Additional Activities in Grand Rapids MI
We are so excited to welcome you to Grand Rapids. This vibrant city is full of culture, creativity, delicious cuisine, and endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment.
Grand Rapids, located in the heart of West Michigan, is a dynamic and welcoming destination known for its thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and beautiful natural surroundings. Often referred to as “Beer City USA,” Grand Rapids is a haven for food and beverage enthusiasts, offering award-winning breweries, farm-to-table dining, and a diverse culinary landscape.
Art lovers will appreciate the city’s deep creative roots, showcased in its many museums, public art installations, and the internationally renowned ArtPrize competition. The city is also home to an exciting lineup of music, theater, and cultural festivals that bring energy to every season.
Nestled along the Grand River, Grand Rapids is surrounded by scenic parks, trails, and nearby Lake Michigan beaches, offering plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re strolling through the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, biking the White Pine Trail, or kayaking downtown, there are endless ways to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
Grand Rapids blends Midwest charm with big-city energy, making it a memorable and engaging destination for visitors of all interests. With its vibrant downtown, rich cultural offerings, and welcoming community, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
We’ve curated a list below of some must-see Grand Rapids attractions and experiences to check out during your stay. To discover even more while you’re here, click here.
Downtown Market Grand Rapids
July is peak time for the farmers market, plus the indoor Market Hall features ice cream, tacos, fresh produce, and cooking classes. A great stop for lunch and browsing artisan goods.
Hours: Market Hall: Monday –Saturday 10:00 am – 7:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Farmhaus Farms is a family-friendly destination located just 10 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids. The farm offers a variety of seasonal activities, including u-pick experiences, a bakery, and a farm market. Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, and unique events throughout the year.
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 8:00am – 6:00pm; Saturday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free
This park is a functional piece of architectural artwork designed by Joseph Kinnebrew. Its practical use is to allow migrating fish to find a way around the powerful water flow from the Grand River. It also allows visitors to watch the fish jump up the “ladder”.
Hours: Open daily dawn to dusk
Admission: Free
Founders Brewing Co.
One of the nation’s top-rated craft breweries, Founders offers brewery tours, a large taproom with a hearty pub menu, and an outdoor beer garden. Sample classics like All Day IPA or more experimental small-batch brews. Live music and events are often scheduled on weekends.
Hours: Monday – Saturday 11:00 am–11:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am–9:00 pm
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
This 158-acre cultural destination features a tropical conservatory, an 8-acre Japanese garden, and a renowned outdoor sculpture park. During July, enjoy the summer concert series in the amphitheater, featuring a variety of artists. The gardens are in full bloom, offering a vibrant display of flora.
Hours: Daily 9:00 am–5:00 pm (Tuesdays until 9:00 pm)
Admission: $22 adults, $17 seniors, $11 children 3–13, free under 3
Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives (GRAAMA)
GRAAMA preserves and shares the rich history and contributions of the African American community in Grand Rapids. Through exhibits, oral histories, and community events, the museum highlights local leaders, cultural milestones, and the ongoing impact in the region.
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Admission: Free; donations are welcomed to support the museum’s mission
Grand Rapids Public Museum
Explore exhibits on local history, science, and culture. The 1928 Spillman carousel offers rides with a city skyline backdrop. The museum also houses the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.
Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 am–5:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday 10:00 pm–5:00 pm
Admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $5 children 3–17, free under 3
The zoo has been inspiring the community to be actively engaged in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment since 1891. Home to over 2,000 animals, the zoo offers immersive animal experiences for all ages. With summer in full swing, many animals are active, and special summer programs are available.
Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: $21.95 adults, $16.95 youth and seniors
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908 for a prominent Grand Rapids Clothier, the Meyer May House was purchased by Steelcase Inc. in 1985, meticulously restored and opened to the public in 1987. Today, complete with original furnishings and faithfully executed reproductions, the Meyer May house provides the rare opportunity to experience a Prairie house exactly as Frank Lloyd Wright intended.
Hours: Sundays from 12:00 pm–3:00 pm; Tuesdays & Thursdays from 10:00 am-1:00 pm; Closed on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Admission: Free; Reservations strongly encouraged
Wax Poetic Candle Bar offers a unique and interactive candle-making experience where guests can create their own custom-scented candles. With over 90 clean-burning, skin-safe fragrance oils to choose from, visitors can blend up to three scents to craft a personalized candle.
Hours: Sunday & Monday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm; Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm