Questions? Answers.

Seasons Retreat Center is reserved for Fetzer Institute staff and invited partners for retreats and convenings. It is not available for reservation or rental by the general public.

Seasons hosts a wide range of gatherings — from academic dialogues and strategic convenings to experiential retreats — all designed to foster introspection, connection, and meaningful conversation.

Seasons is situated on the grounds of the Fetzer Institute in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Seasons was created to support meaningful dialogue and personal renewal, aligning with John Fetzer’s vision of fostering deep conversations on contemporary challenges and the spiritual solutions that may address them.

Upon arrival, please check in at the Fetzer Institute reception desk. Our staff will greet you, provide your room key, and guide you to the Seasons Meeting House and your accommodations.

On the day of your departure, gather at the Fetzer reception desk 5–10 minutes before your scheduled shuttle or departure time. A staff member will collect your room key and help you check out. If your travel plans change, please notify us as soon as possible at (269) 350-3110 so we can make necessary adjustments.

We suggest casual, comfortable clothing. Michigan weather can shift quickly, so layering is wise. If you plan to walk the wooded trails, bring sturdy shoes or boots. There’s no dress code — we simply encourage you to wear what allows you to feel at ease and present.

During business hours, guest messages can be delivered via our hospitality team. After hours, non-emergency messages are relayed via guest room voicemail or security staff. Emergency messages are delivered to you immediately.

We’re able to receive meeting-related shipments only. Unfortunately, we cannot accept personal packages during your stay.

Our talented culinary staff prepare scratch-made meals, including continental breakfasts, buffet lunches, and dinners. They love sourcing local ingredients and getting to know regional farmers and providers.

All meals include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections. The culinary team will accommodate other dietary preferences as you note them in your registration. You can also find breakfast bars, fresh fruit, pastries, juices, waters, and other snacks to enjoy or bring to your room from the guest pantry in the Meeting House.

Always complimentary to overnight guests:

• High-speed wireless internet via our guest network
• Queen-size bed
• Alarm clock
• Beverages and snacks
• Coffee and tea service
• Flashlight
• Hairdryer
• Mini-fridge
• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Toiletries
• Umbrella
• Water (filtered and sparkling)

If you find you’ve forgotten something, we’ve got you covered. Extra amenities — like deodorant, toothbrushes, aspirin, and basic first aid supplies — are available on the lower level of the Seasons Meeting House.

We prioritize sustainable practices in housekeeping, offering daily room touch-ups on request. Towels and linens are laundered by visit rather than by day, unless otherwise requested. Hospitality staff will ask about your preferences upon check-in, and we invite you to contact us at any time related to your guest room needs.

Yes. Seasons is ADA-compliant, with:

• Accessible guest rooms (roll-in showers, grab bars, and wide doorways)
• Elevator access between floors
• Paved paths between buildings

Please notify us in advance if you need an ADA-accessible room or other accommodations.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate pets. However, service animals as defined by the ADA are always welcome. Please notify us in advance if you’ll be bringing a service animal so we can prepare accordingly.

Laundry facilities — including a washer, dryer, iron, and ironing board — are available on the lower level of the Meeting House. Whether you’re here for an extended stay or simply need a refresh, you’re welcome to do laundry at any time.

All buildings are smoke-free, in compliance with Michigan law. There are two designated outdoor smoking areas:  under the portico near the Seasons kitchen and at the loading dock. If you have questions, please ask our hospitality staff.

Yes. The lower level Guest Office, located near the Meeting House elevator, includes a workstation with a multifunction printer for scanning, copying and printing. It’s available for guest use at any time.

The Seasons Meeting House is fully equipped with audiovisual capabilities to support your presentation or facilitation needs. Your Fetzer host will work with you in advance to ensure everything is set up and running smoothly.

You’re invited to explore our entire campus, including:

• Walking trails through prairies and wooded areas
• The Sacred Practice Room (2nd floor of the Institute)
• A well-stocked Library with spiritual and leadership books
• The Fitness Center for indoor exercise 
• The John E. Fetzer Exhibit, A Legacy of Love located within the Institute, which shares the vision and story of our founder

Yes! Visit the Campus Map to explore the layout and get oriented before your visit.

On campus, guests enjoy quiet or social time, walks in nature, reflective reading, or creating music. Off campus, Kalamazoo offers excellent dining, bookstores, coffee shops, local events, and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. We’re happy to recommend off-site excursions based on your interests.

A security guard is on duty weekdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 24 hours on weekends. Please call (269) 353-0538 for assistance.

Immediately dial 911. Then inform a staff member or the security guard so they can direct emergency personnel and provide additional support. Basic first aid supplies and an AED are available on-site (on the lower level of Seasons in the hallway to the pantry).

See complete procedures and a detailed map on the back of your guest room door. Leave the building at the nearest exit and gather outdoors at the flag poles near the reception area to await an all-clear message.

Staff monitor weather conditions for the wellbeing of our community and guests. This includes high winds that can cause power outages and seasonal tornado watches. Our backup generators supply power for major functions. In the rare instance of a prolonged power outage, staff will assist guests in shifting and/or cancelling activities. In the event of a tornado warning, staff will direct you to the nearest shelter, the safest places being lower levels and/or interior rooms.

Please familiarize yourself with our exit routes posted in each guest room. In case of alarm or evacuation, exit the building calmly and proceed to a safe area. Follow all directions from staff or emergency responders.