If you're enchanted by charming, historic neighborhoods brimming with local character, then you'll love exploring Kalamazoo's Oakwood Neighborhood! Forget your watch and enjoy a leisurely day. Imagine your favorite cozy coffee shop, but even better. How about a bookstore that gives you warm, fuzzy feelings the moment you step inside? Absolutely! Plus, you can wander through the aisles of the oldest family-owned natural foods store in the United States. Each destination below offers something truly unique and refreshing. Just remember to bring your appetite (and perhaps some stretchy pants)!
WHERE TO GET COFFEE:
Water Street Coffee Joint on Oakland
The Water Street Coffee Oakland Café is cozily situated in the Oakwood neighborhood, right at the intersection of Oakland Drive and Whites Road. This charming café draws its design inspiration from the 1940s architectural sketches and blueprints of the historic Bryant Paper Mill, a key part of Kalamazoo's industrial past.
The Oakland Café is an ideal spot to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee or lose yourself in a captivating book. Just like its sister locations, this café serves freshly roasted house coffee, a full espresso bar, a variety of loose-leaf teas, shakes, smoothies, and much more.
Among the crowd favorites are Coffee with a BANG, Mocha Del Sol, and iced Chai Tea Latte.
While you're enjoying your visit, don't forget to check out their retail section, which offers a constantly changing array of bagged coffee, teas, home brewing equipment, travel mugs, t-shirts, and other coffee-related items.
GO-TO ACTIVITY FOR THE DAY:
This is a Bookstore & Bookbug
This is a Bookstore & Bookbug stand as a comprehensive, independent bookstore that prides itself on offering the finest selection of new books and hosting engaging book-related events. Across two welcoming storefronts, patrons can explore dozens of meticulously organized shelves that house thousands of volumes. From a whimsical playhouse designed to spark the imagination, to several cozy nooks perfect for settling down with a new find, reading, discussing, playing, and uncovering new favorites, the space invites visitors to linger. Bookbug places a particular focus on children's and young adult literature, boasting both a special emphasis and a deep expertise in these areas. Meanwhile, 'this is a bookstore' extends its reach into the realm of adult readers, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of literary fiction, nonfiction, and graphic novels. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the full service cafe/bar, making it the perfect spot for book lovers to savor a good read over a cup of coffee or a refreshing drink.
BEST SPOT FOR A PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Woods Lake
Woods Lake Park boasts a pristine sandy beach, an updated changing area, a picnic pavilion equipped with six tables, modern restrooms, a new playground, and a revitalized fishing pier. Encircled by lush woods, this tranquil retreat offers a peaceful escape amidst the city's hustle and bustle. The inviting warm water is perfect for swimming and ideal for stand-up paddle boarding.
WHERE TO EAT:
Cafe 36
Cafe 36 is a contemporary American eatery that emphasizes seasonal, all-natural, sustainable, and organic cuisine, all within an elegant and inviting atmosphere. Nestled on the second floor of Sawall Health Foods, it offers a unique dining experience.
Founded by Frank A. Sawall in 1936, Sawall Health Food Products, Inc. proudly holds the title of the oldest family-owned natural foods store in the United States, continuing its legacy to this day.
Where to Shop
Initial Attraction, Bricks and Minifigs and Little Sprout Children's Boutique
There are plenty of wonderful locally owned shops in the Oakwood Neighborhood! At Initial Attraction, discover an eclectic selection of gifts, apparel, tabletop items, and personalized products for gifting and home décor.
Your children will be thrilled to explore Bricks and Minifigs, a toy store specializing in new and pre-owned LEGO sets, bricks, and minifigures. For delightful presents and treasures for the little ones, visit Little Sprout Children's Boutique.
WHERE TO SPEND HAPPY HOUR:
Fletcher's Pub
If you're craving a burger, pasta, seafood, or a fantastic sandwich, Fletcher's Pub is the place to be. Their extensive menu features appetizers, soups, sandwiches, and mouthwatering entrées. Stop by for incredible cocktails, draft beer, and unbeatable happy hour specials. This is the ideal spot to relax, enjoy a casual atmosphere, and catch the game with friends.
Where to Go for Dessert
Schultz's Treat Street
Schultz's Treat Street is the ultimate destination for indulging your cravings! As Kalamazoo's oldest ice cream parlor, they are renowned for their award-winning Moo-ville ice cream, gourmet hotdogs, and delectable Schultz Sweets confections.
