In the heart of Mecosta County, Big Rapids may be small, but the town has a big heart for entertaining its residents and the community of Ferris State University.
When it comes to variety in entertainment, opinions are mixed. Locals and students have voiced hopes for more options to enliven their experiences here. With local hotspot The Purple Door planning to close its doors Nov. 2, options for entertainment are becoming quite limited.
The owner of Cranker’s Brewery Jim Crank is one of the pioneers in offering diverse entertainment options for the community. Known for its lively vibe and unique events, Cranker’s has become a popular spot not only for food but for a night out.
“We have live music and even a golf and gaming simulator,” Crank said. Yet, he admits there’s room for improvement, expressing that he would like to see more options for entertainment within Big Rapids.
“People need a place to have fun, and though we’re trying to meet that need, I think there could be more.” Crank said.
The popularity of live music and game nights at Cranker’s reflects a trend that resonates with Ferris students and residents. The need for entertainment beyond the standard bar or restaurant setting has become increasingly important, as Crank observes a steady flow of students and locals seeking alternative options to the typical bar scene.
One local hotspot that has consistently drawn crowds for years is The Gate, Big Rapids’ longstanding bowling alley.
The Gate employee Stacy Mawrot described it as a bowling alley that appeals to all ages that features leagues, a gaming arcade and events like College Night on Tuesdays. The Gate offers a social experience that appeals to a broad range of people, from Ferris students to local families. However, Mawrot notes that while Tuesday nights bring a strong student turnout, it’s quieter on other nights.
“Supporting the local community and bringing in new entertainment options is always our goal, but we see fewer people than we’d like,” Marwot said.
A drive down Perry Avenue reveals a selection of dining options, but for Ferris students like hospitality management sophomore Alex Twiss, the town’s entertainment options are limited compared to his hometown of Holland, Michigan.
“Entertainment in Big Rapids has been more on the less side,” Twiss said. “Coming from Holland, where there’s a ton of stuff to do, I find it disappointing but not shocking for a small town.”
Twiss mentions that a movie theater would be a welcome addition, noting the nearest theater is nearly an hour away in Grand Rapids. For now, Twiss keeps busy by coaching the Ferris State rugby team—a demanding but fulfilling commitment that fills some of the entertainment void for him.
HVACR freshman Aidan Ondrus was drawn to Big Rapids’ natural surroundings rather than its nightlife.
“I’m very big into outdoors and scenery, so I go on walks by the Riverwalk and try to make peace with myself and relax,” Ondrus said.
However, Ondrus shares the sentiment of limited entertainment for social gatherings.
“When it comes to straight entertainment, I think it lacks a bit here. Yes, we have sporting events, but besides that, there isn’t anything you can do with a group of friends.” Ondrus said.
The call for more variety resonates with many in Big Rapids, who seek a broader range of activities beyond bars, dining and the occasional event at Ferris. Suggestions for new venues have ranged from a local movie theater to an expanded range of outdoor activities. These ideas align with the town’s potential to attract not only students but also residents of all ages looking to unwind in new ways.
Crank sees the possibilities for Big Rapids to further evolve as a place where people can find enjoyment in multiple forms. “It’s important to have a range of entertainment options for people to enjoy, and we’re making strides,” Crank said. But I’d like to see even more growth, more things for people to do.”
Despite its limitations, Big Rapids offers opportunities to create memorable experiences. Events like College Night at The Gate, live music at Cranker’s or simply walking along the scenic Riverwalk, give a taste of what could come if the town expands its offerings. And while the dream of a local movie theater might be on hold, the potential for a wider range of activities remains strong.
For those like Twiss and Ondrus, who are used to a more active entertainment landscape, Big Rapids may still have some distance to go. But as local businesses and residents continue to invest in and discuss ideas for new venues and experiences, Big Rapids may well be on its way to becoming more than just a college town. It could be a community with entertainment options as varied and vibrant as its residents. Whether through supporting live music, improving the college-town vibe or introducing more all-ages venues, Big Rapids has the chance to grow—and perhaps one day, be a small town with big-time fun for everyone.