Flushing Community Schools are among the best in Michigan. The school district stresses academic excellence and its total educational system is highly respected by major universities, businesses and industry. The Flushing High School "Marching Raiders" is a nationally known marching band that has performed all over the country. Genesee County also has four institutions of higher learning: Mott Community College, University of Michigan-Flint, Baker College and Kettering University.

Like many Michigan towns, Flushing was originally a lumber town. The railroad arrived in 1888 but the town did not see substantial growth for almost 50 years. Founders Charles and James Seymour settled Flushing in 1935 and built a sawmill on the Flint River. In fact, Genesee County grew quickly during the lumber era because Flushing, Flint and other towns were such good locations to sort and process lumber. The original Flushing train depot is currently the site of the Flushing Historical Society and the Flushing Museum and Cultural Center.

Many other cultural and recreational options are available in Flushing. Award-winning musicians carry on a rich tradition started by the Flushing Concert Band in 1849. Groups such as the "Flushing Ladies Band" were the predecessors to the city's Concert in the Park series, held at Riverview Park during the summer months. Other area attractions include the 125-acre Genesee County Park and the Valley Golf and Country Club, featuring a challenging round of 18 holes. The city of Flushing also features a bustling historic downtown with many preserved turn-of-the-century buildings.