Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton to Kalamazoo

If you're looking to take a scenic route from Canton, Michigan to Kalamazoo, Michigan, there are a few places that you definitely don't want to miss. The drive is roughly two hours long and offers plenty of opportunities to pull over and explore. From quaint small towns to natural wonders, here are five unexpected places to stop on your drive through Michigan.

Jackson, MI – The Midway Point

Jackson, Michigan is the midway point between Canton and Kalamazoo, and it's definitely worth a stop. This historic town has a charming downtown area with plenty of local shops and restaurants. Take a stroll through the Cascades, a beautiful park that's full of waterfalls and manicured gardens. If you're a history buff, be sure to visit the Ella Sharp Museum, which is housed in a stunning Italianate mansion that was built in 1859.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, head to Chilango's Mexican Grill on W Michigan Avenue. They serve delicious tacos and burritos, and have a great selection of craft beer.

1. Battle Creek, MI – The Cereal Capital of the World

If you're a fan of breakfast foods, you won't want to miss Battle Creek. This city is the self-proclaimed "Cereal Capital of the World," and it's home to the Kellogg Company. Take a tour of the Kellogg's Cereal City USA, a museum that showcases the history of cereal and the Kellogg family. If you're looking for something a little more active, head to the Binder Park Zoo, where you can see animals from all around the world.

Be sure to stop at Kitchen Proper for lunch, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up amazing sandwiches and salads.

2. Marshall, MI – A Quaint Small Town

Marshall is a small town with a big personality. The downtown area is full of historic buildings, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. Take a tour of the American Museum of Magic, which houses one of the largest collections of magical artifacts in the world. If you're a fan of classic cars, be sure to visit the American Museum of Magic Museum of Classic Cars, which showcases cars from the 1920s through the 1960s.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, head to the Dark Horse Brewing Company for a burger and a craft beer.

3. Galesburg, MI – A hidden Gem

Galesburg is a small town that most people haven't heard of, but it's definitely worth a stop. The town is home to the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, a 33 mile-long trail that's perfect for hiking or biking. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Galesburg Historical Museum, which showcases artifacts and photographs from the town's past.

If you're looking for something to eat, head to the Rustica Restaurant for a delicious slice of pizza.

4. Saugatuck, MI – A Picturesque Harbor Village

Saugatuck is a picturesque harbor village that's nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan. The town is full of unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a stroll through the Saugatuck Dunes State Park, a 2,000-acre park that's full of sand dunes and hiking trails. If you're looking for a little bit of adventure, head to the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, a hand-cranked chain ferry that crosses the Kalamazoo River.

If you're looking for something to eat, head to the Mermaid Bar and Grill for a delicious seafood dinner.

5. Kalamazoo, MI – A Vibrant College Town

Kalamazoo is a vibrant college town that's home to Western Michigan University. The downtown area is full of local shops, restaurants, and breweries. Take a tour of the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, which showcases works from local and international artists. If you're a beer fan, be sure to visit Bell's Brewery, one of the largest craft breweries in the Midwest.

If you're looking for something to eat, head to the Old Dog Tavern for a juicy burger and a cold beer.

Experience the Best of Michigan

Michigan is full of surprises, and this drive from Canton to Kalamazoo is no exception. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just good food, there's something for everyone along the way. So the next time you're planning a road trip through Michigan, be sure to take the scenic route and experience the best that Michigan has to offer.