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

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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

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

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 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:


A Dose of Sunshine Massage

24208 N MAIN ST, MATTAWAN MI 49071
Purchase a gift certificate for the ultimate in relaxation with A Dose of Sunshine Massage in Mattawan.


Airway Fun Center

5626 Portage Rd, Portage MI 49002
Strike something off the list with bowling passes. Airway also offers an arcade, miniature golf and go-karts.


Allegan Event

439 River St, Allegan MI 49010
Try out the largest indoor ropes course in Michigan. Also find an arcade, miniature golf and climbing walls.


Bittersweet Ski Resort

600 RIVER RD, Otsego MI 49078
Pick up some season passes and get ready to hit the slopes in Otsego.


Climb Kalamazoo

136 S KALAMAZOO MALL, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Tired of climbing the walls? Head downtown and try Climb Kalamazoo‘s instead.


Colors & Cocktails

154 S KALAMAZOO MALL, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Take an art class or host a painting party with Colors & Cocktails.


Crescendo Academy of Music

359 S Kalamazoo Mall Ste 12, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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.


Pinspiration Kalamazoo

5880 S WESTNEDGE, Portage MI 49002
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:


Binder Park Zoo

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


Boulder Ridge Animal Park

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


Gilmore Car Museum

6865 W HICKORY RD, Hickory Corners MI 49060
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.


John Ball Zoo

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


W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary

12685 C AVE E, Augusta MI 49012
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:


Civic Theatre

329 S PARK ST, Kalamazoo MI 49007
The Civic offers two ticket subscription packages, consisting of either eight or 16 admissions.


Farmers Alley Theatre

221 FARMERS ALLEY, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Purchase season tickets in increments of either six or 12 at Farmers Alley Theatre.


Kalamazoo Growlers

251 MILLS ST, Kalamazoo MI 49048
Snag season tickets for the 2022 Northwoods League championship winning Kalamazoo Growlers.


Kalamazoo State Theatre

404 S BURDICK ST, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Purchase tickets to an upcoming show at The State Theatre.


Kalamazoo Wings

3600 VANRICK DR, Kalamazoo MI 49001
K-Wings hockey season ticket packages offer flexibility: full season, half season, or weekends only.


Miller Auditorium

1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49008
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.


Lana’s Boutique

124 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kal MI 49007
Mom and Dad can upgrade their closets with premium denim, shoes, accessories and other apparel from Lana’s Boutique.


Little Chick Shoe Shop

1924 Whites Rd, Kalamazoo MI 49008
Score some new snow boots or gym shoes from Little Chick Shoe Shop, featuring brands like Kamik, Stride Rite and Keen.


Liv La Mode Boutique

115 West Prairie St, Vicksburg MI 49097
We are a men’s and women’s clothing boutique, accessories and gifts. Specializing in lake attire


Pink Lemonade

7039 W Q Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49009
Restock your little one’s wardrobe in style with new outfits from Pink Lemonade in Texas Corners.


Terrapin World Imports

235 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Grab some unique apparel, jewelry and artifacts from around the world at Terrapin World Imports.


The Spirit of Kalamazoo

154 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Give a unique gift that features "Kalamazoo" or the state of Michigan! T-shirts, sweatshirts, coffee mugs, pint glasses and so much more are available with the city and state featured.

Your family and friends will treasure a unique gift from The Spirit of Kalamazoo!


The Waiting Room

235 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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:


Art Bayou

3306 STADIUM DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008
Select from over 400 pieces of pottery to paint at home or in the studio.


Colors & Cocktails

154 S KALAMAZOO MALL, KALAMAZOO MI 49007
Foster your artist’s creativity with an art kit from Colors & Cocktails.


Green Light Music

4717 W KL Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49006
Green Light Music is Kalamazoo’s independent locally-owned source for vinyl LPs, CDs, cassettes, DVDs, and more.


Kalamazoo Dry Goods

833 W South St, Kalamazoo MI 49006
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.


MRC artWorks

330 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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.


Satellite Records

808 S WESTNEDGE AVE, Kalamazoo MI 49008
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:


Bookbug

3019 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008
Upgrade your children’s bookshelves with some new novels (and games!).


Bricks & Minifigs Kalamazoo

1926 WHITES RD, KALAMAZOO MI 49008
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…


Fanfare

4308 S Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49008
Find comic books, collectibles, sci-fi & fantasy games, video games and sports cards at Fanfare.


Fortress of Solitude

116 E BRIDGE ST, Plainwell MI 49080
Your gift recipients won’t be bored with the massive board game selection at Fortress of Solitude in Plainwell.


Michigan News Agency

308 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Kalamazoo's old-time newsstand offering newspapers, magazines, paperbacks, children's books, graphic novels, comics, and more.


Odyssey Games

5029 W MAIN ST, KALAMAZOO MI 49009
Level up your Pokemon or Magic: the Gathering collections with a stop at Odyssey Games on West Main.


Rocket Comics

4235 PORTAGE ST, KALAMAZOO MI 49001
Pick up some vintage or modern day comics from Rocket Comics, plus toys featuring your favorite characters from 1960s to present day.


This is a Bookstore

3019 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008
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.


Uncle Buddy’s Toy Stash

125 S KALAMAZOO MALL, KALAMAZOO MI 49007
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.


Barks In the Zoo

3015 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008
Neighbors Barks In the Zoo (formerly Bark’s 5th Avenue) and Wild Birds Unlimited are located in Oakwood Plaza in Kalamazoo and offer a variety of food, products and oodles of animal knowledge.


Beowoof Provisions for Pets

428 S BURDICK ST, KALAMAZOO MI 49007
Find a new squeaky toy, leash or harness at Beowoof Provisions for Pets. They typically offer pet photos with Santa in early December.


Dog Daze Boutique

6923 W Q Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49009
Visit Dog Daze in Texas Corners for quality food, toys, treats and more- plus a self-serve dog wash!


Oak Ridge Feed & Pet Salon

7035 STADIUM DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49009
Family owned and operated since 1997, Oak Ridge Feed & Pet Salon stocks supplies for dogs, cats, horses, poultry, goats and birds.


Wild Birds Unlimited

3015 OAKLAND DR, KALAMAZOO MI 49008
Neighbors Barks In the Zoo (formerly Bark’s 5th Avenue) and Wild Birds Unlimited are located in Oakwood Plaza in Kalamazoo and offer a variety of food, products and oodles of animal knowledge.

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.


Bee Joyful Shop

243 S KALAMAZOO MALL, KALAMAZOO MI 49007
Shop for the eco-conscious friend or family member at Bee Joyful Shop. This zero waste shop features a refill station, food wraps, reusable bags, and many other sustainable gifts.


Earthly Delights at Amy Zane

132 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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!


Fly Buy Gift Shop (Air Zoo)

6151 Portage Rd, Portage MI 49002
Snag some STEAM-based toys or Air Zoo swag at the Fly Buy Gift Shop in the the Air Zoo. You can also shop online!


Geoscape Rock Shop

37111 RED ARROW HWY, Paw Paw MI 49079
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.


Grayling Ceramics

814 Palmer Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49001
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.


Initial Attraction

3021 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49008
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.


Kates Korner Kupboard

309 River St, Kalamazoo MI 49048
Shop unique collectibles (including plenty of gnomes!) at Kates Korner Kupboard. Find the gift shop inside Berts Bakery in Comstock.


Mason Jar Plant Shop

116 W South St, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Create some green space at home with some plants from the Mason Jar Plant Shop downtown.


Quilts Plus

3314 Stadium Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49008
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.


Rockhound Rock Shop

33 W Battle Creek St, Galesburg MI 49053
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!


Samson's Haircare + Barbershop

254 E Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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.


The Aroma Labs

325 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Skip the beauty counters at department stores and build your own custom fragrance with The Aroma Labs downtown.


UniQ Jewelry Gallery

3940 W Centre Ave, Portage MI 49024
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.


Berts Bakery

4419 S Westnedge, Kalamazoo MI 49007
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.


Cherri’s Chocol’art

101 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Pick up some hot cocoa bombs or other decadent chocolate from Cherri’s Chocol’art.


Chocolatea

7642 S WESTNEDGE AVE, PORTAGE MI 49002
Help warm up those cold, winter mornings with locally-made treats and over 200 varieties of loose leaf tea from Chocolatea in Portage.


MI Boba

1750 S Drake Rd Ste B, Kalamazoo MI 49006
Pick up some bubble tea toppings or snag some macarons and other tasty treats at MI Boba.


Pop City Popcorn

346 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Stock up on sweet and salty snacks at Pop City Popcorn downtown.


Rocket Fizz

125 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Mix and match some bubbly sodas and browse the massive candy selection at Rocket Fizz.


Schultz’s Treat Street

3023 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49008
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.


Spice & Tea Merchants Kalamazoo

245 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo MI 49007
Visit this new shop on the mall in downtown Kalamazoo!

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


The Cheese Lady

7035 W Q Ave, Kalamazoo MI 49009
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.


The Victorian Bakery

512 N Park St, Kalamazoo MI 49009
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.

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.



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