Downtown Kalamazoo

There’s nothing typical about Kalamazoo. We’re multicultural and urban, yet down-to-earth and homegrown. A city rich with creative energy, where our sense of adventure extends from the outdoors onto your plate. 

You can rock climb in the heart of downtown or rock out at a live show, admire art or make it yourself. So, what’s first?

1

Paddling on the Kalamazoo River
Float Down the Kalamazoo River from Comstock

Whether you want to cruise the waters sitting, standing, rowing, or paddling – the Kalamazoo River is the place to do it! The Kalamazoo River is the perfect place to bring your paddle board, kayak, or canoes to explore the waters.

Food at Louie's Trophy House
Stop by Louie's Trophy House for Dinner

Today, Louie’s is the oldest bar in Kalamazoo. The bar acts as an escape from the the busy city. When patrons walk in, the first thing they notice is the taxidermy lined walls. It features a cabin on the lake feel.

A drink being prepared at Green Door Distilling
Walk to Green Door Distilling For a Night Cap

You can sip on spirits extremely close to the source at Green Door Distilling’s bar and tasting room (limited indoor seating currently due to COVID-19), or head outside to the Green Door Garden area. Both spaces offer the perfect setting for discovering their spirits. You can order cocktails such as Old Fashions, Blueberry Lavender Gimlets, Bloody Marys and more!

2

A bicyclist on the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail
Bike the KRVT to the Kalamazoo Nature Center

The Kalamazoo River Valley Trail features local history from the Kalamazoo Nature Center and in to. The Nature Center has a historical working farm and contains the scenic Cooper’s Glen, the site of a Native American encampment prior to European settlement.

Burger and fries at Latitude 42
Take the KRVT to Latitude 42 Brewing For Food

You'll love Latitude 42’s award-winning beers such as the Powerline Porter (World Beer Expo, New York International Beer Competition) and the Beach Cruiser (Australian International Beer Awards, North America Beer Association). Their beer garden is welcoming with stringed lights, a firepit, beautiful landscaping, and best of all…shuffleboard!

Cocktails at Main St. Pub
Head to Main St. Pub for Drinks and Darts

Main St. Pub is one of the most well-known bars and restaurants in Kalamazoo! Not only do they have an extensive menu and phenomenal food, but the atmosphere is laid back and welcoming!

3

Breakfast at the Crow's Nest
Brunch at Crow's Nest

Located in a quaint and intimate settling above Fourth Coast Coffee shop, Crow's Nest is truly a Kalamazoo gem. This Vine Neighborhood favorite is famous for their breakfast, but their lunch menu is equally as delicious. They pride themselves on the wide variety of both vegan and vegetarian options.

Statue outside the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
Head to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

As the cultural hub for southwest Michigan, the Kalamazoo Institute of Art is one of many gems that makes the “269” shine. Here are some reasons that we think will draw you in for a visit.

Wine and appetizers at Stamped Robin wine and cocktail lounge
Spend Happy Hour at Stamped Robin For Apps and Wine Flights

The Stamped Robin wine and cocktail lounge is located downtown Kalamazoo and serves 20 different wines on tap! It’s the perfect place to stop in for a drink, listen to music and catch up with friends.

4 Neighborhoods Worth Visiting Outside Downtown Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo is a city of energetic and buzzed-about neighborhoods, each with its’ own personality. Walk their storied streets, appreciate the independent shops, indulge in locally-owned restaurants and cozy up in their coffee shops…

From laid back breweries and a lake life mantra to carefully curated shops and fine dining, the Portage and Texas Township area of Kalamazoo County is an outdoor enthusiasts haven…

There’s nothing typical about Kalamazoo. We’re multicultural and urban, yet down to earth and homegrown. A city rich with creative energy, where our sense of adventure…

From laid-back breweries and a lake life mantra to carefully curated shops and fine dining, the Oshtemo and Texas Township area of Kalamazoo County is an outdoor enthusiasts…

Much of Kalamazoo’s small town charm can be found in its hidden gems, from the historic landmarks and robust antique and vintage scene to the four-season outdoor recreation…

Much of Kalamazoo’s small-town charm can be found in its hidden gems, from the historic landmarks and robust antique and vintage scene to the four-season outdoor recreation…

On the outskirts of both Climax and Scotts, you’ll find two of Kalamazoo’s most unique and sprawling county parks for outdoor adventure, quintessential main streets…

The Vicksburg water tower The Mill at Vicksburg

From the historic restoration of an entire village and the preservation of a landmark of the Underground Railroad, to honest to goodness local grub and good company, the quaint…

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