Started as a fur trading post in the early 1820s, Midland evolved into one of central Michigan's top industrial and commercial centers. By the late 19th century, Midland became home to several large corporations including Chemical Bank, the Dow Chemical Company, and Dow Corning Corporation.
Today, it still boasts a strong reputation for business, yet it has plenty to do if you're looking for recreation. It's surrounded by several top-notch golf courses, tennis courts, parks, and gardens. With its proximity to Lake Huron, water sports, fishing, and boating are all very popular. Midland is also known as the "City of Beautiful Churches," with over 100 places of worship for seemingly every type of faith. Another can't-miss landmark is The Tridge, which is a three-way walking bridge over the of the Tittabawassee River and the Chippewa River. Whether you're in Midland for business or pleasure, it's important to find the right hotel to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
When to Visit Midland, MI
The best time to visit Midland is the summertime between June and August when temperatures rise to the mid-80s during the day and the low 60s at night. During this time, Dow Gardens is in full bloom, the Single-A Great Lake Loons are in the midst of their season, and the temperature is perfect for hitting the links or playing just about any recreational sport. Rates tend to be a bit higher at this time of year, but usually it's due to an influx of businessmen in town for meetings or tours of manufacturing plants. You may want to book ahead of time just to make certain you get the hotel and room you want.
If you want to avoid the crowds and have your choice of activities without waiting, the spring is the best time to visit. Although there's still a chance of snow and the temperatures rise and fall with Arctic air from Canada, the 3,000 acres of parks suddenly burst to life. It's the perfect time to saunter around town. You won't have to worry much about finding a hotel room at this time, but scoping out a spot early may help you save some money.
Fall is another brilliant time to head to Midland. During the autumn, the surrounding parks start to change to shades of red, yellow, and orange, and wildlife viewings are always a possibility. If you have children, fall is the ideal time to hop on over to one of the area's orchards or berry farms to let your kids pick fruit. As in spring, hotels aren't in huge demand and prices are reasonable.
For travelers looking for a unique adventure, the winter offers a quaint background for your visit. At this time, you can explore the surrounding wilderness by strapping on snowshoes or cross-country skis. The premier place to visit at this time is the Chippewa Nature Center, which offers 1,200 acres of land and 15 miles of trails for nature lovers. It's possible that demand and rates go up during the holiday season, but typically, rates stay relatively steady and affordable.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Midland, MI:
Midland, MI: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Midland, MI. Browse these charts to calculate the best seasons to book a room in Midland during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Midland, MI
4 Star Average Prices: $142.20
Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway, a romantic weekend, or you just want to get some work done with all the luxuries, Midland's top option is the H Hotel in downtown Midland. If you're coming from the airport, the H Hotel picks you up in a shuttle and ushers you to the hotel for free. Each of the hotel's 130 rooms is bathed in elegant styling, making your stay comfortable and indulgent. In-room amenities include a pillow-top mattress, a 47-inch flat screen television with cable, complimentary Wi-Fi, 24 hour room service, and designer shampoos and bath soaps.
If you've decided that you're hungry or want to imbibe after a long day's work, the H Hotel provides two on-site restaurants and a bar/lounge. When you have some free time, you can take a dip in the indoor pool, work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center, get a massage, or go out on one of the hotel's organized activities.
Affordable Hotel Choices in Midland, MI
3 Star Average Prices: $114.25
If you're traveling on a budget, Midland has numerous hotels to accommodate your needs. The Econo Lodge Central is centrally located, and at just a mile from downtown Midland, it's the closest option for low-cost travelers. At this hotel you'll have short drives to Dow Diamond, Midland Mall, Central Park, and the Midland Center for the Arts. There are several room arrangements to meet your needs including rooms with one king size bed, one queen size bed, two double beds, or two queen beds. In-room amenities offered include free high-speed wireless internet, a mini-fridge, and HBO. Once you've settled in, the Econo Lodge Central has a restaurant on-site, a bar and lounge, a pool table, and free breakfast.
Another affordable option that's just a bit further from the city is the Days Inn Midland. This hotel is just a five-mile drive from downtown, but it's also closer to Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay. Once you've checked into your room, you can head into town or stick around and enjoy features such as a billiards room, a full fitness center, indoor pool, a sauna, and an arcade. Other amenities include a complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a deli that's perfect for a snack or lunch. If you want to hit the town, the Days Inn is near the Convention Center, Central Park, and the Plymouth Park Fun Zone.