Planning a group outing can be tricky, but Kalamazoo, Michigan, has plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re organizing a family reunion, a work gathering, or a fun weekend with friends, there’s something for every group. Here’s your guide to the best group-friendly activities in Kalamazoo, categorized by area.
Downtown Kalamazoo: A Hub of Activity
Crafted Copper Duckpin Bowling
For a unique and nostalgic experience, head to Crafted Copper for duckpin bowling. It’s perfect for groups looking to have fun in a relaxed and social setting.
Kalamazoo Mall
The Kalamazoo Mall is an iconic downtown destination. Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly area and enjoy its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and DIY activity spots.
Kalamazoo Valley Museum
Dive into hands-on exhibits and fascinating displays at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Bonus: it’s free and appeals to all ages!
Green Door Distilling Co.
For the craft spirits enthusiasts, Green Door Distilling Co. is a must-visit. The atmosphere is inviting, and it’s an excellent spot to sip and socialize.
Brewery Outré
This cozy brewery offers unique, experimental brews that your group will love. Brewery Outré is great for starting or ending a downtown brewery tour.
Group Favorites for Bar Crawls or Get-Togethers
-
LFG Gaming Bar: A hotspot for groups, LFG features a private room to accommodate larger parties. LFG Gaming Bar combines a love for arcade and retro gaming with an impressive menu of amazing food and expertly crafted cocktails, making it a perfect spot for fun and flavor.
-
Dabney & Co.: Perfect for cocktails and conversation in an upscale yet approachable environment. Dabney & Co. is where handcrafted cocktails and southern cuisine come alive, set to the smooth rhythms of jazz, blues, soul, funk, disco, hip-hop, and R&B classics for an unforgettable dining experience.
-
Stamped Robin: Known for its wine-forward menu and chill vibes. Stamped Robin is a Euro-centric wine and cocktail bar with Midwest roots, offering innovative drinks in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
-
Kalamazoo Beer Exchange: A group favorite thanks to its dynamic beer stock market concept. Kalamazoo Beer Exchange features 28 rotating draught beers worldwide, with prices fluctuating in real-time like a stock market, creating a dynamic and exciting happy hour experience.
-
Bell’s Eccentric Café: A classic choice for beer lovers and the birthplace of the iconic Oberon beer, Bell's Brewery has been crafting unique and inspired beers in Michigan since 1985, making it a cornerstone of the state's craft beer scene.
Restaurants Perfect for Groups
-
600 Kitchen & Bar: A versatile choice with a menu that pleases everyone, 600 Kitchen & Bar is a vibrant downtown gathering spot known for its diverse menu featuring vegan options, brunch, dinner, and a tempting selection of cocktails.
-
Principle Food & Drink: Ideal for groups seeking a sophisticated dining experience, Principle Food and Drink offers a creative craft cocktail program in a stylish yet comfortable setting in the heart of friendly downtown Kalamazoo.
-
ROCA: A vibrant spot with a delicious mix of Latin flavors, ROCA invites you to indulge in bold, fresh flavors and libations inspired by Latin American culture, blending the vibrant tastes of the Southwest with the rich culinary traditions of South America.
-
Brick and Brine: With its modern elegance, innovative menu balancing creativity and classic flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and sophisticated ambiance, Brick and Brine is the perfect destination for a romantic dinner, special celebration, or any occasion that calls for gourmet excellence.
East Kalamazoo and Beyond
Gilmore Car Museum and Kellogg Manor House
Take a scenic drive to explore the Gilmore Car Museum’s impressive collection of classic vehicles or enjoy the historic charm of Kellogg Manor House. The Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan, spans 90 acres and showcases over 400 vintage and collector vehicles and motorcycles from all eras, making it the largest automobile museum in North America. The W.K. Kellogg Manor House, located on Gull Lake, is the former estate of the Kellogg Company founder and has been beautifully restored to its original grandeur, offering visitors a chance to explore its historic interior, stroll through scenic gardens, and enjoy a historical walking tour along the lake shore.
Gull Meadow Farms
Gull Meadow Farms provides a fun-filled experience for the entire family, featuring over 30 activities, u-pick apples and pumpkins, fresh donuts, and more! Enjoy festive holiday lights in the winter, while summer brings exciting events like the annual Sunflower Festival and Hot Air Balloon Festival.
Bell’s Brewery Tours (Comstock)
For the ultimate beer enthusiasts, a tour of Bell’s production facility in Comstock is worth the short drive. Book a tour of our downtown Kalamazoo facility or their larger brewing operation in Comstock to experience Bell’s history firsthand—and enjoy complimentary beer samples along the way! Tours are limited to persons 21+.
Gull Lake Distilling Co.
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and a cozy ambiance at this East Kalamazoo gem. Gull Lake Distilling is located in downtown Galesburg.
Portage Area: Fun for All Ages
Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum
An interactive museum that’s great for kids and adults alike, the Air Zoo features flight simulators, historic aircraft, and more.
Airway Fun Center
Escape rooms, bowling, and arcade games make Airway Fun Center an all-in-one entertainment destination.
One Well Brewing
Known for its community vibe, One Well offers excellent beer and games—perfect for a laid-back group outing. Your guests will go crazy over their Wizard's Pinball Palace!
Latitude 42 Brewing Co.
A reliable option for lunch or dinner, Latitude 42 offers a broad menu and craft beer selection. They also offer fun cocktails and mocktails that are sure to please anyone in your group.
Presidential Brewing Co.
Presidential Brewing is a summer hotspot great for outdoor gatherings, and its welcoming atmosphere and tasty brews are fantastic. During the winter months, groups can enjoy their casual community-style seating indoors.
Cove Lakeside Bistro
Cove Lakeside Bistro is a hidden gem in Portage, perfect for smaller groups. Located right on the shores of West Lake, Cove offers a delicious brunch, lunch and dinner menu, with incredible handcrafted drinks!
DIY & Artsy Activities
Kalamazoo Mall
Get creative with DIY activities like candle-making at Kalamazoo Candle, custom scents at Aroma Labs, and painting at Colors and Cocktails. You can also explore sustainable shopping at Bee Joyful.
Park Trades Center
Art lovers will appreciate the workshops and galleries at Park Trades Center, and Glass Arts Kalamazoo is especially great for group activities.
Seasonal Craft Fairs
Check for craft fairs at the Kalamazoo Expo Center or Wings Event Center—you never know what unique finds await!
Stadium Drive/West Side
Revel & Roll
Bowling, arcade games, and delicious food make Revel & Roll fun for groups.
Martell’s
Martell's is a classic restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere—perfect for a group dinner.
Other Must-Visits
Texas Corners Brewing Co.
Known for its small-town charm and delicious farm-to-table menu, Texas Corners Brewing Company is worth the short drive to the southern part of the county in Texas Corners.
Twine Urban Winery
Twine Urban Winery is a cozy and unique spot to enjoy wine tastings with friends in Kalamazoo's Washington Square Neighborhood.
Water Street Coffee and Walnut & Park Café
For a caffeine fix or a quick bite, these local favorites are sure to please. Check out one of the many Water Street locations throughout the county, or pop into Walnut & Park downtown, just a short kitty corner walk from the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
