Kalamazoo in southwest Michigan offers some of the best attractions in the Midwestern United States. Visit its museums to discover important American art pieces from the 20th century and exhibits that focus on entertaining and educating children. Go hiking and see the natural treasures of the area. Enjoy a day at the Air Zoo, a fun aviation museum and amusement park.
The city was originally called Bronson, after its founder Titus Bronson. In 1836 the name was changed to Kalamazoo, which comes from the language spoken by the Native American Potawatomi people. Discover some of the original natural beauty of the Potawatomi land at the Kalamazoo Nature Center. It has more than 14 miles (22 kilometers) of hiking trails among the green scenery of Michigan. You can also view birds of prey and see interesting exhibitions in the Glen Vista Gallery.
While you are visiting Kalamazoo, make sure you stop at the Air Zoo, a famous aviation museum and indoor fun park. See classic planes and experience a 4-D simulated World War II mission on board a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. Jump into the flight simulators to fly a combat jet and go to Mars on a rocket.
Kalamazoo has numerous interesting museums. The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is a renowned organization where you can learn about American art and see more than 4,000 works. Visit the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, with hands-on exhibits for kids. Another spot that can be fun for the whole family is the Gilmore Car Museum. It’s located about 15 miles (24 kilometers) from Kalamazoo center and houses one of the largest collections of classic cars in Michigan, the state where America’s auto industry began.
Two major cities in the United States, Chicago and Detroit, are less than 150 miles (240 kilometers) from Kalamazoo. Reach the city by plane using the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport or by train or bus using the Kalamazoo Transportation Center located in the downtown area.
