culture & natural attractions  

 

Nestled in the heart of Isabella County, Mount Pleasant has been welcoming visitors since 1860. The splendor of the area's natural attractions, interwoven with the breathtaking tapestry of Mount Pleasant's rich history and American Indian heritage, ensure that every visitor will find something to delight and entertain them.

The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe has long been a dynamic force in the Mount Pleasant community. The Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort has created new entertainment opportunities, while the Tribe's proud cultural heritage is displayed in the Ziibiwing Cultural Center.

Opened in the spring of 2004, the 32,000 sq. ft. center is dedicated to the Anishabe culture and lifeways and houses a permanent exhibit, temporary exhibit, research center, meeting and conference facilities, cafe, and gift shop. Located on East Broadway in Mount Pleasant, the center is an influential addition to the community and will enlighten visitors to the culture, heritage, history, and goals of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. For more information, call (800) 225-8172 ext. 54750.

"Saginaw Chippewa Pow Wow" provides visitors to Mount Pleasant the opportunity to experience firsthand traditional Native American dress, dancing, food, and crafts. This outdoor competition pow wow, held in August, attracts dancers and drummers from all over the United States. To learn more, call (989) 775-4000.

Nature lovers of all ages will find that the Mount Pleasnat area provides amble opportunities for year-round enjoyment of the outdoors. Mount Pleasant has over 15 parks to choose from, offering an abundance of beautiful areas for picnics, fishing, swimming, nature and bike trails, sledding, cross country skiing, as well as a skate park.

With over 110 different species of birds observed in this area, the Florence Maxwell Sanctuary is a magnificent place for the bird watcher. Maintained by the Chippewa Valley Audubon Club, this 40-acre preserve is located at the end of Wing Road and west of Winn Road. Open from dawn till dusk, the preserve offers visitors a peaceful surrounding to observe nature.

The beauty of nature can also be observed with a trip down the "Mighty" Chippewa River. Whether by canoe, kayak or tube, the Chippewa River winds its way through Isabella County offering a year-round opportunity to view wildlife, do a little fishing or just relax while the river carries you away.

The Mount Pleasant area is also has many great military memorials that pay tribute to lost heros in Michigan including the Michigan Vietnam State Memorial, W.W.I and W.W. II Memorials, and the Koren Memorial. The Vietnam State Memorial is located at Island Park in Mount Pleasant and honors all Michigan war dead by name and those listed as Missing in Action.  Constructed in 1990 by local Vietnam veterans and volunteers this memorial features a series of 8 monuments, a flag gallery, walk bridge, bronze statue and information building. The W.W.I and W.W. II Memorials are located at the corner of Broadway and Kinney Streets in Downtown Mount Pleasant. The Koren Memorial is located in Downtown Mount Pleasant and honors those who have sacrificed the greatest to keep this country free.

With so many opportunities for cultural and natural awareness, a visitor to Mount Pleasant can discover a multitude of activities to entertain even the most discerning mind.