The best parks & outdoor spots in Kalamazoo County

Whether you need a quick splash and playground time for the kids, a low-key hoop session, or a shady picnic hang, LaCrone Park packs a lot into five easy acres in the Northside neighborhood. Put it on your short list for an after-work breather this week.

From the Kalamazoo newsletter, September 23, 2026

When the heat shows up this week, Florence Street Splash Pad brings instant relief with press-the-button jets and kid-happy spray zones right in the Northside neighborhood. Pack a quick picnic, let the little ones sprint between splashes, then catch your breath on the sidelines and call it a summer win.

From the Kalamazoo newsletter, October 7, 2026

" Every summer Lunchtime Live! brings food trucks, music, vendors, and games, or borrow paddles from Kalamazoo Public Library and settle a friendly rivalry at the tables.

From the Kalamazoo newsletter, October 21, 2026

VerHage Fruit Farms & Cider Mill is serious about sweets, with a giant pie lineup, homemade donuts, and bakes like cinnamon rolls, brownies, and giant cookies.

From the Kalamazoo newsletter, October 14, 2026

Texas Drive Park packs the good stuff for a low-key afternoon, with a playground that wears kids out, a basketball court for quick games, a paved trailway for easy laps, multi-use fields to spread out, and the Maple Hill Splash Pad when you just need to cool off. Perfect for a midweek reset.

From the Kalamazoo newsletter, October 1, 2026