Kalamazoo

Day Trips

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite, the Food Dance, where you can indulge in delicious farm-to-table dishes. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of downtown Kalamazoo and admire the historic architecture, including the stunning Kalamazoo County Courthouse. Don't forget to stop by the Kalamazoo Valley Museum to explore its fascinating exhibits on local history and culture.

For lunch, head to Bell's Brewery for a taste of their renowned craft beers and hearty pub fare. Afterward, take a leisurely walk at the nearby Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife. As the afternoon unfolds, visit the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts to appreciate its impressive collection of American art.

As the sun sets, dine at the upscale yet cozy Zazios, known for its inventive dishes and extensive wine list. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Kalamazoo State Theatre, a historic venue that hosts a variety of acts from music to comedy. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at The Olde Peninsula, a local brewery and pub with a warm atmosphere.

Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at The Cozy Cafe, where you can enjoy a classic American breakfast. After fueling up, make your way to the Kalamazoo Nature Center for a morning of exploration through its trails and nature exhibits. Take a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, and let the kids enjoy the interactive exhibits.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the picturesque gardens of the nearby Kalamazoo Botanical Garden, where you can admire the diverse plant life. Spend the afternoon wandering through the themed gardens, including the butterfly garden and the serene water features. Don’t miss the chance to relax on a bench and soak in the tranquility of your surroundings.

As evening approaches, head to the nearby Parkwood-Upjohn Park for a leisurely stroll while the sun sets over the lake. For dinner, visit the popular The Strutt, where you can savor classic American dishes in a retro setting. Wrap up the night with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, enjoying the flavors of the season.

Kick off your day with breakfast at the renowned Sweetwater’s Donut Mill, famous for its fresh and delicious donuts. After breakfast, take a guided tour of the Kalamazoo Beer Exchange, where you can learn about the brewing process and the history of beer in the region. Sample some local brews as you soak in the atmosphere.

For lunch, stop by One Well Brewing, where you can pair their craft beer with a selection of gourmet sandwiches. In the afternoon, continue your brewery tour with a visit to Bell's Brewery, where you can enjoy tastings of their signature beers and seasonal offerings. Spend some time in their beer garden, surrounded by fellow beer enthusiasts.

As the evening rolls in, head to the downtown area for a brewery crawl, discovering hidden gems like the Gonzo's BiggDogg Brewing. Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a local eatery, sampling dishes that complement the beers you’ve tried throughout the day. End the night with a visit to a lively local pub, where you can listen to live music or join in on trivia night.

Begin your artistic adventure with breakfast at the trendy Water Street Coffee Joint, where you can sip on specialty brews. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local art scene by visiting the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, which showcases both permanent and rotating exhibits. Take your time exploring the galleries and appreciating the fine crafts.

For lunch, stop at The Union for a casual meal in a vibrant atmosphere. Spend the afternoon at the Gilmore Car Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of vintage automobiles and learn about their history. Participate in any special events happening during your visit for an interactive experience.

As night falls, enjoy dinner at The Shakespeare's Pub, famous for its unique twist on classic pub fare. After your meal, catch a live theater show at the Whole Art Theatre, known for its engaging performances and local talent. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through downtown, where you’ll find a variety of art installations illuminating the streets.

Start your day with breakfast at the locally loved, The Breakfast Place, known for its hearty portions. After breakfast, head to the beautiful Kalamazoo River Valley Trail for a morning of hiking or biking, taking in the scenic views along the river. Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Enjoy a packed lunch picnic at the picturesque Milham Park, where you can relax under the trees and watch the local sports games. Spend the afternoon playing frisbee or enjoying the park's amenities, including its lovely walking paths and playgrounds. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the Kalamazoo River from the water.

As the sun sets, make your way to a nearby restaurant like The Local, where you can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine. After dinner, gather around a fire pit at a local brewery or park to share stories and enjoy each other's company. Cap off your day with stargazing, marveling at the clear night sky away from city lights.

Kick off your family day with breakfast at the iconic Biggby Coffee, where you can grab a coffee and delicious breakfast sandwich. After fueling up, head to the Kalamazoo Zoo to spend the morning exploring its exhibits and seeing a variety of animals from around the world. Don’t forget to visit the petting zoo area for some hands-on fun with the animals.

For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy in the zoo's designated picnic area, surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, explore more of the zoo and participate in any animal encounters or educational sessions happening that day. Let the kids enjoy the play areas and interactive exhibits while you take a break.

After a fun-filled day, treat the family to dinner at the nearby Family Restaurant, where the menu is packed with kid-friendly options. Reflect on the day's adventures over dessert, perhaps grabbing some ice cream from a local shop. Wind down your evening with a family movie night back at your accommodation, sharing your favorite moments from the day.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the popular The Breakfast Place, where you can enjoy classic American breakfast favorites. Afterward, make your way to the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, where you'll delve into the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits. Spend some time in the museum's hands-on science area, which is perfect for both kids and adults.

For lunch, stop at The Union, known for its selection of local craft beers and delicious burgers. Afterward, visit the nearby Air Zoo, an aviation-themed amusement park featuring historic aircraft and interactive exhibits. It's a fun way to learn about the history of flight while enjoying the various rides and attractions.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at Zazios, offering upscale dining with a focus on local ingredients. After your meal, head to the Michigan Theatre for a special screening of a classic film or a live performance. Wrap up your night by enjoying a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kalamazoo.