Grand Rapids is more than just a city—it’s a vibrant destination packed with family-friendly activities, historical treasures, art-filled spaces, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re traveling with kids or exploring solo, this city offers something unique for everyone. Let’s dive into 15 incredible things you can do to make the most of your visit to Grand Rapids.
Walk Through History at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
Address: 303 Pearl St NW
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The museum honors Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States, showcasing his leadership during challenging times. It highlights pivotal moments in U.S. history, including the aftermath of Watergate and Ford’s efforts to restore national confidence.
What to Expect: Discover over 19,000 artifacts, a replica Oval Office, and interactive exhibits. Special programs and rotating exhibitions ensure fresh experiences. Visitors can delve into presidential history and enjoy insightful displays.
Visitor Information: Located in downtown Grand Rapids, the museum is open daily except major holidays. Admission is affordable, with discounts for seniors and students.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the life and legacy of the 38th President of the United States. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring over 19,000 artifacts, including personal memorabilia, a replica of the Oval Office, and key historical moments from Ford’s presidency. Interactive displays make learning engaging for all ages, while temporary exhibitions ensure a fresh experience each time. This museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Discover Art and Nature at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Address: 1000 E Beltline Ave NE
| Type | Parks and Gardens |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 1995, this park merges art and horticulture, featuring works by world-renowned artists and meticulously designed gardens. It symbolizes the harmony between nature and creativity.
What to Expect: Explore the Japanese Garden, seasonal butterfly exhibits, and sculptures by artists like Ai Weiwei. The Children’s Garden and amphitheater events add to the experience.
Visitor Information: Accessible year-round, the park provides ample parking and facilities. Ticket prices vary seasonally, and memberships offer great value for frequent visitors.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park beautifully combines art and nature across 158 acres. Stroll through themed gardens like the serene Japanese Garden, marvel at large-scale sculptures by renowned artists, and immerse yourself in seasonal events like the spring butterfly exhibition. The children’s garden and Michigan’s largest tropical conservatory make this an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an art lover or a nature enthusiast, this destination has something for everyone.
Uncover Local History at Grand Rapids Public Museum
Address: 272 Pearl St NW
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1854, this museum preserves the heritage of Grand Rapids and beyond, celebrating local history, culture, and innovation. It’s one of Michigan’s oldest museums.
What to Expect: See a 1928 Spillman Carousel, Native American artifacts, and an 1890s Grand Rapids streetscape. The Chaffee Planetarium offers immersive astronomy shows.
Visitor Information: Situated near the Grand River, the museum is open year-round. Admission includes planetarium access, with special discounts for families and groups.History and Significance: Opened in 1995, this park merges art and horticulture, featuring works by world-renowned artists and meticulously designed gardens. It symbolizes the harmony between nature and creativity.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers a journey through time with exhibits showcasing local and global history. Visitors can explore Native American artifacts, a 1928 Spillman Carousel, and a fascinating recreated 1890s-era Grand Rapids city. The Chaffee Planetarium adds an immersive space exploration experience. With hands-on exhibits for kids and engaging displays for adults, this museum is a family-friendly destination perfect for history lovers and curious minds.
Immerse Yourself in Culture at the Grand Rapids Art Museum
Address: 101 Monroe Center St NW
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1910, GRAM houses a diverse art collection, focusing on contemporary works alongside historical pieces. Its eco-friendly building reflects Grand Rapids’ sustainability efforts.
What to Expect: Enjoy rotating exhibits, Michigan artists’ works, and interactive programs. The tranquil setting is ideal for appreciating art and relaxing.
Visitor Information: Located in downtown Grand Rapids, the museum is accessible by public transport. Entry fees are affordable, and children under a certain age enter free.
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is a cultural treasure trove featuring art from the Renaissance to contemporary eras. Its collection showcases Michigan’s artistic talent alongside global masterpieces. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions and interactive programs, making it a dynamic space for creativity. Located in a LEED-certified building, the museum combines sustainable design with a love for the arts, offering a serene and inspiring experience for all.
Sip Your Way Through the Craft Breweries
Address: 235 Grandville Ave SW
| Type | Wineries/Breweries |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Grand Rapids’ brewing tradition dates back over a century. As Beer City, USA, it has become a craft beer hub, attracting beer lovers worldwide.
What to Expect: Explore over 80 breweries offering unique ales, stouts, and experimental flavors. Guided tours and tastings enhance the experience.
Visitor Information: Breweries are spread across the city, with many clustered downtown. Most offer on-site dining and guided tastings. Check individual schedules for seasonal brews and events.
Grand Rapids, fondly called Beer City, USA, boasts a vibrant craft brewery scene. With over 80 breweries on the Beer City Ale Trail, enthusiasts can savor iconic drinks like Founders Brewing’s All Day IPA and New Holland’s Dragon’s Milk stout. Guided tours offer insights into brewing techniques, while taprooms provide cozy spaces to relax. From experimental flavors to classic ales, there’s something to delight every beer lover.
Meet Wildlife at John Ball Zoo
Address: 1300 Fulton St W
| Type | Zoos and Aquariums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1891, the zoo has grown to house over 200 species. It emphasizes education and wildlife conservation, inspiring visitors to connect with nature.
What to Expect: See tigers, penguins, and primates up close. Adventure activities like a zipline and ropes course add excitement, while educational programs enrich visits.
Visitor Information: Open daily during warmer months, with reduced hours in winter. Admission is family-friendly, and combo passes include adventure activities.
John Ball Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals across 200 species, offering an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. From tigers and bears to interactive penguin exhibits, there’s plenty to explore. The zoo also features a ropes course and zip-lining for adventure seekers. Educational programs, wildlife encounters, and picturesque picnic spots make it a perfect family destination, combining fun with conservation awareness.
Play and Learn at Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Address: 11 Sheldon Ave NE
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Since its founding in 1997, this museum has been dedicated to inspiring creativity and curiosity through play-based education for young minds.
What to Expect: Interactive exhibits include a bubble room, mini-construction zone, and dinosaur dig. Seasonal workshops and events offer new learning opportunities.
Visitor Information: Located downtown, the museum is open year-round. Family passes provide great value, and nearby parking is convenient for visitors.
The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum offers hands-on learning and fun for young minds. Interactive exhibits like the Bubble Room, mini-construction zone, and dinosaur dig spark curiosity and creativity. Special programs, such as art workshops and storytelling, ensure every visit is unique. Designed to encourage play-based education, this museum is an ideal destination for families looking to combine entertainment with early learning opportunities.
Step into Architecture at the Meyer May House
Address: 450 Madison Ave SE
| Type | Free, Historic Homes/Mansions |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Designed in 1908 by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Meyer May House is a prime example of Prairie-style architecture and a testament to early 20th-century design.
What to Expect: Admire its stained-glass windows, geometric designs, and open floor plan. Guided tours include fascinating stories of the home’s restoration.
Visitor Information: Tours are free but require reservations. Open specific days of the week, it’s conveniently located in the Heritage Hill district.
The Meyer May House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. This meticulously restored Prairie-style home showcases Wright’s signature elements, including stained glass windows, geometric designs, and an open floor plan. Free guided tours offer insights into its history and restoration process, making it a fascinating experience for those interested in architectural heritage and innovation.
Explore the Great Outdoors at Blandford Nature Center
Address: 1715 Hillburn Ave NW
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1968, Blandford champions environmental education and conservation through its 264-acre expanse of natural habitats.
What to Expect: Hike scenic trails, visit wildlife enclosures, and explore the organic farm. Seasonal events like maple syrup making add unique charm.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, it offers affordable admission. Guided tours and educational programs are available for groups.
Blandford Nature Center is a 264-acre haven for nature lovers. With miles of scenic trails, interactive wildlife exhibits, and an organic farm, it’s perfect for outdoor exploration. Seasonal events like maple syrup festivals and night hikes add unique experiences. The center’s dedication to environmental education and conservation makes it an enriching destination for families, adventurers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
Relax at Millennium Park
Address: 1415 Maynard Ave SW
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: Opened in 2004, Millennium Park is a vast urban retreat, designed to offer residents and visitors a natural escape within the city limits.
What to Expect: Enjoy trails, sandy beaches, and lake activities like paddleboarding. Picnic areas and playgrounds make it ideal for families.
Visitor Information: The park is open daily with free entry. Rentals for paddleboards and bikes are available at reasonable rates.
Millennium Park offers a serene retreat with over 1,400 acres of lush greenery, picturesque lakes, and scenic trails. Perfect for picnics, swimming, and paddleboarding, the park caters to outdoor enthusiasts and families. Its sprawling spaces are ideal for unwinding or engaging in recreational activities like biking. As one of the largest urban parks in the country, it’s a gem for nature lovers in Grand Rapids.
Dive into the Past at the Grand Rapids Ghost Toursa
Address: Grand Rapids
| Type | Tours |
| Time to Spend | Half Day |
History and Significance: These tours reveal Grand Rapids’ spooky history, blending urban legends and historical truths for an entertaining experience.
What to Expect: Walk through haunted streets, hear tales of mysterious events, and visit eerie landmarks. Guides share fascinating local lore.
Visitor Information: Tours run year-round, mostly in the evenings. Booking in advance is recommended, as group sizes are limited for an immersive experience.
The Grand Rapids Ghost Tours reveal the city’s haunted side through engaging storytelling. Explore historic sites with chilling tales of paranormal activity and eerie legends that bring local history to life. Expert guides share fascinating anecdotes, blending mystery with historical facts. Perfect for thrill-seekers and history buffs, these tours offer a unique perspective on the city after dark.
Shop and Dine at Downtown Market
Address: 435 Ionia Ave SW
| Type | Free, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Downtown Market showcases Grand Rapids’ culinary excellence and artisan craftsmanship, becoming a hub for locals and tourists alike since its opening.
What to Expect: Explore food stalls, gourmet eateries, and specialty shops. Cooking classes and rooftop dining add unique experiences.
Visitor Information: Open daily with free entry. Individual vendors set their own hours. Parking is convenient and affordable.
Downtown Market is a culinary and shopping hub in Grand Rapids. With artisan shops, gourmet eateries, and a rooftop greenhouse, it’s a paradise for food lovers and shoppers alike. Visitors can sample fresh, locally-sourced dishes or attend cooking classes. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city’s food culture.
Paddle Your Way Down the Grand River
Address: Michigan, USA
| Type | Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Grand River, central to the city’s identity, offers a unique way to experience Grand Rapids through water-based activities.
What to Expect: Scenic views of downtown and wildlife along the riverbanks. Rentals and guided tours cater to all skill levels.
Visitor Information: Seasonal paddling rentals are available near launch sites. Beginners can opt for guided experiences to ensure safety and fun.
Kayaking or canoeing on the Grand River offers a peaceful way to explore the city’s natural beauty. Paddlers can enjoy scenic views of downtown Grand Rapids and lush greenery along the riverbanks. Rentals and guided tours make it accessible for all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, a river journey promises unforgettable moments amidst nature.
Celebrate the Arts at Festival of the Arts
Address:
| Type | Live performances, art exhibits, stalls, workshops |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: This festival, a summer tradition since 1970, celebrates the region’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
What to Expect: Live performances, art exhibits, and interactive workshops. Food vendors and kids’ activities ensure fun for all ages.
Visitor Information: Held annually in June, the festival is free to attend. Downtown parking and public transport options are easily accessible.
The Festival of the Arts is a summer highlight in Grand Rapids, celebrating creativity with live performances, art exhibits, and hands-on activities. This free, family-friendly event attracts artists and visitors from across the region. With food stalls, workshops, and interactive displays, it’s a vibrant celebration of community and artistic expression, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Experience the Magic of Frederik Meijer’s Butterfly Exhibition
Address: 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI
| Type | Sightseeing, Parks & Gardens |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: This seasonal event highlights the beauty and importance of butterflies, blending education with awe-inspiring displays.
What to Expect: Over 7,000 butterflies in a tropical conservatory, creating a magical and serene experience. Educational signage adds context to their life cycle.
Visitor Information: Held annually in spring, tickets sell out quickly. Pre-booking online is recommended for guaranteed entry.
The Frederik Meijer Gardens’ Butterfly Exhibition is a seasonal delight that transforms the tropical conservatory into a butterfly wonderland. Over 7,000 butterflies of various species flutter freely, creating a mesmerizing display of color and movement. Perfect for visitors of all ages, this exhibit offers a rare chance to connect with nature’s beauty in a truly magical setting.