Discover Midland
Chippewa Nature Center
Today, Chippewa Nature Center is one of the largest private non-profit nature centers in the United States. Through the years, CNC has grown from its original 198 acre parcel and an all-volunteer staff to include over 1,500 acres, 40 staff members, and hundreds of volunteers. Over 70,000 people visit CNC every year.
Open every day from dawn-to-dark, you’re invited to enjoy 19 miles of trails on foot, snowshoes or cross-country skis through 1,500 acres of diverse ecosystems. Get out on the trails to take in spectacular views of the natural world while observing the plants and animals that call this area home.
Professional Sports & Athletics
For sports fans, Midland provides a home for every type of athlete at heart. The Great Lakes Bay Region’s Minor League Baseball Club, the Great Lakes Loons, are headquartered in the Dow Diamond, located right beside the heart of Midland’s downtown. Midland also boasts the Tri-City Barbarians, a local team from the Midwest Rugby Football Union since 1964.
The Midland civic ice arena hosts 2 NHL and one Olympic-sized rinks, providing activities for children and adults alike. Complete with 32 courts, the Midland Community Tennis Center provides programs and leagues for all ages, including a USTA Pro Circuit event that led to Midland’s recognition as America’s Best Tennis Town in 2009. Experience even more sport and exercise options at the Greater Midland Community Center.
Creative Arts
Creative arts are at the forefront of Midland’s downtown experience, from music and theater to science and culinary arts. The Midland Center for the Arts uplifts this passion in its dedication to facilitating a gathering place and resource for people to refresh themselves through art, creativity, and entertainment. Events include Broadway tours, symphony orchestra performances, art exhibitions, the Alden B. Museum of Science and Art, and the Pendulum Lounge, a unique bar with delicious food offerings.
Nonprofit community arts centers like Creative 360 build environments in Midland that allow people of all ages and abilities to experience the creative process. Creative 360 enhances physical, mental, and spiritual wellness through individual and group oriented interactions with the arts and humanities.
Outdoor Recreation
Connect with the natural beauty Michigan has to offer at the Dow Gardens & Whiting Forest, a dazzling 110-acre display of annuals and perennials punctuated by distinctive bridges, towering pines, and delightful water features. Experience the longest canopy walk in the nation, suspended four stories above the forest floor, and embrace the The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation’s signature gift to the community around them.
Experience community engagement outdoors through the Midland Farmers Market, open every Wednesday and Saturday May through October at Dow Diamond. Enjoy outdoor games and dining at the downtown Midland Pedestrian Plaza. Visit one of Midland’s 80 parks and recreations sites and enjoy a walk across the Tridge, the nations only three-legged pedestrian bridge. Regardless of your interest, there’s a spot for everyone!
