Things To Do in Grand Rapids, Michigan [Weekend DIY Itinerary to Grand Rapids]
Once known as the furniture capital of the world, there are a lot of things to do in Grand Rapids, Michigan! It was nicknamed as “Furniture City”, Grand Rapids is the second-largest city in Michigan. Recently, it changed its face, becoming well-known for the arts and its breweries and nicknamed as “Beer City”. Grand Rapids is an ideal choice for a fun getaway with a host of indoor and outdoor activities. The city is a haven for a lot of things, for it has a wealth of art museums, galleries, art competitions, and exhibits.
Best Things to do in Grand Rapids, Michigan
1. John Ball Zoo
The John Ball Zoo is known for having over 2,000 animals. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor exhibits like a tram, zip line, high ropes course, chimpanzee exhibit, riding a camel and petting zoo farm animals. This zoo is best for interactive activities.
2. Grand Rapids Art Museum
The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), with collections ranging from Renaissance to Modern Art, is one of the most visited places in the city. It has a permanent collection, including 19th to 20th century Europian and American arts and also conducts educational exhibits for visitors of all ages.
3. Fulton Street Farmers Market
This market is the longest-running farmers market in Grand Rapids. Fulton Street Farmers Market opened in 1922 and since then, it became a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Great variety of fresh vegetables, flowers, bakery items, meat and many more. The entire area is covered so you can still visit rain or shine.
4. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
This combination of botanical garden and sculpture park rapidly became one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. It is also known as “Meijer Gardens”. You can see here modern sculpture by world-renowned artists in a stunning garden setting which features exotic plants, plants that are native in deserts, native Michigan trees, and wetlands.
5. Meyer May House
The Meyer May House is a fortunate piece of architectural history in Grand Rapids, built-inn 1908-09 and designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Prairie Style. A free guided tour is available, full of interesting facts about Wright and the May family (house owner).
6. Blandford Nature Center
Blandford Nature Center is a non-profit that features 143 acres of land and wildlife. It has numerous trails winding around and through the forest and meadow. It also has a wildlife center that rescues injured animals. It also provides information to visitors about different animal species and how to take care of them.
7. Great Lakes Pub Cruiser
This is a 16 person party bike that is powered by the pedaling of the riders. This unique way of touring attracts people to explore the pubs of Grand Rapid. It is fun and at the same time interactive. Only 18 years old and up are allowed in this.
8. Grand Rapids Public Museum
Grand Rapids, Michigan is one of the oldest history museums in the United States. It is a place of inspiration and discovery about science, history, and culture. This museum also features exhibits and shows for visitors.
Suggested Tour: Let’s Roam’s Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt: Grand Hunt Round River City!
9. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
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This two-floor museum is a place where children can do hands-on interactive activities. They have changing and permanent exhibits to encourage discovery and learning through play.
10. Grand Rapids Public Library
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Not everything can be found on the internet, sometimes its good to go back to classic books. This public library in Grand Rapids is a pride of the city. It is well-stocked and comfortable. The friendly staff is always willing to aid visitors.
11. Grand Rapids Symphony
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If you are visiting Grand Rapids, Michigan, then, be sure to attend a concert of the Grand Rapids Symphony. It is composed of world-class musicians and maestros combined with a wide selection of musical arts.
12. Grand Rapids Beer Tours
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Grand Rapids is not called the “Beer City of USA” for nothing. This will take you to a guided tour of different craft breweries in the city. You can learn how the beer is made. It is a great opportunity to indulge in the city’s beer culture.
13. Fish Ladder
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Amuse yourself as you watch salmons going upstream to the Grand River to spawn. It is fascinating to watch as they leap and leap.
14. DeVos Place
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DeVos Place is a premier convention center that accommodates a variety of events. It is a stunning architecture situated in a picturesque riverfront setting. It is a great place for shows, performances, and even a conference.
15. Cathedral of Saint Andrew
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Cathedral of Saint Andrew is a beautiful catholic church in Grands Rapids. It is the seat of the Diocese of Grand Rapids. It has an inspiring interior and beautiful structure that people find fascinating aside from the holy mass.
Suggested Tour: Wacky Walk Adventure Game – Grand Rapids, MI
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Things to do with 3 days in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Day 1 in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Grand Rapids Public Museum – This museum is for visitors of all ages. It is a great place to start your Grand Rapids tour. Learn about the history and culture of the country.
Grand Rapids Art Museum – This art museum features various collections and exhibits of 19th and 20th-century art pieces.
Day 2 in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Fulton Street Farmers Market – This old city farmers market offers a lot of things that you can try. There are local products that you can’t miss.
John Ball Zoo – This zoo is one of the most visited in Grand Rapids. There are various outdoor activities you and your friends can try.
Great Lakes Pub Cruiser – Ride this awesome Pub cruiser where you can tour in pedals with 15 other people. Try out beers and learn its history at the same time.
Day 3 in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Fish Ladder – This park by the river is a spot for leaping salmons!
Grand Rapids Symphony – Don’t miss the chance to listen to a world-class orchestra in Grand Rapids.
Where to Stay in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Where to Stay in Grand Rapids, Michigan if you’re a Backpacker
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Grand Rapids
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Grand Rapids is a motel that features free Wi-Fi, Cable TV, private bathrooms, microwave, and refrigerator. Also. there is an outdoor swimming pool along with a 24-hour front desk and free parking.
Price: Starts at $60 + $9 taxes and charges, free continental breakfast, free cancellation, no prepayment.
Featuring an onsite restaurant, this hotel offers a private bathroom, microwave, and fridge in every guest room. It also has a 24-hour front desk, laundry, vending machine, and free parking.
Price: Starts $63 + $9.52 taxes and charges, free cancellation, no prepayment.
Where to Stay in Grand Rapids, Michigan if you’re on a Budget
Candlewood Suites Grand Rapids Airport
This hotel offers a complimentary airport shuttle service to all guests. It also comes with free Wi-Fi, a TV with cable channels, microwave, refrigerator, tea, and coffee-making facilities are included in each modern suite. Guests can chill and have fun in the hot tub or enjoy a swim in the indoor pool. For recreation, it also features an on-site fitness center and an outdoor sports court set up for tennis, basketball, and volleyball.
Price: Starts $99 + $14.88 taxes and charges, non-refundable
Wyndham Garden Grand Rapids Airport
This hotel offers guest rooms equipped with free WiFi, a flat-screen cable TV. An indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, and a business center are also available to all guests at Grand Rapids Airport Wyndham Garden. The property is 6.4 km from Gerald R. Ford International Airport and offers a free airport transfer service.
Price: Starts $82 + $12.32 taxes and charges, free cancellation
Where to Stay in Grand Rapids, Michigan if you want Luxury
AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown
AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown has a restaurant, fitness center, a bar and a shared lounge in Grand Rapids. This hotel features a 24-hour front desk and a business center. Each room has a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. All units also include air conditioning and a wardrobe. The nearest airport is Gerald R. Ford International Airport which is 22 km from AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown.
Price: Starts $229 + $34.35 taxes and charges, free cancellation and no prepayment needed
JW Marriott Grand Rapids features an indoor swimming pool and a spa. Modern amenities can also be found in each room including cable TV and an iPod docking station. The spacious accommodation is equipped with stylish furnishings. Luxury amenities are offered in each elegant, marble bathroom. A buffet breakfast is served daily and offers french-inspired cuisine for lunch and dinner. Gerald R Ford Airport is just a 15-minute drive away.
Price: Starts $279 + $41.85 taxes and charges, free cancellation and no prepayment needed
Where to Eat in Grand Rapids, Michigan
This pub/ bar is famous for its craft beer. Serves local cuisine, American, vegetarian-friendly dishes.
Operating hours: Sun-Sat 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Address: 25 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-4179
How to go to Grand Rapids, Michigan from the UK:
Via Aer Lingus: (one way)
From LHR London Heathrow to DUB Dublin
From DUB Dublin to ORD Chicago O’Hare International
From ORD Chicago O’Hare International to GRR Grand Rapids
Ticket Price:$1,019
* Prices are subject to change.
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