Kalamazoo, population 80,000, is home to Western Michigan University as well as Kalamazoo College. It boasts a diverse population that generates a metropolitan feel in a smaller scale city.

Kalamazoo features historic neighborhood districts, including South Street Historic District and Stuart Avenue Historic District. The downtown area is considered the East End Warehouse District, which houses the well-known Kalamazoo Brewing Company, as well as several antique depots.

The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts holds a collection of 20th century American art, and the Kalamazoo Nature Center offers trails, an arboretum, and various nature exhibits. The Kal-Haven Trail is a 34-mile bike path stretching from Kalamazoo to South Haven along the Lake Michigan shore.

Kalamazoo is located in the south central region of the state, directly south of Grand Rapids on US-131, and just west of Augusta. Kalamazoo is the midway point between Chicago and Detroit.