fun things to do in grand rapids

Grand Rapids is a city in Michigan known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, beautiful parks, and exciting activities. Here are some fun things to do in Grand Rapids:

1. Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum: Learn about the life and legacy of the 38th President of the United States at this museum located on the Grand River.
2. Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: This 155-acre park features beautiful gardens, sculptures, and a tropical conservatory.
3. Take a brewery tour: Grand Rapids is known for its craft beer scene, with over 80 breweries in the area. Some popular breweries include Founders Brewing Co., Bell’s Brewery, and Brewery Vivant.
4. Visit the Grand Rapids Art Museum: This museum features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by local artists.
5. Go hiking or biking at Millennium Park: This 1,400-acre park features trails, lakes, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
6. Take a stroll along the Grand River: The Grand River runs through the heart of Grand Rapids, offering beautiful views and a chance to explore the city’s riverfront.
7. Visit the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: This contemporary art museum features rotating exhibits and a variety of artistic programs.
8. Go shopping at the Grand Rapids Public Market: This market features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
9. Attend a festival or event: Grand Rapids hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts, the Grand Rapids Jazz Festival, and the World of Winter Festival.
10. Visit the John Ball Zoo: This zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, including tigers, bears, and monkeys.
11. Take a tour of the city’s street art: Grand Rapids is known for its vibrant street art scene, with many murals and public art installations throughout the city.
12. Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Grand River: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the city from a different perspective.
13. Visit the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: This museum features interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
14. Take a cooking class at the Grand Rapids Cooking School: Learn how to make a variety of dishes, from traditional Michigan cuisine to international specialties.
15. Go skiing or snowboarding at Cannonsburg Ski Area: This ski resort features 20 trails and a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
16. Visit the Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team: Catch a hockey game at the Van Andel Arena, home of the Grand Rapids Griffins.
17. Take a tour of the city’s historic homes: Grand Rapids has a number of historic homes, including the Meyer May House, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
18. Go to a concert or show at the Van Andel Arena: This arena hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and Broadway productions.
19. Visit the Grand Rapids Public Library: This library features a beautiful building and a variety of programs and events for adults and children.
20. Take a day trip to the nearby beaches: Grand Rapids is just a short drive from the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan, including Grand Haven and Holland.

These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Grand Rapids. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in art, outdoor recreation, or just exploring a new city.