Take a weekend getaway and check out 22 unique attractions in Saginaw, MI. Saginaw is a haven for outdoor lovers with a large national wildlife refuge, rail trails and rivers. Is culture more your style? You will not be disappointed by Saginaw’s cultural offerings.
Introduction to Saginaw, MI
In the 19th Century, the city was a thriving lumber town and then found success in manufacturing. Unfortunately, like many manufacturing towns, Saginaw experienced a downturn. However, the tides are turning and the city is currently in a recovery and rejuvenation mode.
Much of Saginaw’s historic downtown has been preserved and some of the buildings have been renovated. The downtown and riverfront areas have benefited from small businesses moving in, including independent restaurants, coffee shops, and unique stores.
Note: During the COVID pandemic, please check the links to make sure the attractions are open. Also, make note of any restrictions or requirements before visiting.
Recommended Trip Length: 2-3 days
Distance from Chicago: 4 Hours 30 Minutes
Travel “Flavors”: Outdoors, Culture, Family Fun
22 Unique Attractions in Saginaw, MI
Museums
Castle Museum of Saginaw County History (aka the Castle Museum) – The museum is housed in an epic castle, complete with gargoyles! The exhibits tell the history of the Saginaw area. The collection includes vintage vehicles, a sports hall of fame, and information on the Chippewa people.
Saginaw Art Museum – The museum is housed in the historic Clark L and Lizzie Merrill Ring House. The home of the lumber baron was designed by Charles A. Platt. Platt also designed the Italianate gardens which are still in existence today. The focus of the museum’s permanent exhibitions is art created by American and European artists in the 18th – 20th centuries.
Marshall M Fredericks Sculpture Museum, University Center – The focus of the museum is to display the work of Detroit-based sculptor Marshall M. Fredericks (1908-1998). The main gallery features his sculptures and the casts for his bronze sculptures. An outdoor sculpture garden combines his beautiful sculptures with a gorgeous garden area.
Mid-Michigan Children’s Museum – Let your littles be entertained through play at this great museum.
William W Schomaker Museum and Historic Village, Bridgeport – The Bridgeport Historical society uses a historic barn with a rather romantic orgin to house their exhibits. You can also visit the Historic Village with a schoolhouse, gazebo, old town hall, barn, firehouse, and house.
Saginaw Railway Museum – Check to see if this railway museum will be having and open house during your visit.
Parks
Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge – This 10,000 ace wildlife refuge is an important habitat for birds and other animals. It is home to the Prothonotary Warbler, which can only be found in a few locations in Michigan. Walk the trails or drive the seasonal auto tour route (6.5 miles, June to October) to see the wildlife. The refuge is also home to the Green Point Environmental Learning Center. The center has aquariums, a working bee hive, a wildlife observation area, and walking trails.
Price Nature Center – This park has 3 miles of trails in a quiet, secluded setting.
Stephen A Kirshenbaum Bark Park – If you brought your dog along for the adventure, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to let him or her run off leash for a while at the bark park.
If you want to extend your trip and spend more time in the Michigan outdoors, check out this post about nearby Midland and Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
Tours
Johnny Panther Quests Ecotours – This unique boat tour company can get you out on the water so see scenery or wildlife. They offer a variety of options that can be customized to your group. One of their tours goes through the Shiawassee Flats (aka the “Everglades of Michigan” ) in the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge.
Cultural Center and Gardens
Japanese Cultural Center – Their website indicates that “the Japanese Cultural Center, Tea House, and Gardens is dedicated “to promoting intercultural understanding and peace through a bowl of tea.” Stroll the gorgeous gardens (for FREE), book a tour and tea, or reserve a tea ceremony for your private group. It is the only authentic Japanese tea house in the Midwest.
Andersen Enrichment Center and Lucille Anderson Rose Garden – The center is an event venue which is home to many public and private event. The Lucille Anderson Rose Garden is also on the grounds.
Zoo
Saginaw Children’s Zoo – Check out this zoo for a great interactive experience for the kids. One of the highlights is a walk through aviary where you can feed the free flying birds millet sticks.
Rail and Water Trails
Saginaw Valley Rail Trail – This trail offers 9 1/2 miles of trail with 3 access points. This scenic trail has 7 bridges that cross rivers and creeks. You also may be treated to wildlife sightings.
Harger Line Rail Trail – Offering 10 miles of trail, running through farmland, this trail crosses 5 bridges over creeks. here are 2 trailheads.
Bay-Zil Rail Trail – The Bay-Zil trail offers 6.2 miles of scenic trail, running parallel to the Saginaw River. There is one trailhead.
Cass River Water Trail – For those of you that love canoing or kayaking, the Cass River Water Trail is a must see.
Performing Arts
Temple Theatre – The walls and patrons of this theatre have seen legends like BB King and George Carlin. It is home to a Barton Butterfield Special organ in original condition. While closed during the pandemic, they’ve been recording performances that you can view on their website. The Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra and the Saginaw Choral Society perform at the Temple Theatre.
Pit and Balcony Theatre – The theatre company has been around since 1932, and they built their own building in 1949. Performances are still held in the same building.
Family Fun
Kokomo’s Family Fun Center – If you need some traditional family vacation fun, stop here for go karts, mini golf, a roller coaster, and batting cages.
Johnson’s Giant Pumpkins – If you’re visiting during the Fall,make sure you stop buy to pick up a pumpkin and participate in the activities. Don’t forget to grab your cider and donuts.
Landmarks
Stevie Wonder Landmark – The famous Stevie Wonder was born in Saginaw. A landmark was erected in his name, however it now sits on an abandoned lot and is in need of restoration. Stop by to see it before it disappears altogether.
Tombstone of Robert G. Heft – visit the patriotic tombstone of the man who designed our 50 star flag, while he was still in high school.
Market
SVRC Marketplace – According to their website, their mission is to “empower persons at risk or with barriers to employment and community access” through economic development. Their marketplace, in the historic Saginaw News building, has eateries and small shops. Plus, you’ll feel good about supporting small businesses.
If you like public markets, check out this post about 26 Public Markets in the Midwest.
Travel Accessory
I’m a huge fan of the product and gift lists you see floating around the internet because I usually find some new-to-me product for myself, a friend or family member. I’d like to offer you the same inspiration by highlighting a travel accessory in each post.
This section contains an affiliate link. If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.
Does your spouse or partner prefer the car to be much cooler than you would prefer? Do your kids often get cold in the back seat? This electric car blanket can come to your rescue!
Final Thoughts
Those are just the 22 unique attractions in Saginaw, Mi that stood out to me. For more things to do, check out the Great Lakes Bay website. If you use my trip suggestions or if you’ve visited any of these locations in the past, please provide your reviews in the comments. Did I miss something? Please add other itinerary suggestions in the comments, especially if they are off the beaten path. Happy vacationing!