25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Midland (MI)

Midland is located on the banks of the Tittabawassee River, in Midland County, Michigan. It is also the county seat of Midland County.

Recognized as the central city of the Midland Micropolitan Statistical Area, Midland was recorded to have a population of 42,547 people after the 2020 census.

Midland is an incredible location that offers you a real mix of culture, history, and nature in abundance without you having to leave the city. However, the city is revered as Michigan’s technology basin.

You will indeed find whatever you’re searching for in Midland, ranging from lakes, forests, creeks, rail trails, parks, historical sites, entertainment centers, and more.

Visit all the happening places such as Alden B. Dow Home and Studio, Midland Center for the Arts, Stratford Woods Park, Chippewa Nature Center, Boulevard Lounge, the Fun Zone, NCG Cinemas, and more.

Are you planning an exploration of Midland? Here are the top things to do in Midland, MI.

Things to Do in Midland, MI

1. Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens

Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens is a beautiful woodland area that extends for fifty-four acres and is located in the stunning Whiting estate.

The estate, currently owned by Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, was designed by Alden B. Dow, a distinguished architect, and officially opened its doors in 2004.

The Gardens feature a beautiful stream, pond, Apple orchard, meadow, a playground, two pedestrian bridges, and the longest canopy walk in the country, extending over 40 feet above the ground. However, it was recently founded in 2018.

The canopy walk of 1,400-foot is well structured so that it can be accessed by everyone all year round during each season with three arms and a distinct nature viewing area.

Whiting Forest Cafe offers a wide variety of sumptuous lunch fares such as coffee, pastries, soups, and salads. Exploring this destination is one of the best things to do in Midland, MI.

Address: Forest Visitor Center, 2203 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48640, United States

2. The Tridge

The Tridge is a footbridge with three ways made from wood that spreads over the intersection of Chippewassee and Tittabawassee Rivers.

The attraction is close to Chippewassee Park in the downtown District of Midland. Its name “Tridge” comes from the combination of two different words, “Tri” and “Bridge.”

The bridge was erected in 1981 and attached to a significant pillar 31-foot tall, offering support to the entire three spokes.

The Tridge is now considered one of the most outstanding attractions within the Tri-Cities region, being enclosed by thirty-five acres of the parkland surrounding it, which is home to several outdoor activities.

Viewing the Tridge is one of the top things to do in Midland, MI. The bridge is an excellent place for inline skaters, cyclists, and skateboarders, although it is more popular amongst pedestrians.

The Tridge signifies the start of the Chippewa Nature trail and is a venue for several public events during summer evenings, including the Labor Day Walk held by the Chippewa Nature center.

Address: Midland, MI 48640, United States

3. Chippewa Nature Center

If you are a nature enthusiast, visiting Chippewa Nature Center is a must add to your list of best things to do in Midland, MI.

Chippewa Nature Center, founded in 1964, is a non-profit natural preserve that spans over 1,338 acres across the Lower Peninsula of Michigan.

This conserved wildlife region is known as one of the largest nature centers and one of the most visited in the United States.

The attraction comprises gorgeous forests, wetland, and river habitats with beautiful nature trails of 15 miles open throughout the year to the public from dawn to dusk.

Chippewa Nature Center offers the public several opportunities to get outside and have fun through activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

The wildlife that comes through the Center includes bald eagles, American mink, American river otters, horned owls, and more.

The Nature Center on-site Store featuring gifts and books relating to nature is open for visitors to explore.

Address: 400 S Badour Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

4. Midland City Forest Park

When visiting the city of Midland, get ready to explore the mind-blowing Midland City Forest Park.

Visiting Midland City Forest Park is one of the best things to do in Midland, MI, with your family and friends for an amazing experience.

The Park is known as the largest park in the city, offering visitors a truckload of recreational activities.

Midland City Forest Park is a favorite place for numerous joggers, runners, hikers, and cyclists in the region.

You and your group can engage in different activities like ice skating, sledding, cross-country skiing, tobogganing, and snowshoeing during the winter months.

There are tall trees, nature trails, a sledding hill, sloping greenery, and a chalet. In addition, there is equipment like sleds and skates, which are available for rental.

Address: 2840 E Monroe Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

5. Alden B. Dow Home and Studio

If visiting historical buildings is something you enjoy, add a visit to Alden B. Dow Home and Studio to your list of top things to do in Midland, MI.

Alden B. Dow Home and Studio is home to the astounding Alden B. Dow, a 20th-century architect, one-time apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright, and who received national awards from the 1930s to 1940s.

The beautiful residence was built between 1934 and 1937. It was later acclaimed in 1989 as a National Historic Landmark for its beautiful lyrical composition after earning the distinguished Paris Prize for Residential Architecture in 1937.

Years later, the home was listed on the Traditional Home list of the 25 best historic homes in America in 2014.

Alden B. Dow Home and Studio is open to visitors all year round through the guided public tours where they learn more about the property.

These tours are available from February to December, and they extend for at least one and a half hours. Touring this abode is one of the top things to do in Midland, MI.

Address: 315 Post St, Midland, MI 48640, United States

6. Midland Center for the Arts

A beautiful historic structure, Midland Center for the Arts, founded in 1970, is located in the downtown region of Midland.

Alden B. Down also designed Midland Center for the Arts. The structure features two performing art theaters with performances by local groups such as Center Stage Theatre.

The Center entertains through dramas, comedies, and musicals held throughout the show season.

You get to watch concerts by Midland Symphony Orchestra under the guidance of Bohuslav Ratty, the music director.

There Center also houses the Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art, which displays art, science, and history exhibits for the public.

The Midland Center for the Arts is home to the annual Midland Festival, dedicated to humanities, science, and arts.

Address: 1801 W St Andrews Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

7. Dahlia Hill

Dahlia Hill is a beautiful garden area that extends for 1.41 acres of land and is managed by a non-profit organization.

The garden was established by Bill Fisher and Charles Breed with over three thousand dahlia sowing annually, which blossoms with sizes of two to fourteen inches.

Over 250 different kinds of flowers, planted annually by the non-profit organization’s members, are on display.

Dahlia Hill offers an abundance of flower tubers throughout the spring season for the public to purchase.

Address: 2809 Orchard Dr., Midland, MI 48640, United States

8. Plymouth Park

Excellent addition to your list of fun things to do in Midland, MI, is a visit to Plymouth Park with friends and family.

This Park, encompassing 40 acres, is among the largest developed parks in the state. The Park features a wide open field, baseball fields, a sand volleyball pit, and Midland’s only outdoor community pool.

The Park is famous for its Fun Zone, a family-friendly 16,000-square-foot wooden playground. The community constructed the playground through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers.

Besides the Fun Zone is the Park’s most famous and biggest shelter, Shelter F. You should visit with your little children, and they will cherish this fun zone for time to come as they are offered access to unlimited fun.

Address: 1508 East Wheeler St., Midland, MI 48642, United States

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9. Dow Diamond

Have you ever watched the Single-A Great Lakes Loons Minor League baseball team? Don’t miss this chance; add a visit to Dow Diamond to your list of top things to do in Midland, MI.

Dow Diamond is the baseball team’s home stadium, which also has an affiliation with the Los Angeles Dodgers under the Midwest League.

The cutting-edge facility is located in the downtown District of Midland. It is run under the Dow Chemical Company’s sponsorship, showcasing the company brand’s red Diamond logo and the baseball diamond logo.

Dow Diamond has a seating capacity of approximately 9,000 persons with twelve classic suites and concessions.

The stadium opened to the public in 2007, and ever since, it has hosted numerous All-Star matches still under the Midwest League all through the season.

According to Stadium Journey, the stadium has won numerous awards, including Best Ballpark in Michigan in 2012.

Address: 825 E Main St, Midland, MI 48640, United States

10. Midland Brewing Company

Whenever you want to hang out with your friends, visiting Midland Brewing Company is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Midland, MI.

Midland Brewing Company was founded in 1935 and is housed in a creamery building located in the downtown district of Midland.

The Company was named the best Brewery in the region throughout the 20th century. Midland Brewing Company was later reopened in 2010 with fantastic modifications.

The Brewery offers delightful brews, such as Midland Brut IPA, Arbuckle Cold-Brew Coffee Stout, Copper Harbor Ale, Three-Mile Market Hefeweizen, and more.

Midland Brewing Company also offers visitors drafts at their public tasting room, with an outdoor garden open during the summer months.

Patrons are also offered light fares such as flatbreads, burgers, shareable, sandwiches, and more, in addition to grower fills and their seasonal brews.

Address: 5011 N Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48642, United States

11. Stratford Woods Park

Stratford Woods Park is a family-friendly park in the beautiful city of Midland. Visiting the Park should be at the top of your list of fun things to do in Midland, MI.

The Park is home to a stunning lake and a beach open to everyone, whether locals or visitors, irrespective of age.

There are many outdoor activities to carry out here using the various exciting amenities available, such as a basketball court, several volleyball courts, and so on.

Stratford Woods Park features nature trails where you can take a peaceful walk or hike and enjoy the gorgeous environment.

There is also a BMX track, playground, and a designated area with grills for a picnic where you can enjoy a snack with your friends.

Address: 3922 E Ashman St, Midland, MI 48640, United States

12. The Boulevard Lounge

The Boulevard Lounge, popularly known as The Bully, was founded in 1959, making it one of the oldest restaurants in Midland, MI.

The destination, operated by Scott, the son of the original owner Clyde Dexter since 1995, is rated as one of the region’s top lounges and hang-out spots.

Here you get to enjoy delicious snacks and drinks. This Lounge is the best place for you if you’re looking for the best burger spot in the city.

The Boulevard Lounge offers wood-fired 14-inch pizza all through the day, topped with different varieties of ingredients that are used according to your preferences.

They also offer walleye pollock fish dinners, signature burritos, shrimp platters, breaded mushrooms, fried green beans, and more.

Make sure you join the Karaoke and Keno available during the dinner entertainment. During the dinner entertainment, you can also enjoy a drink from their extensive collection of regional and domestic beers.

Address: 316 S Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

13. Barstow Woods Park

Barstow Woods Park is a beautiful park in Midland that is open to locals and tourists alike.

The Park is a 24.9-acre nature park that is usually open throughout the year, irrespective of the season in the state.

When you visit during the fall season, you get to watch the greenery change colors and dogs walk around the Park nibbling the leaves within the property.

Barstow Woods Park is a great place during the winter season for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with friends.

You can also bring your furry friend and take it on a special treat since the Park is fully fenced and well secured.

Also, enjoy a walk around the Park, and when you’re done, you can stop at the picnic area to have lunch and even make use of the grills to cook a meal.

Address: Barstow Woods Park, Midland, MI 48640, United States

14. Midland Mall

Midland Mall was founded in 1991 in Midland as an indoor mall that offers the public a wide variety of commodities.

The Mall features a large number of stores, including anchor stores such as Barnes & Noble, Target, Planet Fitness, Fantastic Finds, and Dunham’s Sports.

The shopping center is run and operated by the Kohan Retail Investment Group, offering goods for affordable prices.

Shopping in this Mall is one of the best things to do in Midland, MI.

Address: 6800 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48642, United States

15. Grand Traverse Pie Company

Grand Traverse Pie Company was first established in Traverse City in 1997 by a married couple, Denise and Mike Busley.

The Company currently manages over fifteen branches throughout the state, which includes the branch located in downtown Midland.

Grand Traverse Pie Company offers a wide variety of pie flavors such as chocolate peanut butter cream, Montmorency cherry crumb, toasted pecan pumpkin brown sugar, and apple caramel pecan.

The Company provides an inviting and vibrant atmosphere with comfortable chairs and tables for premium enjoyment and satisfaction.

You can relax in their classic dining area and enjoy a meal from the extensive menu, such as cherry chicken, chicken focaccia sandwiches, and broccoli cheddar quiche.

Don’t worry about finding what you like; the lovely staff is available to take you through the menu and help you find the perfect choice that suits you.

Address: 2600 N Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

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16. Shier’s Deli and Catering

If you’re looking for a place to make a quick stop and enjoy a delicious meal, add a visit to Shier’s Deli and Catering to your list of top things to do in Midland, MI.

George and Kristin Shier established Shier’s Deli and Catering in 2014 with the primary purpose of serving the people.

This restaurant is family-owned and operated, serving meals made using only the best ingredients and exclusively made from scratch.

The restaurant offers a variety of handcrafted pastries composed of onions, carrots, rutabaga, and potatoes, usually served with homemade ketchup and gravy.

Shier’s Deli and Catering serves delectable sandwiches with house-smoked brisket, pork, or pastrami which you should try out.

Address: 2218 N Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

17. Emerson Park

Are you in the mood to get outside and have fun? Then, ensure you visit the scintillating Emerson Park.

Emerson Park is nestled on the banks of the Tittabawassee River featuring an abundance of exciting amenities.

This beautiful Park has several picnic areas where you can hang out with your loved ones and share an intimate moment.

There are shuffleboard courts, flower gardens, horseshoe pits, three softball diamonds, a sand volleyball court, a hockey rink, and more.

Emerson Park is also a popular place for ice skating during the winter months. You can take a relieving walk through the Park while sinking in the beauty of the sunsets and gorgeous river.

Pack up your picnic bags with enough food and drinks, and set out for a lovely family picnic as you appreciate the goodness of nature.

Address: 1300 W Main St, Midland, MI 48640, United States

18. Midland Area Farmers Market

Midland Area Farmers Market is a popular market located in downtown Midland where you can purchase fresh and quality products.

This farmers market features a large number of vendors who are dedicated to offering patrons nothing but the best products.

You can shop for products like fresh vegetables, fruits, bakery goods, flowers, cheese, eggs, meats, and jams.

Midland Area Farmers Market offers coffee, honey, body care products, candles, yogurt, maple syrup, seafood, pickles, and maple syrup.

The market is open from April to October, only on the second Saturday of each month. You can also try out delicious traditional meals available through the food trucks within the market.

Address: 825 E Main St, Midland, MI 48640, United States

19. Grape Beginnings Winery

Grape Beginnings Winery is a renowned winery in downtown Midland founded in 2014. The Winery is a general meeting point for many city families.

The Winery is committed to serving the public carefully refined wines made with the highest quality ingredients using special techniques.

The comprehensive wine menu features a wide variety of wines which includes fruity, whites, and red wines, making sure there is something for everyone.

Grape Beginnings Winery features an outdoor patio, an excellent spot to relax and sip a glass of wine during hotter months.

You’re offered not only delicious wines but also delightful cheese and chocolate to go with the drinks.

Don’t miss the homemade dinner which is offered every month, specifically every third Wednesday. Visiting this Winery is one of the best things to do in Midland, MI, especially if you are a wine lover.

Address: 244 E Main St, Midland, MI 48640, United States

20. Valley Lanes Family Entertainment Center

Valley Lanes Family Entertainment Center, a family fun center, is the city’s number one entertainment center featuring something for everyone. Thus, visiting this destination is one of the fun things to do in Midland, MI.

The Center consists of twenty-six bowling lanes with special modifications, customized graphics, and animation.

Bumpers on the lanes are available for the young lads in your team to have a fun and exciting bowling time.

Valley Lanes Family Entertainment Center features an arcade game room, virtual reality, bumper cars, escape room, laser maze, billiards, and mini-golf.

This Center is also an excellent place for many special events such as business gatherings, birthday parties, family reunions, and more.

Address: 5021 Bay City Rd, Midland, MI 48642, United States

21. NCG Cinemas

Here is something for movie lovers. NCG Cinemas is a family-owned and operated theater that began in 1985 in Owosso city.

The Cinema provides a comfortable, quiet theater setting for premium relaxation and enjoyment.

NCG Cinemas features a well-designed stadium seating that offers spectators views of the digital projection using the state-of-the-art screens without any obstacles or stress.

The Cinema is adequately maintained and clean, ensuring the visitors have a great experience while watching their blockbuster movie.

Some concessions offer delicious hot popcorn and chilled drinks in the Cinema. Make sure you book your movie tickets today.

Address: 6540 Cinema Dr. Midland, MI 48640, United States

22. Greater Midland Community Center

The fun isn’t over until it’s over, so for more fun, check out the outstanding Greater Midland Community Center.

Greater Midland Community Center offers a wide range of childcare programs focused on creating a safe setting that encourages children to thrive and learn using the play method.

The Center features drop-in babysitting, adult Athletic leagues, cardio & strength equipment, and an outdoor & indoor spray park. 

The community center is home to the Midland Michigan Racquetball league. You will find wallyball, paddleball, badminton, squash, and pickleball courts.

Greater Midland Community Center also offers different camping packages, including residence, full-day, and half-day camp packages.

Address: 2205 Jefferson Ave, Midland, MI 48640, United States

23. Maru Sushi

Maru Sushi, officially opened in 2009, is the brainchild of two restaurateurs, Moon Yang, and Robert Song.

The restaurant has other branches spread throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region.

The restaurant is known for offering the highest quality sushi made using sushi rice and farm produce right from California, including homemade sauces and spice mixes.

Maru Sushi offers the most delicious signature roll & sashimi, bulgogi beef skewers, firecracker shrimp, fried calamari, etc.

Patrons can also enjoy wine, non-alcoholic drinks, sake, cocktails, and seltzers in the restaurant.

The staff is friendly and receptive, always keen on offering the most outstanding customer service, which enhances their reputation.

If you are a sushi fan, eating in this restaurant should be on your list of the best things to do in Midland, MI.

Address: 715 E Main St #120, Midland, MI 48640, United States

24. Chippewassee Park

One of the fun things to do in Midland is to spend a couple of hours at Chippewassee Park. 

Chippewassee Park is a 35-acre recreational park that has something for every season. During the hot weather, this park is popular among residents and tourists in the city. 

During summertime, you can take your children to enjoy the playground while you cool off under the picnic shelter. During winter, the park’s size makes it a good place for cross-country skiing. 

The park has a huge picnic shelter available for rentals while picnic tables and grills are provided. 

Chippewassee Park has a large tower and plays equipment suitable for kids of all ages, paved trails, and huge open fields. 

From picnickers to dog walkers and families with kids, Chippewassee Park is great for a couple of hours of fresh air and outdoor fun. 

Address: 101 Golfside Dr, Midland, MI 48640, United States

25. Creative 360’s John Pratt Mosaic House

Another fun thing to do in Midland is to visit John Pratt Mosaic House. 

This interesting small house, hidden in a wooded lot, is covered in colored mosaic murals and has a story to let out. 

John Pratt, the creator of the murals, was an artist who retreated into an isolated world of paranoid Schizophrenia. 

During the process of knitting his life back, John found out that the exterior walls of his childhood home could serve as an ideal setting for a series of incredible murals. The Murals represented his new-found enthusiasm for living and his dogma on tolerance and unconditional love.

Numerous visitors have enjoyed John Pratt’s mosaics, which continue to draw people. Historians, folk art collectors, artists, historians, and mental health professionals have assisted Creative 360’s effort to maintain the Mosaic House and make it available to school children, teens, adults, and mental health consumers. 

Creative 360 became its custodian in 1998 and has preserved the building and provides guided group tours for visitors. 

Address: 102 E Isabella Rd, Midland, MI 48640, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Midland

Midland is a city in Michigan with a lot to offer. The city is blessed with several natural and manmade attractions that will exceed your expectations.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are several activities to pick from, starting with hiking, swimming, cross-country skiing, kayaking, snowshoeing, cycling, picnicking, bird watching, running, sightseeing, and more.

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