Kalamazoo isn’t exactly a major city but it’s not exactly a small town either—it lies somewhere in between. And that is precisely why it can be such a charming place to visit. Home to several colleges, among them Western Michigan University, the area has a younger vibe, but with plenty of attractions and things to do for all ages. Art and culture abound here, and somewhat less known about Kalamazoo is the fact that it has a vibrant restaurant and bar scene.
Much as with many other Michigan cities, Kalamazoo is also something of a craft beer mecca. Two of the more notable breweries are the Arcadia Brewing Company as well as downtown Bell’s Brewery. There is even a dog-friendly beer garden for people to enjoy a cold brew during those warmer summer months.
This is one Michigan city in which just spending the day walking around is a great way to pass the time. There are numerous green spaces located throughout the city to include Arcadia Creek Festival Place as well as Bronson Park. These truly are quite scenic during certain times of the year.
For a smaller city, Kalamazoo certainly has its fair share of museums. For those art lovers out there, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts features both famous and more local artists. There’s also the Valley Museum as well as the acclaimed Air Zoo.
If you have a good craft beer, then odds are there’s going to be plenty of good food to go with it. The restaurant scene in Kalamazoo is up and coming. Restaurants here pride themselves on sourcing local ingredients. It truly is a “purely Michigan” experience.
Kalamazoo's winter is cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from the teens to 30s Fahrenheit. The city offers a variety of winter activities, such as ice skating at Millenium Park and sledding at local hills. Winter is a great time to cozy up in Kalamazoo's cafes and coffee shops or explore the city's museums and art galleries. The annual Winter Beer Festival also attracts visitors to sample craft brews from Michigan breweries.
Spring in Kalamazoo brings milder temperatures, with highs in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. As the snow melts, the city's parks and gardens come to life with blooming flowers and greenery. Spring is an ideal time for hiking and biking along the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail or enjoying a leisurely stroll in the Historic District. The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and other cultural venues often host spring exhibitions and events.
Kalamazoo's summer is warm and pleasant, with temperatures in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The city's outdoor attractions, like the Kalamazoo Nature Center and Markin Glen Park, become popular spots for picnics and outdoor recreation. Summer offers opportunities for kayaking on the Kalamazoo River, attending concerts and festivals at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place, and exploring the local farmer's market.
Fall in Kalamazoo is beautiful, with temperatures cooling down to the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. The foliage in the city's parks and surrounding areas turns into warm autumn colors, providing a picturesque setting. Fall is an excellent time for apple picking at nearby orchards and visiting local cider mills. The city's vibrant arts community continues to thrive with fall performances, concerts, and art shows at venues like the Kalamazoo State Theatre and the Epic Center.