20 Epic Things To Do In Kalamazoo Michigan

1. Paddle The Kalamazoo River Valley Water Trail

The Kalamazoo River Valley Water Trail provides a chance for boating, fishing, and viewing wild animals. If you are an expert or a learner looking for a relaxing day on the water, there is something for everyone on this trail.

You can choose from short paddles or longer exciting experiences that take you through various environment. You can also help to preserve this beautiful river and its ecosystem. So, bring your paddle, and life jacket,  and get ready to find the magic of the Kalamazoo River Valley Water Trail.

It provides a good way for outdoor lovers to connect with nature while enjoying entertaining activities on the water.

2. Visit The Kalamazoo Valley Museum

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is a family favorable museum that provides different kinds of shows on history, science, and technology. 

This place is for both kids and grown-ups. The visitors can view the shows and learn something new. The museum also organizes events and a workroom for visitors.

Whether you are a history lover or interested in science, there is something for you. You can also visit there for a fun family outing, it is a must-visit!

3. Take A Dip At Markin Glen County Park

Markin Glen County Park is a park of 160 acres with different kinds of open-air entertainment activities such as hiking, picnicking, fishing, and camping. The park has a different kind of rows that go through wooded areas and open fields.

There is also a swimming pool and a playground. It is a place to spend a day with family and friends. The park also organizes weddings and other events.

If you are looking for a place to get away from the city's busy life, it is a park that has something to offer everyone.

4. Step Back Into History At Kalamazoo State Theater

Kalamazoo State Theater is a theater that started its service in 1927. It feels like going back in time with the decorated details and warm environment but with the necessary modern facilities. The theatre also organizes different kinds of events like concerts, comedy shows, movie presenting, and other live performances.

It was planned by the famous theatre builder named John Eberson. It is a beautiful example of the atmospheric style, with a Spanish-influenced look that moves you to another world.

It is a community gathering place where people come together to laugh, cry, and cheer. Whether you are a loyal theatre fan or looking for a fun night out, it is a must-visit place.

5. Be Enchanted At Henderson Castle

Henderson Castle was built in 1895 by Frank Henderson. It is old and has modern rooms with special decorations. You can stay in one of these rooms and feel like royalty. There is a restaurant inside where you can eat delicious food and even a place to get massages and feel super relaxed.

Tourists also can visit here to celebrate special days or to enjoy an easy weekend. The castle has 25 rooms, which include 10 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms.

It also organizes weddings, events, and private parties. Visitors can enjoy the famous beauty of Henderson Castle while exploring the city's attractions and nearby natural beauty.

6. Explore Kalamazoo Nature Center

Kalamazoo Nature Center is a place with trees, flowers, and lots of animals. You can walk on paths, look at pretty birds, and see some animals up close. There is a special place with lots of butterflies too! It is a fun place to learn about nature and have a picnic.

You can also go on a valuable chase or listen to stories about animals. There are fun games and activities to learn about nature. You can draw pictures, play with water, and listen the stories about animals.

It provides various educational programs and events for people of all ages, including school field trips, summer camps, and adult workshops.

7. Hike Al Sabo Preserve

Al Sabo Preserve is a place with many trees, tall grass, and even a little bit of water. You can walk on paths and visit different areas. It is a silent place where you can listen to birds and feel close to nature.

There are lots of places to sit and relax. You can also take a look at some animals like deer or squirrels. It is a cool place to get away from the city and enjoy the open air. It provides some miles of hiking row that go through the natural landscape.

It is a popular place for outdoor lovers looking to visit and enjoy the beauty of nature in southwestern Michigan.

8. Admire Artwork At Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is a voluntary art museum and school that was started in 1924. It is a magical house full of beautiful pictures and models and lots of colorful paintings on the walls and statues. You can look at them, learn about them, and even try to make your art!

It is a big art playground where you can visit and be imaginative. There are also special rooms with different kinds of art, like pictures from long ago or modern shapes. It provides chances for people to be involved with art and learn about its importance in their lives.

It provides different kinds of educational programs for all ages like classes, workshops, lectures, and special events.

9. Find Tranquillity In Milham Park

Milham Park provides various kinds of services and activities for visitors to enjoy, like walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and a pond. It is a place with lots of trees, a river running through it, and big open spaces to run and play. 

It is a perfect place to fly a kite, or relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are special areas for kids to play, and you might even see some animals like squirrels or birds. It is a great place to spend a sunny day with your family and friends.

It is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists in this area.

10. Go On A Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fun way to find Kalamazoo as it will help you visit the streets and find hidden things pushed away throughout the journey. You can skip the buses and save gas by walking through the city between the different famous attractions and involve yourself in everything that Kalamazoo offers.

You can play with friends or family and work together to find the desired places. It is a great way to see different parts of Kalamazoo and learn something new about the city.

You might be searching for a statue, a secret message in a park, or a tasty treat at a local shop. It is like a valuable chase where the prize is the exciting experience itself!

11. Go Wine Tasting At Lawton Ridge Winery

The Lawton Ridge Winery is a family-owned wine shop producing red wine and white wine. It is a place with grape vines growing outside and a friendly environment inside. You can taste different kinds of wine, like sweet or dry. You can also learn about how they make it.

It is a fun place to relax with friends and enjoy good food. They also organize events and tastings at their beautiful vineyard.

Whether you are a wine lover or looking for a relaxing afternoon activity, it is a place to visit and enjoy some local wines.

12. Watch A Show At New Vic

New Vic is a place that was opened in 1966 where actors dress up and pretend to be different people. They tell exciting stories with funny jokes, sad moments, and happy endings.

It is a special place where you can laugh, cry, and cheer for the characters. There are all kinds of shows, from funny plays to singing musicals. It is like watching a movie, but live and right in front of you!

The theater is known for its close setting and quality productions making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

13. Do A Farm Tour At VerHage Fruit Farms

VerHage Fruit Farms is a family-owned fruit farm that grows many kinds of fruits like apples, peaches, cherries, and blueberries. It is a place with many fruit trees, where you can pick your fruit for yourself.

There is a bakery with fresh donuts and pies, and you can even watch how they make apple cider. It is a fun place for families to visit ziplines and other exciting activities.

You can taste different kinds of fruits, buy fresh products, and enjoy the beautiful countryside. It is like moving into a storybook farm!

14. Catch A Game At Homer Stryker Field

Homer Stryker Field is a baseball stadium where you can watch thrilling games! It is the home of the Kalamazoo Growlers. It is a field with a boundary and seats full of encouraging fans.

You can watch baseball players run, hit, and catch the ball. There is also a place inside where you can get snacks to enjoy while you watch the game. It is a place to go with friends or family and encourage your favorite team. You can also see a home run fly over the fence!

It also organizes different kinds of events throughout the whole year. It is a popular point to visit for both locals and tourists.

15. Admire Local Talent At The Art Hop

The Art Hop is a place where local artists and their display rooms open their doors to the public for an evening of art, music, and community. It is like walking around the city center and finding beautiful artwork. Here, galleries, shops, and restaurants can turn into art spaces for one night.

You can see paintings, models, and other creations by local artists. There is music, food, and a lively environment. It is a chance to meet new people, enjoy the arts, and support local artists. It is like visiting a valuable art of creativity!

It happens on the first Friday of each month and it is free to attend.

16. Shop For Glass Art

If you miss a glass display at the Art Hop, head to Glass Art Kalamazoo, where you can see a glass show and take a class. It is a space filled with colorful, shiny objects made entirely of glass. You can see beautiful vases, intricate sculptures, and even sparkling jewelry.

People are working hard to melt and shape the glass into an amazing formation. You can learn how to make your glass art or enjoy looking at the beautiful pieces. It is a place where creativity and skill come together to make something truly special.

17. Get An Adrenalin Rush At Climb Kalamazoo

Climb Kalamazoo is a big indoor playground for climbers! It is a place with colorful walls that you can climb up and down. There are different levels of steps, so whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, you can find something to test you.

They have all kinds of controls to test your strength and balance. It is a fun way to get exercise, meet new people, and challenge yourself. It is like having an climbing exciting experience in the middle of the city!

It also provides classes and instruction for those new to climbing.

18. Do Some Research At Kalamazoo Public Library

Kalamazoo Public Library helps society by providing different kinds of resources, like books, electronic materials, and educational programs for all ages. It is a place with books, computers, and people who like to help.

You can take books, journals, and movies to home. You can use the computers to learn new things, play games, or browse the internet. There are programs for kids and grown-ups, like storytime, book clubs, and writing work rooms.

It is a place where you can view new ideas, learn something new every day, and find a quiet place to read.

19. Taste A Local Beer At Shakespeare’s Pub

Shakespeare’s Pub is a popular cafe that is known for its warm environment and large choice of beers and cocktails. It is a place with lots of TVs, a comfortable sofa, and a long bar with different kinds of liquors. 

You can watch the most-liked sports, play games, and enjoy tasty pub food. It is a place to ease, meet new people, and have a good time. There is always something fun going on as they also have live music.

It is like your friendly neighborhood pub where everyone knows your name!

20. Take A Tour Of Bell’s Brewery

Bell's Brewery is like a place where tasty beer is made! It is a place with the smell of hops and malt. You can taste different kinds of beers, from light and refreshing to hard and flavorful. They even have special beers for different seasons!

It is where they make famous beers like Oberon and Two-Hearted Ale. You can visit their wine factory and see how it is all done, or enjoy a jar of beer at their pub. It is a place to relax, have fun, and find your new favorite beer!