Shop local
Gift guides
Gifts for everyone on your list, found a few blocks apart. When in doubt, Downtown Dollars fit everyone.
In shortThere are six gift guides. Each has ideas and a link to the places downtown where you can find them.
For the art lover
Kalamazoo’s artists sell their work in shops and galleries all over downtown.
- A print, painting or photograph from December’s Art Hop
- Handmade jewelry or glasswork from a local maker
- A membership or class at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
- Tickets to a show at the Civic or Farmers Alley Theatre
Glass Art Kalamazoo
A glass studio in the Park Trades Center offering glassblowing classes and studio rental for glass artists.
Where to look
For the food lover
Give them a reason to come downtown and eat.
- Downtown Dollars for a dinner out
- Local coffee, chocolate or baked goods
- A gift card to their favorite downtown restaurant
- A tasting or brewery visit for the 21-and-over crowd
Sarkozy Bakery
A downtown bakery and café on East Michigan Avenue with handmade breads, pastries and coffee.
Where to look
For kids
Presents are good. Memories are better.
- A visit with Santa and a framed photo from the workshop
- Books from a downtown bookseller
- Toys and games from a local shop
- A day out: museum, trolley and cocoa
Uncle Buddy's Toy Stash
A retro and vintage toy store on the Kalamazoo Mall with classic toys, games and collectibles.
Where to look
For the host
Something for the person who has everyone over.
- Candles, linens or serving pieces from a home shop
- Locally roasted coffee or a bottle from a downtown shop
- Flowers or a winter plant
- A gift card for a night off from cooking
Mason Jar Plant Shop
A houseplant and gift shop on West South Street with a DIY terrarium bar.
Where to look
Stocking stuffers
Small, local and easy to tuck in.
- $5 and $10 Downtown Dollars certificates
- Stickers, pins and cards from local makers
- Sweets from a downtown bakery or candy shop
- Something with the new Downtown Kalamazoo brand on it
Pop City Popcorn
A gourmet popcorn shop on the Kalamazoo Mall with sweet and savory flavors, gift tins and treats.
Where to look
Experiences
For the person who would rather do something than unwrap something.
- Tickets to a concert, comedy show or play
- A planned evening using one of our itineraries
- A New Year’s Fest outing
- Downtown Dollars and a handwritten list of your favorite spots
Climb Kalamazoo
Southwest Michigan’s climbing gym, right on the Kalamazoo Mall, with bouldering for first-timers and experienced climbers alike.