Top Three Reasons to Visit Kalamazoo, MI
Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo! Being nestled west of Lansing and south of more frequented touristy towns like Grand Rapids and Holland, Kalamazoo often gets passed up as a desirable southwest Michigan town worth visiting. But we believe Kalamazoo is worth the hype and today we’re sharing the top three reasons to add it to your travel itinerary this year.
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1. Coffee Shops. Kalamazoo is full of coffee shops dripping with character and charm. Whether you’re looking for more of the downtown vibe of Caffe Casa, a roastery with a passion for community like Factory Coffee, or a lunch spot with a side of great coffee like Walnut & Park - you can find it here.
Caffe Casa. Conveniently located on the Kalamazoo Mall (p.s. Did you know the Kalamazoo Mall was the first ever outdoor pedestrian mall in the United States?) Caffe Casa is a popular stop for many downtown employees, including our own. Inside you’ll find an eclectic, cozy, and laid-back vibe with art from local artists on the walls and plenty of delicious options for coffee, tea, and baked goods.
Factory Coffee has made a name for themselves in the Kalamazoo community as being THE place to get outstanding and ethically sourced coffee. They source their coffee from all around the world with a desire to promote sustainability, environmentally conscious business, and community. Plus, they do all their own roasting in micro batches. If you geek out over coffee - Factory Coffee will be your new favorite place.
Walnut & Park Cafe’s motto is “more than just a great cup of coffee” and that couldn’t be more true. Not only are their cappuccinos out of this world, but they are on a mission to serve and empower our community. Walnut and Park employees mostly residents of KPEP, a community corrections provider based here in Kalamazoo. By hiring graduates of the KPEP hospitality program they are able to “equip people who have been incarcerated with the job skills they need to help turn their lives around, live independently, and contribute to the community.” **
2. Breweries/Wineries/Distilleries. We may be a little off the beaten path of the Michigan Wine Trail, but that doesn’t mean we’re lacking in options for a great glass of wine, beer or spirits. In fact, we’re home to one of the most popular summer beers nationwide, Bell’s Oberon. These three locations are must stops during a visit to The Zoo.
Bell’s Brewery. On your way into town, stop in for a tour of the brewery, grab tickets for one of the many live concerts and events, or grab a bite and a beer to enjoy on the patio - there’s always something worth stopping for at Bell’s Brewery.
Green Door Distilling. With a name that gives a subtle nod to speak-easy bars during Prohibition and backed by NBA legend, Ben Wallace, it’s really no secret that Green Door Distillery is a one-of-a-kind stop in Kalamazoo. While you’re there, order up a flight of their signature spirits or stay for a tour for a behind the scenes look.
St. Julian Winery. As one of the largest and most awarded wineries in Michigan, this Michigan Wine Trail stop is a must-visit. The main winery, where all the magic (and by magic we mean the crushing, fermenting, bottling, and of course tasting happens), is a little outside of town, technically in Van Buren County’s city of Paw Paw. However, it’s on Kalamazoo St. and with only a 25 minute drive - we had to include it.
3. Charcuterie Experience. Kalamazoo is home to one of the most unique dining experiences, a charcuterie cafe located on the downtown mall.
The Grazing Table. So you’ve seen (and been drooling over) the decadent charcuterie boards on Instagram and Pinterest, but what if we told you there was a spot located in the downtown Kalamazoo Mall that could serve one up for you in real life. Founders and independent owners, Joey and Jenna Gamrat (ahem, yes that’s us) believe charcuterie is the perfect food to bring people together. Plus, doesn’t meat and cheese just make everyone happier? The Grazing Table is a must-stop during a visit to Kalamazoo to experience the warmth and joy of a great meal, locally sourced products and baked goods, and service with a smile, every single time. We can’t wait to see you!
**Source: https://walnutandparkcafe.com/our-story/