If you're from Flint like me, you're probably getting really sick of the media making our city look terrible.
Yes, there are bad parts (just like most cities) but I'd like to highlight why I love to call Flint my home.
1. The Flint Farmers' Market
It is open year round and has things for everyone. From fresh produce, to coffee, to jerky, to tacos, to sunflowers, to locally made clothing and jewelry. All of the vendors are friendly and always excited to sell to you. Not to mention that you're buying local and you're also surrounded by other people who know that it's important to buy local. That's a good feeling. I would definitely recommend anything from Willow's Juice Bar.
2. Starlite
This is the place for everyone. After high school football games you can find half of the student sections here. Not to mention, it's cheap and delicious (and even has a drive thru!). Many people have been going to Starlite their entire lives and have grown to know the staff there. Not to mention that it was supposed to have it's own reality TV show on TLC. I haven't heard anything on this in awhile but we still all have our fingers crossed.
3. Genesee County Parks
Some of these aren't technically in Flint but they're close enough to where I think they should count. Crossroads Village is a historic town that is up and running. Many nearby schools take field trips here, as it is a fun way for students to learn. Not to mention all of the events they host like "Ladies Night," and "A Day Out With Thomas." During the holidays it is decorated to the max - you can go on a haunted train ride in the fall months and drive through a beautifully lit Christmas town during the winter ones. Former Nature Preserve is also worthy of mentioning (even though it is located in Burton). It is a beautiful place to walk around and they also host many events for people of all ages.
4. Downtown hot spots
Downtown Flint is beautiful and has plenty of places to stop and eat at. Blackstone's, Cafe Rhema and The Flint Crepe Company are a few of my favorites. It's always nice to support local businesses all while eating delicious food in a lovely city. Not to mention that all of these places are decorated perfectly!
5. The Crim
People come from all over the world to run in this 10 mile race through Flint. It raises money for causes each year. This year the proceeds will go to the funds that support the children of Flint. Not only is there a 10 mile race, there's also a one mile, teddy bear trot and many more.
6. Banana Boat Ice Cream
Notoriously known for their large banana splits, many people claim they have to stop at Banana Boat AT LEAST once every summer. They have a new soft serve flavor of the week each week so you never have to get the same thing twice (unless you're a frequent flyer, no shame). You get what you pay for and the combinations are endless.
7. Back to the Bricks
This annual car show is a week long and ends in Downtown Flint on a Saturday each year. Thousands come out from 8 a.m to 5 p.m to see all types of cars. In case you don't believe me, here's a shot of it.
8. Making Strides of Flint
Every year during Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October), there is a walk held to support cancer survivors, patients and those that lost their battle. It raises money to help find a cure for breast cancer.
9. The Longway Planetarium
This is the largest planetarium in Michigan. A few of its programs include astronomy and laser light shows. It is fun for all ages and just added new technology and shows this year. It is a fun way to learn if you don't get motion sickness.
10. The Flint Institute of Arts
With new exhibits coming and going often, you can never get sick of the FIA. Plus, admission is free on Saturday's so it is very welcoming to the public. Admission is only $7 and worth every penny for those interested or not interested in art. It is exciting for all types of people, regardless of age.
When everything is said and done, the media can't change the way locals feel about Flint. I am happy to call this place home and to be so close to so many great places.
