Things To Do

The Theatre Arts Department of Kalamazoo College presents a season of plays ranging from traditional to outrageous cult offerings. Festival Playhouse also produces a Student Playwriting Festival of readings and performances of original plays by Kalamazoo College students.

Open daily May through October, the Museum includes eight historic barns, a 1930’s service station, three miles of paved road occasionally travelled by one of the villages vintage cars.

Not really a zoo – but filled with family attractions, and a small warplane museum. Admission is free through December 31, 2009.

From 1929 to the present The Kalamazoo Civic Theatre has been at the forefront of community theatres in America. From its beginning it has been praised by the public and its peers as one of the outstanding examples of just what can be done with a "Civic" or community theatre.

Since 1924, the KIA has offered art classes to the whole community and a place for the enjoyment of the visual arts through exhibitions, lectures, special events and a permanent collection. The KIA's mission is to cultivate the creation and appreciation of the visual arts for the communities of West Michigan.

There is always something new to do at KNC. Each month there are featured programs for kids and adults. There is a family program every Sunday at 2 pm and special events are held throughout the year. Can't catch a program. The award winning Nature Up Close exhibits show you a new perspective on the world around you. Of course the most special feature of all are the 11+ miles of hiking trails that wind you through some of the most special habitats in Michigan all year long. Just click on the Planning Your Visit links (to the right) for specific information about services, programs and activities. Our nationally recognized Certified Interpretive Hosts are here to help you make the most of your visit to the Kalamazoo Nature Center.Whether you are greeted at the Gatehouse or inside the Interpretive Center, our hosts can tell you everything you need to know about visiting KNC.

Just imagine rainbows, Internet, consumer reports, financial news, Dr. Seuss, local history, and "Jaws" all in one dazzling place. Tour the whole wide world at Kalamazoo Public Library.

How can you not love a bookstore with the motto – “Gently Used Books, Very Gently Priced.” Located in the lower level of the downtown library, this store sells used books for between 10 cents and $2.50. And the proceeds go to support the Friends of the Library mission of supporting the library and promoting literacy and reading in the community – and to provide low-cost reading materials to the public. At the bookstore, college students get 20 percent off the already low prices, teachers buy bags of books to supplement their classroom libraries, and others come just to add to their collections of works by favorite authors.

If you go, be sure to check out their weekly specials.

315 S. Rose St. Hours: Wed 12 – 7pm; Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm

The State Theatre has been a fixture in Kalamazoo since 1927, and is today West Michigan's Premier Live Concert Venue. (need to get listed on their website under lodging)

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum preserves and interprets the heritage of Southwest Michigan and provides life-long learning opportunities to engage children and adults in history, science, and technology. Through exhibitions, programs, and educational and family events (many of which are free), the Museum seeks to develop cultural, historical and scientific literacy. Besides, it’s a fun place to go.