shops and restaurants.
  • Saginaw: A city with a rich history and attractions such as the Saginaw Art Museum and the Dow Event Center.
  • Great Lakes Bay Region: A region in central Michigan known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Midland, Michigan is a hidden gem of the Midwest, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Midland has something to offer for everyone.