Old Pioneer Emporium

This is the first of a series of blogs to help people experience the Big Rapids, MI area to it's fullest. One of my favorite places downtown has to be the Old Pioneer Emporium. From the second you walk through the door you know you are someplace special. If you come at the right time you may catch Brian making fudge or Kilwin's popcorn which the store is well known for. Brian and Carrlleen Rose are the owners and most any day you will find them there welcoming customers in a way that makes you feel like you have known them forever. They has an amazing store filled with precious gifts and trinkets. There is one room filled with every Christmas Ornament you could ever imagine. They have Old Fashioned sodas, Kilwin's malts, shakes, and delicious hot fudge sundaes all served in real glass dishes. My wife is addicted to their Chocolate Shake. They also have a nice selection of Yankee Candles as well as beautiful Fenton Art Glass, Gift baskets and even Boyd's Plush and other gifts for every occasion. Whether it be weddings, birthdays, valentines or any reason, I am sure they have the perfect gift. They are a one stop gift headquarters. They have a really nice website where you can learn more. Try this link Old Pioneer Emporium and see for yourself the unique experience awaiting you. Watch for my next blog where we wander across the street and check out the Blue Cow Cafe. As always if you decide Big Rapids is where you want to live give me a call and we will help you find a house. You can either call me (231) 796-5253 or visit either website below. Thanks for reading and see you soon.

Big Rapids Real Estate

Big Rapids Homes

Randy Ostrander
Lake and Lodge Realty
107 N. Michigan Suite B
Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 796-5253
randyooo@yahoo.com

Dining in Big Rapids

If you are new to the Big Rapids area or are stopping by for a visit there are several choices for dining that are a must try. I work downtown and within walking distance of my office are two of my favorite spots. The BLUE COW CAFE is always my dinner choice. Chuck and Connie have done an amazing job creating the perfect dining experience. I am addicted to their Rib Eye and Sunday brunch you will most always find my wife and I  there enjoying their Banana Foster. They have a great menu with an amazing wine selection which can be found on their website http://www.bluecowcafe.com/ . They are my number one choice for fine dining n the entire area.

Next stop if walking downtown would be Schuberg's Bar. They are my go to spot for a bowl of chili and a Schuburger. The atmosphere there is incredible with everyone feeling like they are family even if it is your first time visiting. Here is a link to their FaceBook page so you can see what is on special today: Schuberg's . Great selection of burgers and a flat iron steak and fires that is hard to walk by.

If you are just looking for a quick sandwich you should try Pepper's Cafe. They have a great selection of sandwiches and are fast and friendly getting you on your way in no time. Having three choices all within walking makes us downtown workers very lucky. If you don't mind a little walk Pizzeria Vivo is a hometown Italian restaurant featuring homemade pizzas, pasta dishes and desserts. From their Pizzas to their calamari everything is done to perfection. Another must try dining experience.

Big Rapids  has a host of places waiting for you to try. Bennigans, Ruby Tuesday's, Applebee's, Buffalo Wild Wings, Bob Evans and Ponderosa are all great spots for a meal. Pizza lovers have lots of choices too. Pizza King, Lil Creaser's, Pizza Hut, Domino's and Papa John's are great choices for pizza. Of course we have McDonalds, Burger King, Dairy Queen, A & W, Arby's, Big Boy,  KFC and Jimmy Johns for a quick meal. I found this list online that has most of our choices: Big Rapids Dinner Choices .

One of the things I love most about the Big Rapids Area is all of the choices of the big city with a small town atmosphere. After a couple visits most everyplace mentioned will know you by name and make you feel like you have always gone there. Big Rapids is a great place to live and this is yet another reason for that. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your meal.

If after visiting you decide you want to stay give me a call and we can find you a house so you can call Big Rapids home. Check out either link below or give me a call (231) 796-5253 and I am sure we can help.

Big Rapids Real Estate

Big Rapids Homes

Lake and Lodge Realty LLC
107 N. Michigan Suite B
Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 795-5253