I have lived in Michigan my whole life, so I wanted to put together this post for people wanting to visit this great city. Grand Rapids offers plenty of activities and attractions for visitors and locals. I have put together the best things to do in grand rapids mi.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, love going to museums and exploring culture, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Things to do for adults
Axe Throwing
FlannelJax’s and Wood-Splitters – where visitors can enjoy this unique and thrilling activity in a fun and safe environment.
Escape Rooms
The Great Escape, The Ruse, and Grand Rapids Escape Room
Break Room Therapy
A place where you can let out all of your frustrations by breaking stuff
Woodrows Duckpin Bowling
The pins resemble ducks is flight, which is why it’s called duckpin bowling. This game is much harder than traditional bowling to get a strike. You get three turns instead of two to knock down the pins.The duckpins are arranged in a triangle and are shorter and lighter.
Virtual Reality
Amped Virtual Reality, there are different types of fun to be had here. You can do group gaming for multiple people, solo gaming, escape room virtual reality. You can rent out the facility and even have birthday parties there as well.
Spa
Woodhouse, Wanderlux, and Grand Pearl are among some of the best spas.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
One of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer is to explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This 158-acre botanical garden and sculpture park is a haven for nature lovers and art enthusiasts.
The park features stunning gardens, including the Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden and the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. The summer concert series at the amphitheater is a highlight, bringing in top musical acts in a beautiful outdoor setting.
I personally love Frederik Meijer Gardens, there is something fun to do there all year. In the spring they have the butterflies, where you can go into a rainforest type room with greenery and flowers and there are a ton of butterflies flying around. It is a great way to spend a cold spring afternoon. In the wintertime they have a display of Christmas Trees from around the world. I love going there to learn about the different cultures and the way they each decorate.
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Things to do for kids and families
Fun Parks
Craigs Cruisers and AJ’s Family Fun Park – family entertainment centers offering a wide range of activities, including go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and more.
Bowling
The Clique, AMF Eastbrook, Northfield Lanes, Westgate
Trampoline Parks
Sky Zone, Launch Trampoline Park, Altitude,
Laser Tag
Battle Gr – an indoor entertainment center offering laser tag, archery tag, and other interactive games.
Dog Parks
Hillcrest, Covell, Shaggy Pines, there’s even an indoor dog park for your pooch to enjoy: The pack
Movie Theaters
Celebration Cinema and AMC Theater
Pottery
The Mud Room – a creative pottery and painting studio where visitors can enjoy a variety of art activities, including pottery painting, canvas painting, and glass fusing.
Robinette’s
Go Apple Picking, Walk the Nature Trail, Corn Maze, there is wine tasting for adults, and lots of fun activities all year round.
I personally love going here in the fall. I love buying pumpkins and apples, just enjoying the outdoor atmosphere. You can buy donuts and cider inside the shop as well, it’s just a fun and cozy time for the whole family.
Free things to do in Grand Rapids MI
Splash Pad
Grand Rapids offers several free splash pads during the summer months, including Heartside Park and Joe Taylor Park, providing a refreshing way for families to cool off and play.
Outdoor Movies
Various parks and community centers host free outdoor movie nights throughout the summer, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy classic and contemporary films under the stars.
Outdoor Concerts
Grand Rapids’ parks and downtown areas frequently host free outdoor concerts featuring local bands, jazz ensembles, and other musical performances, offering a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers of all ages.
Disc Golf
Several parks in and around Grand Rapids, such as Johnson Park and Riverside Park, offer free disc golf courses where players can enjoy a round of this popular sport amidst scenic natural surroundings.
Meyer May House
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Meyer May House in Grand Rapids offers free guided tours, providing visitors with a glimpse into the architect’s Prairie style and innovative design principles in a beautifully restored historic setting.
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Free Museum Times
The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) offers free admission on certain days, allowing visitors to explore its collections of modern and contemporary art without charge.
Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM):
- Admission is free on Tuesdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Thursdays are also free from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, thanks to Meijer Free Thursday Nights.
Grand Rapids Public Museum:
- The first Saturday of each month is designated as “Meijer Free First Saturdays,” offering free admission from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
- Meijer Free Tuesday Nights also provide free admission from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM every Tuesday evening.
Public Libraries
The Grand Rapids Public Library system (KDL) provides free access to books, e-books, educational programs, and community events across its various branches, fostering learning and engagement for all ages.
Trails and Parks
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering a wide range of outdoor activities. The park features a beach, splash pad, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a family day out.
Hiking and biking trails wind through the park’s scenic landscapes, and you can rent paddleboats and kayaks to explore the park’s lakes.
Blandford Nature Center
For a dose of nature, head to the Blandford Nature Center. This 264-acre nature preserve offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs. The center’s farm and historic buildings provide a glimpse into the area’s agricultural past.
Summer programs at Blandford include guided hikes, birdwatching tours, and hands-on nature activities, making it one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer for nature enthusiasts.
Take a Scenic Bike Ride
Grand Rapids is a bike-friendly city with numerous trails and bike paths. Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. The Kent Trails system offers over 15 miles of paved trails, perfect for a leisurely ride.
For a more challenging ride, try the Millennium Park Trails or the White Pine Trail, which extends north from Grand Rapids to Cadillac.
Reeds Lake
Reeds Lake, located in the suburb of East Grand Rapids, is a popular spot for water activities. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or pedal boat and spend the day on the water.
The lake also has a scenic walking trail and several parks, making it a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Riverside Park
Riverside Park is a a 100-acre park less than 10 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, offers something for everyone. Relax by the water, picnic by the river, or explore the trails. Playgrounds, athletic fields, and a disc golf course provide family fun, while boat launches and fishing spots cater to outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the park transforms for snowy adventures.
There is even an app you can download – GR Walks, where you can take your own free guided tours. Riverside Park is one of my favorites in Grand Rapids, there are trails you can walk or bike ride on. You can fish or just watch the ducks go by in the water. If you want to sit down and relax, there are benches scattered throughout the park. There are just so many things to do here, plus it has ample parking, which I love because it makes it really easy to find a spot and start exploring.
What to do Downtown
Museums
Rapids Art Museum
The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) is a must-visit for art lovers. Located in the heart of downtown, GRAM features a diverse collection of art from various periods and styles. This summer, the museum will host several special exhibitions and events, making it an ideal destination for those looking to soak in some culture.
Don’t forget to check out the outdoor sculpture park, which offers a beautiful setting for a leisurely stroll.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is dedicated to the 38th President of the United States, who hailed from Grand Rapids.
The museum offers a comprehensive look at Ford’s life and presidency, featuring exhibits on his early years, political career, and contributions to the nation. This summer, the museum will host special events and temporary exhibits, making it one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer.
Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is another must-visit attraction. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the region.
Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the history of Grand Rapids to natural history and science. The museum’s carousel, planetarium, and special exhibits provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Every year, the museum will feature several new exhibits, making it one of the best things to do in downtown Grand Rapids, MI.
Children’s Museum
The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a fantastic destination for families with young children. The museum features interactive exhibits designed to engage and educate kids of all ages.
Special summer programs and events add to the fun, making it one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer with kids.
John Ball Zoo
The John Ball Zoo is a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers. The zoo features a wide range of exhibits, including the new Tiger Trail and the African Savanna. One of my favorite things is to go to a zoo, I love watching the animals play and wander around. It is fun just to walk around and take pictures, eat a snack or a snow cone when it’s hot. It’s always a fun activity for everyone in the family to enjoy.
One of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI is to participate in the zoo’s special events, such as the Twilight Tours and the Zoo Brew, where you can enjoy craft beer while exploring the zoo after hours. They also host the Zoo goes Boo in October for Halloween.
Trails and Parks
Grand River
The Grand River is a central feature of Grand Rapids, and there are many ways to enjoy it during the summer. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities, offering a unique perspective of the city.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider taking a riverboat cruise. The Grand Lady Riverboat offers scenic cruises with dining options, providing a perfect way to spend a summer evening.
Ah-Nab-Awen
Right in front of Gerald R Ford Museum, it offers paved walkways, stunning views and a grassy open park. This park hosts events such as food trucks, face painting and free popcorn. Plus, it hosts the fourth of July fireworks every year.
Tree Runner Adventure Park
Tree Runner Adventure Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan offers an unforgettable aerial adventure experience for ages seven and up. This park boasts over 70 exciting obstacles and zip lines spread across three difficulty levels and seven courses, nestled amongst the trees behind Celebration Cinema North. Conquer wobbly bridges, swinging logs, and challenging climbs, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious beginner, Tree Runner Grand Rapids provides a fun and challenging experience for the whole family.
Walk Around Downtown
Downtown Grand Rapids is a bustling area with plenty to see and do. Start your day with a visit to the Downtown Market, where you can sample local foods, shop for fresh produce, and enjoy a meal at one of the market’s eateries.
Afterward, take a walk along the Grand River, visit the many shops and boutiques, and explore the various murals and public art installations scattered throughout the downtown area.
Blue Bridge
The Blue Bridge, officially known as the Gillett Bridge, spans the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids. It is a historic pedestrian bridge that connects the west and east sides of the city.
Originally built in 1892 and restored in 1980, the bridge is characterized by its distinctive blue color, offering stunning views of the city skyline and serving as a popular spot for leisurely walks, photography, and community events throughout the year.
Heritage Hill Historic District
Heritage Hill is one of the largest urban historic districts in the country, featuring over 1,300 homes representing more than 60 architectural styles. Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the beautifully preserved homes and learn about the history of the area.
The annual Heritage Hill Garden Tour, held in June, is a highlight, offering a chance to explore some of the district’s most beautiful gardens. There’s a reason why this made the list of 30 best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer. Heritage Hill historical district is a beautiful place to visit and enjoy the architecture.
Grand Rapids Food Trucks
The food truck scene in Grand Rapids comes alive during the summer, with a wide variety of trucks offering everything from gourmet tacos to decadent desserts.
Look out for Food Truck Fridays at Calder Plaza, where you can sample a diverse range of cuisines in a lively outdoor setting.
Local Farmers Markets
Summer is the season for fresh, local produce, and Grand Rapids has several farmers markets where you can find a variety of fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products.
The Fulton Street Farmers Market is one of the oldest and largest in the area, operating since 1922 and has many fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses and meats to choose from. It’s a great market to visit to get a feel for the local offerings this town has to offer.
The Downtown Market also hosts a farmers market, along with food vendors and specialty shops. This one is an enclosed one inside a brick building and one of my favorite places to go. It has 2 floors and hosts a variety of vendors selling olive oil, baked goods, cheeses, local honey. You can go to the restaurant inside the market or enjoy a bite to eat at the other vendors offering sandwiches, sushi, pizza, ice cream and much more.
Attend a Festival
Summer in Grand Rapids is synonymous with festivals. The city hosts a variety of events that cater to different interests.
You should not leave without experiencing number five on the list of 30 best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer. Hereare a few highlights you can experience this year:
Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Asian-Pacific community with food, performances, and activities.
Grand Jazz Fest
Enjoy live jazz performances from local and national artists at Rosa Parks Circle, a central gathering spot in the city.
Festival of the Arts
One of the largest all-volunteer arts festivals in the United States, featuring performances, art exhibits, food booths, and activities for all ages in downtown Grand Rapids.
Laugh Fest
A comedy festival dedicated to Gilda Radner, featuring stand-up performances, improv shows, and community events to raise awareness and funds for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival
Celebrates the diverse cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands through performances, food, art, and educational activities.
Founders Fest
Hosted by Founders Brewing Co., this outdoor music and beer festival features live music, local food vendors, and, of course, a wide selection of craft beers.
Taste of Grand Rapids
A food festival showcasing local restaurants and food vendors, offering a variety of cuisines to sample and enjoy.
Pulaski Days
Celebrates Polish heritage and culture with food, music, dance, and events across Grand Rapids, honoring General Casimir Pulaski.
Grand Rapids Film Festival
Showcases independent films, documentaries, and shorts from local and international filmmakers, fostering a love for cinema in the community.
Entertainment
Van Andel Arena
Van Andel Arena is the premier venue for concerts and events in Grand Rapids. The arena will host a variety of top musical acts and entertainment events such as concerts, sporting events, and much more. Check the arena’s schedule for upcoming shows and book your tickets early, as popular events can sell out quickly.
DeVos Performance Hall
DeVos Performance Hall is Grand Rapids’ premier venue for live performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and theatrical productions.
This summer, the hall will host a variety of events, from symphony orchestras to popular musicals. Checking out a performance at DeVos Performance Hall is one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer for those who appreciate the performing arts.
Grand Rapids Symphony
The Grand Rapids Symphony offers a range of concerts and performances throughout the summer. Their outdoor series, “Symphony on the Grand,” takes place at various locations around the city, providing a perfect opportunity to enjoy classical music in a beautiful setting.
Shopping
Local Boutiques and Shops
Downtown Grand Rapids and the surrounding neighborhoods are home to a variety of unique boutiques and shops. Spend a day browsing for local art, handmade crafts, and stylish apparel.
Wealthy Street, Eastown, and Bridge Street are some of the best areas for finding one-of-a-kind items and supporting local businesses.
Monroe Shopping Center in Downtown Grand Rapids, MI
The Monroe Shopping Center, located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids along Monroe Avenue, is a vibrant retail and dining destination.
It features a mix of shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, offering a diverse array of shopping and dining experiences for residents and visitors.
Sporting Events
Whitecaps – Baseball Game
Catch a West Michigan Whitecaps baseball game at LMCU Ballpark. This minor league team offers affordable fun for the whole family.
Special promotions, fireworks nights, and themed events add to the excitement. Enjoying a baseball game is one of the quintessential summer activities and one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer.
Grand Rapids Griffins – Hockey
The Grand Rapids Griffins are the city’s beloved American Hockey League (AHL) team, affiliated with the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings. Founded in 1996, the Griffins have built a strong fan base.
They play their home games at the Van Andel Arena. Over the years, the Griffins have celebrated multiple successes, including winning the Calder Cup, the AHL’s championship trophy, in 2013.
LPGA Women’s Golf – Meijer LPGA Classic
The LPGA Tour’s Meijer LPGA Classic is a highlight of Grand Rapids’ sports calendar. Held annually, this prestigious golf tournament attracts top female golfers from around the world to compete at Blythefield Country Club.
Grand Rapids Gold – Basketball
The Grand Rapids Gold, affiliated with the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, represent the city in the NBA G League. Originally founded as the Grand Rapids Drive in 2014, the team rebranded to the Grand Rapids Gold in 2021.
The G League provides a platform for emerging basketball talent to develop their skills, often serving as a steppingstone to the NBA.
Grand Rapids Rise – Volleyball
The Grand Rapids Rise are a prominent team in the Premier Volleyball League, showcasing high-level volleyball competition. The team competes at various levels within the PVL, including elite national competitions.
Shopping Malls
Woodland Mall
Woodland Mall is located on 28th Street SE. It features over 100 stores, including major department stores like Macy’s, JCPenney, and Von Maur, along with a variety of specialty shops and restaurants.
The mall offers a comfortable indoor shopping experience with amenities such as a food court, play area for children, and seasonal events. This is my favorite mall to go to in Grand Rapid because of the many stores it has that I like. Plus, they have delicious food options, I personally love going to the Cheesecake Factory an ordering a piece of cheesecake to go.
Rivertown Crossings
Rivertown Crossings is another major shopping center in Grandville, just southwest of Grand Rapids. It boasts over 120 stores, including anchor stores such as Macy’s, JCPenney, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Rivertown Crossings provides a spacious indoor shopping environment with amenities like a food court, movie theater, and diverse retail options.
Tanger Outlets
Tanger Outlets Grand Rapids is located in Byron Center, a suburb south of Grand Rapids. It offers a unique shopping experience with over 80 brand-name outlet stores, featuring discounts on apparel, footwear, accessories, and home goods.
Tanger Outlets Grand Rapids is known for its open-air layout, making it convenient for shoppers to explore various stores while enjoying savings on popular brands.
What is Grand Rapids MI known for?
Grand Rapids MI population is over 195,000 people, it is the second largest city in Michigan, with Detroit being the largest. It was once known as America’s Furniture Capital, producing residential furniture, now it’s known as the center of office furniture manufacturing.
It has a booming craft distillery industry, known now as Beer City USA with over 40 breweries. I will talk about that in another post.
It is home to the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford. with a museum about his life and legacy right in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
It was also one of the first cities to add fluoride to its drinking water in 1945. Now that you know some of the history of this city, let’s dive into why you are really here. To learn the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI.
How do you get to Grand Rapids, MI?
Grand Rapids has the Gerald R. Ford international airport, with many flights going in and out everyday from multiple cities around the country.
Amtrak is also available if you want to travel by train. You can catch the Amtrak from multiple cities in Michigan like Battle Creek, Marquette, Detroit, Lansing. Or if you are out of state, you could catch a ride from Chicago.
How do you get around Grand Rapids, Mi?
There are multiple ways to get around Grand Rapids, MI, the main one is by car. The easiest way to get around this city is if you have a car or rent one, which you can do easily at the airport.
Another way to get around if you don’t have a car is by The Rapid, which is a bus that goes all around the city, and you can catch it from multiple places. Click here for the bus schedule and prices.
If you don’t drive or want to take the bus, there is also Uber and Lyft that operate here. You can get a ride from the airport when you arrive or simply get around town after you have arrived at your accommodations, which I will also talk about in another blog post.
Conclusion
Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers an expansive number of activities and attractions to enjoy all year. From its festivals to its beautiful parks and cultural institutions, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the best things to do in Grand Rapids, MI this summer or any other time, you’re sure to create lasting memories