Find Some Free Fall Activities in Kalamazoo
As each day passes in late August, the little hints of fall start to appear.
Evenings now include a brisk breeze. Lake swimming is now too cold for comfort. And the last of summer’s perennials have bloomed, signaling the leaves changing is just around the corner.
While we pack up the swimsuits and shorts and find that all of our pants are now capri length, we prep for cooler weather, clothes shopping for longer pants, and fall activities.
With the seasons changing, we are ready for new adventures in Kalamazoo: try this list for free fall activities and events in Southwest Michigan.
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Free Fall Events in SWMI
Organizations are starting to announce their seasonal events and we are excited! Try these free fall events and check our calendar often as we continue to make updates:
1 – Bring Fido Downtown for Dogs in the Zoo
Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Kalamazoo’s Downtown Shops invite furry friends and their humans for a tail-wagging good time Dogs in the Zoo with activities, dog treats and a costume contest.
When: Saturday, September 9, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
2 – Catch a Free Movie at Gilmore Car Museum
6865 W Hickory Rd, Hickory Corners, MI 49060
See Ford vs. Ferrari to celebrate the Ford GT40 Mk II from the film, currently on display in the Supercars exhibit at Gilmore Car Museum’s main gallery.
This event FREE to the public and open to everyone. Gates open for Cruise-In at 5pm, with early entry for Museum Members at 4:30pm, and the movie will begin at 8pm.
Blankets and chairs are recommended to get cozy in front of the big screen!
Popcorn, hot dogs, candy, soda, and drinks at the bar will be available for sale throughout the show
When: September 20, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
3 – Take in Some Tunes on Friday at the Flats
7335 Garden Ln, Portage, MI 49002
Enjoy live music and food trucks at Celery Flats in Portage. Seating is limited, but lawn space is plentiful! Bring a blanket or chair and relax with family and friends.
When: September 22, 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
4 – Visit the Creative Arts Festival in Otsego
Downtown Otsego
The Creative Arts Festival returns for its 36th year in downtown Otsego. Events include a car show, tractor show and motorcycle shows. A parade takes place at 12:45.
You will also find activities for kids and teens, animals, music, dancing, a corn hole tournament, and food trucks.
When: September 30
5 – Get in the Halloween Spirit with Trick or Treat on the Trails
6225 N 39th St Augusta, MI 49012
This annual event returns to Sherman Lake. Trick or Treat along the trails and then head to the tennis courst for game and refreshements!
Trick or Treat on the Trails is a FREE event but registration is required.
Registration opens September 1, 2023.
When: October 20, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
All Free Events
Use this mega list to find all of the free fun this fall season in SW Michigan.
Note: this list excludes recurring events like storytimes. Use our full event calendar to find these activities on repeat.
More (Unscheduled) Free Fall Activities
Need some activities with flexibility? Here are some free things to do that aren’t scheduled events:
6 – Visit the KVM Downtown
230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
The Kalamazoo Valley Museum always offers free admission to all visitors. Walk in or reserve your tickets online.
The museum is open six days per week (closed Mondays).
Note: While the museum is free, you will likely have to pay for parking downtown.
7 – See Some Dinos
Rood Hall, 2101 Wilbur Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Western Michigan University’s Dinosaur Park is worth the visit. There is no charge to hang out with these prehistoric pals, but be mindful of campus parking rules.
8 – Go for a Hike
Take in all of the beautiful fall colors on a local hike.
Suggested spot: watch the water squirt up through the planks at West Lake Nature Preserve in Portage. They have a great nature-themed playground at the trailhead too.
9 – Have Dinner Out with Free Kids’ Meals
Make dinner out more affordable with free or discounted meals for the kiddos.
Note: Kids Eat Free deals apply to dine-in customers only (no delivery or carryout).
10 – Try a New Playground
Visit a new-to-you playground! We’ve got the scoop on which ones have swings, mess-free surfaces and are toddler-friendly.
11 – Go on a Mural Crawl
Downtown Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo’s buildings are covered in dozens of masterpieces. Take our map and go explore these artistic beauties outside.
12 – Enjoy (Nearly) Free Admission to Local Museums
Museums for All
EBT cardholders can visit museums for $3/person or less, using the Museums for All program. Just bring ID and your EBT card to redeem.
What are your favorite free fall activities in SWMI?
Leave us a comment with your favorite free fall events, activities or other fun stuff to do in autumn in the Kalamazoo area.
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