The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts or KIA as it is lovingly called is a rich resource for arts and known to rope in some of the best traveling exhibitions in the state. Their permanent painting collection is not too bad either. Educational programs are always on for adults, kids, families and teenagers who can enjoy the classes and walks.
Established in 1881, Kalamazoo Valley Museum is a museum that aims to attract children through its exhibits that revolve around the history of the region and science and technology. Home to more than 50,000 objects, the museum has a large collection of rocks, corals and shells that were gifted by the local banker Horace M. Peck in 1881. Moreover, the museum also functions as a host to a planetarium, where visitors get to explore the universe.
Named after the city's founder Titus Bronson, the Bronson Park in Downtown Kalamazoo has been a great landmark since its establishment. Hugely popular with kids and adults alike, the park also plays host to various events like New Year's Eve festivities and much more. Flanked mostly by churches and important buildings on all sides, it forms the center of what is called the Bronson Park District of the city. Bronson Park is also home to one of the most popular sculptures in the city called Fountain of the Pioneers which portrays a Native American with the headgear standing face-to-face with an early western settler.
Kalamazoo Nature Center is a nature center and conservatory located in Kalamazoo. The center aims to provide education about flora and fauna and to provide a feel of nature. They organize various community and student outreach programs that include animal husbandry and conservation techniques. There are various outdoor activities and summer camps organized for the student community and there are family-centric programs as well. The venue has facilities to conduct and outdoor events.
Al Sabo Preserve incorporates a water pumping area and was established to secure the ground-water supply of the City of Kalamazoo in the '70s. The preserve covers about 741 acres (299.87 hectares) of wetlands between Kalamazoo and Texas Charter Township. The region comprises of several hiking and biking trails that are exceedingly popular with locals, especially with those interested in mountain biking, even though most of the area is closed for bike traverse. The Al Sabo Land Preserve entails a thickly-wooded area incorporating forests, hills, streams and marshes, which is how it features several panoramic views and lookouts. As such, it is also home to impressive biodiversity and animal species such as muskrats, foxes, coyotes, deer and lots more.
The 1920s architecture of this former movie palace is reminiscent of another era altogether, making it a site to withhold. Now duly renovated and refurbished, the theater stands tall and houses a grand stage equipped with modern facilities to host an amazing selection of live performances. Besides hosting top acts in music, the beautiful venue occasionally hosts community events and is available for private hire as well.
Dating back to 1895, this old castle is within walking distance of Kalamazoo College, and is 5 minutes’ drive from Western Michigan University. It boasts on-site spa services, airport transfers and daily hot breakfast. Free WiFi, a flat-screen TV and coffee-making facilities are included in the elegant rooms of Henderson Castle. The unique rooms feature wooden or marble floors, a small seating area and an en suite bathroom. An American breakfast is served at the property and aged steaks are served for lunch and dinner. Guided tours are available for this historical home in Kalamazoo. There is a gift shop on-site for guests as well. This bed and breakfast hotel is close to Interstate 94, just 5 minutes’ drive from The Prairies Golf Club.
Established in 1977, the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum, also called the Air Zoo, is located close to Downtown Portage. Displaying an eclectic collection of rare and antique aircraft that includes a space simulator, the museum is also home to the biggest indoor, hand-painted mural in the world. Just a few miles away from the Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport, it also features a canteen and a gift shop. There are also many flight simulators on the offer.
This charming museum is the perfect way to explore automotive history. From hot rods to pedal cars to an 1899 locomotive, you'll find cars of every shape and size here. Not only can you see over 300 cars, including antiques and collector vehicles, you can also see old American buildings. Spread out on 90 acres (36 hectares), the historic buildings add to the vintage feel, including a Franklin Car Dealership from 1918 and a 1930s Shell Gas Station. If you get hungry stop by the on-site 1941 George & Sally’s Blue Moon Dine for a slice of apple pie.