Once the world leader in fine furniture, Grand Rapids, Michigan has blossomed to become one of the Mitten State’s top attractions. It’s a rising star in the craft brewery and culinary scene, is home to the West Michigan Whitecaps baseball team, and is just 30 minutes from Lake Michigan. Between the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, the hip and happening Eastown neighborhood, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and the annual ArtPrize 2.0 art competition, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Grand Rapids.
For pleasant weather, picnics and barbecues, baseball games, and reasons to hit the beaches in nearby Grand Haven and Saugatuck, summer is one of the best times to visit Grand Rapids. The fall is another gorgeous time to visit—the oak and maple trees are in vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red; football season is in full swing; and Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery serves delicious donuts and apple cider.
Fly into the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR). From there, you can rent a car or take The Rapid public bus system. While The Rapid doesn’t take you everywhere, it can get you near where you need to be; if necessary, you can use a ride-sharing service to complete your journey. Some parts of the city have rental scooters and e-bikes, both of which are fun and eco-friendly alternatives to driving.
Grand Rapids, also known as “beer city” is well known for its craft beer scene. It boasts some of Michigan’s best beer and brewery tours. Of course, the original pints that put the city on the map are from Founders Brewing Co. Order one of the 4 Giants varieties or try brews you can only find at the taproom. For food, head to Yesterdog, located in the Eastown neighborhood. Opt for the Ultradog, topped with chili, onion, pickle, ketchup, and mustard.
