Bay City: Michigan’s Best Kept Secret?

Nestled along the waterfront of the Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron, Bay City is a place that was once little-known, save for being an industrial hub and shipping port. Today, though, Bay City has become a tourist and living destination of folks from all around, with offerings aplenty — from cost-effective living to top-notch food and entertainment to beautiful surroundings.

More bustling than ever before, here’s a look at today’s Bay City.

Small(ish) town charm

Once known as “Lower Saginaw,” Bay City became its own in the mid-1800s. With a population of just over 33,000, Bay City could be considered a “town,” and not necessarily a city at all, by technical terms, though it does offer an abundance of services to its residents. However, some believe that the small-town feel is precisely what makes them relish living in Bay City.

Notably, Madonna was born in Bay City and the band The Bay City Rollers was named after the city. However, today, it most known for its vast cultural and natural beauty.

Nautical appeal in Bay City is, perhaps, one of its biggest attractions. For many, being so close to one of the Great Lakes is reason enough to visit. Whether for boating, beaching or simply enjoying a walk or run by the water, Bay City can offer an experienced you can’t get just anywhere.

Every year for the past 30 years, Bay City has hosted its River Roar (recently renamed Bay City Grand Prix) boat racing event, which attracts thousands of race-loving spectators, along with those who want to join in on the accompanying food and entertainment. Additionally, an array of cruises on the river from various boat lines make for a great night of food, drink and entertainment on the water. For the past 10 years, Bay City’s state recreation area has undergone a vast rejuvenation, making it a haven for those who want to sunbathe, fish or enjoy its spray park. Home to Tobico Marsh and over 1,000 feet of sandy beach, along with wetlands, wet meadows and marshlands, the State Park is a go-to for wildlife, birdwatching and nature lovers alike.

Eat, drink and be entertained

In addition to maritime, Bay City is quickly becoming known for its vast dining options. From sushi to steakhouses, coffee bars to farm-to-table restaurants, and higher-end, river-front dining to classic pizza joints, cuisine options in the city abound. And for beverage enthusiasts, Bay City has its fair share of craft beer and wine bars (not to mention the city ranks in the top 10 Michigan cities with the most bars, wineries and liquor stores per capita).

Shopping in the city’s historic riverfront downtown offers everything from unique clothing boutiques to salons and spas to antique stores and more, most of which are locally owned.

Year-round concerts, along with car shows, the planetarium, Hell’s Half Mile Film and Music Festival, and movies in the park truly give this town a uniqueness all its own. Most recently, City Market—Bay City’s first indoor farmer’s market — has opened in the old J.C. Penney building on the city’s Center Ave. The market offers residents and other shoppers an abundance of locally sourced food, beverages, and wellness and lifestyle products all under one roof.

With so much happening in Bay City, many think the area rivals other, more well-known cities like Royal Oak and Traverse City, with its hometown appeal and hip city charm. Regardless, though, the city by the bay is just setting sail...and shows no signs of slowing down.