Looking for waterfront charm, maritime history, and small-town warmth? Head to Bay City! Stroll scenic riverside parks, cruise the Saginaw River, and explore antique shops, museums, and lakefront fun. Bay City is a hidden gem on Michigan’s east coast perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Bay City, MI Highlights:

  • For Families: Walk and play along the Riverwalk Pier – Enjoy river views, playgrounds, and events along this scenic boardwalk.
  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Paddle or sail the Saginaw River – Kayak, boat, or join a river cruise for a new perspective of the city.
  • For Kids: Explore the Delta College Planetarium – Interactive exhibits and engaging sky shows spark curiosity and fun.
  • For an Adventure: Visit Tobico Marsh at Bay City State Park – Hike boardwalks, birdwatch, and discover wetland wildlife habitats.
  • For Shoppers: Hunt treasures in Downtown Bay City’s antique shops – Browse vintage finds, handmade goods, and quirky boutiques.

Best Time to Visit Bay City, MI

The best time to visit Bay City is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer brings warm weather, riverfront events, and ideal conditions for exploring by land or water.

How to Get to Bay City, MI

  • If you are traveling by car: Bay City is conveniently located off I-75 and is about 2 hours from Detroit and 1 hour from Flint.
  • By Air: MBS International Airport (20 min away) connects Bay City to major hubs like Detroit and Chicago.
  • By Bus: Greyhound and Indian Trails provide bus service to and from Bay City.

Where to Stay in Bay City, MI

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bay City – Riverfront – Upscale hotel with river views, a riverside patio, and easy downtown access.
  • Courtyard Bay City – Comfortable modern hotel near Uptown Bay City with walkable shops and restaurants.
  • The Historic Webster House – Romantic bed-and-breakfast in a beautifully restored 1886 mansion.

Best Things to Do in Bay City, MI

Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum


Explore a historic Navy vessel and learn about maritime history.

Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum

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Those visiting the Bay City area may want to look in on the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum, which is housed inside the U.S. destroyer the USS Edison. Visitors will have a chance to look at some of the country’s naval history while touring a ship that was once given the motto “Three Guns, No Waiting.” This ship is 418 feet long, and visitors can tour all of it. Be prepared to climb up and down ladders and through doorways, as this is a real destroyer ship. If you’re lucky enough to visit during September or October, join in the Halloween fun with one of two themed-attractions: the Edison Incident or Dismazed.

Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum, 1680 Martin Street, Bay City, Michigan 48706, Phone: 989-684-3946

Bay City State Recreation Area


Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and swimming along scenic Lake Huron.

Bay City State Recreation Area

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If you’re wanting to get a look at some wildlife while in Bay City, the Bay City State Recreation Area is a great place to go, especially in the summer months. Home to the largest marsh wetlands in the Great Lakes region, this is a great place to get a look at some wetland animals and migratory birds. Along with the marsh, woodlands, and meadow, there is a beach for those interested in getting in some swimming. There are times when the beach is closed for safety reasons, so for those who still want to cool off, a splash park has been built for kids – and adults – to run through and cool down.

3582 State Park Drive, Bay City, MI 48706, Phone: 989-684-3020

Wenonah Park


Relax by the river and enjoy concerts or community events.

Wenonah Park

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Wenonah Park is in the heart of downtown. This 6.1-acre park centers around an amphitheater for warm-weather concerts and festivals. On top of the amphitheater is a pavilion, the Nickless Family Community Pavilion, that is available for rent for parties and weddings. The park still has some fun activities during the colder months, as the pavilion is turned into an ice rink for skating and holiday fun. The park is right on the edge of the Saginaw River, and a mooring station for boats of many sizes has been built to connect with Wenonah Park.

111 Center Avenue, Bay City, MI 48708, Phone: 989-894-8200

Recommended Activities for Families

Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center


Discover the wonders of space through captivating shows and exhibits.

Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center

© Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center

Open six days a week, the Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center is the perfect place for families who like educational experiences during their travels. After receiving a grant of $8.75 million from NASA, Delta College built the planetarium and learning center to focus on the wonders of the universe and the sciences. With a 360-degree screen in the planetarium, visitors can take in a star show or one of the many high definition science movies created for planetarium viewing. A rooftop observation deck allows guests the chance to see the real stars and planets at night. Throughout the building, traveling exhibits showcase different aspects of NASA and space study, such as simulated moon rocks.

100 Center Avenue, Bay City, MI 48708, Phone: 989-667-2260

Sage Library


Admire historic architecture while browsing an extensive collection of books.

Sage Library

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In 1979, the Sage Library was put into the National Register of Historic Places, making this building a fantastic stop when visiting Bay City. The Victorian building was built in 1884 and today has over 110,000 books. Visitors to the library can tour the two and a half stories that now make up the library. The library is only open during weekdays. Visitors to the library can use any of the meeting rooms for group meetings, free WiFi, or computers with Internet access. The Sage Library is one of the four Bay County Library System branches.

100 E. Midland Street, Bay City, Michigan 48706, Phone: 989-892-8555

Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum


Explore vintage toys and firefighting memorabilia from different eras.

Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum

© Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum

Free for children under four, this museum is promised to be a gem for kids aged 1-101. This museum combines two things that all kids love, toys and fire engines. When you step into the Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum, you’ll first be greeted by the NASCAR room, which houses models of nearly every car ever driven in the motorsport. Those interested in seeing other familiar toys can look through 50 years’ worth of toy collecting, which includes ships, Tonka toys, Hess trucks, and Betty Boop items. Throughout the museum, visitors will see over 70 real antique fire trucks and pumpers.

3456 Patterson Road, Bay City, MI 48706, Phone: 888-888-1270

Attractions for Couples

State Theatre


Enjoy movies, concerts, and live performances in a historic venue.

State Theatre

© State Theatre

The State Theatre was opened in 1908 as a vaudeville theater. When movies became all the rage, a screen was added to the theater and it was renamed. Several owners and incantations later, the theater has been renovated to showcase its beautiful Aztec architecture. Today’s guests can check out some independent films and film festivals held throughout the year. In conjunction with the local park, Wenonah Park, free movies are shown throughout the warmer months. If there is rain, the movies are moved to the State Theatre. Today, most events are sponsored by local businesses and families.

913 Washington Avenue, Bay City, MI 48708, Phone: 989-892-2660

Bay City Town Center


Shop, dine, and explore a variety of stores and services.

Bay City Town Center

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If you’re itching to get shopping, the Bay City Town Center is the place to be. Originally called the Bay City Mall, the newly named shopping center houses many well-known stores and hotspots. Kids, teens, and adults will all find their favorite stores around the enclosed mall, including Clarie’s, PetSmart, Label $hopper, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, Spencer’s, GameStop and more. For those looking to do something else, a Planet Fitness and movie theater are right on site. Though this is mostly dedicated to shopping, guests can stop by Auntie Anne’s for a pretzel when they want a snack.

Bay City Town Center, 4101 E Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706, Phone: 989-667-0760

Where to Eat in Bay City, MI

  • Old City Hall – Fine dining in a historic building offering steaks, seafood, and martinis downtown.
  • Harvey’s Grill and Bar – A casual spot popular for burgers, wraps, and a wide beer selection.
  • Real Seafood Company – Upscale eatery offering fresh seafood with waterfront seating options.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Bay City Fireworks Festival (July) – One of the largest fireworks displays in the Midwest, with music, food, and fun.
  • River Roar (June) – Powerboat racing and riverfront excitement for thrill-seekers and families alike.
  • Tall Ship Celebration (every few years) – Welcomes majestic sailing vessels from around the world.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Bay City, Michigan:

  • Midland (30 min) – Tour the Dow Gardens, Canopy Walk, and Alden B. Dow Home & Studio.
  • Saginaw (25–30 min) – Visit the Children's Zoo, Castle Museum, or explore Old Town Saginaw’s shops and eateries.
  • Frankenmuth (30 min) – Experience “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” with Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland and river cruises.
  • Pinconning (20–25 min) – Known for cheese shops and gateway access to outdoor recreation areas.
  • Linwood (15–20 min) – Enjoy fishing, boating, and scenic views on Saginaw Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Bay City, MI located?
    • Bay City, MI is located on the base of Lake Huron at the edge of Saginaw Bay.
  • How big is Bay City?
    • At around only 11.2 square miles, the population makes this feel like a very large city. Roughly 35,000 people call Bay City home.
  • What is the history of Bay City?
    • Once a thriving shipbuilding and lumber town, this city now provides a great place to vacation.
  • What famous person was born in Bay City?
    • This city was the birthplace of famous singer Madonna, but steps out of her shadow with historic buildings, fantastic festivals, and delicious food offerings.
  • What is the weather like in Bay City?
    • Though the winters are cold, the summer months provide great outdoor experiences.

Unique Attractions

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