Southwest Michigan isn't the most exciting place in the Mitten state but it's definitely not the worst either. It doesn't quite compare to the Southeast or even the Upper Peninsula, but we can say that it is better than the middle of the state. While Southwest Michigan can't quite compare to Grand Rapids or Detroit, there are plenty of exciting things to do here.

Obviously, the first thing that comes to mind when you're thinking of fun things to do in Southwest Michigan is the beach, most notably the Silver Lake Beach, South Haven's North and South beaches, and the beach at Van Buren State Park. In addition, bowling alleys, drive ins, movie theaters, roller skating rinks, miniature golf, arcades, and many other attractions are scattered throughout the area.

Kalamazoo is probably the biggest city in Southwest Michigan and where there are a handful of attractions that keep people visiting. Their neighbors to the east in Calhoun County have always tried to keep up but are still just one step behind. Battle Creek is looking to add some fun to their city as they have a new attraction opening this summer.

Battle Creek Getting New Astro Fun World This Summer

Astro Fun World announced that they will be opening a Battle Creek location in either June or July of 2025. This location will be their third location joining their other two which are located in Aurora, Illinois and Westminster Colorado. Astro Fun World is known for having the following activities available for patrons:

  • Indoor Electric Go-karts
  • Laser Tag
  • Mini Golf
  • Ninja Course
  • VR Rides
  • Kid Friendly Axe Throwing
  • Kids Ropes Course
  • Rock Climbing Walls
  • Kids Play Zone
  • Over 50 Arcade Games
  • And More!

Astro Fun World clashes the "Out of This World" with fun activities to create a new experience for kids, adults, and everyone in between. This looks like the perfect place for someone to throw a birthday party or a company holiday party if anyone is listening.

The fun center will be located at 6100 B Dr. North, Battle Creek, MI, United States, Michigan. Below are some pictures and videos of what to expect at the Battle Creek Astro Fun World location:

The Fantasy Forest at Leila Arboretum In Battle Creek, Michigan

It was 2015 and the emerald ash borer had begun to devastate ash trees at the Leila Arboretum, in Battle Creek, Michigan. Leila Arboretum Society Executive Director Brett Myers tried to come up with a solution to the death of the ash trees in the woodland. Out of this grim situation rose the phoenix of the Fantasy Forest. The dying ash trees would become the canvas for the creation of wood sculptures created by chainsaw artists. 
Chainsaw artists from across the nation now converge on Battle Creek, Michigan, to compete for cash prizes in the now-yearly Fantasy Forest Chainsaw Festival.

Gallery Credit: Brad Carpenter/Fantasy Forest/Leila Arboretum