Situated amid rolling meadows, Greencrest Manor (6174 Halbert Rd., 269/962-8633, www.greencrestmanor.com, $105–200 d) is an unlikely find—a French chateau in the middle of the Midwestern prairie. Eight rooms, including six suites, are decorated with lots of chintz and antiques.

For something less expensive, try the Baymont Inn & Suites (4725 Beckley Rd., 269/979-5400, www.baymontinns.com, $69–79 d), which includes free breakfast, high-speed Internet access, and access to a pool.

Battle Creek offers plenty of dining options, from fast-food establishments to fancier fare. One solid choice is the Arcadia Brewing Company (103 W. Michigan Ave., 269/963-9690, www.arcadiabrewingcompany.com, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri., noon–10 p.m. Sat., $7–18), a microbrewery that specializes in British-style ales and offers an adjacent restaurant and tavern called TC’s Wood-Fired Fare.

For hearty all-American cuisine, consider Finley’s American Grill (140 E. Columbia, 269/968-3938, www.finleys-rcfc.com, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri.–Sat., $6–17), part of a popular southern Michigan chain, with locations in Jackson, Kalamazoo, and Lansing.

If you’re in the mood for Italian dishes, stop by Fazoli’s (5445 Beckley Rd., 269/979-8662, www.fazolis.com, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily, $6–14), part of a nationwide chain that offers pasta bowls, panini sandwiches, pizzas, and tasty favorites like fettuccine alfredo and meat lasagna.