Portage Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of the beautiful state of Michigan, Portage is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Nestled on the southern shore of West Lake, Portage is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant parks, this region is a paradise for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the main attractions of Portage is the expansive Portage Creek Bicentennial Park. Spanning over 800 acres, this park boasts a plethora of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Explore the numerous hiking and biking trails that wind through lush forests and scenic meadows, or enjoy a leisurely picnic by the tranquil creekside. The park also features a sprawling golf course, perfect for golf enthusiasts looking to tee off amidst stunning natural surroundings.

For those seeking a more urban experience, Portage offers a vibrant downtown area filled with boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. Take a stroll down the historic streets and immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage and culture. Indulge in a culinary adventure by dining at one of the many locally-owned restaurants that serve up delectable dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Nature enthusiasts will also be delighted by the nearby Portage Riverwalk, a scenic pathway that follows the meandering Portage Creek. As you walk along the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the water, lush vegetation, and a variety of wildlife. The Riverwalk is also a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

In addition to its natural wonders, Portage is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing local talent and celebrating the community's vibrant spirit. From art exhibitions to live music performances, there is always something exciting happening in Portage.

Alternative names: Population: 48.2 thous.Area: 35.16 mi²Elevation: 850 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°13'7"N, 85°35'24"W

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MichiganUnited States

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Portage Top Attractions

Portage Attractions - What to See and Explore

Portage offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Air Zoo, Portage District Library. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • History museum • Science museum
Air Zoo
The Air Zoo, founded as the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum, is an aviation museum and indoor amusement park next to the Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport in Portage, Michigan.
42°12'13"N • 85°35'13"W
Portage District Library
Library

Day trips

Portage – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Portage, it's worth seeing attractions such as: South Haven Light (South Haven), Leila Arboretum (Battle Creek), Wings Event Center (Kalamazoo).

38 milesW
Piers and boardwalks, Lighthouse, Vernacular architecture
South Haven Light, South Haven
The South Haven South Pierhead Light is a lighthouse in Michigan, at the entrance to the Black River on Lake Michigan. The station was lit in 1872, and is still operational.
21 milesNE
Park
Leila Arboretum, Battle Creek
The Leila Arboretum is an arboretum and garden located at 928 West Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan. The arboretum is 72 acres, and is open to the public.
3.7 miNE
Sport venue, Arenas and stadiums, Sport
Wings Event Center, Kalamazoo
Wings Event Center is a 5,113-seat multi-purpose arena located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The arena, opened in 1974, is home to the Kalamazoo Wings, an ice hockey team in the ECHL.
4.9 miN
Park
Bronson Park, Kalamazoo
Bronson Park Historic District is a historic district in Kalamazoo, Michigan, consisting of Bronson Park and the surrounding government, religious, and civic buildings. It is roughly bounded by South Rose, South Park, West Lovell, and West Michigan Avenues. The district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
48 milesNW
Museum
De Zwaan Windmill, Holland
De Zwaan is an authentic Dutch windmill in the city of Holland, Michigan. The windmill's name is Dutch for The Swan or Graceful Bird. It is the oldest authentic, working Dutch windmill in the United States. De Zwaan is located in Windmill Island municipal park.