Road Tripping from Bay City to Toledo: A Guide to Your Options

Taking a road trip can be a fun and exciting way to explore new areas, and a drive from Bay City, Michigan to Toledo, Ohio is no exception. This route can take you through beautiful scenery, charming towns, and even a few places to get a bite to eat. Here are a few options for your journey and the estimated driving times:

The Fastest Route: I-75 S

The quickest option for getting from Bay City to Toledo is by taking I-75 S. This well-traveled route is about 120 miles and takes around 2 hours to complete. Keep in mind that you may encounter some traffic on this highway, especially during peak travel times.

If you're looking for a quick stop along the way, consider visiting Birch Run Premium Outlets. This sprawling shopping center has over 145 stores and restaurants to choose from, making it a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite.

A Scenic Alternative: M-13 and US-23

If you're looking for a more scenic drive, consider taking M-13 and US-23. This 130-mile route takes you through small towns and rural landscapes, offering a quieter and more relaxing drive. Keep in mind that this can add some time to your journey, taking about 2.5 hours.

Consider stopping at Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge for a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors. This expansive wetland area provides visitors with a chance to see birds, amphibians, mammals, and other wildlife native to the area.

A Route Through Midland and Auburn: Bay City Rd and US-10

If you're looking for a route that takes you through a few small towns, consider taking Bay City Rd and US-10. This 125-mile route takes you through Midland and Auburn before joining up with I-75 and continuing on to Toledo. This route can take about 2.5 hours.

If you're looking for a fun place to stop along the way, consider visiting Midland Center for the Arts. This facility includes a theater, art galleries, and performance spaces, making it a great place to take in some culture.

A Northern Alternative: M-18 and M-46

An alternative to I-75, M-18 and M-46 offer a more northerly route to Toledo. This 140-mile route will take you through small towns and rural landscapes, offering a quieter and more scenic journey. This route can take about 3 hours.

Consider stopping at Sanford Lake Park for a beautiful view and a chance to stretch your legs. This park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a marina, making it a great place to spend an hour or two.

No matter which route you take, be sure to have a great time exploring all that Bay City, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio have to offer. And if you have time, try to make a few stops along the way to really take in all the scenery. Happy travels!