Nicknamed many things through the years from “The Paper City,” for the many
mills to “The Celery City” after the crop once grown in the muck fields on three
sides of the city, today it has a different
nickname.
Today the name that comes to mind first is “The Mall City,” after the first
outdoor pedestrian shopping mall built within the United States in 1959.Ballet,
the Arts, even the zoo have changed the face of the city that was once the
Village of Bronson.
Today, it’s a major metropolitan area offering a wide variety of activities
and attractions, parks and recreations and annual events for the whole family to
enjoy. Pack that suitcase and come for a visit, we know you’ll be impressed.
When you’re ready to head home, you won’t want to leave, so give your Realtor a
call and get ready to move!
History
In 1831, Titus Bronson platted a town he named the Village of Bronson. After
being accused of stealing a cherry tree, they re-named the town Kalamazoo and
the town was legally incorporated as a village in 1843 and a city in 1884.
Today, several landmarks are named after Bronson including a park and hospital,
both located downtown.
The name Kalamazoo is derived from either the Potawatomi Indians (originating
from the upper Mississippi River) or the Odawa (Ottawa) people who are known as
the first people of the Nation.
To learn more about Kalamazoo’s history visit:
http://www.kalamazoocity.org/portal/kzoolife.php?page_id=711
Activities & Attractions
Finding things to do in Kalamazoo isn’t a problem. The hard part is deciding
which to enjoy first. Whether you love hockey or ballet, biking, bird watching
or shopping, Kalamazoo has a place for you!
Ballet Arts – School of Dance
Dance is a comprehensive way to develop the mind, body and emotions. An
education process, a physical activity and an emotional art, classical ballet
forms the base for a total dancer. Enjoy the classes while your expand your
horizons.
Kalamazoo Air Zoo
Take a simulated flight in a Corsair and hang onto your seat as you loop and
roll over the landscape. Enjoy seeing the history of flight with over 70
beautifully restored vintage aircraft on display.
Wineries
Enjoy wine tastings at any one of the three area wineries, owned by families
and take a tour of the vineyards. For more attractions and activities,
visit: http://kalamazoomi.com/entertai.htm
Parks & Recreation
Overseeing 36 parks and playgrounds, including Bronson Park and the Farmer’s
Market on Bank Street, Parks and Recreation manages the protection of natural
assets of the city while providing recreation and leisure programs for everyone
from kids to the over 55 crowd as well as residents who are physically
challenged.
All programs are open to anyone who wants to join us!
For more information, visit:
http://www.kalamazoocity.org/portal/government.php?page_id=120
Sports & Recreation
http://www.kalamazoocity.org/portal/kzoolife.php?page_id=6
Kalamazoo Kings
Kalamazoo Wings
West Michigan Mayhem
Western Michigan
University
Kalamazoo College Athletics
Kalamazoo Derby Darlins Roller Derby Tream
Kalamazoo Men’s
Rugby Club
Annual Events
With a long history of both annual and charity events, the development of the
Arcadia Creek Festival Site opens for any event that takes place downtown,
bringing a vibrant air to the city.
For a complete listing of the great
annual events in Kalamazoo, visit: http://www.kalamazoo.com/event-calendar