|
The natural resources in Saginaw, Bay, and
Midland Counties are an integral part of one of Michigan's largest tourism
industries. The Saginaw River and Lake Huron provide year-round
activity from boating to fishing. Popular events such as Freeland's
Walleye Festival and the Shiver on the River ice-fishing competition
attract visitors throughout the Midwest. The area's natural
resources also provide ample opportunity for the observation of
wildlife. Midland's Chippewa Nature Center, Shiawassee Wildlife
Refuge and Bay City's Tobico Marsh State Game Area are amoung the many
places visitors are able to enjoy nature.
The Tri-Counties also boast 26 public and
private golf courses, providing over 450 holes ranging in difficulty and
affordability. Among them is a PGA course designed by Jack Nicklaus
at Bay Valley Hotel and Resort. Apple Mountain Ski & Golf Resort
and Frankenmuth's Fortress are also among the area's most impressive
courses.
Other recreational activities include the
Pere-Marquette Rail Trail. This 23 mile paved trail, beginning at
Midland's Tridge, is ideal for biking, walking, cross country skiing or
inline skating. In addition, some of the Midwest's best skiing is
only a short distance away at Boyne Mountain, Boyne Highlands, and
Caberfae.
The Tri-County community also provides many
unique cultural opportunities. The Midland Center for the Arts hosts
performances in music, theatre, and dance. Art, science, and history
exhibits are also on display. The Bay City Players is the county's
oldest, continuously running community theatre. For those preferring
a more peaceful experience, Midland's Dow Gardens includes 110 acres of
gardens open to the public year round. Exploring is
encouraged.
Saginaw County has numerous cultural
attractions as well. Included is the Japanese Cultural Center and
Tea Garden and the Marshall Fredericks Sculpture Gallery, located at
Saginaw Valley State University. In Frankenmuth, Michigan's #1
tourist destination, visitors may enjoy the German atmosphere found year
round in the shops and restaurants scattered downtown.
Retail is big business. Saginaw's Birch
Run contains interstate 75's second most frequented exit, next only to
Orlando, Florida due widely to the popular Prime Outlets shopping
center.
The residents of Saginaw, Bay, and Midland
Counties are truly fortunate. Quality of life here provides a great
place to live, work, and raise a family. Employment opportunities
are diverse, neighbors are friendly, resources are plentiful, and
newcomers are welcome. | 
