Counties

Resting on more than 77 miles of freshwater coastline, the Great Lakes Bay Region offers a wide variety of communities, ranging from suburban tree-lined streets, country farmhouses, and scenic waterfronts to bustling downtown areas with easy access to shops, pubs, music venues, theatres, parks, and stadiums. With a cost of living below the national average, the region offers affordable housing and commercial properties. The region also has a growing number of farmers markets and microbreweries.

Ranging from innovative small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, employers in the Great Lakes Bay Region provide world-class opportunities while supporting workplace cultures that are family friendly and community oriented. The region also offers business incubators to help you launch and expand your own small business. Affording excellent educational opportunities, the region is home to eight colleges and universities—as well as some of Michigan’s top-ranked public schools.

Between Detroit’s urban energy and the Upper Peninsula’s natural beauty, the Great Lakes Bay Region serves as the hub for a diverse array of arts, commerce, culture, and innovation. With all that the region has to offer, how you will thrive in the heart of Michigan?

Arenac

Activities

Sports

  • Hone your golf game at one of Arenac County’s four scenic golf courses.
  • Canoe or Kayak in one of Arenac County’s beautiful rivers.
  • Test your mountain biking skills on Arenac County’s many bike trails.
  • Enjoy playing tennis, baseball, volleyball, or basketball in one of Arenac County’s many fields or courts.
  • Play a round of disc golf at the exciting and challenging 20-hole Old Airport Disc Golf Course.
  • Pursue your prize catch by taking advantage of Arenac’s many fishing charters and piers.

Parks/Outdoors

  • The Arenac Blue Water Trail will take you on a grand kayaking or canoeing trip along the northern coastline of the Saginaw Bay.
  • Arenac County has many tranquil parks and beaches, including Arenac County Park, which offers 900 feet of soft, sandy shoreline.
  • The Au Gres Boat Launch is one of the largest boat access sites on Lake Huron.
  • Camp and enjoy the outdoors at Oasis Lake.
  • Like to hike? Arenac offers plenty of good hiking and walking trails.
  • Explore the scenic Au Gres riverfront using the Au Gres Pedestrian Bridge.

Nightlife

  • Enjoy the casino atmosphere during a night out at the Saganing Eagles Landing Casino.
  • Arenac County boasts a wide variety of local restaurants where you can enjoy an excellent dinner out with your friends and family.

Communities

Services

  • The Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency (NEMSCA) provides quality programs and services to strengthen the community, individuals, and families.
  • St. Mary’s Hospital-Standish is one of many centers offering health services in the area.
  • Arenac County offers convenient transportation services.
  • Highway I-75 passes through Arenac County, providing ready access to travel destinations.
  • Arenac County’s emergency responders include a Sheriff’s Department, a mobile medical response team (MMR), and three fire departments.
  • Other services include the council on aging, rehabilitation services, animal control, veterinary care, a veteran’s organization, and more.
  • The Bay Area Women’s Center in Standish provides social and welfare services.

Education

  • Arenac County has 10 public schools (three school districts) which offer pre-k through 12 education.

Community Centers

  • Learn about the county’s history at the Arenac County Historical Society Museum.
  • Look for a good book to read in the Mary Johnston Memorial Library, the Au Gres Community Library, or the Omer Library.
  • The Standish Historical Depot offers a comfortable and educational rest area on the US Heritage Route.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • The Arenac County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) helps entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and find effective business locations.
  • The Au Gres Area Chamber of Commerce helps entrepreneurs to achieve their business goals.

Job Fairs

  • N/A

Established Employers

  • ATD Engineering & Machine
  • Auburn Bean and Grain Company
  • St. Mary’s of Michigan – Standish Community Hospital
  • Bessinger Pickle Co. Inc.
  • Bopp-Busch Manufacturing Co.
  • Globe Fire Sprinkler Corp.
  • Magline
  • Vantage Plastics
  • Maple Ridge Hardwoods
  • Standish Area Schools

Bay

Activities

Sports

  • Featuring both Olympic-size and NHL-size ice surfaces, the Bay County Civic Arena is a great place to lace up the skates and join a hockey team or go for a public skate.
  • Play a round of golf at one of Bay County’s eight scenic golf courses.
  • If you skateboard or rollerblade, Bay County is home to a 17,000 ft. skate park full of ramps, rails, and other challenges for honing your skills.
  • The Tri-City Motor speedway has stock car races every Friday night from April through September.
  • Knock down some pins and have a fun night out with your friends and family at one of Bay County’s many bowling alleys. They also welcome bowling leagues.
  • In Bay County, you will find no shortage of baseball diamonds and basketball courts.

Parks/Outdoors

  • Nestled on the shoreline of the Saginaw Bay, the Bay City State Recreation Area is a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature, for it offers a beach, volleyball and basketball courts, and ready access to the Tabico Marsh.
  • A 2,000-acre wetland preserve, the Tabico Marsh offers two 32-foot observation decks and nearly five miles of trails for hiking and biking.
  • The Bay City Area Riverwalk and Rail Trail will take you through Bay City and its parks, allowing you to enjoy its scenic beauty.
  • Satisfy your craving for boating at one of Bay County’s many boat launches and marinas, where you can launch a sailboat or enjoy a fishing trip with one of Bay County’s fishing charters.
  • Enjoy Bay City’s Tall Ships’ Celebration in July of 2019.
  • Near the river walk in downtown Bay City, Wenonah Park hosts a waterfront amphitheater, where many festivals and live music performances take place.
  • Go bird watching, biking, or fishing at Nayanquing Point, a 1,400-acre protected coastal wetland.
  • The Quanicassee State Wildlife Area is 1,922-acre, DNR-protected preserve that is home to a wide range of wildlife. Seasonal fishing is allowed.
  • Learn to sail a ship by arranging an expedition with BaySail in Bay City.
  • Visit the Pinconning Park and Campground on the shores of the Saginaw Bay for an enjoyable getaway.

Nightlife

  • Catch a film at Bay City’s Goodrich Quality Theater.
  • Downtown Bay City near the river walk is home to many great restaurants and bars.
  • The Sunrise Pedal Trolley—a 16-person, Dutch-made bike—offers a unique way to explore Bay City with family or friends.
  • Enjoy a free movie at dusk every Tuesday in June at Wenonah Park’s amphitheater.
  • Midland Street is a great place for a night out with your friends, for it features several fun bars and fine restaurants.

Communities

Services

  • Bay County offers several hospitals and urgent care centers, including Bay Special Care Hospital, Covenant Healthcare, and the McLaren Bay Region hospital.
  • Highway I-75 passes through Bay County, giving residents and visitors quick access to a major interstate highway.
  • Bay County has a strong infrastructure in place for electrical power and other utilities.
  • Bay County is ready to serve you with Emergency Services, a Sheriff’s Department, Fire Departments, and many more important services.

Education

  • Located on the southern edge of Bay County, Delta Community College is home to over 100 programs and transfer options.  The Aspen Institute ranks Delta College among the top 10 percent of community colleges in the nation.
  • With a Program Center in Bay City, Northwood University is ready to help you complete your college education so that you can succeed in your chosen profession.
  • Bay County has plenty of K-12 schooling options with 36 public schools, four public charter schools, and 20 private schools.
  • For early education, Bay County has 16 public preschools.

Community Centers

  • Built in 1908, the State Theatre of Bay City is an architectural treasure.
  • Learn more about the cosmos at the Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center, one of the most technologically advanced planetariums in the United States.
  • Find a fitness activity that fits you at the Dow Bay Area Family Y.
  • Find a good book to read or pursue a research project by visiting one of Bay County’s four libraries or its bookmobile.
  • Learn more about Bay County’s history by visiting one of its 36 historical sites and museums.
  • The Bay County Community Center has something for everyone with a pool, a gymnasium, meeting rooms, and more.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • The Central Michigan University Research Corporation (CMURC) has a branch in Bay County to help you grow your business or startup.
  • The City Market in Bay City offers you the chance to become a vendor, to get noticed, and to help your business grow.
  • Accelerate your career by joining an organization called Energize Bay Area Young Professionals Network (Energize YPN), which aims to attract, engage, and retain young professionals.

Job Fairs

  • Bringing in representatives from scores of businesses in the tri-cities area, Delta College hosts the annual Great Lakes Bay Job Fair.

Established Employers

  • Delta College
  • The Dow Chemical Company
  • McLaren Health Care – Bay Region
  • Michigan Sugar
  • Consumers Energy
  • Bay City Public Schools
  • Meijer
  • Fabiano Bros.
  • General Motors Powertrain
  • Bay Medical Care Facility
  • SC Johnson – A Family Company

Clare

Activities

Sports

  • Shred the slopes or hit the links at Snow Snake Ski and Golf, one of Michigan’s premier resorts for snowboarding, skiing, tubing, golfing, ziplining, and off-roading.
  • Go for a hole-in-one at one of Clare County’s five serene golf courses.
  • Explore the scenic Pere Marquette Trail by snowmobile in the winter or by bike or on foot in the summer.
  • Do you love to play ball? Clare County has baseball and softball programs for adults and children.
  • Shoot some hoops or go for a walk or jog at the Hayes Township Civic Center.

Parks/Outdoors

  • Do you love the outdoors? Clare County offers 56,000 acres of state forests, 300 miles of rivers, 28 miles of snowmobiles trails, 55 miles of off-road vehicle (ORV) trails, and over 81 lakes—including many with public access for boating and fishing.
  • For pristine hiking, biking, and cross country skiing, explore the CMU Neithercut Woodland Trail (2.5 miles long), the Mid Michigan Community College Trail, the McIreland Nature Trail, Green Pine Lake Pathway, and the Pere Marquette Rail Trail.
  • Relax and enjoy a sunset, a picnic, or a game of ultimate frisbee at one of Clare’s scenic parks.
  • Glide through the forests at Snow Snake’s Zip Line Tour, a network of 10 zip lines, with the highest taking you 75 feet off the ground.

Nightlife

  • Clare’s local restaurants, bars, and breweries make for great night out.
  • Catch a flick at Clare’s Ideal Theatre, which offers spacious seating and buttery popcorn.
  • Enjoy live music during Clare City Park’s summer concert series.

Communities

Services

  • For health and wellness services, Clare offers the Community Mental Health center, the Central Michigan District Health Department, the MidMichigan Medical Center, and more.
  • Clare protects its communities with a local fire department, police department, and sheriff’s department.
  • Clare County offers services such as animal control, emergency management, senior services, veterans services, and more.
  • US 127, a major highway, runs through Clare County, providing easy access to travel routes.
  • Four local airports are located in Clare.

Education

  • Clare County is home to Mid Michigan College, which is located in Harrison. Here you can further your education with knowledgeable faculty members and top-notch facilities.
  • Clare County has 14 excellent public schools that provide pre-k to 12th grade education.
  • Located in Clare, the Clare-Gladwin Regional Education Service District (RESD) is one of 56 intermediate school districts in Michigan.

Community Centers

  • The Clare County Senior Community Center offers a wide variety of social activities for seniors.
  • Mid Michigan Community Action works to help struggling individuals and families through support services such as food assistance, utility assistance, homeless support, preschool, head start, and home empowerment.
  • My Community Dental Center (MCDC) in Clare helps to provide dental care for local communities.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • The Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) offers a wide variety of services to help entrepreneurs and businesses achieve success.

Job Fairs

  • Mid Michigan Community College hosts an annual job fair at its Clare campus. The job fair, which is free and open to the public, brings in many local employers seeking to hire local residents.

Established Employers

  • Mid Michigan College
  • MidMichigan Medical Center
  • Lear Corporation
  • Basic Communications
  • The Rogers Group
  • Northern Logistics
  • Farwell Area School District
  • Mid Michigan Community Action Agency
  • Jay’s Sporting Goods
  • JD Metalworks, Inc.

Gladwin

Activities

Sports

  • If you want a relaxing day on the links, you can choose among two 18 hole, par 72 courses, and one nine hole, par 37 course.
  • Thunder on the Strip is a drag race event held each year on the taxiway of the Gladwin Zettel Memorial Airport. This is a fun, family friendly environment for all ages!
  • In addition to water sports, golf, camping and more – Sugar Springs maintains a large saltwater swimming pool.
  • To satisfy your desire for skateboarding and inline skating, visit the Gladwin Skate Park, complete with rails and ramps.
  • Get a game of volleyball going at Ross Lake Park in Beaverton, or play some basketball or tennis at Gladwin City Park and Gladwin City Schools.
  • Looking for hockey? Go to the Gladwin Community Arena and register for a hockey program.
  • Do your kids love baseball? Then they can join the Gladwin Little League for baseball fun!

Parks/Outdoors

  • If you enjoy water sports and fishing, explore Gladwin’s 57 lakes and 473 miles of streams and rivers. Gladwin County boasts two marinas and 12 lakes with D.N.R. boat launches.
  • Check out over 600 Jeeps from allover the Midwest, Canada and Eastern U.S. at the annual Jeep Creep in Gladwin.
  • Do you love hunting? Deploy your hunting skills on state forest lands and in the Gladwin Field Trial Area.
  • Beginning in Winter 2002, the annual Festival of Lights Parade in Gladwin is a wonderful display of holiday spirit, and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
  • Gladwin has many great hiking trails and parks, including the Gladwin Field Trial Area, state forest lands, and Gladwin North Park.
  • If you enjoy off-roading and mud-bugging, then drive through thousands of acres of state lands, including mud bogs.
  • Gladwin has 14 parks and campgrounds, making it easy to escape and enjoy the land’s scenic beauty.

Nightlife

  • If you want a fun night out with your friends, Gladwin County has no shortage of local bars and restaurants.
  • Beaverton’s annual Holiday Hunt in November features great shopping deals, food specials, prizes, gift baskets and entertainment.
  • Catch a newly released film at the Beaverton Gem Theatre.

Communities

Services

  • Gladwin has a convenient public airport, giving you ready access to many travel destinations.
  • Looking for an affordable community to live in? Gladwin has excellent housing opportunities, especially their many lake and riverfront communities.
  • Gladwin City/County Transit offers transportation throughout the county.
  • Located in Gladwin, the Central Michigan Health Department promotes public and environmental health.
  • MidMichigan Medical Center-Gladwin provides comprehensive medical and surgical care. In addition, it has a 24-hour emergency room.
  • Demonstrating its preparedness, Gladwin has a County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
  • Gladwin has several police and fire departments, as well as a Sheriff’s Department.
  • MidMichigan Health recently opened a new, state-of-the-art health park in Gladwin.
  • Other services include a veteran’s affairs office, an animal control shelter, the road commission, the council on aging, and much more.

Education

  • Mic-Michigan College maintains a full-service campus located in Harrison. Here you can further your education with knowledgeable faculty members and top-notch facilities.
  • Gladwin County has two private schools and seven quality public schools offering pre-k to 12th grade education.
  • The Clare-Gladwin RESD offers first-class Career and Technical Education programs.

Community Centers

  • The Community Mental Health center in Gladwin provides general and integrated services to people struggling with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, or substance abuse.
  • Youth and adults can enroll in activities or fitness leagues at the Beaverton Activity Center.
  • The Gladwin County District Library has two branches, one in the city of Gladwin and the other in Beaverton.
  • Receive top-of-the-line physical therapy at the Gladwin Nursing and Rehab Community.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) supports small businesses and advanced technology companies.
  • The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) promotes economic progress in Gladwin. The EDC helps to finance new businesses and small businesses.

Job Fairs

  • N/A

Established Employers

  • Gladwin Community Schools
  • D&W Fine Pack
  • Brown Machine
  • Saint-Gobain
  • MidMichigan Health
  • Beaverton Rural Schools
  • Gladwin Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
  • Loose Plastics
  • East Jordan Plastics
  • Roll-Rite, LLC
  • Modern Machinery of Beaverton, Inc.

Gratiot

Activities

Sports

  • The Stone Center for Recreation at Alma College has an array of amenities that include a fitness room, swimming pool, track, climbing wall, areas for inline skating, and courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, floor hockey, pickle ball, dodge ball, and indoor soccer.
  • Go catch some college-level sports by watching the Alma Scots compete in a variety of sporting events.
  • Join a youth baseball program by registering with the Gratiot County Parks and Recreation Commission.
  • Tear up the fairway at one of Gratiot’s four scenic 18-hole golf courses, or hit nine holes at The Ridge golf course.

Parks/Outdoors

  • The Paul Hubscher County Park encompasses 60 acres of scenic beauty, including a man-made lake perfect for swimming and fishing.
  • Another park with a great lake for swimming and fishing is Reed County Park. This 100-acre park has five picnic pavilions, a bathhouse, a volleyball court, a baseball diamond, forests for hiking, and an 18-hole disc golf course.
  • Enjoy a family picnic at the 2.5-acre Pompeii Park, which offers a playground, pavilion, playing field, and much more.
  • Enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through the Pine River Canoe Trail with various different entry points at places like Lumberjack Park and Pine River Park.
  • Test your aim at one of Gratiot County’s five shooting ranges and game areas.
  • If mountain biking is what you love, then head to the 2.5-mile Alma Mountain Bike Trail.
  • Cool off in the heat of the summer at the Breckenridge Splash Park or the W.T. Morris Memorial Pool.

Nightlife

  • With two movie theatres, Gratiot County offers you the chance to enjoy current films.
  • Check out the Gratiot County Players or some live music at The Strand Theatre.

Communities

Services

  • Gratiot County offers a full range of utilities for its residents.
  • Gratiot County offers several major health centers, including the MidMichigan District Health Department, the Gratiot Integrated Health Network, the MidMichigan Medical Center Hospital, and others.
  • Providing for public safety, Gratiot is home to a Sheriff’s Department and a Fire Department.
  • Other services include animal control, veterans affairs, the commission on aging, and emergency management.
  • Gratiot Community Airport boasts two runways that handle commercial aircraft, including small jets. The airport provides services for individuals as well as business and freight patrons.
  • U.S. highway 127 and Michigan highway M-46 provide access for Gratiot residents to other parts of Michigan and beyond.

Education

  • A private liberal arts college, Alma College in Gratiot County focuses on personalized education, social responsibility, and extraordinary achievements.
  • Gratiot offers excellent pre-k through 12 educational opportunities with 24 public schools and 4 private schools.

Community Centers

  • Find information for a research project or a good book to read at one of Gratiot County’s five public libraries.
  • Alma College’s Oscar E. Remick Heritage Center hosts musical performances and visiting speakers.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • Greater Gratiot Development, Inc. (GGDI) offers quality assistance and guidance for growing your business.

Job Fairs

  • Each fall, Alma College hosts its annual Career EXPLO, which is a combination job fair and networking event.

Established Employers

  • Masonic Pathways
  • International Auto Components (IAC)
  • MidMichigan Medical Center – Gratiot
  • Alma College
  • Central MI Correctional Facility
  • St. Louis Correctional Facility
  • Avalon and Tahoe Manufacturing
  • Alma Public Schools
  • Alma Products
  • Hutchinson Aerospace & Industry

Isabella

Activities

Sports

  • Located in Mt. Pleasant, the Isabella Community Events (ICE) Arena supports hockey programs for a range of ages and events and services such as public skates, skating lessons, a figure skating club, and more.
  • Enjoy a multitude of athletic activities and programs that include fitness training, basketball, racquetball, tennis, volleyball, track, and much more at Morey Courts, which also has a deli.
  • Cheer on the CMU Chips at sporting events such as basketball, baseball, and football.
  • Go disc golfing at the 18-hole course in Deerfield Nature Park or the CMU Disc Golf Course.
  • Grab your friends for a game of golf at your choice of eight golf courses in the area.
  • Isabella County also supplies facilities for football, baseball, softball, field hockey, and soccer.

Parks/Outdoors

  • Explore Isabella County’s wildlife sanctuary and parks, which offer over 150 campsites, 10 cabins, three beaches for swimming, nine picnic areas, four pedestrian bridges, and miles of hiking trails.
  • Isabella County has 35 lakes, including Lake Isabella (701 acres) and Coldwater Lake (294 acres), as well as a multitude of rivers.
  • Great for biking, hiking, rollerblading, and cross-country skiing, the Pere Marquette Rail-Trail runs through Isabella County.
  • Go kayaking, canoeing, boating, or fishing on the Chippewa River.

Nightlife

  • For an enjoyable night out with your friends, visit Mt. Pleasant’s local bars, breweries, and restaurants.
  • Encore, Central Michigan’s top-rated dance club, features the latest sound and lighting technology.
  • Play some poker, enjoy live music, or savor an elegant dinner at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort.
  • Catch the newest must-see movie at the Celebration Cinema movie theater.

Communities

Services

  • The Central Michigan District Health Department works to promote health and physical wellbeing by providing education and health care.
  • Isabella County has several outstanding hospitals and health centers for its citizens, including the Isabella County Medical Care Facility (ICMCF). The county also has an animal hospital.
  • The Mt. Pleasant Municipal Airport is a general utility airport with two available runways.
  • US 127, a major highway, runs through Isabella County, providing easy access to travel destinations.
  • Isabella County has emergency and law enforcement services such as fire departments, police departments, ambulance services, and a county sheriff’s department.
  • Other county services include emergency management, veterans affairs, and the commission on aging—which offers home delivered meals and in-home services.

Education

  • The city of Mt. Pleasant is home to Central Michigan University (CMU), a public research university which offers you a personalized path for your education and success.
  • Are you looking for a college where you can earn your associate’s degree? With a campus in Mt. Pleasant, Mid Michigan Community College provides a wide range of programs designed to help you succeed.
  • Isabella County provides many options for K-12 public education, including 23 public schools and eight private schools.
  • Part of Mt. Pleasant Schools, Mt. Pleasant Community Education offers educational services ranging from pre-school programs to GED testing and high school completion programs.

Community Centers

  • The Isabella Community Sportsplex is home to both the I.C.E. Arena and Morey Courts.
  • Immerse yourself history and culture at one of the many museums, historical sites, or cultural centers in Isabella County.
  • Enjoy plays, musicals, and other entertainment at Central Michigan University’s theatre or the Broadway Theatre.
  • The Isabella County Commission on Aging’s Activity Center provides valuable services and programs for seniors.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) offers a wide variety of services to help entrepreneurs and businesses succeed.
  • Central Michigan University’s Career Development Center helps CMU students and alumni develop professionally, find internships, and secure jobs.
  • Central Michigan University’s Research Corporation (CMURC) helps entrepreneurs prepare their products for market and build their businesses.
  • The Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce (MPACC) works to connect businesses to members, clients, and consumers through its network of programming, resources, and training.

Job Fairs

  • N/A

Established Employers

  • Central Michigan University
  • Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
  • McLaren Central Michigan Hospital
  • Delfield
  • Morbark, LLC
  • McBride Quality Care
  • Mt. Pleasant Public Schools
  • Isabella Bank
  • STT Security
  • Bandit Industries Inc.
  • Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribal Govt.

Midland

Activities

Sports

  • Midland is home to mid-Michigan’s only minor league baseball team, the Great Lakes Loons, who play at the 5,500-seat Dow Diamond.
  • At Midland Civic Arena, you can enjoy ice-skating or hockey on one of the two ice rinks (one NHL size and one Olympic size) or play soccer or football on the field.
  • If tennis is your sport of choice, then Midland County has you covered with the Midland Community Tennis Center, which was named one of the top 25 tennis centers in the country.
  • Satisfy your hunger for soccer at the Midland Soccer Club, home to 30 fields and programs for youth and adults.
  • Own the fairway at one of Midland County’s three golf courses or at the Chippewa Banks Disc Golf Course.
  • For all other sports, head on over to the Greater Midland Community Center, where you can enjoy racquetball, swimming, running on an indoor track, weight training, cardio, climbing, basketball, volleyball, pickle, and badminton.
  • The Trilogy Skateboard Park in Midland is a great place to test your skills in rollerblading, skateboarding, or BMX.

Parks/Outdoors

  • Midland County maintains over 80 parks, including spray parks, parks with swimming pools, and parks with basketball and tennis courts.
  • City Forest is a 520 acre park great for biking, running, hiking, and (in winter) cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating.
  • Explore nature during all of its seasons at the Chippewa Nature Center, which hosts events for all nature enthusiasts.
  • At Dow Gardens, walk through 110 acres of botanical gardens, including water features, a greenhouse, and a children’s garden. In December, wander through gently-lit pathways while listening to carolers. In the spring, interact with hundreds of colorful butterflies at the conservatory.
  • Extending for 30 miles, the scenic Pere Marquette Rail Trail connects Midland and Clare. This paved trail is a great place to bike or hike.
  • The Tridge is a three-legged pedestrian footbridge that links recreational areas with downtown Midland. In the summer near the Tridge, you can shop at the farmers’ market, enjoy concerts, and play in the nearby park.
  • Midland is home to Sanford Lake, a 2.2 square mile man-made lake perfect for boating and swimming. Sanford Lake Park boasts over a half-mile of lake frontage and 1,000 feet of sandy beaches.
  • Opening in October of 2018 is the Whiting Forest section of Dow Gardens. Its centerpiece is a 1,400-foot, fully accessible canopy walk, the largest of its kind in the nation.

Nightlife

  • Catch a new movie that is on your must-see list at NGC Midland Cinemas.
  • Aim for strikes at Midland bowling alleys such as Northern Lanes or Valley Lanes Family Entertainment Center.
  • Enjoy a nighttime public skating event at the Midland Civic Arena.
  • Captain Dave’s Family Entertainment Center is a great place to enjoy rollerblading and roller skating.
  • Downtown Midland has some great local bars and restaurants to give you a fun night out.

Communities

Services

  • With its headquarters in Midland, MidMichigan Health is a nonprofit health system affiliated with the University of Michigan’s health system. Among the physicians at MidMichigan Health are those who have expertise in neuroscience, oncology, orthopedics, and cardiovascular services.
  • The MidMichigan Medical Center in Midland is a 265-bed hospital located on 180 acres of wooded campus.
  • Midland Cogeneration Venture boasts America’s largest natural gas-fired plant that generates steam and electricity. In addition, Consumers Energy in Midland provides gas, electricity, and steam options.
  • Midland’s water resources are abundant, and the wastewater treatment standards are top-notch.
  • Midland County is ready to serve you with its emergency, postal, environmental health, veterans, mosquito control, and other services.

Education

  • Midland County has four public school districts in Midland, Bullock Creek, Meridian, and Coleman and seven private schools.
  • Based in Midland, Northwood University offers a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degrees, including master’s degrees in business administration, finance, and organizational leadership.
  • Davenport University and Delta College both have campuses in Midland that offer high-quality education.

Community Centers

  • Midland Center for the Arts provides entertainment throughout the year, including plays, concerts, films, musicals, and more.
  • Explore the many exhibits—including regular special exhibits—at the Alden B. Dow Museum of Art and Science, which has over 14,000 feet of gallery space.
  • The Midland Fair Grounds hosts a variety of events including the Midland County Fair.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • Midland Tomorrow is a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to help your business grow in Midland.

Job Fairs

  • N/A

Established Employers

  • Dow Chemical Company
  • MidMichigan Health
  • Midland Public Schools
  • Chemical Bank
  • Northwood University
  • Greater Midland
  • Three Rivers Construction
  • Quad Graphics
  • Meijer
  • Bierlein Companies Inc.

Saginaw

Activities

Sports

  • The Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) resides in Saginaw.  This internationally recognized hockey club builds future pro hockey players while providing excitement for fans throughout its 68-game season.
  • Come enjoy some college competition as the Saginaw Valley State University Cardinals battle for glory against colleges from around the area in multiple sporting events, including football and basketball.
  • Saginaw is home to the Saginaw Soccer Complex, a giant 80-acre soccer complex with 21 full-size fields, nature trails, and much more.
  • The Saginaw Bay Ice Arena is home to the Greater Saginaw Amateur Hockey Association (GSAHA), where people of all ages can participate in ice-skating and hockey programs.  The Ice Arena also offers skating events and times that are open to the public.
  • Saginaw has several tennis courts that are open to the public, including the Garber Tennis Courts.
  • If you are looking for basketball, Center Courts is the place to go for youth/adult basketball programs and public basketball events.
  • If you prefer baseball diamonds, Saginaw has you covered with two little league baseball centers, adult baseball programs, and adult softball programs.
  • Knock down some pins and have a fun night out with friends and family at one of Saginaw’s many bowling alleys. They also accommodate leagues.
  • Located in Saginaw, Can-Amera Park will fulfill your desires to play soccer, play football, or ride your bike. Families with young children also love the play and picnic areas.
  • Improve your golfing abilities at one of Saginaw’s 26 private and public golf courses.

Parks/Outdoors

  • The Saginaw Valley Rail-Trail is a great path to explore whether you are riding a bike, going for a jog, or just taking a nice stroll with friends.  This 10-mile trail will take you through the scenic country of Saginaw County.
  • Saginaw also features six other trail systems.
  • Four rivers converge in the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge. Containing 10,000 acres of forest and grasslands, the refuge attracts migratory birds and will satisfy your inner explorer.
  • At Ringwood Forest, enjoy 160 acres of some of Michigan’s oldest forests as you explore the towering ancient trees.
  • If you love boating or paddling on peaceful rivers, Saginaw has you covered with several boat launches throughout the area.
  • Are you looking for a great place to take the family for day trip and enjoy the outdoors? Try one of Saginaw’s six great parks and various nature centers.
  • If you are a skateboarder, head down to Celebration Square Skate Park to hone your skills as a skater and throw down some slick tricks with your friends.
  • The Frankenmuth Aerial Park will give you an adrenaline rush with its treetop zip lines and rope courses.

Nightlife

  • The Old Town and Hamilton Street areas of Saginaw have a variety of bars and restaurants for a fun night out with your friends.
  • If you want to catch a new film, you can stop by the Fashion Square Cinemas or the Saginaw Quality 10 GDX movie theater, which features one 70-foot wide screen.
  • Head over to the Dow Event Center or the Huntington Event Park to enjoy some live music, great hockey, and other exciting events.
  • Knock down some pins and have a fun night out with your friends and family at one of Saginaw’s many bowling alleys.
  • Join Counter Cruise Monday Nights for a sunset bike ride around Saginaw with other cyclists.

Communities

Services

  • For health care, Saginaw has you covered with numerous health care providers who offer some of the most advanced medical technologies in the country.  Saginaw has leading medical researchers in fields such as neuroscience, cardiovascular health, and radiation oncology.
  • Saginaw County has a Fire and Police Department fully equipped to serve and protect the community.
  • Saginaw also provides public services such as recycling and trash collection, water and sewer maintenance, water treatment, transportation, snow removal, and electrical utility services.
  • Highway I-75 passes through Saginaw County, giving residents and visitors quick access to a major interstate highway.

Education

  • Nestled on the outer edges of Saginaw is Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU), home of the Cardinals. With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, SVSU offers a valuable college education that will prepare you for rewarding career opportunities.
  • With campuses in Saginaw, Davenport University can prepare you for exciting careers as you work toward a two- or four-year degree.
  • Saginaw has 20 public and charter schools that provide quality K-12 education. Saginaw also offers 35 private or parochial schools.
  • The Saginaw Career Complex (SCC) works with parents, businesses, and community partners to provide high school students with career experience before they graduate from high school.

Community Centers

  • The Saginaw Children’s Zoo is an enchanting family destination where you can view Kangaroos, Chinchillas, Macaws, Black-Footed Penguins, and many other amazing creatures.
  • Located in downtown Saginaw is the historic Temple Theatre, which hosts a wide range of entertainment such as plays and concerts.
  • Saginaw County features many museums, including the Saginaw Art Museum, the Castle Museum of Saginaw County History, and the Military and Space Museum in Frankenmuth.
  • Immerse yourself in a different culture by visiting Saginaw’s Japanese Cultural Center and Tea Garden or Frankenmuth’s German-themed architecture and events.
  • Four public libraries call Saginaw home, giving citizens quick and easy access to countless books covering a wide range of topics and genres.
  • Established in 1844, the YMCA of Saginaw County has recreational programs and services for all ages.
  • The MBS International Airport in Freeland provides you with quick access to flights out of Michigan so that you can take your dream vacation.
  • Saginaw County offers several rec centers, including Canter Courts and the Freeland Sports Zone.

Opportunities

Incubators

  • The Central Michigan University Research Corporation has established a branch in Saginaw to help you grow your business or startup.
  • By providing affordable spaces and utilities, the SVCR Market Place in Saginaw helps you hit the ground running with your business.

Job Fairs

  • Throughout the year, SVSU hosts multiple job fairs that are open to the public and bring in hundreds of employers.

Established Employers

  • Nexteer Automotive
  • Covenant Healthcare
  • St. Mary’s of Michigan
  • Morley Companies, Inc.
  • Meijer
  • Saginaw Valley State University
  • Hemlock Semiconductor/Dow Corning Corporation
  • Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Inc.
  • Saginaw Public Schools
  • Frankenmuth Insurance
  • Aleda E. Lutz Veteran Affairs Medical Center