Kalamazoo Parks Are Summer-Ready

Published on May 11, 2026

Kalamazoo city parks are ready for another great summer season. Restrooms are open, water fountains have been turned on, and pickleball and tennis court nets are back up and ready for play. Gates at parking areas and vehicle drives at Spring Valley Park, Milham Park, Woods Lake Park, Fairmount Dog Park, and Versluis Dickinson Park have also been reopened for additional parking and access. All Kalamazoo city parks are open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.

Park pavilions are also now available to rent for parties, events, and weddings. Facilities are available in four-hour blocks from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Park rentals range in price from $105 to $175 depending on the pavilion size and amenities like electricity, with a $50 refundable deposit. Crane Park also has a garden wedding area that is available to rent for $200 for four hours.

Rockwell Park (1106 Trimble Ave) now features a bike playground with a brightly painted, street-style layout that gives young riders a safe place to practice their bike skills. This work was possible through American Rescue Plan Act funding as well as a significant in-kind donation from Ace Parking Lot Striping. Princeton Park will also be reopening in the coming weeks with a brand-new playground once new grass has been established.

Improvements will be starting soon at Verburg Park and will include a bicycle pump track, pavilion, playground, and kayak launch. Six new pickleball courts will also be added to Spring Valley Park this summer in the former tennis court area.

Splash pads and the Kik Pool will also be opening soon. Splash pads will open on Saturday, May 23 and be available daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at LaCrone Park (535 W Paterson St) and the Florence Street Splash Pad (534 Florence St). The Kik Pool will open on Wednesday, June 3. Season pool passes are currently available for purchase at the Kzoo Parks office (251 Mills St) and will also be available at the pool once it opens along with day passes.

City parks are open year-round, but gates to some parking areas and vehicle drives are closed during the winter months because of reduced staffing. Restrooms and water fountains are winterized each year and reopen for the season once freezing temperatures pass and seasonal staff are available for cleaning and maintenance.

Residents can learn more about Kalamazoo’s city parks including park locations and amenities at www.kzooparks.org/parks