Things to Do in Kalamazoo

The bayous and creeks flowing into the Grand River form an inviting home for wildlife, including eagles that nest in the trees along the shoreline. Perched in their aeries, the birds study the water's surface. Spotting a disturbance, an eagle lifts off and glides toward the water, opening its talons to pluck the prey suspended just beneath the surface.

The team at Lakeshore Kayak Rental lends their DNR-inspected and certified kayaks and other watercraft to help visitors stumble upon sights such as these throughout the gentle Grand River and its connecting waterways. The staff, which includes instructors claiming certifications from the American Canoe Association, provides lessons for beginner kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders, and recommends areas for more experienced outdoorsmen to explore. With advanced notice, Lakeshore's crew can also arrange transportation to and from some area lodgings and farther-away launch points. To encourage camaraderie throughout the kayaking community, Lakeshore's team hosts the annual Grand River Kayak Race.

Featured on the WZZM13 news, Wine-a-Palooza combines international wines with music from local bands during a three-day, outdoor festival. On Friday, vintner Mike Laing from Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan will be onsite to discuss the winemaking process as audience members taste sparkling wines from his vineyards. Later that evening, guests can attend the After Grape Party with music by DJ Stoz and a cash bar. On Saturday, guests can sample 48 wines from around the world, as well as purchase full bottles from an exclusive Wine-a-Palooza label to bolster home collections or christen backyard ocean liners.

Five local musical acts—The Electrixx Band, Kelly Carey, Nick Ayoub, Scott Patrick Bell, and Jane DeYoung—will be on hand to supply the soundtrack to Saturday’s tastings. The concert runs from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The wine festivities conclude with a Sunday brunch buffet, which benefits the Center for Women in Transition.

The Bounce Castle’s sprawling floor hosts a fleet of inflatable obstacle courses, ball pits, and a slide that plunges from the ceiling to the ground. As little ones jump, climb, and play, their parents can supervise from a comfy lounge with free wireless internet, magazines, and a TV that automatically shuts down when a cartoon program comes on. The Bounce Castle’s kid-friendly inflatables accommodate open play seven days a week, as well as birthday parties.