Activities for Seniors in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo is a city in Southern Michigan known for its local universities and breweries. With a population of over 330,000 people in the greater Kalamazoo-Portage Metro area, Kalamazoo provides a wide range of services for its citizens. Whether you’re into craft beers or local museums we want to make sure you know the best spots around that are senior-friendly. Indoor, outdoor, or a mix in-between, there are plenty of different directions you can take when exploring the city of Kalamazoo.

If you're interested in working part-time with seniors and older adults in the Kalamazoo area, consider becoming a Papa Pal companion caregiver. The role of a Papa Pal varies from day to day. Some Papa Pals lend a hand around the house and help with errands, housekeeping and gardening. Others offer company on a walk around the neighborhood or provide car rides to help seniors enjoy everything the community has to offer. It’s a great part-time job for friendly people.

First stop, is the local senior center.

SSSM is a local, non-profit that focuses on providing services that “support the independence and well-being of older adults”. They have been providing those services since 1963 and have since focused on providing compassionate and personal care to those who need it most. If you’re into golf, I highly recommend you check out their annual outing golf fundraiser for seniors in the community. Senior Services of Southwest Michigan also has a booming events calendar and can personally assist in making your time in Kalamazoo delightful.

There are many outdoor activities to partake in no matter the weather. If you’re looking to schedule your own activities, we recommend considering some of the most popular stops in Kalamazoo listed below.

Al Sabo Land Preserve is a glorious 740+ acre preservation that was purchased by the city in the 1960s. Al Sabo is home to a wide array of natural landscapes such as wetlands, forest, and meadows. Bring the dog, take your bike, or simply enjoy the scenery with a peaceful walk. Whatever you do, don’t forget to check out Al Sabo Land Preserve and everything it has to offer.

Portage Bikeway is an incredibly popular activity in Michigan. Portage has over 55 miles of trails for bikers of all skills, speeds, and ages. As long as you wear your helmet, you’ll have an opportunity for a safe, and active adventure in the greater Kalamazoo-Portage metro area.

Kalamazoo River Trail is another bike trail that runs along the Kalamazoo River. The trail runs 35 miles and is friendly for both bikers and non-bikers alike. This is a brand-new trail that is almost completed and free to the public.

Lilian Anderson Arboretum is 140 acres of wildlands privately owned by Kalamazoo College. Like many of southern Michigan’s beautiful preserves, it’s made up by a a wide variety of natural landscapes. The arboretum is open to the public and worth a visit.

Kalamazoo Nature Center is truly a family-friendly activity center that has been a part of Kalamazoo culture for almost 60 years. They offer education, summer camps and programs, and help support the community in a variety of ways. Recognized as one of the premiere nature centers in the entire country, the Kalamazoo Nature Center is an absolute must for seniors and all alike.

If you’re into skiing, Timber Ridge is the spot for you. Timber Ridge is just outside of Kalamazoo Timber Ridge has trails for those just learning and skilled riders as well. If you’re celebrating Winter and looking for an active excuse to get outdoors, there are plenty of scenic trails waiting for you at Timber Ridge.

Beyond the southern Michigan outdoor appeal, the Kalamazoo-Portage major metro area offers a dynamic mix of old and new. Both historical and more modern activities are a plenty in Kalamazoo. If you’re looking for some slightly less nature-dependent fun, check out our list below of places to eat and things to see.

The Kalamazoo Farmer’s Market is much more than “just” a farmer’s market. Home to over 100 vendors weekly, the Kalmazoo Farmer’s Market is a great place to eat, shot, or just hang out. You will always have a wide selection of dining options to enjoy.

Downtown Kalamazoo is a perfect place to start if you’re looking for fun and delicious eats or drinks. The Downtown Partnership website offers an up-to-date lineup of the most popular dining options. Just be ready to have a beer offered with your meal.

Kalamazoo has a number of cultural and historical activity options that are senior-friendly. Kalamazoo’s commitment to its more modem, urban downtown identity alongside it’s historical and cultural arts presents a fun and dynamic city with historical roots.

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is both a school and a museum and is also an incredibly powerful part of the community. KIA has rotating exhibitions and classes offered for people of all ages. It’s never too late to learn at the senior-friendly, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.

Gene the Pumpkin Man is a must-visit tradition of Kalamazoo. Whether you need a pumpkin or not, Gene’s is a fun stop that the entire community enjoys.

The Henderson Castle is technically an Inn, but it offers much more. Touted as a haunted building, the Henderson Castle offers tours and even a themed dinner to celebrate the ever-living guests of the Henderson Castle. They have a spa and a winery on site, so the Henderson Castle offers something to entertain every member of the family. Have you booked your room yet?

The Kalamazoo State Theater is both a tribute to history, and “where it is made”. The State Theater has been a downtown staple since 1927. Phish, Pearl Jam, Ray Charles, and Red Hot Chili Peppers are just a few of the all-star performers the theater has housed. Truly a mix of indoor and outdoor, the Kalamazoo State Theater is a distinguished member of the League of Historic American Theaters. They are also renowned for their acoustics, so it is indeed 100% senior-friendly!

If helping seniors and older adults to enjoy some of these fun places in Kalamazoo sounds good to you, consider becoming a Papa Pal.

When you work part-time as a Papa Pal, you can support your community in many ways and make a meaningful difference. Click here to learn more.