Information and dates are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm.

Independence Day CelebrationsEvents Attractions Art & Culture Entertainment Shopping Dining with Evening Entertainment Nightlife Download PDF

Independence Day Celebrations

Monday & Tuesday, July 3 & 4: “Fenton Freedom Festival” at Fenton Community & Cultural Center, 150 S. Leroy Street, Fenton * fentonchamber.com

  • (Festival begins 7 p.m. Monday and 7 a.m. Tuesday) This 27th annual celebration begins with Fenton’s Queen Crowning at Silver Lake Park followed by Monday evening activities and a full day of family fun on Tuesday featuring a 7 a.m. pancake breakfast, a 10 a.m. parade, arts and crafts, children’s games, a rubber ducky regatta, live entertainment, food vendors and a fireworks display that will light up the sky at 10 p.m.

Tuesday, July 4: “Corunna 4th of July Celebration” at Hugh McCurdy Park, 560 W. Corunna Road, Corunna * corunna4th.org

  • (Event begins 7 a.m.) Enjoy this fun-filled family day with arts & crafts, children’s games, food vendors, a 5K and duck race, mini golf, live entertainment, car show, bingo, a bike decorating contest, petting zoo and pony rides, inflatable games, a Firecracker Parade and more. The day will end with a fireworks celebration at dusk.

Tuesday, July 4: Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad, 6140 Bray Road, Flint * (800) 648-PARK * geneseecountyparks.org

  • (Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Three cheers for red, white and blue! Crossroads is commemorating the holiday with all kinds of fun games, an old-fashioned ice cream social, midway games, face painting and a flag retirement ceremony.

Tuesday, July 4: “Clio Family Fun Day” at Clio City Park, 402 N. Mill Street, Clio * (810) 686-5850 * clio.govoffice.com

  • (Event begins 2 p.m.) This 35th annual celebration begins with a Flag Raising ceremony and ends with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk.

Tuesday, July 4: The Flint Institute of Music Presents a Musical Independence Day with “May the Fourth Be With You” at Atwood Stadium, 701 University Avenue, Flint * MusicAroundTown.org

  • (Doors open 6:30 p.m./Event runs 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.) Make the jump hooked on hyperspace this Independence Day with an exciting night of fun and music as the Flint Institute of Music hosts its first 4th of July celebration. Experience a galaxy far, far away with the Flint Symphony Orchestra as they present the music of Star Wars, along with a selection of patriotic favorites. Special guest – Flint native, and American Idol finalist, La Kisha Jones, who will perform the national anthem. Enjoy the musical padawans of the Flint Youth Symphony Orchestra as guest musicians from Limonest, France opens the show. The concert will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display, presented by the Flint Downtown Development Authority.

Tuesday, July 4: “Lapeer Fireworks Celebration” at Rolland-Warner Middle School, 3145 W. Genesee Street, Lapeer * lapeerareachamber.org

  • (Event begins at dusk) The city of Lapeer will celebrate Independence Day with a colorful fireworks light show.

[Top]

Events

Monday, July 3: “Try It Day: Weird Fruits and Veggies!” at Linden County Park/Clover Beach Pavilion, 15349 S. Linden Road, Linden * (800) 648-PARK * geneseecountyparks.org

  • (Event runs 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.) We’ve all seen them in the produce section of the grocery store, weird fruits and veggies, and wondered what they taste like and how you’re even supposed to eat them. Join the staff from Michigan State University Extension and sample and learn about some of these weird treats. Also, pick up a few new recipes. Recommended for families of all ages. Free admission.

Wednesday, July 5: “Craft Academy: Crocheted Granny Squares” with Flint Handmade at The Local Grocer, 601 MLKing Avenue, Flint * flinthandmade.org

  • (Event runs 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) Learn some intermediate techniques of crochet, including changing colors and granny squares taught by Yarn Brigade Coordinator, Hayley Morris. Participants will need to bring an H or I size hook to class with 2 different colors of worsted weight yarn, preferably colors with high contrast. Some supplies will be available for use during class.

Friday, July 7: “Treehouse Story Time: Butterflies” at For-Mar Nature Preserve, 2142 N. Genesee Road, Burton * (810) 789-8567 * geneseecountyparks.org

  • (Event runs 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) Sprout the love of reading and nature while sharing books, singing songs and making a craft. Recommended for families with children 2 and older.

Friday, July 7: “First Fridays Food Truck Festival” at Grand Blanc High School, 12500 Holly Road, Grand Blanc * cityofgrandblanc.com

  • (Event runs 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.) The city of Grand Blanc Downtown Development Authority will host this new event in the lower parking lot of the Grand Blanc High School with live entertainment, children activities, a variety of food trucks, outdoor seating and more.

Friday, July 7: First Fridays at Longway Planetarium – “Aliens, Crop Circles & Probes – Oh My!” 1310 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 237-3409 * sloanlongway.org

  • (Doors open 5:30 p.m./Event runs 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.) Join Longway and discuss various alien theories and whether or not our unassuming planet has been visited by other-worldly creatures. Take a look at UFO reports, crop circles, claims of alien abductions and other alien-related topics. After all, over 40,000 UFO sightings per year can’t all be hoaxes – can they? Cost includes the 7 p.m. showing of Sea Monsters.

Saturday, July 8: “Art & Music Fair” at Davison’s Downtown Entertainment District, Main Street, Davison * DavisonDDA.org

  • (Fair runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Come out and celebrate the arts featuring paintings, jewelry, hair accessories, woodwork, handmade crafts, book authors, metal art, Shabby Chic furniture, painting classes, face painting, a kids craft tent and sidewalk chalk art, live music from Bluegrass to rock, food vendors and more.

Saturday, July 8: “Tell-A-Tail” at the Flint Public Library/Main Branch, 1026 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 232-7111 * fpl.info

  • (Event runs 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.) Meet in the Children’s Learning Place and get the opportunity to read to some friendly therapy dogs. Bring your favorite book or select one from the library’s collection. Recommended for toddlers to elementary school ages.

Saturday, July 8: “Animal Architects” at the Flint Public Library/Main Branch, 1026 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 232-7111 * fpl.info

  • (Event runs 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.) From Eagle nests that weigh as much as a car, to beavers that transform the landscape around them, learn about Michigan’s ultimate animal architects. Enjoy a live animal presentation from the Howell Nature Center. Recommended for all ages.

Saturday, July 8: Auto City Speedway “Windpusher 70,” 10205 N. Saginaw Street, Clio * (810) 687-7384 or (810) 686-9500 * autocityspeedway.com

  • (Grandstand opens 4:30 p.m./Races begin 7 p.m.) Experience a fast-paced, fun-filled family night at the tracks featuring the chills and thrills with Top Speed Mods, V.R.O.A. Vintage Modifieds, Figure 8’s, Pure Stocks and Vora Cope.

Saturday, July 8: “Buck Moon Campfire” at Richfield County Park/Rest Station Pavilion (near playground), 6322 N. Irish Road, Davison * (800) 648-PARK * geneseecountyparks.org

  • (Event runs 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.) Did you know that every full moon has its own name? In celebration of July’s moon, make buckeyes and learn all about what bucks and does do during the day and night. Recommended for families of all ages. Free admission.

Saturday, July 8: “I Mom So Hard” at The Whiting, 1241 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 237-7333 * thewhiting.com

  • (Performance begins 7 p.m.) Jumping off the pages of Facebook and on to stages across the country, there's no one making moms feel as uncomfortably normal as Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley, the hilarious oh-so-real women behind #IMomSoHard. With over 675,000 Facebook fans and more than 55 million views on their web series, Jen and Kristen's blend of honesty and humor resonates with moms and dads alike, proving why these two have become the hottest ticket in town. Recommended for ages 18 and older.

Sunday, July 9: “National Park & Recreation Month Celebration” at Bluebell Beach, 5500 Bray Road, Flint * (800) 648-PARK * geneseecountyparks.org

  • (Event runs 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) Come out and celebrate July’s National Park and Recreation Month with bounce houses, ladder ball, bubbles and other family fun activities. Make some scarecrows for Bluebell Beach’s Community Garden. Recommended for families of all ages. Free admission.

[Top]

Attractions

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9 (Closed July 4th): Sloan Museum1221 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 237-3450 * sloanlongway.org

  • (Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.) Enjoy regional history, historic automobiles and hands-on science activities where children and adults can explore principles of chemistry and physics through exhibits and staff presentations.
    • “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition” – Take a journey back in time and experience the legend of Titanic like never before. The galleries in this fascinating exhibition feature over 100 real artifacts recovered from the ocean floor along with room recreations and personal stories; each highlighting a different chapter in the compelling story of Titanic’s maiden voyage. Tickets to the exhibition are timed. Advance purchase is recommended, which can be reserved online or by calling the number above.
    • “Collecting Flint from A to Z” – The Sloan Museum has a variety of artifacts, nearly 400,000 of them! You name it, they probably have one. A large, eclectic collection is required to accurately record the last 200 years of life in Flint & Genesee. This exhibit highlights 26 groups from Sloan’s vast and varied collection, normally hidden away in storage. Each alphabetized set reveals something about Flint’s shared history. View historic automobiles, firearms, radios, wedding dresses, beer, blueprints and everything in-between.
    • “20th Century Gallery” – This exhibit takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Flint in the 20th century – from the birth of the auto industry to the present. Encounter the ups and downs of General Motors, the birth of the UAW, Flint’s role as the “Arsenal of Democracy” and what life was like during the 50s, 60s and 70s. The gallery displays over 600 artifacts and photographs, including rare antique automobiles, colorful neon signs, period clothing, household furnishings and commercial goods.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9 (Closed July 4th): Longway Planetarium, 1310 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 237-3409 or (810) 237-3400 * sloanlongway.org

  • Due to the dark planetarium environment, shows listed below are recommended for children 4 years and older. No late seating and no re-entry after show begins. Tickets go on sale ½ hour before showtime. Shows are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm.
    • “We Are Stars” (Show starts daily 12:30 p.m.) What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Narrated by Andy Serkis, explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe by following the formation of Hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of Carbon and the molecules for life. Recommended for ages 10 and older.
    • “Perfect Little Planet” (Show starts Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. and Sunday 4:30 p.m.) Discover our solar system through a new set of eyes – a family from another star system seeking the perfect vacation spot. Fly over the surface of Pluto, our best-known Dwarf Planet. Dive over the ice cliffs of Miranda. Sail through the rings of Saturn. Feel the lightning storms of Jupiter. Walk on the surface of Mars. Which destination would you choose? Great for ages 7 and older.
    • “Eclipse: The Sun Revealed” (Show starts Monday-Friday & Sunday 2:30 p.m.) This show uses beautiful visuals to explore the historical and cultural view of solar and lunar eclipses and explains the geometry that creates the awe-inspiring sight. Learn how to safely watch an eclipse and about scientific discoveries that have been supported by total solar eclipses. Recommended for ages 6 and up.
    • “Skies Over Michigan” (Show starts Monday-Friday & Sunday 3:30 p.m.) Learn about the rotation of the Earth, find the North Star and the way around the night sky, what a constellation is and which are visible in the current night sky. Also, learn about Moon phases, the daily and monthly motion of the Moon through the sky, visible planets and their movement among the stars.
    • “Sea Monsters” (Show starts Friday & Saturday 7 p.m.) Journey 80 million years back in time to an age when mighty dinosaurs dominated the land and an equally astonishing assortment of ferocious creatures swarmed, hunted and fought for survival beneath the vast, mysterious prehistoric seas. Stunning, photo-realistic imagery re-creates the perilous underwater realm of two young, dolphin-sized marine reptiles called Dolichorhynchops, or Dollies, and follows their incredible journey through waters ruled by some of the most awesome predators ever to prowl the Earth’s oceans.
    • “Mysteries of the Unseen World” (Show starts Friday & Saturday 8 p.m.) Presented by National Geographic Entertainment and Day’s End Pictures, take an extraordinary journey into unseen worlds and hidden dimensions beyond our normal vision to uncover the mysteries of things too fast, too slow, too small or simply invisible. The film uses innovative high-speed and time-lapse photography, electron microscopy and nanotechnology to transport audiences to an enthralling secret world of nature, events and breathtaking phenomena not visible to the naked eye. Recommended for ages 12 and older.
    • “Accidental Astronauts” (Show Saturday & Sunday 1:30 p.m.) Follow the adventures of Sy, Annie and their dog Armstrong as they embark on an unexpected journey into space. Explore the Earth, Sun and Moon with a wise-cracking starship computer. Follow an asteroid as it crashes into the Moon and bounce along on the lunar surface. Then, get up close and personal with a solar system. This show is a space adventure for all ages.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan, 4240 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills * (866) 622-0605 * legolanddiscoverycenter.com/michigan

  • (Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Center remains open 2 hours after last admission; please allow a minimum of 2 to 3 hours for a visit) Located at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, this indoor family attraction features two LEGO rides, a 4D cinema, large children’s play area, a creative workshop where guests learn about LEGO building from experts and more. Also, visit Miniland and view some of Metro Detroit’s iconic buildings and attractions made from LEGO bricks. All tickets are pre-booked online, meaning that guests must select a visit date and time and arrive at that appointed time to guarantee entry. During peak periods, and because guests can stay as long as they want once inside, there may be entry delays. Please be advised that adults must be accompanied by a child to enter this attraction. Visit the website above for special hours and closures. Recommended for children ages 3 to 10.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Sea Life Michigan Aquarium, 4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills * (866) 622-0605 * visitsealife.com/michigan

  • (Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Last entry is 1 hour prior to closing time) Located at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, get transported into an amazing underwater world. Come nose-to-nose with sharks and prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from humble seahorses to graceful rays. Walk through an underwater Ocean Tunnel, encounter more than 5,000 sea creatures, hold a crab and touch a sea star. Meet Benson, a young Green Sea turtle rescued after being struck by a boat in Florida. Benson now has permanent damage to his shell and spine and can’t dive for food, so he will never be able to be released back into the wild. Also, participate in daily fun talks and feed shows. Visit the website above for special hours and closures.

Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, July 4, 6 & 8: Flint Farmers’ Market, 300 E. First Street, Flint * (810) 232-1399 * flintfarmersmarket.com

  • (Open Tuesday & Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Open year-round, shop Flint’s city market featuring over 50 inside vendors selling produce, including fresh, locally grown foods, a meat market, poultry, breads and baked goods, cheese, a wine shop, art gallery, flowers, gourmet coffees, crafts, fine arts and more. On Saturday, browse and purchase from an additional 25+ produce and flower vendors, as well as art and craft vendors, at the market’s outdoor pavilion area along with the Flint Handmade Art & Craft Street Fair, which runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also, enjoy breakfast and lunch at “Steady Eddy’s”, a unique market café that purchases a large selection of their menu ingredients from market vendors (also open limited hours on off market days). Outdoor seating/dining available – weather permitting.

Wednesday-Sunday, July 5-9: Flint Children’s Museum, 1602 W. University Avenue, Flint * (810) 767-5437 * thefcm.org

  • (Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.) Home to over 50 exhibits designed for children ages 1-10 to inspire a lifelong love for learning through exploration and hands-on play.
    • “Busy Builders” – This traveling exhibit brings the inner engineer out of all kids! With stations for drafting blueprints, building giant skyscrapers, constructing a log house and more, kids will discover and show how innovative they can be.
    • “Catapults” – (Wednesday-Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Launch your week making Popsicle stick catapults!
    • “Sproutside” – Weather permitting, explore this outdoor learning area where children can experience the great outdoors with educational programs, physical activities and/or even a picnic lunch.

Wednesday-Sunday, July 5-9: Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad, 6140 Bray Road, Flint * (800) 648-PARK * geneseecountyparks.org

  • (Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Travel back to a time when things were a whole lot simpler. Crossroads Village is a Great Lakes town from the turn of the century with 34 historic structures and a thriving community. Enjoy a 40-minute journey on an authentic Baldwin steam locomotive, the Huckleberry Railroad, take a scenic ride on the Genesee Belle, a replica of the paddlewheel riverboats that were popular during Mark Twain’s time, catch a show at the Colwell Opera House or learn a trade from one of the village’s craftspeople. Bring the kids out to Crossroads on Saturday and/or Sunday for some “Huckleberry Playtime” with old-fashioned games, water play, jump roping, relay races and a make-and-take craft. It is recommended that Huckleberry Railroad train tickets be purchased in advance as the train often sells out.

Thursday-Sunday, July 6-9: Applewood Estate, 1400 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 233-3835 * applewood.org

  • (Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) From guided tours of the house and gardens to exhibits in the historic garage, barn and chicken coop, visitors will enjoy this Mott family legacy. Guided house tours are available of the first floor of the main house and family areas that until now have been private such as the master bedroom, staff quarters and the basement recreation rooms (reservations required). Visitors are also welcome to explore the grounds on their own during regular business hours or take a free guided walking tour of the gardens at 12 noon.

[Top]

Art & Culture

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9 (Closed July 4th): Flint Institute of Arts (FIA), 1120 E. Kearsley Street, Flint * (810) 234-1695 * flintarts.org

  • (Monday-Friday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.) Visit FIA and browse their outstanding collections of American, European, Native American, African and Asian art including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and decorative arts featuring a complete set of 17th century French tapestries that tell a story.
    • “Rodin: The Human Experience – Selections from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Collections” – This exhibition celebrates the Hundredth Anniversary of the death of sculptor Auguste Rodin (French, 1840-1917). At the peak of his career, Rodin was regarded as the greatest sculptor since Michelangelo. Rodin focused on conveying the vitality of the human spirit. His vigorous modeling emphasized his personal response to the subject and he captured movement and emotion by altering traditional poses and gestures. This display showcases more than 45 of Rodin’s bronze sculptures, from small-scale to monumental works.
    • “Art of Jade” – Throughout history, jade has had profound cultural implications in different regions of the world. A wide variety of items, including tools, figurines and jewelry reflected the strong cosmological and symbolic associations the culture had with this luminous, hard stone. This exhibit includes objects from China that range from the Neolithic period (8,000-2,000 BCE) to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) and from Mesoamerican cultures dating back as early as 1800 BCE. The exhibit explores the history of these “jade cultures” as well as the functional, stylistic and technical developments of jade as an artist medium throughout time.
    • “Self-Expression: University of Michigan-Flint Student Organized Exhibition” – When artists create self-portraits, they reveal more than just their likenesses. Self-portraits are often windows into artistic psyches, giving viewers a glimpse at how artists see themselves or wish to be seen. Self-Expression is a selection of 20th century self-portraits on paper drawn from the FIA’s permanent collection, including woodcuts, lithographs and etchings. Carefully constructed, and as individual as the artists who created them, these self-portraits explore intersections of self and artistic identity.

Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, July 4, 6 & 8: Art at the Market Gallery at Flint Farmers’ Market, 300 E. First Street, Flint * (810) 238-9202 * artatthemarket.com

  • (Open Tuesday & Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Located in the Flint Farmers’ Market, enjoy browsing, and purchasing, at this unique art gallery showcasing original artwork from over 30 local artists. Art at the Market is a non-profit organization and operated by its artists.

Wednesday-Friday, July 5-7: Greater Flint Arts Council (GFAC), 816 S. Saginaw Street, Flint * (810) 238-ARTS * greaterflintartscouncil.org

  • (Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) The GFAC programs and services are designed to engage the community in creative processes and support the work of Michigan artists. This is accomplished by showcasing a new gallery exhibit each month in their downtown Flint gallery. Join the GFAC for the Mosaic Artists of Michigan exhibit through July 7. Free admission.

Thursday-Saturday, July 6-8: Buckham Gallery, 134 ½ W. Second Street, Flint * (810) 239-6233 * buckhamgallery.org

  • (Open 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.) Founded in 1984, Buckham Gallery is an artist-run, not-for-profit exhibition and performance space that features artists from as many diverse locations as possible. It is the philosophy of the gallery to create an open atmosphere, which allows both emerging and established artists to take charge of their own creative pursuits. This month Buckham Gallery presents “Structural Layers” featuring the works of Megan M. Bickel, Amber D. Harrison, Joe Karlovec and Stephanie Karamitsos.

Thursday-Saturday, July 6-8: Mott-Warsh Collection Gallery, 815 S. Saginaw Street, Flint (Gallery entrance is on E. Court Street) * (810) 835-4900 * m-wc.org

  • (Open Thursday & Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the 2nd Friday of each month 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.) The Mott-Warsh Collection is a private collection of fine art created by artists of the African diaspora. Maryanne Mott and her late husband, Herman Warsh, initiated the collection in 2001 as a means of providing fine art to a broader audience in the City of Flint and beyond. With a focus on art produced since 1940, the Mott-Warsh Collection contains work by over 125 artists covering a range of media from drawing to painting, prints to photography and mixed media to sculpture. The collection contains abstract and representational work depicting the unique cultural and social experience of Africans living and working in American society. Exhibits change frequently.

[Top]

Entertainment

Monday-Saturday, July 3-8: Ice Skating at Flint Iceland Arena1160 S. Elms Road, Flint * (810) 635-8487 * flinticeland.com

  • (Open Monday through Saturday – visit website above for hours of operation and events) Enjoy the sport of ice skating with friends and family. Public skating sessions are a great way to get out on the ice, get some exercise and have fun while doing it. Public skating schedule is subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Ice Skating at Crystal Fieldhouse Ice Arena, 5371 Daly Farms Drive, Burton * (810) 744-0800 * crystalfh.com

  • (Open Monday through Sunday – visit website above for hours of operation and calendar of events page for a listing of all events) Enjoy public skating, drop-in hockey, stick-n-puck, broomball, U-of-M Flint Hockey games for both men and women, Powers Catholic High School home games, GFHA Youth Hockey leagues, Try Hockey for free days, learn to play hockey, Elite Skating Academy learn to skate, learn to figure skate, hockey skating skills, private lessons, adult learn to skate classes, adult hockey leagues, tournaments, camps and clinics. Book birthday parties and/or school and church field trips. Event times are subject to change.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Michigan Escape Games, 9023 Davison Road, Davison * (810) 652-6165 * michiganescapegames.com

  • (For game times and availability call the phone number above or visit the website) If you’re a gamer and think you’ve got what it takes to test your clue-cracking skills in the real world, then this is for you. Designed for small groups of 2-12 people and team events up to 50 people, challenge your wits, skills and teamwork to find clues and solve ciphers to escape from a locked room in under 60 minutes. The Escape Game provides sophisticated, high-level games that will challenge even the most hardcore gamers. Each themed room transports all into an adventure and one that will never be forgotten!

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: IMAX Trillium Theatre Grand Blanc/NCG Cinemas, 8220 Trillium Circle Avenue, Grand Blanc * Show Times (810) 695-5000 / Main (810) 953-0650 * ncgmovies.com/grand-blanc/

  • July 3-5: “Transformers: The Last Knight: An IMAX 3D Experience” – In the absence of Optimus Prime, a battle for survival has commenced between human race and the Transformers. Cade Yeager forms an alliance with Bumblebee, an English lord, and an Oxford professor to learn why the Transformers keep coming back to Earth. The film is rated PG-13. Shows are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm.
  • July 6-9: “Spider-Man: Homecoming: An IMAX 3D Experience” – Following the event of Captain America: Civil War, Peter Parker, with the help of his mentor Tony Stark, tries to balance his life as an ordinary high school student in Queens, New York City with fighting crime, as his superhero alter ego Spider-Man as a new threat, the Vulture, emerges. This film is rated PG-13. Shows are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: US 23 Drive-In Theater, 5200 Fenton Road, Flint * Movie Hotline (810) 238-0751 * us23driveintheater.com

  • (Gates open 7:30 p.m./Movies begin at dusk) Enjoy this original Flint & Genesee drive-in theater, which opened in 1952, featuring 3 screens with double first run films. A concession stand is also available for those drive-in traditions serving popcorn, Root Beer Floats, cotton candy, corn dogs, pizza and more.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Cops & Robbers Ice Cream & Gifts - “Where It’s A Crime Not To Have A Good Time!” 323 E. Main Street, Flushing * (810) 202-1001 * copsandrobbersshop.com

  • (Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) Located in Flushing’s former police station, this amazingly unique store offers a variety of toys, books, jewelry, nail polish, soaps, puzzles, games, playing cards, greeting cards, coffee mugs and much more including the largest local selection of J.R. Watkins products. If you are looking for something sweet, Cops & Robbers is the place to go for delicious treats from Bella Birches Bakery and premium ice cream from New Era, Michigan’s Country Dairy. They also have slushies, soft serve, fresh baked cookies, Cops & Robbers homemade chocolate bark, dipped and decorated cones, malts and more. Recommended for all ages.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Chuck E. Cheese’s, 3489 Miller Road, Flint * (810) 733-7404 * chuckecheese.com

  • (Open Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) Chuck E. Cheese’s is the ultimate place “Where a Kid Can Be a Kid” and parents can enjoy every moment. That’s why Chuck E. himself takes pride in providing a safe, family-friendly environment offering video games, high-tech simulator rides, skytubes, kiddie rides for the little ones, live stage shows and more. Admission is free and games are always just one token.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Bowl Flint - B’s Bowling Center * 750 S. Center Road, Flint * (810) 743-7570; Richfield Bowl * 5340 Richfield Road, Flint * (810) 736-4880; bowlflint.com

  • (Open Monday through Sunday – visit website above for hours of operation and events) Richfield Bowl and B’s Bowling are dedicated in providing one of the best entertainment venues in Flint & Genesee. These modern bowling centers offer kid-friendly bumper bowling lanes with lightweight bowling balls and small shoes. Also, experience Cosmic Bowling, on the weekends, with glow in the dark lanes along with laser, disco, black and runway lights, fog and music.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Rollhaven Skate & Fun Center * rollhaven.com

  • Flint/Grand Blanc * 5315 S. Saginaw Road, Grand Blanc Twp. * (810) 694-4533; (Open Monday through Sunday – visit website above for hours of operation and events) This family-fun center offers open skate sessions, adult skate, friends & family skate, kid specials, a Friday Nite Live skate, Junior Roller Derby, laser tag, a giant soft play area and more.
  • Flushing * 3464 Ann Drive, Flushing * (810) 659-7260; (Open Monday through Sunday – check website above for hours of operation and events) Rollhaven Skate & Fun Center in Flushing has fun for everyone with open skate sessions, Friday Nite Live skate, Sunday FunDay, CannonBlaster and a huge soft playground area.

Tuesday-Sunday, July 4-9: Card Table Republic – A Board Game Lounge “where board games and friends unite,” 8427 Davison Road, Davison * (810) 652-6363 * cardtablerepublic.com

  • (Open Tuesday-Thursday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.) Card Table Republic is a place where, for a small fee, people of all ages can relax and challenge themselves playing over 500 board, card and dice games with friends and family. Old classic games such as Monopoly, Life, Battleship and Trouble are available to play as well as the newer style games such as Ticket To Ride, Catan, Carcassonne and Cards Against Humanity. A party room, that seats up to 30, is also available and the snack bar features made in Michigan products like Faygo and Better Made chips.

Tuesday-Sunday, July 4-9: CRU Paintball, 4403 Clio Road, Flint * (810) 785-2278 * crupaintball.com

  • (Open Tuesday-Thursday 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) CRU Paintball is an unforgettable, adrenaline rush experience for paintball enthusiast and newcomers alike. With the largest indoor field in Michigan along with multiple indoor and outdoor fields, players are never kept waiting and can spend as much time on the fields as they desire. To ensure a fair match and make sure everyone has fun, teams are balanced so that a group of new players don’t have to face a team of experienced paint ballers by themselves – new players are given a fair shot and experienced players will never have it too easy.

Wednesday & Friday-Sunday, July 4 & 7-9: Roller Skating at Skateland Arena, 8460 N. Dort Highway, Mt. Morris * (810) 686-6110 * skatelandarena.com

  • (Open Wednesday & Friday-Sunday – visit website above for hours of operation and events) Family owned and operated for over 50 years, Skateland has been entertaining families at an affordable price. Come out and skate on their large rink offering skate themed nights and Roller Hockey Arena along with an arcade and play center, laser tag, full concessions, birthday parties, skating lessons, a Volleyball Club and more. Their Skate Shop carries some of the best brands and prices for Traditional and In-Line skates as well as Roller Derby, Hockey and Speed skates. Wednesday is adult R&B/Old School Skate for ages 18 and older only.

Friday & Saturday, July 7 & 8: “Cosmic Red Pin Bowling” at Grand Blanc Lanes, 5301 S. Saginaw Road, Flint * (810) 771-4273 * grandblanclanes.com

  • (Bowling runs 9:15 p.m. to 1 a.m.) Come rock, dance and bowl a strike when a red headpin appears, and win a prize! Grand Blanc Lanes also offers a snack bar, lounge, bumper bowling, automatic scorers and a pro shop.

Friday-Sunday, July 7-9: Playland Park, 5290 S. Dort Highway, Flint/Grand Blanc * (810) 695-8200 * playlandfuncenter.com

  • (Open Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. – weather permitting) Enjoy outdoor and indoor fun for the entire family featuring go karts, Monster Adventure mini golf, an indoor Playland Arcade area and restaurant specializing in pizza, subs and wraps. Also, contact Playland to find out about their “Escape The Zombie” Outbreak hands-on game.

[Top]

Shopping

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Genesee Valley Center, 3341 S. Linden Road, Flint * (810) 732-4000 * geneseemall.com

  • “Shop until you drop” at Flint’s 1.3 million square feet of shopping space with over 130 retailers and anchored by Macy’s, JC Penney, Sears and Burlington Coat Factory. Find those unique buys at the Center’s one-of-a-kind shops and markets such as Buckle, Best Buy Mobile and Forever 21. The Outdoor Village offers 65,000 square feet of boulevard-style shopping and national tenants including Barnes & Noble, Bar Louie, The Sleep Number Store and more. Kids will have fun playing in the bounce houses at the center’s American Fun Center. Visit the website above for coupon savings.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Courtland Center Mall, 4190 E. Court Street, Burton * (810) 744-0742 * courtlandcenter.com

  • Conveniently located off I-69, Courtland Center offers 472,000 square feet of enclosed shopping featuring national retail anchors including JC Penney, Staples, Jo-Ann Superstore and Dunham’s Sports. Visit more than 50 retailers and eateries while enjoying this friendly shopping experience with convenient parking. Visit the website above for special store offers.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Birch Run Premium Outlets, 12240 S. Beyer Road, Birch Run * (989) 624-6226 * premiumoutlets.com

  • Find incredible values on all the new season fashions with up to a 65% discount on every day savings. Shop at over 145 well-known brand name stores such as the Pottery Barn Outlet, COACH Factory and the Nike Factory Store. Visit the website above for additional in-store promotions.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, 4000 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills * (248) 454-5000 * greatlakescrossingoutlets.com

  • Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is the market's dominant retail outlet and entertainment destination, attracting customers throughout the Midwest and Canada. With 185 manufacturer's outlets and traditional retail stores, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is Michigan's only enclosed value-regional mall. Visit the website above for special coupon savings.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Carriage Town Antique Center, 503 Garland Street, Flint * (810) 238-1444 * carriagetownantiquecenter.com

  • (Open Monday-Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Housed in a restored Art Deco warehouse, Carriage Town Antique Center has a fantastic mix of quality antiques, vintage collectibles and exquisite art. Browse two levels for antique furniture, glass, pottery, silver, vintage clothing, primitive pieces, period lighting and vintage Christmas all year round.

[Top]

Dining with Evening Entertainment

Monday-Saturday, July 3-8: Cranberries Café, 10250 Hegel Road, Goodrich * (810) 636-3409 * cranberriescafe.com

  • (Open for lunch Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and for dinner Tuesday-Thursday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday & Saturday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.) Enjoy great food and drinks, including Michigan beers on tap, while relaxing in this 1917 building featuring its original tin ceiling and flooring, an antique cherry bar and an original floral icebox, from northern Michigan, now converted into a wine cooler. Every Tuesday is Beer Night with half priced bottles and $2 off drafts with dinner. Dine at Cranberries on Wednesday and receive a bottle of wine half off with dinner or visit on Thursday for live entertainment from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Monday-Saturday, July 3-8: Johnny’s Pour House, 240 W. Main Street, Flushing * (810) 487-1020

  • (Open Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 11p.m. and Friday & Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 12 a.m.) Enjoy one of Flushing’s most comfortable dining experiences for breakfast, lunch and dinner, in a casual atmosphere where friends and family can meet and enjoy the highest quality food, friendly service and affordable prices. Each dish is created with the finest ingredients and soups are prepared from scratch. Live music runs Friday and Saturday starting at 9 p.m.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Beale Street Smokehouse BBQ, 2461 North Road, Fenton * (810) 750-0507 * bealestreetsmokehouse.com

(Call for hours of operation) Using the highest quality meats, enjoy tasty pulled pork and chicken, brisket, St. Louis and baby-back ribs, Michigan craft beers on tap, and in bottles, and more. Beale Street offers that “Juke Joint” atmosphere with live weekend music from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Blondie’s Food & Spirits, 2520 W. Hill Road, Flint * (810) 766-9680 * blondiesfoodandspirits.com

  • (Open Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.) Blondie’s Food & Spirits has a passion for food and their guests. This unique restaurant offers more than just a commitment to fresh and traditional menu items, they make sure that every guest has a memorable dining experience in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their extensive upscale, American comfort menu offers something for everyone for lunch, dinner and drinks. Enjoy live weekend music from 9 p.m. to 12 midnight.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Brickstreet of Grand Blanc, 1223 E. Grand Blanc Road, Grand Blanc * (810) 603-2114 * brickstreetbarandgrill.com

  • (Open at 11a.m. Monday – Friday and at 12 p.m. on Saturday & Sunday) Famous for fresh seafood, house-cut steaks and signature entrees, enjoy lunch, dinner and drinks in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Relax and sing along with live pub entertainment, starting at 7 p.m., with Craig John every Monday and Tuesday, Lance Sherwood performing Wednesday and Thursday and Bob Adado taking the stage Friday and Saturday for some dancing in the pub. Brickstreet also offers a Sunday Brunch and Bloody Mary Bar from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (reservations suggested). Outdoor seating/dining available – weather permitting.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: The Corner Bar & Grill, 4015 Owen Road, Fenton * (810) 354-8808 * cbgfenton.com

  • (Open Monday-Wednesday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. to 12 a.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) Enjoy this rock ‘n’ roll gastro pub offering a unique mix of fun and elegance with quality food from gourmet burgers to excellent codfish tacos along with craft beer and handcrafted drinks. In addition to great food, the Corner Bar & Grill hosts live rock‘n’roll music every Saturday night.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Lake View Bar & Grill, 8291 Silver Lake Road, Linden * (810) 458-6147 * ekklesiaonthewater.com

  • (Open Monday-Thursday 2 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.) Enjoy this sports bar and eatery located on the peaceful shoreline of Lobdell Lake. Their kitchen is open daily, from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., serving sandwiches, soups, salads, burgers and hand tossed stone baked pizza with entrees and pasta dishes available between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Breakfast is served on the weekends. Entertainment begins every Monday with Karaoke Night, starting at 8 p.m., and Open Mic Jam Night on Thursdays at 8 p.m. Live bands perform on the weekend with The Vintage (rock) taking the stage Friday and Crewsade (rock) on Saturday. Music runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. both nights. Outdoor seating/dining available – weather permitting.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: The Rough Draught Coffee & Barroom, 134 N. Leroy Street, Fenton * (810) 714-3005 * roughdraughtbarroom.com

  • (Open Monday 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday & Wednesday 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday & Friday 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Sunday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.) Come experience this unique reminiscent of an old bar in an industrial building with reclaimed brick, lighting and other structural elements offering a unique selection of craft beers and cocktails and exceptional wines. Baristas are on staff to brew up the perfect latte, cappuccino or gourmet coffee. A light menu is also available offering breakfast and lunch sandwiches, burgers, salads and more all specially prepared with house made ingredients. Enjoy live acoustic tunes by local artists every Saturday. Outdoor seating/dining available at the R.D. Patio – weather permitting.

Monday-Sunday, July 3-9: Sherman’s Lounge (No weekend music scheduled), 4211 Fenton Road, Flint * (810) 233-7057 * shermanslounge.com

  • (Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.) Home to Flint’s Finest Entertainment for nearly 50 years, enjoy the best of live, local bands Wednesday through Saturday. Wednesday, the Handsome Devils play at 8 p.m. Sherman’s also features a fully stocked bar, multiple flat-screen TVs, three pool tables, video games, keno and more. Their menu offers pizza, subs, signature sandwiches and a variety of other tasty dishes.

Tuesday-Sunday, July 4-9: Andy’s Place, 208 S. Broad Street, Holly * (248) 382-5020 * andysplace.wixsite.com/andy

  • (Open Tuesday & Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesday & Thursday 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.) This friendly, fun atmosphere offers a selection of homemade soups, grilled sandwiches, build your own burgers and more. Andy’s also features a large selection of beers, margaritas, martinis and specialty drinks – You Name It, They Will Make It. Enjoy live local music every Friday from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. and on Saturday, during dinner, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Then on Saturday evening, Andy’s hosts an Open Mic Set from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Happy Hour runs Tuesday through Friday 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and then from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with drink and food specials. Outdoor seating/dining available – weather permitting.

Tuesday-Sunday, July 4-9: Fenton Winery & Brewery (FWB), 1370 N. Long Lake Road, Fenton * (810) 373-4194 * fentonwinery.com

  • (Open Tuesday-Thursday 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday & Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.) Founded in 2007, FWB began as a typical winery featuring 15 wines and a tasting bar. They now offer a variety of beers on tap and over 20 wine choices (some on tap) with a steady rotation of seasonal wines and specialties. FWB also offers a retail store “Taproom” to purchase those favorites, a delicious menu, wine & beer samplings and live entertainment most weekends starting at 8 p.m. Outdoor seating/dining available at the Wine/Beer Garden – weather permitting.

Friday, July 7: The Jewel of Grand Blanc/Paddy McGee’s, 5270 Perry Road, Grand Blanc * (810) 694-5960 * jewelgolf.com

  • (Open 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. or later) Located inside the Grand Blanc Golf Club, The Jewel of Grand Blanc offers Friday night country entertainment with DJ “Dan Richards’ along with line dancing from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Adjacent to The Jewel is Grand Blanc’s superior Irish Pub, Paddy McGee’s, serving an all-day full breakfast and lunch and dinner menu as well as drink specials (open daily). Paddy’s also offers a Sunday Breakfast Buffet, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar. Outdoor seating/dining available – weather permitting.

[Top]

Nightlife

Friday & Saturday, July 7 & 8: Historic Holly Hotel Comedy Club, 110 Battle Alley, Holly * (248) 634-5208 * hollyhotel.com

  • (Shows begin 8:30 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.) Enjoy professional stand-up comedy featuring a variety of local and national entertainers with Tim Joyce and Kevin Kramis in the Club this weekend.

Saturday, July 8: Sequoia Wine Bar & Martini Lounge, 5304 Gateway Centre Drive, Flint * (810) 233-8000 * theredwoodlodge.com

  • (Live music begins at 9 p.m.) Located inside the Redwood Steakhouse & Brewery, the Sequoia Lounge presents live weekend music by local bands.

[Top]

For more things to do and see, visit the Events Calendar and like us on Facebook at Explore Flint & Genesee.