"My adopted hometown" Top 5 Page for this destination Kalamazoo by FletchInEuropeYahoo
Kalamazoo Travel Guide: 60 reviews and 79 photos
I moved to Kalamazoo in 1978 to attend college. There are four in this city: Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College, Davenport University, and Kalamazoo Valley Community College. It's a lot of fun if you're that age as there's always a party somewhere and the bars are full of college-age kids.
When you're done partying, there's the Kalamazoo Institute of Art. Changing exhibits keep this facility interesting. A Chihuly chandelier hangs in the foyer.
Bronson Park, just kitty-corner from the KIA, has some wonderful scupture, too. In the middle of the park is a fountain with a sculpture "The Children May Safely Play" by Kirk Newman.
On the same corner as KIA is the Civic Theater. This beautiful old building hosts a lively season of entertainment by both adults and youth. There are several other theaters in the downtown area.
For summer stock, the Barn Theater in nearby Augusta fits the bill.
The Kalamazoo Valley Museum downtown explores the area's history and industrial base.
When I moved here 26 years ago, downtown hosted hookers on the street corners, a strip bar, a run-down Hilton, and a dying shopping area. Today I'm happy to say the area is being resurrected. There are new and renovated buildings, including the Kalamazoo Center, now housing a Radisson as well as several upscale shops, restaurants, and outside dining areas. The Arcadia Creek area includes the new festival site and bandshell, where multiple fests are held every summer.
- Pros:Always something to do, even after 26 years here.
- Cons:Traffic on south Westnedge is thick.
- In a nutshell:Great place to raise your children
Reviews (5)
It's a Festival kind of town...
Local Customs
(1)
Island Fest, Ribfest, Bluesfest, Winefest. Any excuse for a party at the Arcadia Festival site. Check the Chamber of... more travel advice
Classic cars
Off The Beaten Path
(1)
The Gilmore Classic Car Museum in Hickory Corners is not too far from Kalamazoo. It's open daily May thru October and... more travel advice
Fresh is the key word
Restaurants
(1)
This little gem of a restaurant is off the beaten track in Kalamazoo's "student ghetto" area. Situated on the corner of... more travel advice
The Do-Dah parade
Things to Do
(1)
Every June downtown Kalamazoo hosts the Do_dah parade. This event is just silly, which makes it most fun. If you’ve... more travel advice
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Latest Kalamazoo hotel reviews
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Latest: Feb 7, 2010 - Holiday Inn Kalamazoo West
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Latest: May 13, 2012 - Henderson Castle Bed & Breakfast
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Latest: May 12, 2012 - Radisson Plaza Hotel At Kalamazoo Center
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Latest: May 16, 2012 - Baymont Inn And Suites Kalamazoo
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Latest: May 21, 2012 - Econo Lodge Kalamazoo
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Latest: Mar 27, 2012

Comments (2)
Thanks for the tip. I grew up just a couple of miles north of the Museum and I guess we all took it for granted. After reading your tip I think I'll go out there.
We love Cosmo's, too. Breakfast on Sunday, with a Bloody Mary is the Bomb!
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