Blake Walsh

30 Best Things to Do in Battle Creek, MI

  • Published 2022/12/01

Battle Creek is a charismatic riverside city nestled on the banks of rivers Battle Creek and Kalamazoo.

It is known for its rich history and culture, diverse wildlife, and incredible natural beauty.

Popularly known as “Cereal City,” this is where cornflakes were invented by W.K. Kellogg in the late 1800s.

Battle Creek also played a significant role in the Seventh-day Adventist history.

With numerous parks, mesmerizing rivers, tranquil lakes, and sprawling greenery, this city offers plenty of opportunities for a wide array of outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, camping, wildlife viewing, and more.

Tour the outstanding museums, enjoy the electrifying nightlife, attend the vibrant festivals, and explore nature in this fantastic city that offers something for everyone.

Battle Creek is the ideal destination to plan your next vacation.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Battle Creek, Michigan:

Encounter Exotic Animals at Binder Park Zoo

Giraffe at Binder Park Zoo

DragonFae Art / Shutterstock.com

This place is a must-visit in Battle Creek.

Encompassing over 400 acres, this zoo is one of Michigan’s prime attractions.

It includes award-winning exhibits and a broad array of exotic flora and fauna from all over the globe.

Cacatua alba birds in Binder Park Zoo

ellenm1 from Ann Arbor, MI, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It features trams, carousels, and a train journey through picturesque greenery.

View the majestic African lion, African painted dog, giant tortoises, Australian dingo, black-crested mangabey, Canada lynx, blue poison dart frog, zebras, tarantulas, red kangaroos, ring-tailed lemurs, peafowls, red pandas, and more.

Shot of a red Panda with its tongue out at Binder Park Zoo

Shelly MD Photography / Shutterstock.com

Experience Battle Creek’s Nightlife at FireKeepers Casino Hotel

View of the FireKeepers Casino Hotel from across the road

Rawmustard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

With several thousands of fruit machines, over 75 table games, and six restaurants, this is one of the best places to enjoy the city’s electrifying nightlife.

You can play poker, craps, roulette, blackjack, Mississippi stud, baccarat, ultimate Texas hold ’em, and more.

If you don’t know how to play, you can attend one of their free tutorials.

Gorge on tasty meals and drink exquisite wine at their award-winning restaurant, NIBI.

In addition, Dacey’s Sportsbook & Taphouse is known for its wide range of delicious craft beers.

You can also sink your fork into delectable American cusine at Smoke’ N Fire.

Explore the Leila Arboretum

Scenic view of  Leila Arboretum

Battle Creek CVB / CC BY

This renowned tourist attraction features picturesque manicured gardens and sprawling greenery.

Nearly 25,000 plants are spread across this 72-acre arboretum.

Take a refreshing stroll here and explore the grand fountain, outstanding sculptures, vegetable garden, kaleidoscopic flowers, perennial garden, labyrinth, and butterfly garden.

Trees and open space at Leila Arboretum

Gpwitteveen, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You can see daisies, tulips, daffodils, lilacs, magenta coneflowers, chrysanthemums, and several others.

Check out their native flower garden that features incredible displays of Michigan’s regional flowers.

Enjoy a game at the disc golf course here, too.

The arboretum also hosts several events all year round, including music festivals, sled races, trick-or-treat events, and science fair.

Treat Yourself to Irresistible Desserts at Station 66

Located in the building of a former gas station, this place is renowned for selling local produce of Michigan and mouth-watering desserts.

Pay a visit to this popular store and shop a broad array of farm-fresh vegetables, fruits, jams, syrups, honey, and more.

Don’t miss out on their incredible doughnuts and flavorsome ice cream, either.

You should also try their apple cider and cakes.

The events that take place here include car shows, musical performances, vintage tractor exhibits, hayrides, and reindeer encounters.

Explore History at the Kimball House Museum

Constructed in the late 19th century, this was formerly the home of three generations of doctors from the Kimball family.

It was maintained to look precisely as when the family was still residing here.

It displays the Kimballs’ original furniture, paintings, china, home décor, woodwork, pump organ, bathtubs, and documents.

Sojourner Truth was a renowned women’s rights activist in the 19th century.

She lived in Battle Creek for around 25 years.

The Kimball House Museum’s exhibits also include significant historical collections relating to her.

Additionally, one of the rooms here is dedicated to temporary displays.

Tour the house and learn about the fascinating lifestyle of this region’s elite during the Victorian era.

Go Hiking at the Ott Biological Preserve

The Ott Biological Preserve features miles of nature trails, multiple serene lakes, sprawling forests, quaint bridges, and gorgeous wildflowers.

Explore the greenery and appreciate nature’s astounding beauty at this preserve.

Enjoy an invigorating hike in the tranquil atmosphere and view the diverse wildlife.

This is an ideal place for your morning workout and for watching the sunrise.

The winter landscapes are equally stunning.

You can also walk your pet here.

Check Out the Cereal History Exhibit

W.K. Kellogg invented cornflakes in 1894 in Battle Creek.

This city is known as “Cereal City,” and the Kellogg company is headquartered here.

Visit the Battle Creek Welcome Center and check out the cool cereal exhibits.

The place features decades-old preserved cereals displayed in glass jars, old advertisements and posters, vintage toys, and more.

The exhibits aim to educate patrons about the history of breakfast cereals and their connection with Battle Creek.

Tour the W.K. Kellogg House

Front view of W.K. Kellogg Estate

Battle Creek CVB / CC BY, via Wikimedia Commons

Constructed in the early 20th century, this historic estate was the summer home of the founder of the Kellogg Company.

It features a magnificent manor, a bird sanctuary, boathouse, a windmill, enchanting lake overlook, manicured gardens, a greenhouse, chauffeur’s residence, lake access, housekeeper’s cottage, swimming area, soccer field, and more.

Additionally, the place offers lodging for guests.

Closer view of W.K. Kellogg House's exterior

rossograph, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Stay here, appreciate the incredible views, enjoy watching the birds, hike and explore the estate, dive in for a swim in the calm waters of Gull Lake, indulge in a game of volleyball or soccer, and have an amazing time.

Owing to the scenic vistas and tranquil atmosphere, this happens to be a very popular wedding venue.

Apart from weddings, various events and workshops are organized here all year round.

Take the Kids to the Art Center of Battle Creek

Dating back to the mid-20th century, this renowned visual arts gallery aims to promote art and make it accessible to all.

It has three galleries and hosts numerous remarkable exhibitions during the year.

They provide educational programs and organise fundraisers.

Regional school students are also offered the opportunity to display their art at the galleries every year.

The annual Michigan Artist Competition features works by famous regional artists.

Children can try their hand at art through the interactive exhibits.

Visit this art center and check out outstanding works of art.

Attend the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival

Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival

Darren Brode / Shutterstock.com

If you happen to visit during the 4th of July, don’t miss out on the opportunity to attend this exciting event.

The annual summer festival features stunt flying air shows, entertaining activities, mouth-watering food, magnificent fireworks, musical performances, amusement rides, and so much more.

It’s also your chance to see stunning hot air balloons in flight—a picture-perfect scene you’ll want to capture in photographs.

Bring along your loved ones and have an incredible time here.

Catch a glimpse of southwest Michigan’s vibrant culture at this lively event.

Enjoy Water Adventures at Flash Flood Water Park

Flash Flood Water Park features enormous water slides, a water playground, multiple pools, bucket dumps, a bouncy house and slide, and more.

Visitors can choose between their indoor and outdoor facilities.

It is a perfect place to beat the summer heat and take a break from the monotonous daily routine.

Spend quality time here with your loved ones and enjoy a relaxing day.

This tourist attraction is open seasonally, particularly between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Watch a Show at Kellogg Arena

Established in 1980, this arena can accommodate over 6,000 patrons.

It is the home ground of the Battle Creek Cereal Killers roller derby team and Battle Creek Flight basketball team.

The arena hosts a multitude of diverse events all year round, such as sporting events, theatre, musical concerts, circuses, trade shows, and so much more.

Catch a show here and have a great time.

Join the Parade at Battle Creek’s National Cereal Festival

The National Cereal Festival is a tradition in Battle Creek.

The event dates all the way back to the mid-20th century.

It features complimentary breakfast for all, health runs, and amusement rides.

During this time, you can also enjoy bouncy castles, delicious beer, musical performances, animal encounters, a magnificent cereal-themed parade, and so much more.

Be a part of the festivities and glimpse the vibrant local culture here.

Go Swimming at Willard Beach Park

This park features a swimming beach, picnic areas, nature trails, grills, and spectacular views.

Take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Goguac Lake, explore the nature trails, appreciate the scenic views, indulge in a game of volleyball, and enjoy a lovely picnic.

This is the ideal place to take a break from the everyday routine and escape into nature.

Spend the Day at Historic Bridge Park

A wooden bridge covered with dried leaves at Historic Bridge Park

ehrlif / Shutterstock.com

Located on the banks of the Kalamazoo River, this park is known for its multiple historic metal and stone bridges.

In addition, it features a railroad, nature trails, playground, grills, picnic areas, kayaking facilities, river access, and more.

Straight view of the red wooden bridge at Historic Bridge Park

ehrlif / Shutterstock.com

It is famous for a wide range of outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and kayaking.

You and your loved ones can certainly spend a whole day at Historic Bridge Park with so many activities to enjoy.

Travel Back in Time at the Historic Adventist Village

Home of James and Ellen White at Historic Adventist Village

Battle Creek CVB, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This historic site features replicated or restored buildings of a 19th-century village.

It emphasises on the history of the Seventh-day Adventist pioneers.

Many historical artifacts from o the 1800s are displayed at these buildings.

A log cabin at Historic Adventist Village

Battle Creek CVB, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Visit the church and tour the home of James and Ellen White.

James White was one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, while his wife was a renowned author and Adventist leader.

Other significant displays include a schoolhouse, barns, meeting room, carriage house, and more.

The Dr. John Harvey Kellogg Discovery Center is also located here.

Shop for Fresh Goods at Horrocks Farm Market

Established in 1959, this is one of the most popular spots in Battle Creek.

It offers a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, cheese, plants, nuts, snacks, honey, syrups, olive oil, wine, bakery goods, candy, and more.

All the products are sourced from local farmers and small-scale local businesses.

Try out the delicious craft beer at the bar or gorge on mouth-watering sushi.

They also offer a variety of fresh and tasty soups and salads.

Have a Picnic at Irving Park

This park features a picturesque Japanese garden, towering trees, a mesmerizing pond, and nature trails.

There are also dedicated areas, and facilities guests can use, including a playground, disc golf course, picnic areas, and barbecue grills.

Enjoy an invigorating hike on the verdant trails that traverse the scenic landscapes of the park and try your hand at fishing.

You can also admire the sight of the beautiful geese by the waters, test your skills at the disc golf course, grill burgers with the family, or relax at the park.

It is a perfect place to take a break from your daily routine and appreciate nature.

Spend a Relaxing Day in Woodland Park & Nature Preserve

The Woodland Park and Nature Preserve is the only city park that’s right here in the middle of Battle Creek.

This 145-acre natural preserve offers visitors a relaxing rustic retreat.

This park is ideal for families looking to have a fun day exploring its five miles of trails that wind through the preserve.

You’ll see an abundance of old-growth timber that makes for some seriously stunning scenery.

The park is full of groves of younger trees.

This area is the site of seasonal wetlands and ponds teeming ducks, geese, and other species of waterfowl.

There’s a variety of open grassy areas where you can spend quality time with family and friends in the sun.

One destination you won’t want to miss is the Bluebird habitat, so make sure to take your binoculars along as it might be hard to spot them otherwise.

Cheer for the Battle Creek Bombers at the C O Brown Stadium

C.O. Brown Stadium is one of the most impressive places to play in amateur tournament baseball, and this has not been lost on anyone who has experienced it first-hand.

It was built in 1990 and offers a quiet setting for players to enjoy a game of baseball at its finest.

This stadium itself was named after Cooper Othniel Brown, an entrepreneur who helped make Battle Creek become a home for amateur baseball tournaments in the ’30s and ’40s.

Formerly the home of the Michigan Devil Rays, Michigan Battle Cats, and Battle Creek Yankees, C.O. Brown Stadium has hosted several amazing games since its inception.

Currently home to the collegiate summer league Battle Creek Bombers, crowds still love to fill every seat when this historic ballpark plays host to some of your favorite minor league teams!

Taste French Onion Soup at Clara’s on the River

Their French Onion Soup (Sautéed onions simmered in a rich homemade broth, topped with croutons, Swiss cheese, and Parmesan cheese) is an absolute delight.

Located at 44 McCamly Street, Battle Creek, Clara’s is an American eatery in a beautiful setting, complete with antiques and dining on the patio overlooking the river.

The extensive menu sets this place apart from other eateries.

Most importantly, wining and dining here will grant you a sense of comfort because of the warm atmosphere.

This restaurant boasts an original brick oven from 1888

The interior design of the restaurant has been carefully thought out to bring about a rich atmosphere that glows with cozy charm.

It’s a perfect spot for dinner out with family or even big groups because they have banquet services available as well.

Their French Onion Soup is an absolute delight.

This classic treat features thinly sliced onions cooked in their own juice until browned before being simmered with chicken broth and fresh thyme.

The finished soup can be served garnished with croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Swiss cheese, making it a hearty meal perfect for any time of year.

Explore and Enjoy the Amenities at Battle Creek Country Club

At Battle Creek Country Club, several of the best golfers in the world have participated in competitive action since 1919.

The course, created in 1919 by the renowned Scottish architect Willie Park, Jr., has remained mostly untouched throughout the past century.

The club has held a lot of professional and recreational tournaments throughout the seasons.

Furthermore, they provide fine dining in a neighborhood setting.

Their Grill Room menu is available every night and has weekend specials every Friday and Saturday evening.

Battle Creek Country Club features boating, swimming, and a terrific location to unwind and take in everything the club has to offer its members in a secluded setting since it fronts the lovely Goguac Lake.

Host an Event with Southern Exposure

Southern Exposure offers worry-free planning and flawlessly performed events that live up to the occasion.

The picturesque environment, outstanding cuisine, and unmatched care for detail provided by Southern Exposure will turn your day wonderful and unforgettable.

Their 1839-built barn is tucked close to their English gardens amid the rural countryside.

Southern Exposure provides indoor and outdoor venues for events, and its rural charm is the perfect setting for romance and promise.

Their one-of-a-kind wedding destination in Battle Creek, Michigan, is the ideal setting for fusing luxury, rustic beauty, and scenic wonders.

Ride a Hot Air Balloon with Altitude Endeavors

Altitude Endeavors is the sole Michigan corporation offering hot air balloon excursions in the Battle Creek region.

They guarantee that your trip will be expertly conducted and memorable as Southwest Michigan’s biggest and most seasoned hot air balloon business.

Additionally, they have transported thousands of passengers and are the sole full-time hot air balloon trip provider in the region with an impeccable safety track.

Altitude Endeavors may build an aircraft bearing your firm’s logo to offer local or national advertising publicity, or they can supply you with various aircraft to fit your demands.

They book exclusive hot air balloon excursions, fly competitive balloon competitions, and can fly your firm’s brand at practically any location or special occasion.

Plan a memorable trip or go on a balloon ride with Altitude Endeavors!

Spend a Relaxing Time at Griffin Grill & Pub

Griffin Grill & Pub, a provider of Irish American cuisine from creative Flavour Engineer Paul Conkey, is situated in Battle Creek.

Since its opening in 1999, the Griffin Irish Pub’s proprietors, Paul Conkey and Kathy Schramm have been providing guests high-quality adaptations of traditional fare in a welcoming setting.

The restaurant allows patrons to see people go by from the entrance of the building.

During the warmer months, you may relax on the terrace or watch chefs at work in the open kitchen.

The Griffin features many HDTVs installed around the space that broadcast the day’s most important sporting games.

Practice Your Swing at Binder Park Golf Course

Three different nine-hole courses, the Natural, Preserve, and Marsh, make up the 27-hole Binder Park Golfing Area.

This freshly developed golf course is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

Several of Michigan’s finest scenic old-growth woods, marshes, and picturesque cliffs are found on the golf course.

Binder has been created to be a challenge for both seasoned golfers and beginners alike.

It is secluded, tucked amid the woods, and encircled by spectacular wildlife.

The extensive team carefully maintains the course’s undulating, lush environment and significant elevation variations.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Go Camping at Fort Custer Recreation Area

Scenic view of Fort Custer Recreation Area

Dean Pennala / Shutterstock.com

Encompassing over 3,000 acres, this site was a US military base in the 20th century.

Today, it is a popular area for hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, and exploring the wilderness.

The site features large enchanting lakes, a scenic river, and several miles of invigorating hiking trails.

Fort Custer Recreation Area during fog

Dean Pennala / Shutterstock.com

The Kalamazoo River meanders through the densely forested landscapes of this region.

Enjoy a refreshing riverside hike, try fishing in the lakes, dive in for a swim in the cool waters, view the diverse wildlife, and camp here at night to experience nature.

You can spot various waterfowls and other animals, such as turtles, hawks, warblers, sparrows, wild turkeys, frogs, and more.

Fields with dusky pink sky in the background at Fort Custer Recreation Area

Dean Pennala / Shutterstock.com

The campground features cabins, a bonfire area, and picnic tables.

In the winter, visitors frequent this place for cross-country skiing.

Located 9 miles from Battle Creek, Fort Custer Recreation Area offers heavenly views through all four seasons.

Final Thoughts

There’s something for everyone to enjoy in the vibrant city of Battle Creek.

Tourists will certainly love spending time in nature, exploring museums, attending festivals, or sampling the local cuisine.

Start planning your visit, and make sure to bookmark this list of the best things to do in Battle Creek, Michigan!

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