10 Fun Things to do in Grand Rapids: A Newcomer’s Guide

Are you prepared to find a hidden gem within the coronary heart of Michigan? Look no additional than Grand Rapids, a vibrant metropolis that provides limitless prospects for many who name it house. Dwelling in Grand Rapids means exploring the breathtaking seashores of Lake Michigan and  immersing your self within the world-class artwork and tradition scene. In case you’re an avid out of doors adventurer or a tradition aficionado, Grand Rapids caters to each curiosity and life-style. So, whether you’re trying to find flats in Grand Rapids, properties on the market, or questioning if Grand Rapids is an efficient place to dwell, this Redfin article is the right place to begin your journey. Let’s dive in and discover ten fun-filled issues to do in Grand Rapids.

1. Go to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Positioned within the coronary heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum affords an enchanting glimpse into the life and profession of Gerald R. Ford, the thirty eighth President of the USA. Guests can discover a wide range of displays and shows that showcase Ford’s legacy, together with his contributions to the Civil Rights Motion, his work to strengthen the U.S. financial system, and his efforts to advertise peace and stability worldwide. Whether or not you’re a political junkie, a historical past buff, or just interested by certainly one of America’s most influential presidents, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is a fascinating and informative expertise that can depart a long-lasting impression.

2. Take a look at the Downtown market

In case you’re a meals lover or in search of issues to do in Grand Rapids involving meals, visiting the Downtown Market is a should. This indoor market affords an thrilling mixture of locally-sourced produce, artisanal meals, craft drinks, and handcrafted items. From freshly-baked bread and pastries to specialty cheeses, meats, and seafood, the market’s distributors provide a variety of high-quality merchandise good for cooking at house or taking with you on the go. The market additionally hosts a wide range of cooking lessons, demonstrations, and occasions that enable guests to study from native cooks and meals specialists. 

Brewmaster teaching a group of people about beer at a brewery

3. Go on a brewery tour

Grand Rapids is understood for its vibrant craft beer scene, so a brewery tour is ideal for taking all of it in. With over 80 breweries and taprooms within the space, a brewery tour affords a novel and enjoyable technique to pattern varied locally-brewed beers and study concerning the brewing course of. Lots of the breweries provide excursions of their services, offering guests with a behind-the-scenes take a look at how their favourite beers are made. Moreover, a brewery tour is a good way to discover the totally different neighborhoods and districts of Grand Rapids.

4. Take a stroll alongside the Grand River

You’ll need to cease on the pure attraction that gave this metropolis its identify. The Grand River is a central function of town’s panorama and affords an exquisite and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life. The Riverwalk, which runs alongside the river’s japanese financial institution, gives a picturesque setting for a stroll, bike experience, or jog. The path can also be house to varied public artwork installations and sculptures, including to the wonder and curiosity of the stroll. Alongside the way in which, guests can even cease at one of many many eating places, cafes, or outlets that line the riverfront, offering loads of alternatives to loosen up, seize a chew, or store. 

5. Attend a efficiency on the Grand Rapids Symphony

In case you’re in search of a charming and enriching cultural expertise, a efficiency by the Grand Rapids Symphony is to not be missed. The Symphony is among the most famous and revered orchestras in the USA, attracting top-tier musicians and conductors from world wide. With a various repertoire that ranges from classical masterpieces to modern works and well-liked favorites, there’s something for each music lover.

Fanatical hockey fans at a stadium in Grand Rapids

6. Go to a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey recreation

Attending a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey recreation is an exhilarating and memorable expertise for sports activities followers and non-fans alike. The Griffins are the American Hockey League affiliate of the Detroit Pink Wings and provide an thrilling hockey model that can hold you on the sting of your seat. The ambiance within the enviornment is electrical, with passionate followers cheering on their group and fascinating in pleasant rivalries with the opposing group’s followers.

7. Have enjoyable on the John Ball Zoo

The John Ball Zoo is house to over 2,000 animals worldwide, together with tigers, lions, chimpanzees, bears, and plenty of different species. Take pleasure in a wide range of displays and experiences, such because the African Savannah, the South American Rainforest, and the Pink Passion Farm petting zoo. The zoo additionally affords a spread of instructional applications and occasions, together with animal encounters, behind-the-scenes excursions, and summer time camps for youngsters.

Butterfly garden Grand Rapids

8. Discover Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

For issues to do in Grand Rapids which are peaceable and breathtaking, try the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This 158-acre botanical backyard and sculpture park is house to many gorgeous gardens, sculptures, and out of doors displays that can depart you in awe. With varied seasonal displays and occasions, together with the most important momentary butterfly exhibit in the USA.

9. Discover the Blandford Nature Middle

The Blandford Nature Middle in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is an exquisite, tranquil oasis that enables guests to attach with nature and study concerning the atmosphere. The middle options over 264 acres of woodlands, wetlands, meadows, and streams, offering numerous ecosystems to discover. The middle additionally affords a wide range of instructional applications and actions, together with guided hikes, wildlife encounters, and hands-on displays, that are designed to show guests concerning the significance of conservation and the pure world.  

10. Attend the annual ArtPrize occasion

The annual ArtPrize occasion in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a one-of-a-kind artwork pageant that draws guests from all around the world. The occasion options 1000’s of artistic endeavors displayed in venues all through town, together with museums, galleries, and public areas. Guests can get pleasure from a variety of artwork, from conventional work and sculptures to interactive installations and performances.