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Bay City, Michigan

Things to Do in
Bay City, MI

From scenic waterfront parks and historic tall ships to antique treasures and live events — Bay City has something for every traveler. Bay Motel puts you right in the middle of it all.

Book Your Stay

Bay Motel is located at 910 S. Euclid Ave — within easy reach of every attraction listed below. Use this guide to plan your perfect Bay City getaway!

Outdoors & Parks

Bay City's best green spaces, waterfront trails, and natural escapes

#1

Veterans Memorial Park

Bay County's premier 97-acre riverside park featuring the Kantzler Memorial Arboretum, Liberty Harbor Marina, hard-surfaced boat launch, tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Home to the beloved "River of Time" event and 4th of July fireworks.

Free Admission
#2

Bay City State Recreation Area

A stunning park on the shores of Saginaw Bay offering white-sand beaches, swimming, hiking trails, and the Jennison Nature Center. A favorite summer destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts from across Michigan.

State Park Pass
#3

Tobico Marsh

Michigan's largest freshwater coastal wetland within the State Recreation Area. An exceptional birding and wildlife-watching destination with observation towers, boardwalks, and 4 miles of scenic trails.

Nature Reserve
#4

Riverwalk & Rail Trail

A beautifully maintained multi-use path running along the Saginaw River, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating. The trail connects several downtown parks and offers gorgeous waterfront scenery throughout.

Free · All Ages
#5

Wenonah Park

A lively 6.1-acre downtown park along the river bank featuring the Nickless Family Community Pavilion and an outdoor amphitheater used for summer concerts, festivals, and community gatherings all season long.

Downtown
#6

Walleye Fishing on Saginaw Bay

Saginaw Bay is nationally renowned for world-class walleye fishing. Whether you charter a boat or fish from shore at Bigelow Park or the Riverwalk Pier, this is a must for any angler visiting the area.

Seasonal
#7

Riverwalk Pier

A charming waterfront pier overlooking the Saginaw River offering breathtaking sunsets, views of passing boats, and a peaceful atmosphere. One of Bay City's most photographed spots and perfect for an evening stroll.

Scenic Views
#8

Bigelow & Carroll Parks

Neighboring riverside parks near the Saginaw River perfect for fishing, picnicking, and family outings. Bigelow features a pedestrian bridge and playground, while Carroll Park offers great open green space for kids of all ages.

Family Friendly

History & Culture

Explore Bay City's rich maritime heritage, stunning architecture, and local museums

#9

Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum (USS Edson)

Step aboard the USS Edson (DD-946), a Vietnam-era destroyer and National Historic Landmark moored on the Saginaw River. Self-guided tours let you explore the ship's decks, gun mounts, and engine rooms. One of Bay City's most iconic attractions.

Must-See
#10

Bay County Historical Museum

Trace Bay City's evolution from Ojibwa heritage to the booming lumber era through engaging exhibits and artifacts. A beautifully curated collection housed in a landmark building in the heart of the city.

Free Admission
#11

Bay City Hall

This stunning Romanesque Revival building, built in 1894, is one of Michigan's finest examples of 19th-century civic architecture. Visitors can explore the ornate interior and on select occasions climb the tower for panoramic city views.

Historic Landmark
#12

Sailing on the Appledore (BaySail)

Set sail on one of BaySail's magnificent tall ships for a cruise on the Saginaw River and bay. Evening, sunset, and educational cruises are available, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Seasonal Cruises
#13

Bay City Boat Lines

Hop aboard for a sightseeing, dinner, or dance cruise along the scenic Saginaw River. A fantastic way to experience Bay City from the water, complete with great food, music, and memorable views of the city skyline.

River Cruise
#14

Trombley House

A beautifully preserved historic home located within Veterans Memorial Park, offering a glimpse into the life of Bay City's early elite. A hidden gem for history lovers exploring the park grounds.

Historic Site

Entertainment & Attractions

Family fun, live shows, science, and Bay City's one-of-a-kind experiences

#15

Delta College Planetarium

One of the most advanced digital planetariums in the Midwest, featuring immersive 360-degree dome shows covering astronomy, space exploration, and natural wonders. A must-visit for families and science enthusiasts of all ages.

Family Favorite
#16

Great Lakes Bay Children's Museum

A hands-on exploration museum for children featuring interactive exhibits in science, art, nature, and local culture. Designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through creative play — a perfect rainy-day destination.

Kids Love It
#17

State Theatre

A lovingly restored Art Deco movie palace from 1908, now hosting films, live concerts, comedy shows, and special events. The ornate interior and intimate atmosphere make every visit feel like a step back in time.

Live Events
#18

Sunrise Pedal Trolley

A hilarious and unique group activity — hop on this pedal-powered trolley for a guided food, wine, or brewery tour of downtown Bay City. Great for bachelorette parties, birthday groups, and anyone who loves a good time.

Group Fun
#19

Third Street Star Bridge

A beloved public art installation and community project, this illuminated pedestrian bridge is decorated with painted stars and makes for an iconic, Instagram-worthy photo stop in downtown Bay City.

Photo Spot
#20

Bay City Fireworks Festival & Events

Bay City's annual Fireworks Festival is one of Michigan's largest, drawing thousands to the Saginaw River waterfront. Other popular events include the Tall Ship Celebration, Hop Riot Beer Fest, Bay City Wine Walk, and downtown street fairs.

Annual Events

Dining & Shopping

Local flavors, artisan chocolates, antique treasures, and Bay City's unique shops

#21

Bay City Antiques Center

One of Michigan's largest antique centers, featuring over 400 dealer booths packed with vintage furniture, collectibles, jewelry, and rare finds. A treasure hunter's paradise spanning multiple floors of a historic downtown building.

400+ Booths
#22

St. Laurent Brothers Candy

A beloved Bay City institution, St. Laurent Brothers has been hand-crafting artisanal chocolates and confections for generations. Pick up a box of their famous hand-dipped chocolates for the perfect souvenir.

Local Favorite
#23

Real Seafood Company

A Bay City landmark restaurant offering fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a prime waterfront setting. From Lake Huron whitefish to Maine lobster, the menu celebrates the Great Lakes region's finest maritime cuisine.

Waterfront Dining
#24

Beatles & Beans Coffee Emporium

A one-of-a-kind coffee shop celebrating the Fab Four with Beatles memorabilia lining every wall. Sip a specialty latte surrounded by vintage album covers and photos — a quirky, charming Bay City original worth every stop.

Unique Cafe
#25

Downtown Dining Scene

Bay City's vibrant Center Avenue and downtown core are lined with diverse restaurants ranging from sushi at Fusion 1 Cafe and upscale bistro fare at Old City Hall to casual local spots and waterfront bars with live music on weekends.

Variety of Options
#26

Bay City Farmers Market & Galleries

Browse fresh local produce, artisan goods, baked treats, and Michigan-made products at the seasonal Farmers Market. Pair your visit with a walk through one of downtown's many art galleries showcasing regional artists.

Seasonal

How far is Bay Motel from top attractions?

Veterans Memorial Park · ~5 min
Bay City State Rec Area · ~8 min
USS Edson Museum · ~6 min
Downtown Bay City · ~7 min
Delta College Planetarium · ~6 min
Riverwalk & Pier · ~5 min
Bay City Antiques Center · ~7 min
Tobico Marsh · ~10 min

Your Bay City Base Camp

Stay Close to It All at Bay Motel

Bay Motel on S. Euclid Ave puts you just minutes from every attraction in this guide. Enjoy clean, comfortable rooms from $79/night with free Wi-Fi, in-room micro-fridge, HBO cable TV, and friendly 24/7 service.