KarlaN

Great neighborhood with slightly hilly, windy streets and old homes dating back to ca. 1910s & 20s (officially designated historic district). Bordered by Kalamazoo College and Western Michigan University, a substantial number of residents are faculty or staff of these institutions. There are several annual neighborhood events, including a really nice, low-key Easter Egg Hunt and the summer potluck picnic to which the the USTA boys' tennis tournament participants & families are invited. Mix of families and retired folks--not really any students. There are quite a few kids, several of whom gather at the small parks for a quick game of ultimate frisbee or to shoot some goals. There's a "hidden" Tot Lot park with a little playground equipment and basketball hoop. The northern boundary, West Main Street has some commercial activity and is busy (direct route to downtown--5 minutes by bicycle). I can walk to the best Indian restaurant, a charming Middle Eastern restaurant, a popular breakfast diner, carry-out pizza, and a terrific wine/cheese/specialty foods shop. Unfortunately, there are a few less wholesome businesses also located at the top of W. Main Hill. Pest free?--No roaches, but gardeners will have to fend off moles, squirrels, and the occasional raccoon or groundhog.