Kalamazoo Nature Center Tours

The Kalamazoo Nature Center brings an unlikely array of environments to the middle of Michigan. Walk through an indoor tropical forest, then wander around an arboretum. Or, explore the nature trails scattered throughout the 1,100-acre (445-hectare) preserve and spot native animals at wildlife viewing areas.

The Basics
At the Kalamazoo Nature Center, you can fill your day with events and activities, or just walk or jog leisurely along the more than 14 miles (23 kilometers) of trails. Adults can try their hand at birding, backyard gardening, and conservation volunteer opportunities, while kids take part in camps, guided hikes, and nature lessons. The interactive exhibits, butterfly gardens, and variety of ecosystems create an educational experience for visitors of all ages.

To save time at the entrance, purchase your ticket online in advance.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Kalamazoo Nature Center is a must for nature lovers and conservationists.
• The nature center exhibits and some of the surrounding trails are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
• Posted maps make the preserve easy to navigate on your own.

How to Get There
The Kalamazoo Nature Center is located 5 miles (8 kilometers) north of Kalamazoo. Take North Park Street out of town and curve right onto North Westnedge Avenue. The nature center is on your right.

When to Get There
While you can visit the nature center year-round, some areas—such as the barnyard and butterfly house—are open only seasonally. In addition, the center holds special events throughout the year. Go in March for the Maple Sugar Festival or in December for the Buy Local Art and Gift Fair.

Top Trails and Parks Near Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo is rich in opportunities to get out in nature. After a day at the Kalamazoo Nature Center, check out the quaint creeks and bridges of Milham Park. Enjoy fishing, swimming, and picnicking at Markin Glen County Park, or bike, walk, or run the extensive Kalamazoo River Valley Trail. If you don’t have time to get out of town, visit the Urban Nature Park—the downtown branch of the Kalamazoo Nature Center.