Kalamazoo
Nestled in southwestern Michigan between Chicago and Detroit, Kalamazoo is the fun-loving home to Western Michigan University. This college town boasts a sprawling campus and innumerable entertainment options. Locals enjoy cheering on the Broncos at Waldo Stadium and watching the Kalamazoo Wings at Wings Event Center. But more than just athletic events, this lively city features top-notch local amenities. After you find your affordable apartment in the city, you can sample the craft brews at Bell’s Brewery, taste the fresh produce at the Bank Street Farmers Market, peruse the outdoor Kalamazoo Mall, or catch a live performance at Famers Alley Theatre. Outdoor recreation and exploration is a popular activity in this suburb, from the biking trails at the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail to the exhibits and walking trails at the Kalamazoo Nature Center. Whether you’re an art, science, or culture enthusiast, Kalamazoo has you covered! Check out the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Museum, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, and Gilmore Car Museum. This community comes together for several seasonal festivals, including the Kalamazoo Animation Festival International, Irving Gilmore International Keyboard Festival, and the Bach Festival.
Lansing
Lansing is the capital city of Michigan, neighboring one of the state’s most notable universities, Michigan State University. This institution’s sprawling campus borders Lansing to the east, and a hefty portion of the student population calls Lansing home, giving this city a college town vibe. Though Lansing is the state capital, rentals in the area are surprisingly affordable, offering apartments, condos, and houses. Downtown Lansing is a charming historic district along Grand River, featuring must-visit historic sites like the Michigan State Capitol and overlooking shops, cafes, bars, and more along South Washington Square. Local entertainment options appeal to residents and visitors alike, such as the Cooley Law School Stadium, the proud home of the MiLB’s Lansing Lugnuts and the Impression 5 Science Center. Small businesses keep Lansing’s charm alive, so be sure to check out the Lansing Brewing Company on Shiawassee Street after you find your affordable apartment. Outdoor adventure awaits in Lansing, from the Potter Park Zoo and Crego Park to Hawk Island Park and the Country Club of Lansing! Residents have easy access to Interstates 69, 96, and 496 and the Capital Region International Airport, so commuting and air travel is a breeze.
Royal Oak
Less than 15 miles northeast of Detroit, cradled where I-75 intersects I-696, is Royal Oak. While Royal Oak is a suburb of Detroit, it also has its own downtown area containing over 70 restaurants in addition to retail shops and nightlife venues. Among the nightlife venues in Downtown Royal Oak are Royal Oak Music Theatre, Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, and Stagecrafters Baldwin Theatre. Major events held in Downtown Royal Oak include the Ford Arts, Beats, and Eats Festival and part of the Woodward Dream Cruise. The Detroit Zoo is also located in Royal Oak. Convenient to major highways and Downtown Detroit, Royal Oak offers residents a small-town feel near the big-city vibe as well as simple commutes and travels.
