Kalamazoo Shopping Guide: 75+ Experiences, Memberships & Local Gifts for the Holidays

Kalamazoo Shopping guide, holiday shopping, Kalamazoo Christmas shopping

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!

Downtown Kalamazoo Kalamazoo Shopping
photographer: Fran Dwight

Get Listed in the Kalamazoo Shopping Guide

Are you a local business owner whose offerings make an awesome gift for friends or family? Here’s how to be included in this guide:

Featured Listings: Maximize your reach with SWMI readers with promotions and professional ads. Get the scoop here Holiday Gift Guide Advertising Opportunities.

Free Listings: Add your business to our basic guide listings by completing this form:

sponsored listings

These experiences and shops all offer amazing gifts to consider this holiday season:

Give the Gift of LEGO® Fun

1926 Whites Road, Kalamazoo MI 49008 - (269) 350-5690

📧 kalamazoo@bricksandminifigs.com

Offering everything from stocking stuffers to showstoppers, Bricks & Minifigs Kalamazoo can definitely help you cross names off your shopping list this holiday season! Minutes from downtown in the Oakwood Plaza, this toy/collectible/hobby shop has something for everyone (ages 1.5+).

Bricks & Minifigs Kalamazoo can also put money in your pocket this holiday season with our in-house brick recycling program! After making your amazing LEGO® and related purchases, you can sell and trade your new, pre-owned and retired LEGO® bulk/Minifigs/sets for on-the-spot cash or in-store credit.

During your visit, save time to build-your-own custom LEGO® Minifigs, shop for LEGO® displays, storage and accessories, practically get buried in pick-your-own bulk bricks, talk shop with LEGO® experts, pick up gift cards and plan an epic LEGO®-themed party or event!

Make Bricks & Minifigs Kalamazoo part of your holiday shopping tradition this year, and spread some holiday smiles with LEGO®.


"I highly recommend this store to kids and adults alike!"

"Staff is professional, friendly and fun!"

"Amazing selection!"

"Always a great experience!"

"What an incredible store!"

"So much variety!"

Give the Gift of Discovery

6151 Portage Rd, Portage MI 49002 - (269) 382-6555

📧 info@airzoo.org

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 Air Zoo Store
... 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:

24208 Front St Suite B, MATTAWAN MI 49071- Map It

Give the gift of health and wellness with a massage or Infrared Sauna gift certificate at A Dose of Sunshine Massage in Mattawan.

5626 Portage Rd, Portage MI 49002- Map It

Strike something off the list with bowling passes. Airway also offers an arcade, miniature golf and go-karts.

439 River St, Allegan MI 49010- Map It

Try out the largest indoor ropes course in Michigan. Also find an arcade, miniature golf and climbing walls.

600 RIVER RD, Otsego MI 49078- Map It

Pick up some season passes and get ready to hit the slopes in Otsego.

136 S KALAMAZOO MALL, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Tired of climbing the walls? Head downtown and try Climb Kalamazoo‘s instead.

154 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Take an art class or host a painting party with Colors & Cocktails.

359 S Kalamazoo Mall Ste 12, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Foster a love of music with lessons and classes from Crescendo Academy of Music!

From Music Together Classes for infants to lessons for adults and everything in between, Crescendo welcomes all ages and skill levels.

5880 S WESTNEDGE, Portage MI 49002- Map It

Try your hand at splatter art or a custom craft at Pinspiration Kalamazoo.

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:

7400 DIVISION DR, Battle Creek MI 49014- Map It
A membership to Binder Park offers an entire season to feed the giraffes and visit the snow leopards, lions and Al the tortoise.

8313 PRATT LAKE AVE SE, Alto MI 49302- Map It
Boulder Ridge‘s membership provides free admission, discounted train rides and 10% off at their gift shop.

6865 W HICKORY RD, Hickory Corners MI 49060- Map It
Auto enthusiasts will love a membership to the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, as they are home to over 400 vehicles on their 90-acre campus.

1300 FULTON ST W, Grand Rapids MI 49504- Map It
John Ball Zoo‘s membership means free admission in Grand Rapids to see tigers, hippos, red pandas and penguins.

12685 C AVE E, Augusta MI 49012- Map It
A membership with the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta provides free admission to feed the waterfowl, visit the birds of prey and walk the beautiful, paved paths. The bird sanctuary is open year-round.

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:

329 S PARK ST, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

The Civic offers two ticket subscription packages, consisting of either eight or 16 admissions.

221 FARMERS ALLEY, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Purchase season tickets in increments of either six or 12 at Farmers Alley Theatre.

251 MILLS ST, Kalamazoo MI 49048- Map It

Snag season tickets for the 2022 Northwoods League championship winning Kalamazoo Growlers.

404 S BURDICK ST, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Purchase tickets to an upcoming show at The State Theatre.

3600 VANRICK DR, Kalamazoo MI 49001- Map It

K-Wings hockey season ticket packages offer flexibility: full season, half season, or weekends only.

1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Give the give of the theatre with a Zhang Financial Broadway in West Michigan subscription package from Miller Auditorium.

The package also enables you to snag discounted tickets to any other show in the Miller Season.

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.

124 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Mom and Dad can upgrade their closets with premium denim, shoes, accessories and other apparel from Lana’s Boutique.

1924 Whites Rd, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Score some new snow boots or gym shoes from Little Chick Shoe Shop, featuring brands like Kamik, Stride Rite and Keen.

115 West Prairie St, Vicksburg MI 49097- Map It

We are a men’s and women’s clothing boutique, accessories and gifts. Specializing in lake attire

7039 W Q Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49009- Map It

Restock your little one’s wardrobe in style with new outfits from Pink Lemonade in Texas Corners.

235 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Grab some unique apparel, jewelry and artifacts from around the world at Terrapin World Imports.

154 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

The Spirit of Kalamazoo is where you shop for Kalamazoo and Michigan-themed gifts, t-shirts, sweatshirts and more.

Follow up your gift shopping in Downtown Kalamazoo by enjoying Plainwell Ice Cream - we offer 24 flavors.

Featured ladies' hoodie is available in cream, aqua blue and tangerine.

169 Portage St, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Dance, gymnastics and activewear for girls from toddler through adult. Fashionable apparel designed for movement.

Stocking-stuffer gifts for ladies of all ages.

Locally owned and operated. We ship worldwide. Gift cards available (because sometimes the girlies like to shop for themselves).

235 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Upgrade Dad’s wardrobe with The Waiting Room. This boutique can outfit men from head to toe with clothes, shoes, watches and more.

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:

8606 Portage Rd, Portage MI 49002- Map It

Select from over 400 pieces of pottery to paint at home or in the studio.

154 S KALAMAZOO MALL, KALAMAZOO MI 49007- Map It

Foster your artist’s creativity with an art kit from Colors & Cocktails.

4717 W KL Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49006- Map It

Green Light Music is Kalamazoo’s independent locally-owned source for vinyl LPs, CDs, cassettes, DVDs, and more.

833 W South St, Kalamazoo MI 49006- Map It

Kalamazoo Dry Goods stocks a thoughtfully curated selection of supplies for fine and fiber arts, textiles, and natural home and body items.

The shop specializes in unique, beautiful, and useful tools and gifts for creatives.

330 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Find this art gallery, studio and retail store on the Kalamazoo Mall in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo.

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.

808 S WESTNEDGE AVE, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Add some tunes to your kid’s music collection at Satellite Records: they sell new and used LP’s, 45’s, CDs and cassettes.

Books & Toys

Restock those bookshelves and toy boxes with these local stores:

3019 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008- Map It

Upgrade your children’s bookshelves with some new novels (and games!).

1926 WHITES RD, KALAMAZOO MI 49008- Map It

Buy, sell and trade new, pre-owned and retired LEGO® sets at Bricks & Minifigs Kalamazoo just down the street in the Oakwood Plaza Shopping Center.

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…

4308 S Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Find comic books, collectibles, sci-fi & fantasy games, video games and sports cards at Fanfare.

116 E BRIDGE ST, Plainwell MI 49080- Map It

Your gift recipients won’t be bored with the massive board game selection at Fortress of Solitude in Plainwell.

308 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Kalamazoo's old-time newsstand offering newspapers, magazines, paperbacks, children's books, graphic novels, comics, and more.

5029 W MAIN ST, KALAMAZOO MI 49009- Map It

Level up your Pokemon or Magic: the Gathering collections with a stop at Odyssey Games on West Main.

4235 PORTAGE ST, KALAMAZOO MI 49001- Map It

Pick up some vintage or modern day comics from Rocket Comics, plus toys featuring your favorite characters from 1960s to present day.

3019 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008- Map It

This is a Bookstore is owned by the same owners as Bookbug, but made for grown ups. Find a plethora of reading materials here and delicious food from the Table of Contents Café.

125 S KALAMAZOO MALL, KALAMAZOO MI 49007- Map It

With the same owners as Rocket Fizz, Uncle Buddy’s Toy Stash offers unique, nostalgic and other super cool toys downtown.

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.

3015 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008- Map It

Barks in the Zoo in Oakwood Plaza offers a specialty pet store and grooming salon with unique food, treats, toys, and accessories.

428 S BURDICK ST, KALAMAZOO MI 49007- Map It

Find a new squeaky toy, leash or harness at Beowoof Provisions for Pets. They typically offer pet photos with Santa in early December.

6923 W Q Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49009- Map It

Visit Dog Daze in Texas Corners for quality food, toys, treats and more- plus a self-serve dog wash!

7035 STADIUM DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49009- Map It

Family owned and operated since 1997, Oak Ridge Feed & Pet Salon stocks supplies for dogs, cats, horses, poultry, goats and birds.

3015 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008- Map It

Wild Birds Unlimited, located next door to Barks in the Zoo in Oakwood Plaza, prides itself on bringing people and nature together.

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.

6151 Portage Rd, Portage MI 49002- Map It

Snag some STEAM-based toys or Air Zoo swag at the Air Zoo Store. You can also shop online!

243 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Discover Bee Joyful Shop, Michigan’s 1st Zero Waste and Refillery, located in Downtown Kalamazoo! We offer plastic-free, eco-friendly alternatives for you, your home, and everyone on your gift list.

Make your holidays joyful for the planet and your loved ones!

132 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

We are an eclectic store featuring work by local and national artists and makers - and we also offer coveted destination brands.

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!

37111 RED ARROW HWY, Paw Paw MI 49079- Map It

This family-owned shop in Paw Paw is worth the drive. With rocks, minerals, geodes, jewelry and carved soapstone animals, there is something for every rock-loving member of your family at Geoscape Rock Shop.

They are open 7 days/week.

814 Palmer Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49001- Map It

Upgrade your mug collection with these handmade beauties from Grayling Ceramics. They offer growlers, howlers, steins, mugs, cups, tumblers, bowls, mixing bowls, plates, and various containers.

3021 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Helping shoppers with gracious giving and stylish living for over 19 years.

Where trend meets tradition, you'll find a diverse array of gift, apparel, tabletop and custom offerings for giving and home.

309 River St, Kalamazoo MI 49048- Map It

Shop unique collectibles (including plenty of gnomes!) at Kates Korner Kupboard. Find the gift shop inside Berts Bakery in Comstock.

116 W South St, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Create some green space at home with some plants from the Mason Jar Plant Shop downtown.

3314 Stadium Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Not a crafter? No problem. Stop by Quilts Plus for a cozy gift.

If you are ready to make your next project, they assist all skill levels (both by machine or by hand) in creating beautiful, original pieces.

33 W Battle Creek St, Galesburg MI 49053- Map It

Michigan's Largest Rock Shop is right here in Kalamazoo County. Located is downtown Galesburg, Michigan, you'll be amazed at how big this store is and how much product they have. Room after room and two buildings worth.

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!

254 E Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Samson’s offers a great cut and style AND some amazing, locally-made haircare products for men.

Try some shampoo, conditioner, pomade or beard oil, available for purchase at their shop or Lana’s Boutique.

325 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Skip the beauty counters at department stores and build your own custom fragrance with The Aroma Labs downtown.

3940 W Centre Ave, Portage MI 49024- Map It

UniQ Jewelry Gallery features custom and designer jewelry, unique engagement rings/wedding sets, and distinctive gifts.

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.

4419 S Westnedge, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Known for its custom cakes, Berts Bakery offers holiday favorites including Stollen, yule logs and almond sticks.

Berts offers locations in both Kalamazoo and Comstock.

101 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Pick up some hot cocoa bombs or other decadent chocolate from Cherri’s Chocol’art.

7642 S WESTNEDGE AVE, PORTAGE MI 49002- Map It

Help warm up those cold, winter mornings with locally-made treats and over 200 varieties of loose leaf tea from Chocolatea in Portage.

1750 S Drake Rd Ste B, Kalamazoo MI 49006- Map It

Pick up some bubble tea toppings or snag some macarons and other tasty treats at MI Boba.

346 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Give the gift of gourmet popcorn this holiday season with Pop City Popcorn!

Indulge in festive flavors like Kalamazoo’s Moose Munch, Dutch Crunch, Sugar Cookie Caramel Corn, Candy Cane Caramel Corn, and English Toffee Caramel Corn.

Choose from gift boxes, festive tins, and popcorn-related items perfect for holiday or corporate gifts. Whether it’s a stocking stuffer or a show-stopping popcorn tin, Pop City Popcorn has something for everyone on your list!

Treat your loved ones to a delicious surprise this season!

125 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Mix and match some bubbly sodas and browse the massive candy selection at Rocket Fizz.

3023 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49008- Map It

Grab some fudge, chocolate covered strawberries or cocoa bombs from Schultz’s Treat Street. They also offer custom desserts if you have something special in mind for a stocking stuffer.

260 East Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Our charming, small-batch winery offers an inviting tasting room where guests can enjoy handcrafted wines in a warm, relaxed setting. Explore our carefully curated wine selection, available for tasting, by the glass, or by the bottle.

Our retail area offers an array of wine-themed gifts, from beautifully packaged custom gift baskets to wine accessories and custom wine labels, perfect for any wine lover.

With a focus on quality and a passion for exceptional service, we provide an intimate experience to savor each sip and take a taste of our winery home.

245 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007- Map It

Shop hand-blended spices, loose-leaf teas, and gourmet delights at Spice & Tea Merchants Kalamazoo.

7035 W Q Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49009- Map It

As the shop name implies, there is no shortage of cheese at The Cheese Lady in Texas Corners.

Over 100 cheeses are available for purchase, along with accompaniments such as crackers, jams, nuts and pasta.

512 N Park St, Kalamazoo MI 49009- Map It

If you need baked goods for the holidays, The Victorian Bakery should be on your list. Pick up bread, quiches, scones, croissants, mousse cakes and other deliciously prepared items here.

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.