Grand Rapids Summer Bucket List 2019

Guys, it’s summer! The sun is shining, the smell of freshly cut grass is in the air, and the beach is calling. Am I right? So to make the most of your summer I made this handy Summer Bucket List filled with fun events and activities to enjoy this season. Share some of your favorites or your bucket list on Instagram with me at @thegrguide. Have a wonderful summer friends!

Picnic Pops

What could be better than enjoying some great music outside? This is the 25th season for Picnic Pops with the Grand Rapids Symphony at Cannonsburg Ski Area.

Head to the Lake

We’re so incredibly lucky to live close to Lake Michigan (and many other lakes in the area). Make a point this summer to head to Lake Michigan or maybe try a new lake to explore the area and truly enjoy our West Michigan summer.

Coast Guard Festival

I grew up going to the Coast Guard Festival each summer in Grand Haven. This is a fun festival to celebrate the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and enjoy some time by the water.

Try a New Sport

The summer is a great opportunity to try a new sport outdoors. I’m thinking of trying tennis or volleyball this summer. You can find different community classes or check out Grand Rapids Sport & Social Club.

Whitecaps Game

A Whitecaps game is a must during the summer. Whether you go with friends, family or co-workers it’s a fun night to enjoy a baseball game.

Pick Berries

Last summer my sister and I picked blueberries, and we still talk about how much fun we had. The berries were so fresh and perfect for snacking on, making a pie and putting in the freezer. This is also a great activity for littles on a warm sunny day.

Go Golfing

I desperately need to work on my golf game this summer. Cory is in a golf league and is always wanting to golf. The beauty of living in West Michigan is we have some great golf courses to choose from. Which one is your favorite?

Dine Outdoors

One of my favorite things about summer is sitting outside and enjoying a good meal. There’s just nothing better than sipping a glass of wine with amazing food on a patio. Here are some of my top picks for patios in Grand Rapids if you need some ideas.

Movies on Monroe

If you haven’t done Movies on Monroe yet this is a great year to enjoy the weather and a good movie. The lineup of movies this year is awesome for both kids and adults so check it out for a fun family night in Grand Rapids.

Rock, Roar, & Pour

I’m so excited for Rock, Roar, & Pour at John Ball Zoo this summer. Coming up on June 27 the Crane Wives are performing and you know I’ll be there.

Restaurant Week

One of my favorite things about summer in Grand Rapids is Restaurant Week happening August 7-18. This is a great event to try new restaurants in the area or head back to your favorite restaurants and try new dishes.

Pack a Picnic

Cory and I love to pack a picnic and head to Reeds Lake or the pool to enjoy the nice weather. I love to stop at Martha’s Vineyard to pick up some cheeses or sandwiches.

Take a Road Trip

The summer is a perfect opportunity to take a road trip! Need some ideas? Check out these weekend getaway posts: Chicago, Fort Wayne, Mission Point on Mackinac Island, Ann Arbor, Milwaukee, Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.

Try a New Recipe

I love trying new recipes on the grill or with fresh vegetables & fruit from the farmer’s market in the summer. Need some recipe ideas? Check out this Lake Michigan Cottage Cookbook I’ve been liking.

Plant a Garden

Guys, I’ve been trying to be better with my flowers and I’m attempting another garden this year. I’ve been enjoying it more and more each year so I’m determined to learn some new tips and tricks for keeping my plants in good shape this year. Any tips are welcome!

Read a Book

If you’re not a big reader I totally get it, but the summer is a great time to start a new book. I love going to the Grand Rapids Public Library to pick up a book, but I would also recommend Books & Mortar or Schuler Books to find books.

Watch Fireworks

I just love watching fireworks on the 4th of July in Grand Rapids. If you need some ideas of where to watch them here’s a great guide from Grand Rapids Kids.

Enjoy Ice Cream

Summer just isn’t complete without ice cream right? Here’s my top picks for where to enjoy ice cream in Grand Rapids.

Click here to download the full Summer Bucket List and let me know what if you complete any of the items via Instagram or in the comments below. Enjoy!