For generations, Southwest Michigan has always been a getaway destination for Chicagoans. We’re all familiar with Grand Rapids as a beer city, but we invite you to take a closer look at the City of Kalamazoo. This town has been home to breweries since 1836 and has more to offer than you would think. Special thanks to Discover Kalamazoo for inviting me to experience the greatness of their city.

Located about 2.5 hrs from Chicago, Kalamazoo is a most excellent excursion for those looking to eat, drink, play and discover a charming small town with big city vibes.

We’d suggest staying at the Radisson Plaza Hotel. Its central location ensures that everything Kalamazoo has to offer is at your fingertips. Be sure to request the Whirlpool King Suite (whirlpool, kitchenette, private bathroom).

Whirlpool King Suite at the Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center.

Western Michigan Beer Tours

SW Michigan offers 50 breweries, 40 wineries and 10 distilleries.

The walking tour packages offer a mix of all spirit producers. The guides are knowledgeable and make great suggestions on how to get the most out of your visit. Our tour guide was from suburban Chicago and arranged a peek at the upcoming Saugatuck Brewing location downtown in the Historic Peninsula Building.

Random art while on the walking beer tour

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Brewery Outre - 567 E. Ransom St.

This outpost is only 5 months old. The crew is settled nicely at the ground floor of one of the newest residential buildings in town. They proudly source all ingredients from local Michigan producers. Possibly our favorite beer stop on the tour, Outre’s approach features their signature saisons and beer-wine hybrids. Founder and BrewmasterTed Linabury shared on our tour that up to 30% of his saisons and IPAs may include the juice from wine grapes. The result is both approach and complex. We sampled the next batch of his wildly popular honey kolsch and learned about his affinity for his neighbors - Green Door Distilling. Ted and the crew have a handful of barrels on site for aging, one of those casks was an apple whiskey barrel from Green Door.

Afro.Beer.Chick is thoroughly enjoying the Blanc Slate from Brewery Outré

Brewery Outré specializes in beer/wine hybrids

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Green Door - 429 E. North St

Green Door Distilling just a short walk from Brewery Outré

Green Door Distilling offers a chill vibe and smooth cocktails

Final Gravity Brewing - 246 N. Burdick St.

Final Gravity is the first stop on the Western Michigan Brewery tour. Super cool Mug Club.

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Bell’s Eccentric Cafe - 355 East Kalamazoo Ave

We all know Bells and their legendary Two Hearted IPA. That beer so stardom knows no limits. It’s been ranked the top craft beer in the U.S and its distribution footprint reaches all the way to Europe and beyond. The Bells General Store is a gift shop tucked inside of a homebrew supply store. In the last years, the Eccentric Cafe has expanded into a glorious outdoor space for concerts and chill vibes. The Bells Back Room holds up to 370 guests and offers in-house catering.

Bells has a beautiful massive space, brew pub, homebrew store, beer garden and concert hall.

600 Kitchen Bar - 600 E. Michigan Ave.

600 Kitchen & Bar is a solid breakfast option

Cheesecake Crepes from 600 Kitchen and Bar is absolutely delish.

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Brick and Brine - 100 W. Michigan Ave

The jewel of the Kalamazoo scene might be this restaurant serving New American fare at the 1st floor of the Radisson. The cocktails and atmosphere rival any establishment we’ve visited in recent memory. This was our first dinner in town and it was a 500 ft home run. They recently took home top cocktail honors at Kalamazoo Restaurant Week for their indulgent gin concoction, Hail Mary. It's really the combination of decor, service, and incredible dishes that make this a highly recommended stop.

Afro.Beer.Chick is appreciative of her signed menu from Brick & Brine

Water Street Coffee Joint - 315 E Water Street

There are no less than 5 locations around town. A Coffee + A Shot is our style but level up with a shake, smoothie, or a loose leaf tea at this full-service espresso bar that serves breakfast, lunch, and more.

Water Street Coffee was so good, had to double back

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