Top Things to Do in Grand Rapids, Michigan

What to Do

ArtPrize

This popular public art event (September 14-October 1, 2023) brings hundreds of pieces of art to parks, bridges, hotels, restaurants and more throughout the city—even the river. Check out not only the art, but also concerts, festivals and family creativity projects.

The B.O.B.

The Big Old Building buzzes with energy from its occupants: restaurants, bars, night clubs, a comedy club and brewery.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Explore 158 acres of indoor and outdoor gardens, including more than 200 sculptures, a children's garden area and an 8.5-acre Japanese garden with four waterfalls.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

This museum dedicated to the 38th president of the United States, a Grand Rapids native, explores key moments in his life.

Grand Rapids Art Museum

A collection of 6,000 pieces spans the pre-Renaissance era through the 21st century at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

The indoor market hosts more than 20 vendors as well as Slows Bar B Q and other dining options.

Grand Rapids Public Museum

Diverse exhibits at the Grand Rapids Public Museum include an 1890s streetscape and displays on toys and West Michigan habitats.

John Ball Zoo

Kids love this zoo's petting corral, aviary, camel rides, funicular tram, ropes course and four-story zipline.

Meyer May House

The 1909 home, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for a prominent clothier, was meticulously restored by local company Steelcase and offers free tours.

Where to Eat and Drink

Brewery Vivant

One of dozens of breweries in a town that brands itself Beer City U.S.A., Brewery Vivant pours frothy pints in a former funeral home chapel with stained-glass windows. Try the rustic ale Farm Hand.

Founders Brewing Company

Founders pours frothy pints of Breakfast Stout. Pair it with beer cheese dip.

Grand Rapids Brewing Company

Enjoy classic dark-wood-and-brick brewery ambience, a game room, and beers such as Rosalynn Bliss Blonde (named for the mayor) at Grand Rapids Brewing.

Linear Restaurant

Take a riverfront seat for seasonal American dishes such as beet gnocchi or stuffed quail at this downtown spot.

Margaux

Michigan's abundant produce influences the fusion of French and American foods at this JW Marriott restaurant.

Uncle Cheetah's Soup Shop

A dozen made-from-scratch soups fill the chalkboard at Uncle Cheetah's. Some of the most popular? Vegetable cream cheese, lobster bisque and white chicken chili.

Where to Stay

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

Crystal chandeliers, gold-leaf details, an on-site flower shop and more than a half-dozen dining options hint at the opulence of the restored 1916 hotel.

Canopy

Borrow bikes (free to guests) and explore the trails around downtown at this recently built Hilton property.

CityFlatsHotel

In the heart of downtown, the eco-friendly hotel offers rooms with locally made furniture, bamboo linens and a unique design.

JW Marriott Grand Rapids

This luxury hotel strives to make stays as relaxing as possible with touches that include lavender-scented bath products, soft and firm pillow options, and a spa.

More information experiencegr.com