Freeland sits right in the heart of the Great Lakes Bay Region, which means you are never far from parks, trails, museums, festivals, and family-friendly destinations. Whether you have a free Saturday afternoon or a whole weekend to fill, there is plenty to do within a short drive. Here are some of our favorite activities for families in the area.

Chippewa Nature Center

Located just south of Midland, the Chippewa Nature Center is one of the largest privately funded nature centers in the United States. It sits on over 1,500 acres along the Pine and Chippewa rivers with more than 19 miles of trails. The visitor center includes interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids, including a live animal display and a reconstructed 1870s homestead. Admission is free, making it an easy choice for a morning or afternoon outing. The trails are well maintained year-round, so you can visit in any season.

Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest

Dow Gardens in Midland is a 110-acre botanical garden with winding paths, ponds, bridges, and seasonal flower displays. The highlight for families is Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens, which features the nation's longest canopy walk at over 1,400 feet. Walking among the treetops gives kids and adults alike a completely different perspective on the forest. The playground area and splash pad in the children's garden keep younger visitors entertained for hours.

Midland Center for the Arts

The Midland Center for the Arts combines a performing arts venue with the Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art. The museum has hands-on science exhibits, a Hall of Ideas with interactive displays, and rotating exhibitions that change throughout the year. Check their calendar for family-focused performances, concerts, and special events. It is a reliable option for rainy days when outdoor activities are not practical.

City Forest and Pere Marquette Rail Trail

For families who enjoy biking, the Pere Marquette Rail Trail is a paved path that stretches over 30 miles from Midland to Clare. The section closest to Midland passes through wooded areas and open farmland, making it a scenic ride at any pace. Younger riders can handle the flat, smooth surface easily. In Midland, the City Forest offers additional hiking trails, a disc golf course, and picnic areas tucked into a mature hardwood forest right in town.

Bay City State Recreation Area

About 25 minutes east of Freeland, Bay City State Recreation Area sits on the shore of Saginaw Bay. The beach is the main attraction during summer months, with shallow water that is safe for young swimmers. The Tobico Marsh, adjacent to the park, is one of the largest remaining coastal wetlands on the Great Lakes. A boardwalk trail takes you through the marsh with excellent bird watching opportunities. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it.

Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth is about 30 minutes south of Freeland and offers a full day of family activities. Beyond the famous chicken dinners, the town has a year-round Christmas store, a covered bridge, a historical museum, and a riverboat that cruises the Cass River. The Wilderness Trails Zoo is a smaller zoo with a nice collection of animals and a petting area that kids enjoy. In summer, the splash park on the main strip is a free way to cool off.

Seasonal Festivals and Events

The Great Lakes Bay Region hosts festivals throughout the year. The Midland County Fair runs each August with rides, livestock shows, and food vendors. Bay City hosts the River Roar powerboat races and the Fourth of July fireworks display over the Saginaw River. Fall brings cider mills, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches at local farms within a short drive of Freeland. In winter, Frankenmuth lights up with holiday displays and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Get Out and Explore

One of the best parts of living in the Freeland area is having so many family-friendly destinations within a 30-minute drive. Load up the Explorer, Bronco Sport, or whatever you drive, and go discover something new this weekend. If your vehicle needs a tune-up before your next adventure, the service team at McDonald Ford is ready to help. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 989-695-4481.