Kal • a • ma • zoo  

1. A city of Southwest Michigan first settled in 1829.

2. Native American word for "bubbling or boiling water."

For years, the bubbling waters of the Kalamazoo River have welcomed visitors to a thriving city and cultural center. Whether you're in Kalamazoo for business or pleasure, the city offers a wide selection of splendid activities throughout the seasons.

• Enjoy the scenic outdoors, visit the Kalamazoo Nature Center, hike or bike the Kal-Haven Trail, ski down snowy trails, tee off at one of 16 area golf courses, and
  bask in the sun on the shores of Lake Michigan (only 40 minutes away).

• Visit some of our popular attractions such as the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, Gilmore Car Museum, the Air Zoo, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum and area Wineries.

• Stay for special events such as the International Congress on Medieval Studies at WMU, NSRA Street Rod Nationals North, the biannual Gilmore International
  Keyboard Festival, and the USTA Boys 18 & 16 National Championship Tournament (we are the closest lodging - courts are just across the street)

• Enjoy a night out at the theater or symphony and a leisurely dinner at one of our great restaurants.