Kalamazoo is a city that surprises people in the best way. It blends a strong arts and education community, a nationally recognized craft-beverage scene, and easy access to outdoor spaces, all within a compact area. Some of the best things to do in Kalamazoo, MI, happen in the winter when the soft snow makes this charming city on the banks of the Kalamazoo River sparkle. Visitors come for museums, live performances, and food-driven experiences, but often leave talking about how easy it felt to explore.
For those heading to Southwest Michigan to enjoy the snow, one of the best things to do in Kalamazoo during your stay is to check out the nearby ski resorts. For downhill skiing, Bittersweet Resort and Timber Ridge Ski Area are two fantastic resorts just a quick drive from downtown. If you prefer a gentler winter activity, the Lillian Anderson Arboretum at Kalamazoo College has peaceful, easy-to-explore trails for snowshoeing. As you return from your time in the crisp winter air, you’ll find plenty to do to warm up in the evenings indoors.
One of those places is The Kalamazoo House, located downtown and just minutes from the Western Michigan University Campus, and it offers a comfortable, inviting place to return, known as a quieter alternative to larger downtown Kalamazoo hotels. Guests can relax in well-appointed rooms, enjoy the calm of the surrounding neighborhood, and talk through plans for the next day over breakfast. For couples looking for a weekend stay or an extended winter getaway, this inn offers a welcoming way to experience Kalamazoo. Book your lodging today!
Things to do in Kalamazoo: Dining, Museums & Outdoor Adventures
For those planning a weekend getaway from Grand Rapids or Lansing, it’s only about an hour’s drive to the best things to do in Kalamazoo, and for those heading to escape from Detroit, it’s just a two-hour straight shot west, the perfect length for a quick road trip. Whether you’re traveling with your partner for a quick romantic retreat, grabbing a little solo time, or setting up a group trip with friends, Kalamazoo is a fantastic destination to discover.
Here are our favorite things to do in Kalamazoo this winter:
- Kalamazoo’s reputation as the birthplace of Michigan’s modern craft beer scene is well earned, and winter is one of the best times to enjoy it. Bell’s Eccentric Cafe remains a cornerstone, offering seasonal releases, live music, and a full menu that makes it easy to spend an evening indoors. There is more than a handful of fantastic Michigan breweries to discover near our property,
- Wine lovers will find several cozy options downtown and nearby. Sit and Stay Winery, located within walking distance of many downtown Kalamazoo hotels, is a favorite for its approachable tasting experience and relaxed atmosphere. Also notable nearby stops for wine lovers: the Stamped Robin and WL – Social House.
- The Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week in early February is an excellent way to explore the local breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Many establishments offer specials and host fun events. You can even download a KCBW passport app to track all the stops you visit, and be entered into the running for swag and bonuses!
- For those wondering what to do in Kalamazoo on a cold afternoon, the city’s arts and cultural attractions offer an easy answer. The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts sits next door to The Kalamazoo House; you can even spot the Dale Chihuly sculpture from our boutique property. Inside, rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection make it worth a visit regardless of the weather.
- The Kalamazoo Valley Museum, an easy eight-minute walk, focuses on local history, science, and innovation. Its hands-on exhibits and rotating displays make it a standout Kalamazoo museum for visitors of all ages. A short drive away, the Air Zoo Air and Space Experience features more than 50 historic aircraft and interactive exhibits, offering an engaging indoor experience that often surprises first-time visitors.
- Downtown shopping is centered around the Kalamazoo Mall, one of the country’s first outdoor pedestrian malls. Winter brings fewer crowds and co-eds, making it easier to browse local boutiques, specialty shops, and bookstores. You’ll find plenty of cafes to pop into for a warm beverage or fresh lunch, by far a favorite of our guests looking for the best things to do in Kalamazoo!
- Dining options downtown range from refined date night restaurants to casual spots perfect for lunch between museum visits. While many of the wineries and breweries in Kalamazoo offer fantastic food options as well, there are some great fine-dining establishments. Head to Rustica for modern European cuisine, Principle Food & Drink for New American, and Brick + Brine for an impressive happy-hour menu.
- For outdoor explorers looking for the best things to do in Kalamazoo, there’s a wealth of choices for winter hikes and snowshoeing within city limits. One example is the Kal-Haven Trail, a 34-mile path stretching from South Haven to Kalamazoo. This trail offers groomed cross-country ski and snowmobile trails in the winter, with snowmobilers required to have a Michigan Snowmobile Permit.
- Downhill skiers and snowboarders can head to Bittersweet Resort and Timber Ridge Ski Area. While those who prefer toboggan runs or tubing hills, Echo Valley Winter Sports Park is worth a spin.
- Lastly, one of the best things to do in Kalamazoo this winter is to find the time to relax. Whether that’s curled up with a good book by the fire, in your cozy guest suite with your favorite movie on, or relaxing with your favorite person with a glass of wine. The best downtown Kalamazoo Hotels make this part of a getaway easy!
Unique Touches at one of the Best Downtown Kalamazoo Hotels
Staying at The Kalamazoo House puts guests within easy walking distance of many of the best things to do in Kalamazoo. Mornings begin in a historic setting with thoughtful details, comfortable common spaces, and the kind of quiet that makes it easy to settle into the day. You’ll start your day with a thoughtfully chef-prepared breakfast. Let us do all the cooking and the clean up, and you can get to planning your adventure ahead!
One of the advantages of staying at our inn is how naturally it connects visitors to what to do in Kalamazoo throughout the year. Museums, galleries, cocktail bars, and restaurants are all close by, allowing guests to step out for a morning stroll or evening plans and return easily in between. Being near both campuses for Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo College, you’ll feel the vibrancy of youth that college towns create and encourage. Our boutique property offers an elevated atmosphere, with only ten rooms and suites; your stay will be quiet and restful.
As evening sets in, The Kalamazoo House warmly welcomes you back to a cozy and peaceful retreat from the bustling downtown Kalamazoo Hotels. Unwind in beautifully designed rooms with upscale amenities with personal touches. We’re excited to help you discover all of the best things to do in Kalamazoo! Reserve your room today.
