Easy to miss this marker that recalls the history of one of Kalamazoo's residents who went on to do…read moregreat things. The marker has gotten a little overgrown since it's installation over 30 years ago, so you might not notice that it has a back to it. Located in downtown Kalamazoo, the marker reads: "The only resident of Kalamazoo to be elected governor of Michigan during its first 150 years, Epaphroditus Ransom lived and farmed on this site. Born in Massachusetts in 1796, Ransom came to Michigan in 1834. An attorney, he soon became the area's first circuit court judge, riding horseback through the wilderness to hear cases. In 1836 he was appointed associate justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, and in 1843 he became the court's chief justice. A declaration he issued in 1840 prevented the removal of the Catholic Potawatomi from their southwestern Michigan lands. In 1848 Ransom was the first governor to be inaugurated in Lansing, which had just become the state capital." "During Epaphroditus Ransom's gubernatorial term (1848-1850), the Kalamazoo Regional Psychiatric Hospital was established. Following his term as governor, Ransom became the first president of the Michigan Agricultural Society, which was instrumental in the creation of both the Michigan State Fair and Michigan State University. He was also a regent of the University of Michigan (1850-1852), a founder of the village of Augusta, and a state representative (1853-1854). In 1857 President James Buchanan appointed Ransom receiver of the Kansas Osage Land Office in Fort Scott, Kansas. He died in Kansas in 1859. His body was returned to Kalamazoo, where it was interred in Mountain Home Cemetery." [Review 11248 overall, 1024 of 2019.]

I LOVE THIS PLACE!!…read more It's full of history (including ghosts!), great ideas, SUPER fun photo opps, and fantastic shows. The range of performances is incredible...every genre of music, and speakers, and movies. It's wonderful! Pros: the architecture the history the art and beauty of the inside the friendly staff the photo booth! the plentiful bathroom stalls the excellent schedule of events! Cons: the seats are sometimes broken. Bring a sweater or jacket to sit on, for comfort no elevator no AC Note: ticket office is open only one day a week, plus during events. SO: to avoid the service charges, try to go in then! Otherwise, you'll be purchasing on ticketmaster, with fees.

I've been to hundreds of shows here, my favorite place in Kalamazoo! They pull in some great…read moreshows, you won't be disappointed

This sign is a nice commemoration of Abraham Lincoln coming to Kalamazoo…read more This was President Lincoln's only time speaking in Michigan, and this sign in Bronson Park helps us remember that. It is decorated in the Spring and Summer by flowers surrounding it's base. If you're a Lincoln fan, it's worth checking out to honor one of America's greatest presidents.

Located in the southwest corner of Kalamazoo's Bronson Park, this marker was placed in 1957 and…read moreremembers the time from 100 years prior when an unknown lawyer came to the city and spoke at a rally. I've been to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington and the Gettysburg National Cemetery in Pennsylvania. It's cool to be able to follow this great man around. The marker reads, "On August 27, 1856, here in this park, Abraham Lincoln, then an obscure lawyer, spoke to a rally for John Fremont, the Republican presidential nominee. This was the only time that Lincoln addressed a Michigan audience. The event was almost unnoticed in the press. Some Republicans felt the speaker was too moderate on the antislavery issue. Four years later Michigan's vote helped put Lincoln into the White House." [Review 11220 overall, 996 of 2019.]

A fun store to wander through. Tons of original art at very reasonable prices. I found a couple…read moregifts... if I decide to part with them.

Holy bejeezus, I can't believe I'm the first to review The Zane's... This shop is a MUST if you're…read moredowntown! This is a fun stop during Kalamazoo Art Hops, too. This is a cozy consignment shop featuring works from Michigan artists. Prices rang from extremely affordable to higher ticker pieces. The variety of stuff is endless and all of the artists are incredibly talented. Amy Zane also sells her own jewelry that showcases the natural beauty that Earth's precious stones and minerals posses. Amy's staff is incredibly friendly and ready to help! I was very appreciative of the patience one employee had with me as I decided which jewelry I was going to purchase. The prints attached to this review were (and still may be) for sale there and I love them both! "Turtle in a Lighting Storm" is pure genius.

Known for "The Kalamazoo Art Hop" They got new director, if you are artist need financial help or…read morelooking for show opportunity. This is the place you like to get information. They are helpful, providing workshops to artist applying for grants. Also they host art shows music and performance. Check out "The Kalamazoo Art Hop" every first Friday.

A very interesting park surrounded by some of the most beautiful buildings in Kalamazoo. It's a…read moreplace to read a book or relax and enjoy the scenery or walk your dog. There's a few resident challenged people but they are not as bad as you might think,

Downtown Kalamazoo, Bronson Park is at the enter of the municipal district with the City Hall…read morebuilding across from one side and the Public Library across from another. Some excellent topiaries, beautifully mowed grass, trees, benches and even a bandshell that I am sure is popular. I enjoyed walking in the park and tried to stay away from the homeless folks who decided now was a time to have a fight to provide some entertainment. It ended just as I was ready to call 911. [Review 11219 overall, 995 of 2019.]

I've been to this theatre once before, when they hosted Pecha Kucha - and have been so impressed…read morewith the space, staff, and plays. The building is gorgeous - the lobby is welcoming, the box office is quite handy, and the curb cut is RIGHT in front of the front door. THANK YOU. Inside, there are a few benches, and very clean bathrooms. There's also a bar, if you're so inclined. It seems that the doors to the play open pretty early, so if there are no seats available and you'd like to sit down, head on into the theatre! There is general seating, and the front row has no stairs, as it is on the floor. I think there are 5 or 6 rows, so not many stairs anyway, if this is an issue. It is an open space, small, but inviting. The staff are so kind. The actors, extremely talented. We just saw Beyond the Rainbow: The Judy Garland Musical, and it was some of the best acting I've ever seen. The plays are extraordinary. The talent, sets, direction, music - it all comes together to bring you one of the best theatres in town. GO!

In the past six years, Farmers Alley Theatre has certainly made its mark on the theatre scene in…read moreKalamazoo and in the state of Michigan. The productions are top notch, employing professional actors from around the country as well as the best of local talent. This is an intimate theatre where every seat is a good one. Each season includes a variety of musicals, dramas, comedies and special programming for children and families. Don't miss the holiday cabarets during which the theatre is filled with cabaret tables where you sip on coffee and enjoy dessert during the performance.

Recently took there new bus tour. It was great. The bus is a bit bumpy on brick roads but the…read morehistory and stories make it well worth it.

We have truly enjoyed riding Amtrak to and from Chicago. Yesterday's ride on the Blue Water line…read morefrom Chicago to Kalamazoo was a great way for me to get two hours of work done, while relaxing in their big cushy seats. The fact that they provide Wi-Fi and plugins for your devices makes this extra easy. My students will be pleased I loaded their syllabi, course plan and quizzes prior to classes starting soon. The train left and arrived on time, with a very smooth ride. Our conductor Hugo was very helpful and friendly too. ‍

Felt safe and comfortable riding with them. only four stars though cause the snack car staff was…read morereally really rude. like unusually rude to me. fun trip regardless though.