Valentine’s Day is a special day to celebrate your significant other, usually by exchanging chocolates, flowers, cards, and even dinner. Kalamazoo just so happens to be full of amazing restaurants, flower shops, and small businesses with sweet treats just for this special occasion. Although the day doesn’t have to revolve around extravagant gifts, there are many fun things to do together in downtown Kalamazoo without breaking the bank.
Some may write it off as a Hallmark Holiday, but those that love to celebrate, like to make sure everything is flawless. You don’t want to be caught planning last minute so I’m here to offer a few fun suggestions to make your day special. And for all of you single ladies and gents, we’ve got something for you too.
First, let’s start with the flowers. Because who doesn’t appreciate pretty flowers on Valentine’s Day? And for those that celebrate, it’s practically a given! A gorgeous bouquet of blooming buds is sure to make that someone special in your life smile. Vandersalm’s Flower Shop has been serving Kalamazoo since 1910 – with over 100 years of service here in Kalamazoo, you can’t go wrong and it’s the perfect place to start (1120 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo).
If you’re searching for something entertaining and unique to do as a couple, as a group with other couples, or getting together with your girlfriends for a “Galentine’s Day” ladies day celebration, here are a few fun ideas:
Kalamazoo Candle Company offers Walk-In Make your own candles. How fun is that?! Drop by Kalamazoo Candle Marketplace anytime during store hours and you can craft your very own unique scented candles. They don’t offer reservations, but if you have more than 8 people in your group, a call ahead is encouraged. Groups of 15 or more must book a private event. If you’re unable to find a babysitter, this is also a fun event for the kiddos, too! Plan ahead for about 30 minutes for candle making, and 60 minutes total (including cooling time). While you’re waiting for your candles to cool, you can walk down the Kalamazoo Mall to visit other great shops. Colors & Cocktails will have launched their NEW STUDIO, and It’s the perfect time to stop in and check it out, purchase some cute Valentine’s Day Glassware for your special someone, or plan a girls night out and paint your own glassware at one of her parties! Check out Cherri’s Chocol’art down the road for handmade Chocolates, Truffles, Chocolate Covered Oreo’s and other sweet treats! (www.kalamazoocandle.com)
Tempo Vino Winery is another fun spot to visit in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo. Their wine is sure to pair with some of those chocolates from Cherri’s Chocol’art! Tempo Vino offers a unique experience for all wine lovers from the curious novice to the seasoned connoisseur. Grab your friends, another couple, or just spend time together with your significant other wine tasting. They will be releasing two special wines just for Valentine’s Day – Raspberry Ice Wine and a Mango Ginger Moscato. Tempo Vino also offers the option to make your own wine. That’s right. You can create your own wine with custom labels! (www.tempovinowinery.com)
If you’re searching for the perfect Galentine’s Day present for your bestie or your significant other, The Perfect Pucker makes homemade lotions, body butters, lipsticks, glosses, and lip scrubs. GUYS- she even offers a Men’s line called ML143 Skincare. You can find her at www.theperfectpucker.com.
Still searching for something sweet? The Kalamazoo Kettle Corn Company offers freshly made popcorn in various flavors, gift baskets, and special limited-edition flavors just for Valentine’s Day (www.kalamazookettlecorn.com)
Heilman’s Nuts and Confections is an iconic stop for sweet treats. They have been a staple in Kalamazoo since 1960 among kids and adults alike. Offering all kinds of sweet and salty treats, including gourmet nuts, specialty popcorn, ground and whole bean coffee, chocolate covered strawberries and more! (1804 S Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo)
For the sports fan in your life, grab tickets to a Kalamazoo K-Wings game. They will have their annual Pink Ice Game February 14th at the Wings Event Center. It also helps bring awareness for cancer research- so wear lots of pink! They will also be offering $2 beer, soda, & hot dogs! This would also be a fun family Valentine’s Day Outing.
For the adventure seeker in your life, plan a trip to Climb Kalamazoo. Located right on the Kalamazoo Mall, they offer over 10,500 square feet of climbing surface! Also perfect for a Valentine’s Day spent with the kids. (www.climbkalamazoo.org)
For the Hopeless Romantic in your life. The Henderson Castle is offering a romantic 6 course meal with an option to add on a Romantic Table-Scape package that includes a bottle of champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, a rose for your sweetheart, and rose petals on the table. (Be sure to call for pricing/reservations). You can also make a night of it and book a room at the castle for unique experience. The Castle also has a rooftop hot tub and spa services if you don’t wish to stay the night, you can still book a massage. (www.hendersoncastle.com)
Oasis Hot Tubs located in Kalamazoo also makes for a fun evening with the kiddos, gal pals, or just some relaxation with your special someone. Each room has a different theme with some being indoors, and others “outside” with no rooftop for star-gazing! (www.oasishottubs.com
BraVo! Restaurant & Café is offering a Beef Tenderloin with mushrooms wrapped in Puff Pastry, and will also be offering their full menu. They have a cozy atmosphere and you can kick up the romance by asking for a seat by their fireplace. Don’t forget their amazing house made desserts! (www.bravokalamazoo.com)
Last but certainly not least, nothing says “romantic” like a candle lit dinner at home. Breakout the table cloth, candles, your favorite wine, and make your favorite homemade meal or grab your favorite take-out.
No matter how you celebrate Valentine’s Day, or even celebrate at all, it’s still a fun time to get out and discover some new places downtown Kalamazoo with your loved one or friends.
