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Ultimate Weekend Guide to Kalamazoo, Michigan

Ultimate Weekend Guide to Kalamazoo, Michigan

Welcome to the Kalamazoo, Michigan (yes, there REALLY is a Kalamazoo) located a short 45 minute drive from shores of beautiful Lake Michigan and 45 minutes South of Grand Rapids. Kalamazoo is a growing city, home to 3 colleges/universities, charming neighborhoods, iconic breweries, monthly art shows & festivals and quiet nature escapes. Kalamazoo and the surrounding area has so much to offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This guide includes everything from the most popular tourist destinations to the underrated local spots. While this is not an all inclusive list of what to do in Kalamazoo, this guide is a pretty good way to start with over 100 options and tons of personal favorites! While not the most major city, Kalamazoo is absolutely worth the trip. You never know what you might discover. This guide is actively being updated - check back again soon
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Welcome to Kalamazoo, MI

Quick fun facts: Kalamazoo is most well-known for being the birthplace of Gibson Guitars, Checker Taxi Cabs, and Bell's Brewery. It happens to also be my hometown and where I've grown up and lived for 25+ years now. In 2005, Kalamazoo made national news with their announcement of the Kalamazoo Promise, an unique scholarship program provided to students at the public schools in the community by anonymous donors. 

How to Get to Kalamazoo & local transportation

Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport
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Super small local international airport. Only a few airlines fly in here but extremely convenient. Would highly recommend flying in/out of here.
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Gerald R. Ford International Airport
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Very modern and clean airport. Not overly big making it easy to fly into but big enough to get to the destinations you've been dreaming of.
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Where to Stay

Updating section, More recommendations coming soon!

Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center
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Hilton Garden Inn Kalamazoo Downtown
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Where to Eat

600 Kitchen & Bar
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HopCat Kalamazoo
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University Roadhouse
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Lolitas Tacos
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Nonla Burger - Burdick St.
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Main St. Pub
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The Backyard of Kalamazoo
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Breweries

Bell's Eccentric Cafe
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Kalamazoo Beer Exchange
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Latitude 42° Brewing Company Kalamazoo (Oshtemo)
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Coffee, Drinks & Other Sweet Treats

Coffee

Kalamazoo: Factory Coffee
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The original location for Factory Coffee. The interior space is super cute and the coffee is delicious. They make their pastry items in house and all of their syrups for their drinks. Staff members are incredibly kind and make the environment welcoming for all. 3/3 Stars for coffee 3/3 Stars for ambiance 3/3 Stars for pastry items (Muffins & Bagels only)
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Kalamazoo: Walnut & Park Cafe
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Cute coffee shop located in downtown Kalamazoo. Nice selection of outdoor seating. A mix of coffee and pastry offerings. They also serve small food items like sandwiches.
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Kalamazoo: Water Street Coffee Joint (Downtown)
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Parking here is SUPER limited. You may need to park on the street or in a lot nearby. Gets super busy and is very popular. Great options for non-coffee items. They have 3 locations around town for connivence.
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Kalamazoo: Fourth Coast Cafe and Bakery
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A cute local coffee shop located beneath an iconic brunch spot. They have tons of fresh bread and pastry options daily. Great, welcoming space for all.
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Pastries & Sweet Treats

Victorian Bakery
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La Azteca Bakery
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Plainwell Ice Cream Co
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Things to Do & See

Nature & Parks

Kalamazoo Nature Center
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Kal-Haven Trail State Park
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Asylum Lake Preserve
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Bronson Park
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Various Activities

Kalamazoo Farmers Market
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Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
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Kalamazoo State Theatre
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Kalamazoo: Climb Kalamazoo
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A unique climbing facility with top roping, lead climbing section and a small bouldering space. This facility does require that all guests get trained in belaying if in the facility even if your intention is to only boulder.
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Kalamazoo Civic Theatre
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Airway Fun Center
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Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum
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Kalamazoo Valley Museum
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Sports & Special Events 

Wings Event Center
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Homer Stryker Field
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Kalamazoo FC Home Stadium
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Miller Auditorium
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Colleges & Universities

Western Michigan University
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Kalamazoo College
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Kalamazoo Valley Community College
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Winter Specific Outdoor Activities

Timber Ridge
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Ski, snowboard or tub the slopes at the family owned and operated ski resort. Only open during the winter season and very weather dependent. For most up to date info, check their facebook for daily condition updates.
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Places to Shop

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Bee Joyful Shop (Kalamazoo)
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Nearby Additional Recommendations

Binder Park Zoo
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Gilmore Car Museum
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Flash Flood Water Park
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Capri Drive-In Theater
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Battle Creek Welcome Center
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Short Day Trips Nearby

Grand Rapids
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard. Currently:📍Florida, U.S.A. Just Posted: Charleston, WV | Pittsburgh, PA | Ultimate guide to Kalamazoo, MI Upcoming Trips: Savannah, GA | European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro ---------- Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 25 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination. On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to. Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon, visit all 50 U.S. states, and someday be on the Amazing Race with my sister. — Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
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