Midland
Mid-century modern aesthetics meet incredibly well-funded parks in this sophisticated chemical-industry hub.
The Dow Chemical legacy means incredible philanthropy funds the local parks and arts infrastructure.
Architecture & Ales
Take a self-guided driving tour of the snowy Alden B. Dow mid-century modern homes around town, then warm up with a flight of stouts at Midland Brewing Company.
Morning espresso at Live Oak, followed by a snowy hike across the canopy walk at Whiting Forest. Afternoon tobogganing at City Forest, then dinner at Cafe Zinc and drinks at WhichCraft Taproom.
Add a Saturday exploring the exteriors of Alden B. Dow's mid-century modern homes under fresh snow, grab a classic pie for lunch at Pizza Sam's, and spend the evening enjoying a show at the Midland Center for the Arts.
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Cafe Zinc
An elite, modern bistro tucked into the H Hotel, perfect for warming up over French onion soup and craft cocktails.
- 02
Gratzi
Sophisticated and cozy, offering modern takes on Italian classics in a polished downtown dining room.
- 03
Maru Sushi + Bar
A sleek, trendy spot serving up excellent specialty rolls and hot sake to beat the Michigan chill.
715 E Main St #120, Midland, MI 48640 · 989-633-0101 · Website ↗
French Onion Soup
Caramelize yellow onions slowly in butter, deglaze with a dark Michigan stout, simmer with rich beef broth, and broil with a thick layer of Gruyère over a toasted baguette slice.
Three things most people walk past.
- Snow-covered structural pods
- Frozen orchard views
- Suspended cargo nets over the snow
- 01
WhichCraft Taproom
A brick-lined, comfy hangout dedicated strictly to Michigan-made craft beer, cider, and wine.
- 02
Midland Brewing Company
A historic local revival brewing excellent stouts and porters, complete with an outdoor winter fire pit setup.
5011 N Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48642 · 989-259-7210 · Website ↗
- 01
Live Oak Coffeehouse
A bright, community-focused roaster providing the perfect morning espresso jumpstart.
- 02
Crepes Et Amis
A quaint cafe specializing in sweet and savory crêpes alongside great coffee in a compact, warm space.
- 01
Canopy Walk in the Snow
The longest canopy walk in the country is stunning when the pines are covered in snow.
- 02
Tobogganing & Ice Skating
Features groomed lighted sledding, two toboggan runs, and a large ice rink in front of a warming chalet.
- 03
City Forest Chalet
Skates, sleds, snowshoes, classic/skate cross-country skis
Local customDebating which mid-century modern home hidden in the residential neighborhoods has the best architecture.
- Relying on the 'Rainout Line' updates to see if the City Forest toboggan runs are icy enough to open.
- Mid-century modern architecture thrives here, with Alden B. Dow's influence visible in local homes and civic buildings.
- Winter recreation is remarkably well-organized, leaning heavily on groomed trails and dedicated civic spaces rather than rugged backcountry.
Usually mid-December, confirm
Dow Gardens Christmas Walk
Stroll the softly lit trails of the botanical gardens accompanied by live choir music and hot cocoa.
Usually February, confirm
Snow Moon Trail Run
A unique evening trail race run over packed snow and ice through the dark pines.
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The H Hotel
Spiffy, upscale modern lodging right downtown with an excellent heated indoor pool.
Bring a little Midland homeThe statement sweatshirtFor winning arguments about who had it worse.Have a look ↗