Kalamazoo Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, food and drink, accommodations, safety tips, and nearby destinations in Kalamazoo - a cultural hub located in West Michigan.


Introduction to Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo is a small town located in West Central Michigan, USA. This cultural hub has something for everyone - from hiking trails, museums, and art galleries to brewpubs, quirky boutiques, and a buzzing nightlife. Being one of Michigan’s most vibrant cities, Kalamazoo attracts many tourists all year round.

List of Places to Visit in Kalamazoo

Not sure where to start exploring Kalamazoo? Here is a list of the must-visit sites:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: This museum showcases a vast collection of contemporary and modern art, with over 4500 works from renowned artists.
  • Gilmore Car Museum: Car lovers will enjoy this museum featuring over 400 vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to present-day.
  • Kalamazoo Valley Museum: The museum provides interactive exhibits showcasing the history, science, and technology of the region and the world.
  • Kalamazoo State Theatre: A historical venue for performing arts and music shows, the Kalamazoo State Theatre is a must-visit for those who love the arts.

Natural Attractions of Kalamazoo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kalamazoo Nature Center: Hike, bird watch, and explore the 13 nature trails on over 1,000 acres of woodland, prairie, and wetland habitats.
  • Asylum Lake Preserve: A lovely place for hiking or cross-country skiing, this 274-acre preserve offers scenic views of the lake and wildlife spotting.
  • Portage Bicentennial Park: This park features bike trails, playgrounds, a lake, and several picnic areas. It’s perfect for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo is also famous for its great biking and hiking trails. Here are some of the top-rated hiking and biking routes:

  • Kal-Haven Trail: A 34-mile trail running from Kalamazoo to South Haven, the Kal Haven Trail is perfect for long hikes or even a weekend bike trip.
  • Al Sabo Trail: A 7-mile loop trail near Kalamazoo, this route features unique flora and fauna, and scenic views of the peaceful countryside.
  • Kalamazoo River Valley Trail: This 35-mile trail from Battle Creek to South Haven runs through several Kalamazoo neighborhoods, parks, and attractions.

Best Things to Do in Kalamazoo: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking and visiting museums, Kalamazoo has many fantastic things to do, whether you’re travelling with family or just looking for some adventure.

  • Kayaking on the Kalamazoo River: Paddle along the Kalamazoo River and admire the stunning natural surroundings and cityscape of Kalamazoo by water.
  • The Music Hop: This music festival takes place in June and features performances by many talented musicians from all over the US.
  • Mirth & Mischief Improv Troupe: Catch a show featuring this hilarious and imaginative improv troupe. Audience participation is highly encouraged!

Week-Long Itinerary for Kalamazoo

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kalamazoo, consider the following itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts in the morning, followed by lunch at The Union, then hiking at the Kalamazoo Nature Center
2 Spend the day exploring the city’s vibrant craft brewery scene. A few must-visit spots include Two Hearted Ale or Bell’s Brewery
3 Go biking on the Kal-Haven Trail and stop at the South Haven lighthouse
4 Head to the Gilmore Car Museum to admire the vintage cars, then have lunch at the famous Schuler’s Restaurant before heading to the Kalamazoo State Theatre for an evening show
5 Visit the Kalamazoo Valley Museum in the morning and then have lunch at Crow’s Nest, and spend the rest of the day hiking at Al Sabo Trail
6 Go kayaking on the Kalamazoo River, then have dinner at Food Dance Restaurant
7 Take a day trip to Grand Rapids (58 miles) and visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and take a windmill tour at the De Zwaan Windmill. Head back to Kalamazoo for dinner at Rustica Restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has a delectable food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Oxtail Poutine at Principle Food and Drink: This rich, meaty dish pairs well with a local brew from Arcadia Ales.
  • Chicken and Dumplings at the Crow’s Nest: Enjoy sipping on a Kalamazoo Le Batteur Saison paired with chicken and dumplings at this fantastic restaurant.
  • Burgers at The Beer Exchange: This bar-style restaurant serves delicious burgers with oozing melted cheese.
  • Kalamazoo-made Sausages at Old Dog Tavern: Taste a bit of local cuisine with some locally-sourced sausages at this cool pub.

Local Beverages

  • Bell’s Brewery: Kalamazoo’s most famous brewery, Bell’s Brewery, is known for its iconic Two Hearted Ale.
  • Kalamazoo Coffee Company: This artisanal coffee shop offers locally-roasted coffee and delicious pastries.
  • Kalamazoo Stillroom: Check out this bar for classic cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Harvey’s on the Mall: This roof-top bar provides fantastic views of downtown Kalamazoo and offers a wide range of beer, wine, and cocktails.

Where to Stay in Kalamazoo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Looking for a place to rest your head in Kalamazoo? Here are some of the best accommodations for every budget:

  • The Kalamazoo House Bed & Breakfast: This beautifully restored Victorian-style B&B features elegant rooms and luxury amenities, perfect for couples or those seeking a romantic getaway.
  • Stuart Avenue Inn: Offering Victorian elegance, lovely gardens, and gourmet breakfasts, this Inn is perfect for those looking for a taste of old-world luxury.
  • Four Points by Sheraton Kalamazoo: Located near the airport, Four Points is ideal for business travellers or those looking for modern amenities and comfort.
  • Staybridge Suites: This hotel provides its guests with spacious suites, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Kalamazoo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for unique souvenirs or local products to take home with you? Explore Kalamazoo’s local markets, boutiques, and shops.

  • Meyer’s Hometown Bakery & Beanery: Visit this bakery for Kalamazoo Coffee Company coffee and locally-made doughnuts.
  • Kalamazoo Farmers Market: The market features locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods.
  • Gazelle Sports: This locally owned sporting goods store offers a range of outdoor gear, workout clothes, and running shoes.

Local Culture and Customs of Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has a vibrant and diverse local culture. While the city is welcoming and open to visitors, it’s important to be respectful of the following customs:

  • Art and culture: Kalamazoo takes pride in its art and cultural offerings, so make sure to show respect when visiting museums and galleries and engage with the local community.
  • Friendliness: Kalamazoo locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists, so don’t be shy about asking for directions or recommendations.
  • Local customs: Above all, be respectful of the way of life of locals in Kalamazoo.

Best Time to Visit Kalamazoo

The best time to visit Kalamazoo is in late spring or early fall, where the weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and hotel rates are lower. The summer months can be hot and humid, while winters can be exceptionally cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kalamazoo

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when visiting Kalamazoo:

Do:

  • Try the local craft beer: Kalamazoo is known for its local craft beer scene, so make sure to indulge in a few tasters at local breweries.
  • Explore the art and cultural scene: Kalamazoo boasts a diverse and rich cultural and artistic scene. Make sure to explore museums and galleries.
  • Be a responsible tourist: As with any destination, being respectful of local culture and customs is essential

Don’t:

  • Litter: Make sure not to litter the beautiful natural surroundings of Kalamazoo.
  • Ignore safety guidelines: Follow safety guidelines when engaging in outdoor adventures in Kalamazoo.
  • Over drink: While Kalamazoo has a fantastic beer scene, it is important to drink responsibly.

Safety and Health

Kalamazoo is generally a safe destination; however, it is always wise to take precautions when visiting unknown places.

Safety in Kalamazoo

  • Be aware of your surroundings: As with any destination, stay alert when walking around Kalamazoo and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Use caution when hiking: When hiking, always stay on marked trails and bring along a map and compass.
  • Follow state safety guidelines: When participating in outdoor activities, make sure to follow state safety guidelines.

Health in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has excellent hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Getting to Kalamazoo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kalamazoo is easily accessible via several transportation options.

Airports Near Kalamazoo

  • Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport: This airport is located just five miles from downtown Kalamazoo and connects to several major cities in the US.

Bus Stations Near Kalamazoo

  • Greyhound Bus Station: The station offers a wide network of bus routes connecting to Kalamazoo via several cities in the US.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Kalamazoo is on the Amtrak rail route, making it easily accessible by train.

How to Get Around in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo offers several transportation options for getting around the city.

  • Kalamazoo Metropolitan Transportation: This bus service provides frequent services within the city and the surrounding area.
  • Kalamazoo Bike Share: The South West Michigan Bike Share program is operational in Kalamazoo, which is a fantastic way to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

Where to Go Next from Kalamazoo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore nearby destinations from Kalamazoo, here are some recommendations:

  • Grand Rapids: Located just 58 miles away, Grand Rapids is a picturesque town known for its rich history, charming botanical gardens and museums.
  • Ann Arbor: Ann Arbor, located only 92 miles from Kalamazoo, is a college town featuring trendy shops, fantastic restaurants, and beautiful architecture.
  • Mackinac Island: Head 331 miles north to discover Mackinac, a small island on Lake Huron that is rich in history and known for its beautiful landscapes.

Conclusion

Kalamazoo is a charming destination that offers an incredible array of attractions, historical sites, and scenic beauty. From natural wonders and vibrant arts communities to an exciting nightlife and local food scene, Kalamazoo provides a delightful experience for all who visit. Plan your trip wisely, get out, and explore the incredible sights and sounds of this wonderful city!