Plainwell is a small waterfront town along the Kalamazoo River
Plainwell offers a slower pace of life along the banks of the Kalamazoo River. “It’s got those small-town vibes,” says Sarah Grammatico, a Realtor with Amplified Real Estate who grew up and still lives in Plainwell. “We look out for and encourage each other, which is a big thing for me.” Nicknamed "Island City," the established homes and locally owned businesses of its downtown area are only accessible by bridge. Though located just 16 miles north of Kalamazoo, residents don't have to leave the area to reach day-to-day comforts.
Most recreation revolves around the water
The Plainwell Riverwalk runs along the waterfront and through several green spaces. Fannie Pell Park has views of the historic Michigan Paper Company Mill, a floating fishing dock and a public kayak launch. “A lot of us here are into the water and fishing,” Grammatico says. “There are all kinds of jet skiing, boating and anything water related.” Pine and Gulf lakes are both within 20 miles of the area and offer public boat ramps for getting on the water. Thurl Cook Park on Glenview Circle is a popular spot for local pickleball players and includes an off-leash dog park. Plainwell Community Pool at Plainwell Middle School is open to residents year round, and M-89 Cinema runs $4 showings every Monday.
From mid-1800s architecture to 20th-century ranch-style homes
Housing in Plainwell comprises a variety of architectural styles, specifically in the West Bridge Street and Island City historic districts. Here, mid-19th-century and early 20th-century Colonial Revival, Victorian and National homes share space with landmarks like First Presbyterian Church, which has stood for more than 150 years. Sidewalks stretch through this central portion of the community, and trees line streets throughout. The area's outskirts primarily consist of ranch- and split-level styles built during the mid-to-late 20th century. Plainwell's median sale price is around $285,000, slightly higher than nearby Kalamazoo, which has a median sale price of around $215,000.
Shopping options include downtown stores and big-box chains
Locally owned boutiques, restaurants and specialty stores fill Plainwell’s walkable downtown district. “For a super dressy date night, you could go to Dog & The Bank,” Grammatico says. The intimate eatery serves modern American fare from within a restored 19th-century bank. Plainwell Ice Cream Co. on the community’s east side has served the area with seasonal ice cream flavors for more than four decades. “People go crazy for it,” Grammatico says. Shopping centers west of U.S. Route 131 include several fast-food chain restaurants, regional chain groceries and Walmart Supercenter.
Free concerts and festivals bring Plainwell neighbors together
Plainwell’s Concerts at the Bandshell program brings local musicians out to play free shows every Friday night at Bandshell Park from late May through July. Island City Festival, also known by locals as Plainwell Days, is another annual staple. “They have all kinds of vendors, and it's nice to get out and see everyone in the community,” Grammatico says. “It’s like a farmers market on steroids.” The late-July event also features a Kids Zone at Hicks Park, and its car show, which also includes motorcycles and tractors, takes place downtown along Main Street.
Plainwell Community Schools offers an option for alternative learning
Plainwell Community Schools serves the area with three elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools. The district participates in Schools of Choice — a regional program that allows students to attend schools in a variety of school districts, not just the district they are zoned for — and earns a B-minus rating on Niche. Renaissance High School & Adult Education is an alternative school within the district that scores a C-minus rating. The school's approach includes individualized development plans and options for virtual education.
U.S. 131 and Route 89 link the area to nearby cities
U.S. Route 131 is a major north-south highway, connecting the area to Kalamazoo, 15 miles south and Grand Rapids, about 40 miles north. State Route 89 also passes through the community, leading 4 miles west into Otsego. Plainwell has no public transportation, and the nearest flights leave out of Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
