Bay City Eagerly Awaits First Chick-fil-A Opening

New location set to debut with special cow-themed grand opening event

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:15am

Chick-fil-A is preparing to open its second location in the Bay County area, this time in Bay City on Wilder Road. The highly anticipated opening has generated significant social media buzz, with the company teasing a special cow-themed grand opening celebration where customers dressed in cow spots can receive a free entrée.

Why it matters

The arrival of a new Chick-fil-A location is a major event for the Bay City community, as the popular fast-food chain has developed a devoted following across Michigan. The opening is expected to draw large crowds and boost economic activity in the area.

The details

The new Chick-fil-A restaurant will be located at 3450 East Wilder Road in Bay City. While an official grand opening date has not yet been announced, the company has indicated it will be opening in early 2026. The grand opening celebration will feature a cow-themed event where customers wearing cow-spotted attire can receive a free entrée.

  • Chick-fil-A was announced for the Bay City location in August 2025.
  • The new restaurant is expected to open in early 2026.

The players

Chick-fil-A

A popular fast-food restaurant chain known for its chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. Chick-fil-A is opening its second location in the Bay County area, this time in Bay City.

Bay City, Michigan

A city in Michigan's Bay County that is eagerly awaiting the opening of its first Chick-fil-A restaurant.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Somehow, the line never seems any shorter. Someday, I will finally find out what all the fuss is about - so let me know what I should order when I do.”

— Maggie Meadows

What’s next

The Chick-fil-A location in Bay City is expected to announce an official grand opening date soon, which will kick off the highly anticipated cow-themed celebration event.

The takeaway

The arrival of a new Chick-fil-A restaurant in Bay City is a significant event for the local community, reflecting the chain's growing popularity across Michigan. The grand opening celebration promises to be a fun and engaging event that will draw crowds eager to experience the Chick-fil-A brand for the first time.