The Mega Holiday Guide to Kalamazoo Shopping & Experiences
The holiday season is upon us and if your children are like mine, that means wish lists are already in process.
Whether it’s toys, music, or stuffed animals, the sky is the limit with their imaginations.
Shopping for loved ones is definitely one of our favorite Christmas events of the holidays.
We’ve rounded up suggestions for kids and parents from right here in Southwest Michigan. And if you’re looking for less “stuff,” consider experiences like tickets to events or memberships to a local museum.
Tell Santa to give the elves a night off: the best gifts and experiences are in Kalamazoo. Happy shopping!
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In this Guide
Featured Gifts
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These experiences and shops all offer amazing gifts to consider this holiday season:
Inspire imagination 360+ days with an Air Zoo family membership! With more than 100+ air and spacecraft, hands-on learning stations, memorable exhibits, a world-renowned restoration center, and exciting flight-based rides and simulators, the opportunities are endless!
Members also enjoy:
- member-only events
- discounts on camps
- hundreds of STEAM and Air Zoo items in the Fly Buy Gift Shop
... and more!
Free copilot pass for December purchases for new members!
Imagine, explore, and discover at the Air Zoo and airzoostore.org.
Members also enjoy:
- member-only events
- discounts on camps
- hundreds of STEAM and Air Zoo items in the Fly Buy Gift Shop
... and more!
Free copilot pass for December purchases for new members!
Imagine, explore, and discover at the Air Zoo and airzoostore.org.
Experience Gifts
For gifts that won’t just take up more floor or shelf space, consider purchasing some local experiences.
Bowling, skiing, painting and climbing are just some of the fun options right here in Southwest Michigan:
Memberships
Some spots are worth multiple trips every year and memberships bring oodles of benefits like exclusive events and discounts on camps and classes.
Museums, zoos and other favorite attractions are perfect gift options for membership gifts in Kalamazoo:
Season Tickets
Theatre and sports fans agree that tickets are fantastic gift options.
These venues in Kalamazoo offer partial or full-season tickets for purchase:
Apparel Shops
Whether outfitting mom, dad or the kids, Kalamazoo’s apparel shops have you covered from head to toe in fashionable options for all ages and styles.
The Spirit of Kalamazoo
Your family and friends will treasure a unique gift from The Spirit of Kalamazoo!
The Waiting Room
And if Dad is looking to spiffy up for the holidays, send him here for a haircut- they are also a full service barbershop!
Art & Music Stores
Expand your music collection or upgrade your art supplies with these local stores:
MRC artWorks
MRC artWorks offers unique and affordable art created by individuals with disabilities, providing an outlet to achieve creative self‐expression in a way that promotes personal growth, dignity, and self-confidence.
Books & Toys
Restock those bookshelves and toy boxes with these local stores:
Bricks & Minifigs Kalamazoo
While there you can also build your own custom LEGO® Minifig, shop for LEGO® storage and accessories, practically get buried in pick-your-own LEGO® bulk bricks, talk shop with LEGO® experts, pick up LEGO® gift cards and plan an epic LEGO® party. What are you waiting for??? We’re looking forward to building with you…
Pet Supplies
We know Fido is just as much a family member as his humans. Try these shops for ways you can pamper your pooch (or other pets) for the holidays.
Other Retailers
Kalamazoo and its surrounding cities offer a variety of shops for every interest: try these retailers for rocks, jewelry, plants, and other unique gifts.
Earthly Delights at Amy Zane
In addition to seemingly endless creative gift offerings for all ages, plus a wide variety of apparel and accessories, we are also Kalamazoo's go-to for JellyCat stuffed animals and Milkbarn baby apparel.
Be sure not to miss our amazing wildflower mural!
Rockhound Rock Shop
If you ❤️ rocks, this is your happy place. Not only do they carry every type of rock you can imagine, but they have fossils, meteorites, home decor, tons of Sterling Silver jewelry, metaphysical items, books, kids toys and so much more. You won't believe this place is right in your own back yard. Stop in and check us out!
UniQ Jewelry Gallery
Their team offers repairs, appraisals and personalized designs. This fun store is located next door to Fieldstone Grill in Portage.
Food & Beverages
Need a delicious stocking stuffer or a unique, tasty gift? SW Michigan’s shops are up to the challenge with cocoa bombs, popcorn, cheeses and plenty of candy.
Kalamazoo Shopping Map
Where Are the Best Spots for Kalamazoo Shopping?
Leave us a comment with your favorite places to shop locally for the holidays- or anytime! PS: If you’re headed north, try these gift ideas in Grand Rapids.