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. Opening Memorial Day, 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
Cinco de Mayo: May 2
Come for culture, activities and delicious food trucks, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Festival Market Square in downtown Battle Creek.
Taste of the Creek: June 6
Restaurants and food trucks gather for a fun food festival, from 2 to 9 p.m. at Festival Market Square in downtown Battle Creek.
Pull up to a table and eat free cereal, to celebrate Battle Creek’s food history. Corn Flakes were invented here in 1894 by the Kellogg brothers. Entertainment includes a parade the night before, live music and an animal show.
Juneteenth: June 19-20
Juneteenth has been celebrated in Battle Creek for decades. Join the tradition June 19-20 with activities for the entire family. On Friday, go to Washington Heights United Methodist Church for a showing of the basketball movie “GOAT.” The movie begins at 5:30 p.m. The party continues on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Claude Evans. There will be a free hot dog lunch, activities for kids, community recognition and entertainment.
Field of Flight: July 1-5
The air show is full of thrills as planes perform stunts. The newest performance is a drone show on July 2. As always, there will be balloons, carnival rides and food.
Vibe@5: July 10, 17, 31, Aug. 7 and 14
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.
Color the Creek: Aug. 8-15
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. 16-29
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.
Backyard Burgers and Brews Festival: Aug. 22
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.
