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Tourism - Attractions and Lodging

There are plenty of things to see and do in the Bay Area year-round. History, culture and other varied events and destinations located throughout the region provide enjoyment, fun and relaxation for people of all ages and interests.

With over 60 motorized fire trucks, the Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum has the largest collection of fire trucks in the world. Other collections include more than 12,000 antique and collectible toys. Additionally, a store, special events and interactive exhibits ensure a fun time for all. Another place to visit is the Historical Museum of Bay County, home to the Maritime History Gallery. Featuring the miniature Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse, the gallery gives an overview of Bay City’s maritime history. Additionally, visitors are provided with education and enjoyment through several period rooms, three changing galleries and a variety of special events and programs.

The Appledore Tall Ships provide three-hour public sailing excursions, private charters, corporate team-building programs, and dinner cruises on the Saginaw River and Saginaw Bay. All sails depart from the Bay City dock. Dinner Cruises and Stargazer’s Sails allow you to enjoy an intimate dinner while peacefully sailing by some of the area’s most breathtaking views. Watch the sunset, and then sail away under the moonlight for an evening you will not soon forget.

Opportunities to explore the history of the Bay Area abound. The Princess Wenonah and Islander offer narrated river tours of historic sites along the Saginaw River and Bay, while the Bay County Historical Museum offers guided tours of Bay City’s most popular historic districts aboard a replica trolley. Take a trip down memory lane while looking at showrooms full of vintage, classic, neo-classic, sports and muscle cars at The Bay City Motor Company. A visit to the Bay Area wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Midland Street Historic District. The business hub of West Bay City during the lumbering era, Midland Street today is home to a wonderful variety of vintage buildings, retail shops, professional office spaces and unique eateries. With nightclubs featuring everything from classic to jazz to good, old rock-n-roll, the Midland Street Historic District has become known as the entertainment center of Bay City.

When it comes to lodging, a wide range of options are available. Bed and breakfasts, historical inns and chain hotels can all be conveniently found within the Bay Area. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, a host of amenities and services are available to meet a variety of needs.

To access more information about attractions and lodging in the area, visit www.baycityarea.com/BayTourism.html or call the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce at 989-893-4567.

Community Events

Living in or visiting the Bay Area provides an unlimited amount of enjoyment and first class entertainment opportunities. Thousands of people line the riverside every year for the annual Fourth of July celebration, which features an explosion of fireworks encompassing three nights. Our riverside comes alive for other spectacular annual events including the St. Patrick's Day Parade, Dow River Roar Powerboat Races, Pig Gig, River of Time, and walleye fishing tournaments.

On Wednesday afternoons children race to Vet’s Park to attend the Young People’s Concerts, while the adults and families return for the evening’s musical presentations during “Wednesdays in the Park” concerts. The Riverside Art Festival, Downtown Bay City Sidewalk Sales and Downtown Bay City Gallery Walk provide summertime entertainment that lasts all season long.

When winter arrives the area provides superb opportunities for cross country skiing, or you can join the ranks of those participating in the annual Shiver on the River fishing competition. During the holidays, a drive through the park along the river cannot be missed as we celebrate with the River of Lights. Whatever your interests, the Bay Area is sure to please.