You’re playing a tournament at Bailey Park – good luck! But when you’re not on the ball field, what else is there to do? Here’s a guide to things to do and places to eat in Battle Creek:
Food suggestions
A classic for Bailey Park visitors. Locals rave about the pizza crust, and that includes gluten-free options. The menu also has one very un-pizzeria item -- the wet burrito -- which gets good press.
Salsas Mexican Restaurant
Fresh Mexican food, not too far from the ballpark. The authentic menu includes fajitas, which has become a fan favorite.
OT’s is famous for their barbecue ribs -- just ask the judges at Ribfest Kalamazoo. But there’s more to the menu, with catfish and perch dinners, pulled pork sandwiches, savory sides and some sweet potato pie. The Battle Creek location is take-out only.
Downtown
Downtown Battle Creek is only a short drive away, and there’s plenty of options. Griffin Grill and Pub is an Irish-inspired pub with good burgers and fish and chips. Clara’s on the River has room for large groups and the big menu has something for everyone. Cafe Rica is essential for when you really need a caffeine fix. Pizza Rescue does order out, which is convenient if you want to do a pizza party while staying at DoubleTree by Hilton. Speaking of DoubleTree, get breakfast at Alloy, the hotel restaurant.
Things to do
Cool off at this waterpark, with two waterslides and a water-themed playground. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $12 per person, free for ages 2 and younger. Tuesdays are 2 for 1 tickets and it’s $5 after 5 p.m. for every other day except Sunday.
Party like it’s 1999. Lakeview Square Mall has a movie theater, a skate park, a Buffalo Wild Wings, an Olive Garden, a Dunham’s sports store and a Barnes and Noble with Starbucks. There’s also the grocery store Horrocks, which has a crazy candy section.
Feed giraffes in Wild Africa, learn about dinosaurs in Zoorassic Park and go flying in the three-story ropes course with zip lines. There are lots of cute animals to meet.
Events
Field of Flight: July 2-6
The Thunderbirds are the big attraction this July. But the newest performance is a drone show on July 3. As always, there will be balloons, carnival rides and food.
Vibe@5: July 11, 18, 25; Aug. 1, 8, 15
A free outdoor concert at Friendship Park at 5 p.m. Bring chairs and take advantage of the downtown social district and food truck. This year’s line-up includes Toppermost, the Beatles tribute band.
Leilapalooza: July 26
The music festival takes place in Leila Arboretum, across three different stages. You can spread out a picnic blanket among the fantastic sculptures of Fantasy Forest or dance in the grass by the perennial gardens. The genres are as diverse as the types of flora in the arboretum.
Cruise the Creek: Aug. 9
Classic cars will cruise through downtown Battle Creek. It’s a car show that moves.
Color the Creek: Aug. 9-15
Artists will be painting on the walls in Battle Creek, adding to the dozens of murals that can already be found from past festivals. Events include art parties and kids day.
Calhoun County Fair: Aug. 11-16
Anyone craving fried food and a ride on the carousel is welcome at the Marshall fairgrounds. It’s a chance for kids to get close with animals such as sheep, horses, cows and goats. There’s a show every night, ranging from a rodeo to demolition derby.
Downtown Country Jam at Kellogg Arena: Aug. 16
Arrive early for the pre-party at Festival Market Square, with live music, craft vendors, food trucks, and ice-cold drinks. Headlining the night is country sensation Drake Milligan, known for his classic sound and electrifying performances. Opening for him is Michigan native Jason Cross.
Backyard Burgers and Brews Festival: Aug. 23
It’s not just about burgers – this gathering of food trucks has elephant ears, paella, gumbo and curry. Travel the world and experience a taste of everything at the popular food festival in downtown Battle Creek.
