Plainwell: River Walks, Parks and City History

Plainwell is known as “The Island City.” The nickname refers to the original layout of the city, which is encircled by the Kalamazoo River and the Plainwell Millrace, forming an island. If you’re looking for a hotel in Plainwell, the riverside setting, parks and city history offer different ways to shape your stay. First, consider whether you’d like to focus on paths by the water, specific park amenities or historic sites.

River Walks and Parks

River Walk Park is a 0.62-mile linear park with boardwalks and concrete paths. It follows the Mill Race through Hicks Park and Pell Park before running along the Kalamazoo River. The route therefore starts by following a waterway through two parks and then continues along the river. If you’d like to include a walk in your stay, the length gives you a useful point of reference; the change between waterways also shapes the route.

Fannie Pell Park is located where the Mill Race and Kalamazoo River meet, and has a launch for canoes and kayaks. This location combines the meeting of the waterways with a specific focus on canoeing and kayaking. Plainwell Dog Park has separate areas for small and large dogs. At Thurl Cook Park, you’ll find a lighted 100-foot sledding hill, along with tennis, pickleball and basketball courts. The parks offer a range of recreational options: riverside access, separate dog areas, or sports and sledding amenities.

City History and Art

Hicks Park, which the River Walk passes through, is the oldest park within the city of Plainwell and dates back to 1903. Plainwell itself was established mainly because of the plank toll roads built between 1852 and 1855, connecting Grand Rapids with Kalamazoo. Another landmark in the city’s history is the “Iron Archer” sculpture: it was installed and dedicated on May 30, 2013, in the city square in downtown Plainwell. Together, these dates highlight different aspects of the city’s history—from 19th-century transportation links and the story of a city park to public art downtown.

Downtown

In the Island City Social District, alcoholic beverages purchased at participating bars and restaurants may be consumed in approved containers within the designated boundaries of downtown Plainwell. Because participating businesses and opening hours may change, check in advance which venues are participating and what hours apply during your visit.

When planning, it helps to distinguish between a destination trail and individual park amenities: River Walk Park is defined by its length and route, while Thurl Cook Park brings together sports courts and a sledding hill. This can help you choose places based on your interests, then look for a hotel in Plainwell for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Allegan, Saugatuck.

Go to the regional travel overview: Allegan County.