Portage

With the area’s largest enclosed mall and an extensive commercial strip Portage draws those born to shop. It also draws those born to bike. More than 60 linear trail miles for bikes, 800 acres of protected land open to the public and seven lakes offering water sports and fishing make Portage someplace people want to live. The network of parks and trails, used for walking, cycling and canoeing, demonstrate the priority the city places on balancing green spaces and work places. The city is home to the manufacturing headquarters of Pfizer, a world leader in biopharmaceuticals; Stryker, a medical technology leaders; and the U.S. Headquarters of Mann-Hummel, a major corporation in automotive components. Portage benefits from being close to Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College and Kalamazoo Community College — all of which contribute to the city’s highly educated workforce. Restaurants and bars include the nationally recognized and local favorites. During the summer months cultural events are offered in venues in each of the city’s parks.