Why Live in Downtown Flint
Downtown Flint is characterized by its vibrant commercial district along Saginaw Street, where an array of bars, restaurants, and retailers create a lively atmosphere. Notable establishments include Churchill’s Food and Spirits, a casual diner with an old-school vibe, and Xolo, a modern Mexican restaurant. The Flint Farmers Market, located at East 1st and Harrison streets, features over 50 year-round vendors selling locally grown produce, meats, and crafts, with additional vendors joining from May through October. Buckham Alley and Brush Alley, each stretching about two blocks, are popular weekend destinations for bar crawlers. The neighborhood offers various greenspaces and trails, including the 25-mile Flint River Trail and Riverbank Park, which hosts the annual Jazz Festival. Wilson Park provides shaded picnic areas under its oak trees. The YMCA of Greater Flint, currently on East 3rd and Stevens Streets, offers a swimming pool, gym, and basketball court, with a new facility set to open in 2025. Housing in Downtown Flint is predominantly apartments, condos, and townhomes, with new developments like LiveWell on Harrison and the Gate Housing Project adding affordable options. Public transit is accessible via the MTA transit center, and the area is bordered by Interstates 69 and 475. Bishop International Airport is 5 miles southwest, and Hurley Medical Center is about a mile north. Annual events such as Back to the Bricks, the Festival of Races, and the Flint ARTWALK draw large crowds, providing numerous things to do for residents and visitors alike.
