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Grand Rapids, a city in western Michigan, is often overlooked in favor of more famous cities like Chicago and Milwaukee. However, this second-largest city in Michigan has a lot to offer. Situated on the banks of the Grand River, it provides a perfect escape with its cultural attractions, breweries, and its proximity to the beach communities along Lake Michigan. The city gets its name from the Grand River that flows through its downtown area. Grand Rapids has a rich history, dating back 2,000 years when it was inhabited by the Hopewell Indians. Over a century ago, it gained recognition as “America’s Furniture Capital” due to a lumber boom that brought skilled craftsmen, carpenters, and woodworkers to the local economy.
Grand Rapids, a modern metropolis with renowned attractions, pays homage to its history while embracing the present. Immerse yourself in local history at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, one of the oldest museums in the country. Explore national history at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, dedicated to the city’s most famous native, President Ford. Don’t forget to experience Grand Rapids’ reputation as “Beer City, USA” by savoring a pint or two. Additionally, discover the region’s exceptional produce by visiting local markets, which highlight why it is considered one of the world’s finest growing areas.
For the optimal experience, plan your visit to Grand Rapids between June and mid-November. During this time, you can enjoy the pleasant warmth of summer and the mild temperatures of fall, which are perfect for outdoor activities in the city. Just like many other places in the Midwest, winters in Grand Rapids can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to the teens. Spring takes a while to warm up, and it’s not until May that you can expect temperatures to reach the 70s. However, if you’re looking to save on accommodation, visiting during winter or spring could offer some discounted prices.
Here are some of our recommended things to do in Grand Rapids. Choose your favorite!
If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, you should definitely consider visiting the Blandford Nature Center. Originally a family farm, this place has now become a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its vast expanse of 264 acres filled with …
Fish Ladder Park in downtown Grand Rapids is a must-visit spot for sightseers. It’s not just any ordinary park; it’s a functional piece of architectural artwork created by Joseph Kinnebrew. The park features a concrete fish ladder that serves an …
Spend a delightful afternoon surrounded by art in the open air at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This expansive park spans 158 acres and offers a variety of attractions to enjoy. Explore Michigan’s biggest tropical conservatory, …
Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to discover the fascinating life of the 38th president of the United States. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Ford spent a significant portion of his life in Grand Rapids. The museum houses over 19,000 artifacts …
The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives is dedicated to sharing the stories of the Black experience in Grand Rapids. Using recorded oral histories, exhibits, memorabilia, pop-up displays, and special events, GRAAMA aims to provide …
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is a must-visit for those interested in culture. It houses over 6,000 objects that span various periods, from the Renaissance to modern art. The collection has a particular emphasis on European and American art from the …
Hey there, beer enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of the golden brew, you’ll be delighted to know that Grand Rapids has earned itself the nickname “Beer City, USA.” And let me tell you, it’s well-deserved! This vibrant city is home to over 80 breweries, …
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a popular attraction for both families visiting the area and local residents. It offers a wide range of interactive exhibits designed to captivate young minds and encourage active …
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is an excellent destination to learn about the local history. This museum focuses on science, history, and culture and offers various amenities such as a theater, a cafe, a gift shop, a carousel, and a planetarium. …
The John Ball Zoo is a popular attraction for families visiting Grand Rapids, with over 2,000 animals from more than 200 species. The zoo was named after one of the city’s founding fathers, John Ball, who generously donated 40 acres of land for …
The Meyer May House is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. It is a home designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright and can be found in the Heritage Hill Historic District of the city. Constructed in 1908, the house was originally …
Just imagine, tucked away in western Michigan lies one of the most enormous urban parks you could ever come across. It’s a whopping 1,400-acre expanse that stretches across four cities: Grand Rapids, Walker, Grandville, and Wyoming. This incredible …