Midland County - 11 Attractions You Must Visit

Bradley Home/Carriage House Hall is a historical site with a rich and varied history. The main house was originally built by Mayhew and Daisy Bradley in the early 1920s, with the Carriage House being added later. Over the years, many renovations and updates have been made to both buildings. Today, the main house serves as a museum open to visitors featuring photographs of the original homesteaders and artifacts from the Bradley family.

Chippewa Nature Center is a popular destination for outdoor lovers. CNC offers both nature exploration and long-distance hiking trails. With over 18 miles of trails to explore, visitors can observe interesting wildlife or simply enjoy the scenic views. From cats to wolves and even songbirds, animal life abounds at CNC. In addition to the trails, CNC also has several educational classes offered each month with the intent of teaching visitors about Michigan's natural environment.

Chippewassee Park is a nature lover's paradise. Situated on the convergence of several rivers, this park offers many outdoor activities for those looking to enjoy nature orexperience the unique wildlife in the area. Popular activities include camping, fishing and swimming in one of its two dazzling lakes, Talina and Appling. With over 19 miles of unpaved trails perfect for biking and hiking, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful terrain.

Dow Gardens is a beautiful natural wonder that visitors from all over love to explore. Featuring 110 acres of oak grove and gorgeous gardens filled with conifers, ornamental shrubs, perennial beds, and a stately formal garden design, it is one of the most popular attractions in Midland County. There are seven miles of trails that meander through wooded terrain and flowers fields suitable for leisurely strolls or quick jogs.

Emerson Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This sprawling park features a variety of activities and experiences—from fishing on the Sanford Lake beachfront to exploring the winding hiking trails of Emerson Park Woods. Guests can also take advantage of shelters for group events, picnic areas, children's playgrounds, and expansive open spaces perfect for lounging around.

The Midland Center for the Arts provides locals and visitors to the area with a dynamic and exciting performing arts center. From quality live theater performances to classical music and dance, this center offers a wide variety of experiences for their patrons. Additionally, the center also hosts a number of educational activities for students such as workshops, lectures, classes and camps that emphasize positive learning experiences.

The Pere Marquette Rail Trail is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Stretching for over 25 miles and providing an all-season path, it's ideal for walking, running, hiking, biking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. With unique views of the Tittabawassee River and Six Mile Creek, it's easy to discover something new no matter how many times you visit. The trail also features several access points that can be used as stops or parking locations along the way.

The Sanford Historical Museum is a treasure trove of knowledge and fun. Located close to Wixom Lake, the museum provides an ideal setting for learning about the region's past. From Native American artifacts and clothing to exhibits on lumbering and railroad history, the museum offers an engaging exploration of Michigan's local traditions. There are also educational resources for children; interactive displays depict how animal pelts were prepared by early settlers.

Sanford Lake is a popular destination located in Midland County, Michigan. It stretches 225 acres and offers loads of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and even swimming. Surrounded by lush trees and rolling hills, it's the perfect place for taking a leisurely stroll or having a picnic with loved ones. The lake is home to a variety of wildlife like nesting cherries, green herons, Red-shouldered hawks, mallards and loons to name just a few.

Stratford Woods Park is a natural oasis set amidst the hustle and bustle of a large metropolitan area. It consists of 100 acres of lush forest and winding trails that beg visitors to explore its interior. Wildlife such as white-tailed deer, red foxes and various species of birds inhabit this scenic park, providing a serene setting for hikers, bikers and runners alike. Camping, fishing, boating and nature watching are popular pastimes at the park as well.

The Tridge is an impressive sight to behold. Built in 1981 by volunteers from the local Kiwassee Kiwanis Club, the three-way wooden bridge spans the confluence of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee rivers. At 100 feet long and surrounded by lush park lands and beautiful views of sunsets over the river, it's become a favorite spot for locals to enjoy picnics, fishing outings, and weekend walks. Its distinct design means that no matter which way you view it.