Finally! Something about Detroit where people aren't hating on the city.

Mlive.com recently reported that, according to USA Today, the Detroit Riverwalk is currently listed as one of the best in the country. I say currently because the voting is still ongoing.

According to the Detroit Riverfront website, the Riverwalk attracts about 3 million people each year. Of course, with 2020 being as unusual as it was, you would assume that attendance would be down. But, in fact, attendance increased by 20% since March of last year. And it's not hard to see why. Even just a quick Google Maps search shows off the beautiful views offered on this river front.

Detroit Riverfront View Via Google Maps
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Now, for the voting. USA Today's 10Best is currently conducting the poll which you can vote on here. Voting will remain open until February 15th with the winner being announced on February 26th.

Personally, I've yet to visit the Detroit Riverfront. I know, shame on me. But, since its winter and we're still in a pandemic...I have a feeling that trip will have to wait. In the meantime, we have some lovely waterfront parks right here in Kalamazoo! Here's just a few to check out.

1. Kalamazoo River Valley Trail

Okay this first one may not be just one location...but I think it counts. Kalamazoo River Valley Trail was designed with the idea to give residents a safe, non-motorized trail. Currently, there's 22 miles of trail but the goal is 139 miles to connect Kalamazoo to the surrounding areas. Find more information here.

2. Spring Valley Park 

Spring Valley Park, Kalamazoo
Spring Valley Park, Kalamazoo
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Spring Valley Park was one of the first I visited after moving to Kalamazoo. It has over 3 miles of paved trails, three different playgrounds, a soccer field, baseball diamond, and a disc golf course. I had NO idea that disc golf was so popular here until I went to this park. The disc golf was the most popular activity when we visited. You can find all the information about Spring Valley Park here.

3. Asylum Lake Preserve

Owned by Western Michigan University, this preserve is also used by both professors and students for research. They also have trails where dogs are allowed (but must remain leashed at all times). As well, according to their website, The Asylum Lake Management Council is working on making the trails more accessible for those who are disabled. Read more here.

4. Markin Glen County Park 

Markin Glen County Park, Kalamazoo
Markin Glen County Park, Kalamazoo
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Another park I've personally visited, Markin Glen was the perfect little outing. The park itself is about 160 acres. But, the paved trails we walked weren't too taxing. It was the perfect length to enjoy the beautiful lake and still feel like I had a decent walk. There's also fishing, playgrounds, volleyball, softball and more. Find more details here.

5. Mayor's Riverfront Park 

Mayor's Riverfront Park is WAY more than just a park. It's home to The Growlers Baseball fields too. As well, you can find a boat launch for kayaks, trails to either bike or walk, and more. In fact, the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail also runs through this park. Get all the information you need here.

And those were just the tip of the iceberg. One of the things I appreciate most about Kalamazoo is the abundance of nature trails, parks and preserves. See one I missed but have to visit? Let me know on the app! And if you want to show Detroit some love make sure you vote to make Detroit Riverwalk the best in the country!

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