Mount Pleasant Travel Guide

Learn about the culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more in Mount Pleasant, Michigan.


Introduction to Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a charming city located in Central Michigan. This midwestern gem is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. It is the home of Central Michigan University, which contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of the city. With plenty of things to see and do, Mount Pleasant offers an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

List of Places to Visit in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant has a great deal to offer visitors, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways: This museum offers a fascinating insight into the Anishinabe people’s traditions, history, and culture.
  • The Isabella County Historical Society museum: Located in the Carnegie building in downtown Mount Pleasant, this museum provides a glimpse into the area’s history.
  • The Alma College Heritage Center: This museum is dedicated to the Alma College’s history, showcasing various exhibitions that highlight the school’s achievements throughout its history.
  • The Chippewa River Historical Preservation Society: This organization operates several historical sites in the area, including the historic Senator’s house, where former senator Thomas Sterling once lived.

Natural Attractions of Mount Pleasant: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Deerfield Nature Park: This 591-acre park offers stunning landscapes, including trails, a beach area, and fishing opportunities.
  • Chipp-A-Waters Park: An excellent place for family fun, with a splashpad, playgrounds, tennis courts, a baseball field, and a volleyball court.
  • Pleasant Hills Golf Club: This 18-hole golf course features beautiful greens and picturesque views that make it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
  • Bundy Hill Preserve: This 207-acre preserve offers miles of trails and pristine nature to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Pleasant

If you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, Mount Pleasant has plenty of hiking and biking trails worth exploring. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Chippewa River Trail: This paved trail stretches over 17 miles, running through the heart of Isabella County. It’s perfect for biking, walking, or running.
  • Pere Marquette RailTrail: This scenic, 30-mile trail takes you through wetlands, pastures, and woodlands, making it a great option for cyclists and hikers.
  • Lakeshore Park: You can explore over five miles of hiking trails in this beautiful park, which is also home to Lake West and is perfect for kayaking.

Best Things to Do in Mount Pleasant: Activities and Tours

Mount Pleasant has no shortage of things to do for visitors. Here are some must-try activities and tours:

  • Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort: Enjoy gambling, live events, and amenities such as a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
  • Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market: Visit this vibrant market to sample fresh produce, local food, and artisan crafts.
  • Mount Pleasant Disc Golf: With two 18-hole courses, this course is perfect for disc golf enthusiasts.
  • Craft Beer Tours: Visit local breweries such as Hunter’s Ale House and Mountain Town Brewing Company to taste excellent craft beer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Pleasant

If you’re planning to visit Mount Pleasant for a week, this itinerary will help you make the most out of your trip:

Day Activity
Monday Visit the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways, then head to Isabella County Historical Society museum
Tuesday Spend the day exploring Deerfield Nature Park
Wednesday Take a relaxing day at Lakeshore Park or play a round of golf at Pleasant Hills Golf Club
Thursday Visit the Alma College Heritage Center, and then head to Chipp-A-Waters Park for some family fun
Friday Go on a craft beer tour and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
Saturday Test your skills at Mount Pleasant Disc Golf
Sunday Go on the Pere Marquette RailTrail, and enjoy the beautiful scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Mount Pleasant

When it comes to food and drink, Mount Pleasant has something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pizza: Try pizza at Pisanello’s Pizza for a taste of the city’s best pizza.
  • Burgers: Get delicious and juicy burgers at Dog Central.
  • Local BBQ: Visit Smok’n Pig BBQ for their delicious ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Enjoy homemade wines at the Papa’s Pumpkin Patch & Winery, where you can find some of the best wines in the region.
  • Beer: Try out craft beer at Hunter’s Ale House, Mountain Town Brewing Company, and Hunter’s Handmade Brewery.

Where to Stay in Mount Pleasant: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From affordable options to luxurious hotels, Mount Pleasant has plenty of excellent options for lodging. Some of the best options are:

  • Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort: With amenities such as a spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, and luxury rooms, this resort is perfect for a comfortable stay.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites: This hotel has high-quality services, an indoor pool, and spacious rooms, making it a great choice for families.
  • Chippewa Motel: A budget-friendly option that is clean, comfortable, and conveniently located.

What to Buy in Mount Pleasant: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Mount Pleasant:

  • Native American items: Pay a visit to the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways’ gift shop and take some historic, traditional, and artistic souvenirs back home with you.
  • Chippewa River Memorabilia: Get a keepsake at Chippewa River Historical Preservation Society’s historical sites and be proud of the history of the region and your stay.
  • Apparel: Check out some of the unique outfits and souvenirs at the local boutiques and stores located on West Broadway street.

Local Culture and Customs of Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant has a rich cultural heritage, with a significant presence of the Anishinabe people. Visitors should show respect for the local customs, including an appreciation for the culture and values of the Native American community. A trip to the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways can provide insight into the customs and traditions of the Anishinabe people and their impact on the area.

Best Time to Visit Mount Pleasant

The best time to visit Mount Pleasant is during the summer season, from June to August when the weather is mild and enjoyable. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the changing leaves provide for stunning autumn colors throughout the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Pleasant

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions of the Anishinabe people.
  • Explore the scenic trails and outdoor adventures that Mount Pleasant has to offer.
  • Try the local delicacies and beverages, including craft beer and homemade wines.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the natural habitats of the animals in the area.
  • Disrespect the historical sites and museums in the city.
  • Violate the local laws and regulations of the region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still exercise caution when traveling and keep their valuables in a safe place.

Health in Mount Pleasant

The city has many medical facilities and physicians to cater to visitors’ health needs. It’s important to have a health insurance plan in place before traveling.

Getting to Mount Pleasant: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mount Pleasant

  • MBS International Airport
  • Gerald R. Ford International Airport
  • Bishop International Airport

Bus Stations Near Mount Pleasant

  • Central Michigan University Transportation Department
  • The Indian Trails Bus Company

Other Options

  • Taxis and Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a relatively small city, so walking and biking are excellent options. Visitors can also use buses or taxis to navigate the city easily.

Where to Go Next from Mount Pleasant: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that visitors can explore from Mount Pleasant:

  • Midland: Visit the historic Dow Gardens, Midland Center for the Arts, and take a trip down the scenic Chippewa River. Midland is just a short 20-minute drive from Mount Pleasant.
  • Saginaw: Visit Castle Museum, Saginaw Art Museum, Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, and take a cultural tour of Saginaw’s Old Town. Saginaw is a 40-minute drive from Mount Pleasant.
  • Bay City: Take a walking tour of the charming downtown, visit the Bay Area Water Treatment plant, and explore the USS Edson Museum. Bay City is a 50-minute drive from Mount Pleasant.

Conclusion

Mount Pleasant is a quaint and delightful place with plenty to offer visitors of all ages. From outdoor adventures and hiking trails to museums and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this midwestern gem. Plan your next trip here, and you will surely create cherished memories that would last a lifetime.