Cap Your Summer With the Best Root Beer Stands in Southwest Michigan

There's something about a drive-up Root Beer Stand that just screams Summer in the Midwest. I used to think the Snow Cone huts back home were the best indicator, and they're great, don't get me wrong. But there is something magical about a root beer and a hot dog on a summer night that just sets the tone for good vibes.

Thankfully, Southwest Michigan has plenty to choose from, and they might be some of the best I've ever been to.

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We're all familiar with the classic A&W Root Beer stands, and there's still plenty of them around... just, not in southwest Michigan anymore. The last two closed up shop years ago, and the closest one to Kalamazoo is probably in Lansing or Ann Arbor.

That's too far for a Root Beer and a hot dog, so the people of the community recognized this need, and created some of the most iconic spots in Michigan. So in a way, A&W leaving the region, worked out in the end for us.

The Root Beer Stand (Kalamazoo)

There are two locations in Kalamazoo for this one, and I believe the original is the one on Portage Street. It is literally THE thing that Kalamazoo natives look for in the community to officially kickstart summer (aside from maybe, Oberon Day). But the two are usually right around the same time.

Just think, you've been craving that social connection with your neighborhood, you're craving that outside air, and you've been craving that Root Beer and hot dog since the Fall. It's an incredible release. AND, there's two (the second is on Westnedge).

"This place is a local treasure. I've been coming here since I was a child. most 'out-of-towners' can't appreciate that fact. Stop in and support a cherished part of Kalamazoo History| - Jessica Lyn

Red's Root Beer (Paw Paw)

I actually had this for the first time recently, and it did not disappoint. I had to keep the inside of my truck clean, so I went with a Chicago Dog... I should have gone full-Coney. BUT, I did get a large Root Beer, and interestingly enough... served with NO ICE! That's a huge flex, and it paid off.

They are seriously proud of their Root Beer, and even put it on the menu... "Red takes special care to make only the finest rootbeer and there's no better way to satisfy your root cravings."

Truth be told, I should have gotten a mug of the root beer, because it was that good.

"I didn't know that places like Red's still existed! This is a wonderful relic of Americana: Park your car, get waited on, and enjoy a nice juicy cheeseburger or hot dog from the comfort of your vehicle... It goes without saying, but get the Root Beer in the frosty cold (glass!) mug!" - Alex Studd

Shorts Root Beer Stand (Coldwater)

This is a name that continues to come up to me, and unfortunately, I haven't made it out there yet. I promise it's coming. But I do love the simplicity of this spot: Root Beer, Ice Cream, Burgers, Hot Dogs. That's... about it (plus some pretty awesome looking sides.

Established in 1955, this is one of the oldest root beer stands in southwest Michigan, and the imagery genuinely makes me think it feels like you're going back in time when you pull up and order.

"This place is absolutely adorable. It is very much like taking a step back in time... If I ever come up this way again, I will definitely be stopping at Shorts!!" - Shannon

BONUS: BK Root Beer Drive In (Mishawaka, Indiana)

I know this is supposed to be Root Beer Stands in southwest Michigan, but Mishawaka is RIGHT across the border, so it might as well be a part of the family.

Another one of those nostalgic walk-ups, drive-up Root Beer stands, this place is apparently known for two things: The Root Beer Flats, and all of their dogs are Vienna Beef dogs. If you're headed to South Bend for an early Notre Dame game in the season, this is a must-stop for a quick cool down.

"This is a summer enjoyment in South bend. They have the best homemade root beer. They make amazing root beer shakes." - Tonia Coddens