PBL for Higher Ed

A banner image of the front entrance for the Radisson hotel in downtown Kalamazoo.

WMUx
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5230 USA
(269) 387-4200

Travel Information

Western Michigan University, located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is accessible from several major airports in the region. Here are the approximate distances from the university to each airport:

  • Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO): Located just 5 miles from Western Michigan University, approximately a 10-minute drive.
Map location of the Kalamazoo Airport.
  • Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids: Approximately 52 miles north of Kalamazoo, about a 50-minute drive.
A map image of Gerald R. Ford Airport in Grand Rapids.
  • South Bend International Airport (SBN): Approximately 82 miles southwest of Kalamazoo, about a 1 hour and 30-minute drive.
An image location for the South Bend Airport.
  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW): Approximately 140 miles east of Kalamazoo, about a 2 hour and 10-minute drive.
A map image of the Detroit airport.
  • Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): Approximately 146 miles west of Kalamazoo, about a 2 hour and 30-minute drive.
A map image of the Chicago Midway Airport.
  • Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Approximately 164 miles west of Kalamazoo, about a 2 hour and 50-minute drive.
A map image of the Chicago O'hare airport.

We recommend taking rush hour traffic into consideration when booking flights and transportation to hotels. Google Maps is a helpful tool in planning travel times.

Depending on what airport you fly in and out of, and where you stay, you may want to have a car to make your way to and from the conference and to explore Kalamazoo.

Please note: if you choose to stay at the downtown Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, a complimentary shuttle will be provided to/from WMU for the conference. Additionally, the Radisson provides a complimentary shuttle for hotel guests to and from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport. Contact the hotel directly to arrange your airport shuttle, as it does need to be booked in advance.

PBL for Higher Ed will be held at Western Michigan University, located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. For participants interested in exploring the city or the beautiful surrounding area, we recommend a car. 

If you are staying at the Radisson Plaza Hotel and Suites in downtown Kalamazoo, they will provide a complimentary shuttle to and from the conference. The Radisson also provides a complimentary shuttle for hotel guests to and from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport. Contact the hotel directly to arrange your airport shuttle as it does need to be booked in advance.

If you choose another hotel option, please contact the hotel you book with to find out if shuttle service is available.

Kalamazoo offers a diverse and dynamic dining scene, featuring everything from locally owned bistros and award-winning restaurants to casual eateries and craft breweries. Whether you're seeking a quick bite or a memorable dinner, you'll find a wide range of options to suit every taste.

We encourage you to explore the comprehensive list and great recommendations for food & drink compiled by Discover Kalamazoo. 

Food and drink in Kalamazoo

We previously partnered with the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in downtown Kalamazoo for the PBL for Higher Ed Conference, and anticipate working with them again for our rescheduled event in 2026. However, hotel arrangements and group rates will be re-negotiated once the new conference dates are finalized.

Check back soon for updated hotel information, including preferred accommodations and group rates. We’ll post the latest details here as soon as they are available.