Yes, There Really Is A Kalamazoo!

For a place to stay, I'd recommend staying at the Stuart Avenue Inn, a quaint, historical bed and breakfast located less than a 5-minute drive from Downtown.

On the first day, head down to Kalamazoo's most famous brewery to taste some of their iconic brews, like Two-Hearted or Oberon (if it's in season!). This brewery hosts shows throughout the year in their backroom or outside in their beer garden in the summer. Catch a show, sip some brews, and enjoy mingling with the lovely people of Kalamazoo.

On the second day, enjoy breakfast at Studio Grille, one of Kalamazoo's iconic, family-owned breakfast and lunch joints. There is usually a long wait on the weekends, where you can enjoy perusing the old newsstand next-door. Enjoy interesting stuffed burger combinations and homemade jam.

Then, take a 45-minute drive out to the lakeshore to visit Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan is a breathtaking attraction, with it's blue waters fading out into the horizon as far as the eye can see. I'd recommend spending the day at Hagar Beach before returning to Kalamazoo for dinner at The Crow's Nest, a local eatery.

On the final day, I'd recommend spending some time in Michigan's forests. The Lillian Anderson Arboretum in Kalamazoo is filled with magnificent pines and acres of trails, but be careful not to get lost! I've done it a time or two lol

Be sure to stop into another family-owned cafe for breakfast or lunch, Nina's Cafe and Carousel.

Then, head over to Portage to visit Air Zoo, Kalamazoo's aerospace and science museum. It's a fun place to visit for kids and adults alike, and I bet you'll even learn something.