Things to Do in O'Fallon

GCS Ballpark's emerald outfield and manicured base paths pulse with excitement as the Grizzlies prepare for the 2012 season and to reclaim their position atop the Frontier League. Last summer, Grizzlies catcher Landon Hernandez launched 18 homeruns into lower orbit, good enough for fourth best in the league. Hurling fastballs into Hernandez's glove will be former MLB farmhand Pat Arnold, and skipper and St. Louis native Phil Warren returns for his sixth season in the Grizzlies dugout, from where he has collected several prestigious records including most managerial wins and most sneezes confused as bunt signs.

While unloading their ammo upon enemies, paint-splattered warriors hunt for cover in the outdoor wilderness of Xtreme’s 10 playing fields. They duck behind multistory wooden barricades on the Castle field, navigate a maze of padded pillars and logs on the Arena field, dive into leafy ditches on the Bunker field, and command one of four two-tiered fortresses on the Four Forts field. Much like siblings competing to see who celebrates their birthday first, Xtreme Paintball Park gathers players to engage in competitive scenarios such as capture the flag and elimination. Park staffers expand these play opportunities by constantly building new playing fields and restaging area structures. During private parties, ranks of covered pavilions offer spaces where groups can take a break from excessive sun, rain, and snow as they prepare for the next round.

Rows of red, green, and golden lights stream above the solid maple skating rink at Fun Spot Skating Center, where guests glide along during open hours and special skating events. Much like the popular video game Extreme Hoop Trundler 2012, Fun Spot blends classic and modern entertainment, filling the retro space with computerized light sequences set to digital stereo sound. A full-service pro shop works to outfit guests with well-fitting skates, and an onsite snack bar fuels festivities with pizzas, soda, and other eats.

Led by equine expert and instructor Michelle Booker, Devinwood Farms offers services for riders and steeds on a property with an all-weather arena, heated barn, and picturesque riding trails. Inside the full-care boarding facility, staffers administer daily feeding and stall cleaning. The all-weather riding arena, illuminated by rows of glittering lights, leads outside to local riding trails. Hot- and cold-water wash racks hose down mounts after onsite riding lessons, and stalls provide a place for horses to comfortably hunker down with a good book during blustery nights.