Interesting Facts

• Kalamazoo is home to the original Gibson Guitar factory, where many iconic guitars have been produced.
• The Air Zoo in Portage is a unique aviation museum that also features a collection of historic aircraft and flight simulators.

For years, the familiar pattern saw local graduates leaving for cities like Chicago, Grand Rapids, or even farther, building lives away from home.

Exploring new places certainly offers valuable experiences, but lately a shift is unfolding.

More people are returning to Southwest Michigan.

Some come back after decades away to be near aging parents, while others find remote work lets them keep a big-city job and enjoy a quieter life with lower housing costs.

Family overwhelmingly guides these choices—having grandparents close by and building community ties makes a real difference.

Affordability and quality of life matter, too.

Lakes, local eateries, and a vibrant small-town feel draw many home, even if every big-city convenience isn’t there.

Returning often means rediscovering what made these communities special in the first place—proving that sometimes, home is worth a second look.

Not long ago, most people simply had a job — one workplace defined their income and identity.

But today, many in Southwest Michigan balance a regular job with something extra, from photography businesses and online stores to consulting or woodworking.

This growing side hustle economy spans all ages.

Young professionals keep day jobs while launching startups, retirees turn hobbies into new incomes, and parents build flexible businesses from home.

Technology now makes it easy to launch a business in Kalamazoo or Portage with minimal investment — a website, social media marketing, and online payments can reach customers nationwide.

Behind closed doors, locals are crafting products and services, proving that side hustles are thriving even if balancing them with full-time jobs requires early mornings, late nights, and persistence.

For many, the true reward is added income, creative freedom, and contributing something unique to our community.

Once, joining a local club was almost a given.

Civic groups like Rotary, Kiwanis, and church organizations helped weave the fabric of community life.

Through these connections, friendships thrived, volunteers tackled local projects, and many leaders emerged.

Today, traditional groups face shrinking membership and aging rosters, yet people express growing concerns about loneliness and a longing for connection.

What’s changed?

Community itself is evolving.

Locals now flock to pickleball courts, running clubs, and online communities that gather around fresh interests and flexible schedules.

Technology bridges gaps—introducing neighbors, fostering friendships, and helping event turnout.

Busy families, shifting lifestyles, and digital networks mean connections look different, but the urge to belong and contribute remains as strong as ever.

Maybe the real story isn’t decline, but transformation—and everyone is invited to take part.

Things To Do Around Kalamazoo & Portage

June 18 – June 25

Escanaba in da Moonlight

Through June 25

One of Michigan's most beloved comedies continues its summer run at The Barn Theatre. Set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this hilarious production has become a favorite for generations of theatergoers. If you're looking for a fun night out with plenty of laughs, this is a great summer option.

Smokey Hill Pop-Up Shop

Saturday, June 20

Looking for something unique? The Smokey Hill Pop-Up Shop brings together local makers, artisans, and specialty vendors offering handcrafted gifts, home décor, and one-of-a-kind items. It's a fun way to support small businesses while discovering something new.

Pickleball Action at Ramona Park

June 23 & 25

Pickleball continues to be one of the fastest-growing activities in Southwest Michigan, and Ramona Park remains one of the area's busiest spots. Whether you're an experienced player or simply curious about the sport everyone seems to be talking about, it's worth stopping by to see the action.

Junior Ranger Club

June 24–25

Kids can spend time outdoors learning about local wildlife, exploring nature, and participating in hands-on activities through Portage Parks & Recreation's Junior Ranger program. It's a great opportunity for young explorers to stay active and engaged during summer break.

Summer Farmers Market Season

Fresh produce season is arriving across Southwest Michigan, bringing local fruits, vegetables, baked goods, flowers, and specialty products back to area markets. It's a great time to support local growers while enjoying some of the freshest food of the year.

Hidden Gem: Beats on Bates

Wednesday Evening

If you haven't discovered Beats on Bates yet, this downtown Kalamazoo summer series might be one of the area's best-kept secrets. Bates Alley transforms into an outdoor gathering space with live music, food, drinks, and a relaxed after-work atmosphere. It's one of those events that makes downtown Kalamazoo feel alive on a summer evening.

Hidden Gem: Lunchtime Live in Bronson Park

Fridays

Need an excuse to get outside during lunch? Bronson Park's Lunchtime Live series combines live music, food trucks, games, and a surprisingly fun community vibe right in the heart of downtown. Bring your lunch or grab something from a food truck and enjoy an hour outdoors.

Hidden Gem: Kalamazoo Farmers Market Night Market

Third Thursday Each Month Through September

Most people know about the regular Farmers Market, but the evening market has a completely different feel. Cooler temperatures, live entertainment, local vendors, food options, and a relaxed summer atmosphere make it worth checking out even if you've visited the daytime market before.

Hidden Gem: Music Bingo at Louie's Corner Bar

Tuesday Nights

Think trivia night, but with music. Gather a few friends, test your knowledge of songs and artists, and enjoy a fun low-key evening that doesn't require a huge commitment or expensive tickets. Sometimes the best nights out are the simplest ones.

Looking Ahead: Kalamazoo Caribbean Festival

June 26–27

Just beyond this week's calendar, the annual Caribbean Festival returns to downtown Kalamazoo. Expect great food, live music, cultural performances, dancing, and plenty of energy as one of the area's most popular summer festivals kicks off another year.

This Week's Poll:

Which local group helps you feel most connected to the community?

• Church or faith community

• Sports or recreation group

• Volunteer organization

• Neighborhood/community group

• Online/Facebook group

• I'm looking for one

Restaurant Watch List

Paris Baguette Moving Forward

One of the restaurant projects we've been watching appears to be getting closer to reality.

Paris Baguette, the international bakery café chain known for pastries, breads, cakes, sandwiches, and coffee, recently received conditional site plan approval for its Portage location on South Westnedge Avenue. While an opening date has not yet been announced, the project continues moving through the development process and remains one of the more anticipated food additions in the area.

Have You Tried Craving Lucy's Yet?

One newer spot generating local buzz is Craving Lucy's in Portage.

The menu features comfort food favorites, sandwiches, tacos, and creative specials. It's one of those places many residents may have driven past without realizing it's there, making it a good candidate for a summer lunch stop.

Hidden Gem: Cravings Deli

Tucked inside Pacific Rim Foods, Cravings Deli continues to earn a loyal following.

If you're looking to branch out from the usual lunch routine, their ramen, Vietnamese specialties, and boba tea offerings have developed quite a reputation among local food fans. Sometimes the best restaurants are the ones hiding in plain sight.

Worth Another Look

Sometimes it's not about what's brand new.

Several longtime local favorites continue to evolve their menus, patio spaces, and seasonal offerings throughout the summer. If it's been a while since you've visited places like Lake Burger Tavern, Monelli's, or Sakura 2: Hibachi Grill & Sushi Bar, summer might be a good excuse to revisit an old favorite and see what's new.

Reader Question

What's the most underrated restaurant in Kalamazoo or Portage right now?

Reply and let us know. We may feature some reader recommendations in an upcoming issue.