Downtown Kalamazoo Photo courtesy of The Entertainment District
Milham Park, Kalamazoo Photo courtesy of Brian Wolfe
Milham Park, Kalamazoo Photo courtesy of Brian Wolfe
Timber Ridge Ski Resort, Gobles
West Lake, Portage Photo courtesy of Bumki Cho

So Hard To Leave.

Kalamazoo offers so much more than a memorable name. We effortlessly blend energy and innovation with friendliness and a humble attitude. Located in Southwest Michigan, about two hours from Chicago, Kalamazoo is home to the nationally recognized Western Michigan University, several colleges and a variety of cultural institutions. A vibrant and progressive downtown sets the stage for quality dining, eclectic shops and galleries, and live entertainment. Plus, you’re never far from lakes and outdoor recreation, festivals, and world-class attractions.

Experience the place with a big city mindset and a small town heart. Once you make the trip, you’ll be back for more. We promise.

  • Kalamazoo Marathon Home page headline image

    The Kalamazoo Marathon is the “signature” race at the 34th annual Borgess Run for the Health of It. The race starts and finishes at Nazareth Campus, on Gull Road, near the Borgess Health & Fitness Center. This USATF certified course provides a scenic and diverse tour of Kalamazoo, including parks, trails, the downtown mall, neighborhoods and Western Michigan University. Bands, entertainment and plenty of crowd support help marathoners reach the finish line, where Tent City awaits, with food, refreshments and entertainment for the whole family into Sunday afternoon.

    Friday activities include the Meijer Kids Fun Run and the Motivational Mile. Sunday features the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Run, 5K Run and 5K Walk. More >

  • Gilmore International Keyboard Festival Returns Home page headline image

    Presented biennially over three weeks in April and May, the Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard Festival is internationally recognized as America’s most prestigious piano music festival. In its 25th year, The Gilmore’s nearly 100 events will showcase some of the most notable and accomplished pianists and keyboard musicians in the world along with artists just emerging on the international stage.

    From classical to jazz in presentations from solo recital to musical theater, the Festival continually achieves acclaim for presenting music of the highest artistic caliber.

    The 2014 festival features dozens of artists including: Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner, Kirill Gerstein, Rafal Blechacz, Ben Folds and John Legend, among others. More >

Travel Like A Local