Things to do in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids, MI, packs a lot into a mid-sized city: a downtown food hall, a river with fish ladders, and a sculpture garden that doubles as a concert…
Grand Rapids, MI, packs a lot into a mid-sized city: a downtown food hall, a river with fish ladders, and a sculpture garden that doubles as a concert venue. Families can spend a day at the zoo or children's museum, while nightlife ranges from arcade bars to live music clubs.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a standout, with indoor art exhibits and summer concerts. The Grand Rapids Public Museum and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum cover history and science. For outdoor time, Riverside Park has hiking and disc golf, while Rosa Parks Circle turns into an ice rink in winter. Food options are broad: the Grand Rapids Downtown Market houses grocers and international stalls, and Yesterdog serves classic hot dogs. The B.O.B. fills a former warehouse with restaurants, a brewery, and a comedy club. Bowling alleys, escape rooms, and TreeRunner's obstacle courses round out family-friendly entertainment.
Frequently asked questions about Grand Rapids
What are the best outdoor activities in Grand Rapids?▾
Riverside Park has trails for hiking and biking, plus disc golf and kayaking. Fish Ladder Park is a unique spot to watch fish migrate up the river. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has 150 acres of gardens and sculptures, and Rosa Parks Circle hosts ice skating in winter.
What family-friendly attractions are there in Grand Rapids?▾
John Ball Zoo has over 2,000 animals, including penguins and a funicular ride. The Grand Rapids Children's Museum is hands-on for kids ages 2-10. TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park has obstacle courses with zip lines, and the Grand Rapids Public Museum features a carousel and planetarium.
Where can I get a good meal in Grand Rapids?▾
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is a food hall with grocers, butchers, and international dining. For a local classic, Yesterdog serves hot dogs in a vintage setting. The B.O.B. houses multiple eateries and a brewery in a converted warehouse. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse has pub fare and house brews.
What museums should I visit in Grand Rapids?▾
The Grand Rapids Public Museum covers history and science with a 1928 carousel and planetarium. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum tells the 38th president's story with interactive exhibits and a replica Oval Office. The Grand Rapids Art Museum displays American and European art, and the Meyer May House is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home with free tours on some days.
What is there to do at night in Grand Rapids?▾
The Intersection hosts live bands ranging from hip-hop to rock. Stella's Lounge combines an '80s arcade with 200 whiskeys. Grand Woods Lounge has a lodge-themed patio with live music, while Billy's Lounge offers candlelit tables and a dance floor. For a livelier scene, Rumors Nightclub features karaoke, DJs, and drag shows.
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The B.O.B.
Sprawling former grocery warehouse features a range of eateries, a brewery, piano bar & comedy club.
The Intersection
Live-music venue established in 1972 featuring a wide range of bands, including hip-hop & rock.
via Google MapsMcDonald's
Classic, long-running fast-food chain known for its burgers & fries.
Riverside Park
Nature trails for hiking, biking & bird-watching plus fishing, kayaking, winter sports & disc golf.
The Old Goat
Gastropub fare & a full bar in an industrial-chic environs with oil-drum lighting & outdoor seating.
Butcher's Union
Modern gastropub with a meat-heavy menu of globally inspired fare, 100+ whiskeys & draft beer.
via Google MapsAnna's House - East Beltline
via Google MapsYesterdog
Boisterous local mainstay offering classic hot dog options in a well-worn, vintage-style eatery.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Lively, family-friendly chain featuring Italian standards such as pastas & salads.
LongHorn Steakhouse
Casual steakhouse chain known for grilled beef & other American dishes in a ranch-style space.
HopCat
Woodwork-filled brew pub with a massive beer list offering creative pub fare & brunch items.
via Google MapsDeVos Performance Hall
Established theater with 4 in-house companies offers balcony, box & floor seats for diverse events.
San Chez A Tapas Bistro
Breezy tapas spot for Mediterranean & Spanish flavors with an upbeat ambiance, plus cooking classes.
via Google MapsWolfgang's Restaurant
Homey breakfast fixture popular with locals doles out handmade hash browns & unique, ample dishes.
via Google MapsRosa Parks Circle
Designed by artist Maya Lin, this public plaza offers ice skating in winter & concerts in summer.
via Google MapsHibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet
Family-friendly eatery offering 200+ Asian & American dishes via an all-you-can-eat buffet.
via Google MapsMeijer
Chain retailer featuring brand-name groceries plus apparel, electronics & more.
via Google MapsGravity Taphouse Grille
Globally influenced tavern fare pairs with craft beer in a modern easygoing space with a patio.
The Score | Restaurant & Sports Bar
Sports-centered find with 100+ craft beers plus beach volleyball, 60 TVs & live entertainment.
via Google MapsGrand Coney
A 24/7 diner serving breakfast-to-dinner American eats, including burgers, hot dogs & omelets.