City & Culture
A vibrant, energetic city with historical charm and modern flair, Bay City sets the bar high for quality of living. Part of a larger whole — The Great Lakes Bay Region — Bay City lies at the heart of a diverse group of communities collaborating toward the development of our region.
As freighters pass by along the Saginaw River and music fills the riverside parks… The Mill End Lofts will stand proudly on the vital corner of Water Street and Center Avenue in Downtown Bay City.
Bay City is well known in Mid-Michigan for its numerous festivals and celebrations which take place during the summer months. Among them are the River Roar, St. Stan's Polish Festival, the Bay City Fireworks Festival, and the River of Time living history reenactment. Many of these events take place along one or more banks of the Saginaw River, often in Wenonah Park on the east bank or the larger Veterans Memorial Park on the west bank.
The Bay County Historical Museum, located on Washington Avenue, is the designated repository for the records of the Patrol Craft Sailors Association and also contains numerous displays on local and regional history. Over the past several years, the museum has expanded significantly. It is housed in the former armory building on Washington Avenue, adjacent to the historic City Hall.
Within walking distance to all that our lively downtown has to offer: Locally-owned shops, antiques, restaurants, sidewalk cafés, theatres, exercise, brownstones, historic buildings, planetarium, art center, sailing school, tall ship & river cruises, access to the Riverwalk System.
- Scenic views of Wenonah Park and The Saginaw River
- Large festivals draw thousands of visitors and rally the region: Fireworks, Tall Ships, River Roar, Art Festival, car shows and many more
- Arts and culture abounds: concerts in the parks, State Theatre, Studio 23, Delta Planetarium, Bay City Players, Main Library, Historical Museum and Fire Truck/Toy Museum
- Waterfront Hotels and a Marina provide comfortable lodging for visitors
- Easy access to Interstate 75 and US-10
dining
Tavern 101
Located in the bottom of the Mill End Lofts! Tavern 101 is a showcase of American diversity and cuisine. With an eye for detail, and a passion for food, we will guarantee hand-selected, quality ingredients with every item we serve. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Bay City, Tavern 101 combines style and substance perfectly. The polished casual design and sophisticated atmosphere is paired perfectly with our ever-changing selection of the best craft beers in the country. In addition to our beer-forward restaurant and bar, Tavern 101 also offers a perfectly complemented selection of wine and spirits. With every visit to Tavern 101, we guarantee you will always receive exceptional food and service.
Shopping
Ferne Boutique
Ferne Boutique opened August 7, 2015 and is owned by Laura Horwath. The purpose behind the boutique is to bring beautiful style to the Great Lakes Bay Region with hand selected clothing and accessories.
Coffee
Harless + Hugh Coffee
Harless + Hugh Coffee offers hand-poured coffee as well as specialty drinks made with handcrafted syrups. The spirit of community brews here while the clean, simple atmosphere of this unique shop emits a welcoming aroma.
Venues
State Theatre
The historic State Theatre organization is committed to providing performing arts and films to enhance the cultural opportunities of all people throughout Mid-Michigan and beyond.