Weekend Getaway in Kalamazoo, MI
A 17th Anniversary Getaway in Kalamazoo, MI
Seventeen years. It’s a milestone worth celebrating, and for my husband and me, the perfect way to mark the occasion was a romantic weekend away. We craved a change of scenery, a chance to reconnect, and a dash of architectural wonder. Our destination? Kalamazoo, Michigan, a charming city just a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Chicago.
Where to Stay near Kalamazoo
Our home base for this special trip was the stunning Samuel Eppstein Residence, a gem designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright. Stepping into this architectural masterpiece was like entering a casual, comfortable museum. The clean lines, natural materials, and thoughtful design created an atmosphere of tranquility – perfect for a romantic getaway. We spent hours reading, taking photographs, and simply enjoying each other's company, free from the distractions of daily life. If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable place to stay, this Kalamazoo romantic weekend spot is a must!
Staying in a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed home for the first time felt a little surreal—like we’d snuck into a museum after hours and weren’t entirely sure we were supposed to be there. My husband described it as a feeling of frisson—a mix of awe and thrill that ran down our spines as we explored the space. But what struck us most was how quickly that feeling faded into comfort, a testament to Wright’s genius in designing homes that are not only works of art but also deeply livable. As we settled in, we found ourselves immersed in the story of the original owners, who shared memories of building the home themselves, piece by piece, following Wright’s plans. Their reflections added a personal, human touch to the architectural marvel we were fortunate enough to experience firsthand.
If you’re interested in reading more about Frank Lloyd Wright, consider one of these books:
This novel tells the story of Frank Lloyd Wright's love affair with Mamah Borthwick Cheney. It's a fictionalized account told from Mamah's perspective, exploring the complexities of their relationship and the societal repercussions of their choices. This book is very popular, and well regarded.
This novel offers a broader fictional portrayal of Frank Lloyd Wright's relationships with the women in his life. It delves into the turbulent dynamics between Wright and his wives and mistresses, offering a nuanced and often provocative look at his personal life.
Frank Lloyd Wright: A Biography by Meryle Secrest
This biography delves into Wright's complex personal life, drawing on extensive research and access to his archives. It provides a well-rounded portrait of the man behind the architectural genius.
Frank Lloyd Wright: An Autobiography by Frank Lloyd Wright:
For a first-hand account, this autobiography offers Wright's own perspective on his life and philosophy. While potentially biased, it's a valuable source for understanding his vision.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater: The House and Its History by Donald Hoffmann:
If you're particularly interested in one of Wright's most iconic works, this book provides an in-depth look at the design and history of Fallingwater.
This book gives an interesting look into the community that surrounded Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Taliesin Fellowship.
The Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright: A Complete Catalog by William Allin Storrer:
This is a very comprehensive catalog of Wrights work, and is a great resource for people wanting to see a large collection of his designs.
These books offer a mix of fictional depictions, biographical insights, architectural analysis, and Wright's own writings, providing a comprehensive understanding of his legacy.
Throughout our 17 years together, my husband and I have always been captivated by Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural genius, making it a point to tour his homes whenever we could. Read this post on our visit to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. However, this anniversary trip to Kalamazoo marked a special first: actually living within the walls of a Wright-designed residence. The experience of inhabiting the Samuel Eppstein Residence, rather than just observing it, offered an entirely new level of appreciation for his vision, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the beauty and tranquility of his design.
A Culinary Journey Through Kalamazoo
One of the highlights of our trip was exploring Kalamazoo's vibrant food scene. We indulged in a series of memorable meals:
Rustica: This rustic-chic restaurant offered an intimate setting and delectable Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Perfect for a romantic dinner Kalamazoo.
The Grazing Table: We enjoyed a delightful selection of brunch items - I was torn between the Croque Madame and the Sydney Makes an Omlette - Ep. 9. My husband opted for the Avocado Toast.
Principle Food and Drink: This modern eatery impressed us with its innovative cuisine and craft cocktails. A fantastic spot for a sophisticated Kalamazoo date night.
600 Kitchen and Bar: Another amazing meal, with great atmosphere, and wonderful service.
Vinyl Vibes and Adventure Challenges
Inspired by a date idea from The Adventure Challenge Couples Edition, we ventured to Satellite Records. This independent record store was a treasure trove of vinyl, and we had a blast browsing through the collection and discovering new music. It was a unique and fun experience, adding a touch of playful spontaneity to our Kalamazoo couples getaway.
Connecting & Capturing Memories
Beyond the delicious food and unique experiences, the most precious aspect of our trip was the uninterrupted time we spent together. We rediscovered the joy of simply talking, laughing, and reminiscing. The beautiful setting of the Eppstein Residence provided the perfect backdrop for creating new memories and capturing them through photographs.
Sample Itinerary for Your Kalamazoo Romantic Weekend:
Day 1:
Afternoon: Drive from Chicago to Kalamazoo (approx. 2.5 hours).
Check in to the Samuel Eppstein Residence.
Evening: Romantic dinner at Rustica.
Day 2:
Morning: Relax and enjoy the architecture of the Eppstein Residence.
Lunch: The Grazing Table for a delightful grazing experience.
Afternoon: Visit Satellite Records.
Evening: Enjoy cocktails and dinner at Principle Food and Drink.
Day 3:
Morning: Relax and enjoy the rental home, take Photos.
Lunch: 600 Kitchen and Bar.
Afternoon: Depart for Chicago.
Why Kalamazoo?
Kalamazoo offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and incredible food, it’s an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, a special occasion, or simply want to reconnect, Kalamazoo is sure to deliver a memorable experience.
