Fall in Kalamazoo: 10 Local Downtown Favorites
Autumn frequently inspires us to venture off the main roads, meandering through scenic routes until we discover a charming cider mill or a delightful pumpkin patch.
For those occasions when escaping the city for a genuine fall escapade isn’t feasible, here are nine unique ways to capture the essence of the season right in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo.
Shop for cider, pie, pumpkins, gourds and other fall produce at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market
The Kalamazoo Farmers Market is such a popular community event in the city, and for good reason! Located downtown in the Washington Square Neighborhood, the Kalamazoo Farmers Market is a seasonal market that features over 100 local businesses and vendors every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from May to November. You can expect to find an abundance of seasonal produce at the market, so if you’re looking for somewhere near downtown to get your pumpkins and gourds this fall, this is just the place!
Pick up pumpkin or apple cider donuts from Sweetwater’s Donut Mill
Although not located directly downtown, Sweetwater’s Donut Mill is so famous and a Kalamazoo staple that we had to include them in this list! If you’re in the mood for some of your favorite fall treats, like cinnamon sugar, pumpkin or apple cider donuts, but don’t have the time to make a trip to the cider mill, Sweetwater’s will be your best friend! They have two Kalamazoo locations within less than 10-minute drive from central downtown.
Sip on fun seasonal drinks from the local coffee shops
If you’re a coffee fan, then you can probably relate to the joy that is felt when you can transition from iced drinks to hot ones. There is just something so comforting about starting your day with the warmth of your favorite caffeinated beverage filling your soul (and not making you sweat in return!). Indulge in the craft of our local coffee shops and treat yourself to not only a seasonal drink but also their cozy atmospheres.
Stroll down Historic South Street or the Stuart Neighborhood
The South Street Historic District is located downtown and is a tree-lined neighborhood, making it the perfect place to stroll down and take in the fall colors. The beautifully preserved houses, built between 1841 and 1915, are the true stars of the historic neighborhood, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Many of the Historic Stuart Neighborhood’s homes date back to this late 19th-century population boom, and there are many well-preserved residences in styles such as Queen Anne and Italianate. Like the South Street Historic District, the Stuart Neighborhood boasts huge old trees and unique homes. The neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and enjoys local historic district status.
If historic neighborhoods are your jam, check out our self-guided audio history walking tours!
Wander the streets of the central city and embark on the annual SkeleTour
The Downtown Kalamazoo SkeleTour is a month-long celebration in downtown Kalamazoo in October. Downtown streets are adorned with skeletons representing great local businesses. From creepy and scary to funny and silly, there’s a skeleton for every taste!
Sample some fall seasonal brews
Kalamazoo is home to an overwhelming number of craft breweries, so you can be sure that our local brew masters are constantly rolling out not only new and unique release seasonal brews but some of your favorite well-known staples, too! If beer is not your thing, rest assured that Kalamazoo has something for you, too! If you’re more of a wine drinker, wander into Tempo Vino Winery on East Michigan Avenue. You may have to venture outside of downtown, but we recommend you head to Texas Corners Brewing Company if hard cider is your jam or trek out to Lawton Ridge Winery for some more local wine.
Check out the yummy fall scents at the new Kalamazoo Candle Company Marketplace
Loved by so many locals here, the iconic candle brand has officially opened a retail store, Kalamazoo Candle Company Marketplace, in downtown Kalamazoo! Not only will their fall scents instantly transport you to your favorite fall memories of leaves crunching and pumpkin everything, but you can drop in and create your own DIY candle scent any time you wish!
Take in the colors from some of the highest look-out spot
Heritage Hall is home to Western Michigan University’s Alumni Center. Widely recognized as the university’s birthplace, the 53,000-square-foot building is a tangible example of both Kalamazoo’s and WMU’s commitment to community and education.
In 1903, the area where the building sits, a 20-acre site overlooking the city, was offered by the citizens of Kalamazoo as a place for the new Western State Normal School. At the time, Kalamazoo was in fierce competition with nearly two dozen other cities across West Michigan and needed to catch the attention of the Michigan Legislature. Kalamazoo was ultimately selected for the school, and the building atop Prospect Hill was completed in 1905.
Once the jewel of the city park system, Crane Park must have commanded a superb view of the city when the trees on the north side of Westnedge Hill were younger. The park is situated on South Westnedge Avenue, and despite the many trees in the park, you can still catch a glimpse of the city below. –Kalamazoo Public Library
Cozy up by a fire
If you want to take your beverage cuddled up outside to enjoy the crisp fall air, head to HopCat, an eclectic craft beer bar. Their outdoor patio is strung with twinkly lights, plenty of seating, and a fire pit. You can also enjoy live music and order drinks directly from a 1970s-era Airstream travel trailer turned bar!
Take a Haunted History of Kalamazoo tour
The Haunted History of Kalamazoo Walking Tour begins and ends at Bronson Park, covers just over a mile and takes approximately 2 hours. Hear about the following stories on the tour:
- The ghost of “Thelma”
- Bronson Park’s dark past
- The music legend who roams the Radisson Hotel
- And over 10 more haunted locations!!
