Noted for its central location and esthetically pleasing lantern-lined streets, this small Isabella County city creates quite a tourist allure. Situated as it is along the banks of the Chippewa River and adjacent to the Isabella Indian Reservation provides Mount Pleasant with scenic views and diverse culture. The north-south US Highway 127 and the east-west M 20 pass through the city, offering easy access for visitors from across the state of Michigan. Once a lumber town, Mount Pleasant became the county seat and home to Central Michigan University, shifting the economy from manufacture-based industries to a more tourism and university-business driven market. The Soaring Eagle Casino adds another dynamic to the appeal of this city by drawing in thrill seeking travelers. Dozens of specialty shops, renovated walkways, sidewalk cafes and gardens compose the Downtown Mount Pleasant shopping district. In addition to culture and entertainment this city also offers a wide range of outdoor activities and over a dozen city and surrounding parks.