Whether you live in Grand Rapids or you’re planning to visit this post is for you. I’m sharing 20 of my favorite things to do in Grand Rapids including things to eat, drink and explore. Enjoy and share some of your favorites on social media with #thegrguide.
1. Visit a Brewery
It’s no surprise we’re known as “Beer City” here in Grand Rapids. If you’re new to Grand Rapids or you really love beer you can also check out the Beer City Brewsader Passport to navigate the different breweries. My go-to breweries are Founders, Brewery Vivant and Grand Rapids Brewing Company.
2. Explore Frederik Meijer Gardens
I absolutely love visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens here in Grand Rapids. I actually have a membership and I use it at least once or twice a month. I love visiting during the spring to see the butterflies, during the summer for the outside concerts and at Christmas to see the trees.
3. Tour the Meyer May House
If you haven’t toured the Meyer May House it’s a must here in Grand Rapids. This Frank Lloyd Wright home is absolutely stunning, and so interesting to learn about it’s history.
4. Eat a Cookie from the Cakabakery
It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with the chocolate chunk cookies from the Cakabakery. If you visit on the weekend they also have stellar cinnamon rolls.
5. Walk Through the Fulton Street Farmers Market
A walk through the Fulton Street Farmers Market is one of my favorite Saturday morning traditions. I love the opportunity to buy fresh local produce and try new recipes at home.
6. Take a Photo of the LOVE Sculpture
I really love this city and the LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana located downtown Grand Rapids.
7. Enjoy the Views of Grand Rapids from Haute at New Hotel Mertens
If you haven’t visited Haute at New Hotel Mertens now is the time to check it out. The summer weather is headed our way and the views from Haute are spectacular to enjoy with a drink.
8. Get Ice Cream from Jersey Junction
Ice cream from Jersey Junction is my absolute favorite. I always order Coffee Lovers Dream and Cory always orders Cookie Dough. Fun fact we actually celebrated our engagement here.
9. Explore the Downtown Market
There’s so much to see and eat at the Downtown Market here in Grand Rapids. I love grabbing a glass of wine at Aperitivo, croissants from Field & Fire, and sushi from Sushi Market.
10. Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum
A ride on the carousel is one of my favorite things about visiting the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Check out their exhibitions that are great for both kids and adults.
11. Eat a Hotdog from Yesterdog
Yesterdog opened in 1976 here in Grand Rapids, and has consistently been named one of the best hotdogs in Grand Rapids Magazine. Trust me the hotdogs are amazing (even the veggie one).
12. Take a Walk by Reeds Lake
A walk by Reeds Lake is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. Let’s be honest I think Wrigley enjoys it more. It’s always so fun to see the sailboats in the water and get some exercise.
13. Visit Calder Plaza
The iconic La Grand Vitesse by artist Alexander Calder is located in Calder Plaza. If you’re visiting Grand Rapids for the first time it’s a must see!
14. Shop the Local Boutiques on Wealthy St.
It’s so great to shop local and Wealthy St. is home to many of my favorite shops. I love The Counting House, Lee & Birch, and Art of the Table.
15. Enjoy Tacos and a Margarita at Donkey
I can’t get enough of the tacos at Donkey. Add a margarita and the outdoor patio and I’m all set.
16. Start the Day with a MadCap Coffee
After visiting the Fulton Street Farmers Market on Saturday morning I love walking down the street to Madcap Coffee. A coffee outside on the weekend is the best.
17. Watch a Sports Game
It’s so much fun to watch The Griffins during the winter season at Van Andel Arena with friends. Now that it’s summer I can’t wait to see The Whitecaps play at Fifth Third Ballpark.
18. Eat Pizza at Terra
If you’ve been following me for awhile you know I’m obsessed with the wood fired pizzas at Terra. I love the Margherita pizza with fresh basil, tomato and mozzarella.
19. Enjoy the Food & View at Rose’s on Reeds Lake
After a walk by Reeds Lake it’s so fun to grab a seat on the deck at Rose’s. They have amazing salads, a great happy hour and I just love their caramel corn.
20. Relax with a Drink at the Lumber Baron Bar
My favorite bar in Grand Rapids is the Lumber Baron Bar at the Amway Grand Plaza. This is a great spot for an after dinner drink or date night.
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