explore kalamazoo
Welcome to Kalamazoo: A City Rich in History
As you settle into the Kalamazoo Hotel & Suites, you're not just in any city – you're in Kalamazoo, a place with a story as unique and engaging as its name. From its Native American origins to its modern-day vibrancy, Kalamazoo boasts a fascinating past that we invite you to explore.
The Intriguing Name: Kalamazoo
The very name "Kalamazoo" whispers of history. Derived from Native American languages, its precise meaning is debated, with interpretations ranging from the poetic "mirage of reflecting river" to the more literal "bubbling or boiling water." Whatever the true origin, the name has certainly captured imaginations. It has graced the titles of poems, books, and even the unforgettable Glenn Miller tune, "I've Got a Gal in Kalamazoo." Beyond its melodic charm, "Kalamazoo" has also adorned three ships in the early 20th century, further cementing its place in American culture.
But "Kalamazoo" wasn't the city's only moniker. Its industrious past earned it the nicknames "The Paper City" for its numerous paper and cardboard mills, and "The Celery City" after the once-abundant celery fields surrounding the town. In a groundbreaking move in 1959, Kalamazoo became "The Mall City" with the creation of the first outdoor pedestrian shopping mall in the United States. More recently, thanks to the thriving bedding plant industry, our fertile soil has also earned us the title of "Bedding Plant Capital of the World," with vibrant displays of flora gracing our parks and boulevards.
Kalamazoo was also a significant manufacturing hub, once home to iconic brands like Checker cabs, Gibson guitars, Kalamazoo stoves, Shakespeare fishing rods and reels, and the short-lived Roamer automobile. Even the name of our neighboring city, Parchment, speaks to this industrial heritage, derived from the parchment paper made from vegetable byproducts.
While you're our guest at the Kalamazoo Hotel & Suites, we encourage you to delve into Kalamazoo's rich history by visiting some of its notable landmarks and attractions. Click on the images below to learn more:
The Kalamazoo Mall, the first outdoor pedestrian shopping mall in the U.S., remains a vibrant hub for shopping and dining. For vintage enthusiasts, the area boasts charming antique shops and thrift stores filled with hidden gems.
Family-owned and operated, estate winery located just outside of Kalamazoo in Oshtemo Township.
The Kalamazoo Growlers are a baseball team based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, that plays in the Northwoods League, a summer collegiate baseball league.
Kalamazoo's original farmers market featuring over 100 vendors weekly.
Green Door Distilling Co. is an award-winning distillery located in Kalamazoo Michigan. We focus on unique and adventurous spirits. Connecting people, connecting with spirits, connecting with community.
The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is a non-profit art museum and school in downtown Kalamazoo,
Bronson Park is located in the heart of downtown in one of the city's original blocks. It's Kalamazoo's oldest park and is named after the city's founder, Titus Bronson.
The Kalamazoo Valley Museum features exhibits on science, technology and the history of Southwest Michigan.
The Kalamazoo Nature Center is home to over 14 miles of hiking trails winding through woods, wetlands, and prairies.