13 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Grand Rapids | Apr 2025
Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour
Discover the eerie side of Grand Rapids with our top-rated ghost walking tour, the area's most highly acclaimed experience.
4.46 (54 reviews)
From $26.00
Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Operation City Quest
Explore Grand Rapids with Operation City Quest! Our scavenger hunt takes you around the city to find items in any order you want and perform exciting tasks for points.
3.00 (1 reviews)
From $10.00
Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone.
4.80 (5 reviews)
From $27.00
Self-Guided Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt: Round River City
Hey there, adventure seekers! Get ready to embark on the ultimate scavenger hunt experience with Let’s Roam, the #1 app-led scavenger hunt company! Picture this: strolling through your city’s best landmarks and uncovering hidden gems, all while tackling trivia questions and thrilling challenges.
3.33 (3 reviews)
From $12.31
Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Holly Jolly Hunt
Holly Jolly Hunt is a scavenger hunt that is played using an app on your smartphone, that brings your entire family and friends together for holiday cheer.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $20.00
Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt by 3Quest Challenge
The Grand Rapids 3Quest Challenge is a scavenger hunt done on an app where players will find objects (given in the form of riddles) and complete fun challenges for points.
4.00 (2 reviews)
From $10.00
Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Zombie Scavengers
Zombie Scavengers takes you on an adventure in Grand Rapids to survive the zombie apocalypse! Use our app and some strategy to find a list of items needed to survive, in any order you'd prefer, around the city.
From $20.00
A Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Holland, Michigan
People come from all over the world to see Holland’s Tulip Time Festival each May and often miss the city’s year-round peaceful beauty.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $5.99
Gerald R. Ford Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids Round-Trip Transfer
Book your private transfer from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapid and return. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttle queues and use our private, door-to-door airport transfer.
From $187.52
Gerald R. Ford Intl. Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids - Arrival Private Transfer
Book your Private Arrival Transfer from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids hotel or address. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer.
From $93.76
Brewery Walking Tour Holland
Join me at the beginning of our tour at Our Brewing Company. While this brewery focuses exclusively on beer, they do not offer food.
From $39.20
$49.00 Save $9.80
Motherland Cooking Xperience
We take you on an exciting African culinary and music journey in an intimate and interactive setting.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $150.49
Grand Rapids to Gerald R. Ford Intl. Airport (GRR) - Departure Private Transfer
Book your Private Departure Transfer from Grand Rapids hotel or any address to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR).
From $93.76
What activities can I do in Grand Rapids?
1. Visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Explore the beautiful botanical gardens and outdoor sculpture park, featuring works by renowned artists. Don't miss the iconic Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. 2. Explore the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum: Learn about the life and presidency of Gerald R. Ford, the 38th President of the United States. The museum displays artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. 3. Discover the Grand Rapids Art Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of works from various periods and mediums. 4. Experience the John Ball Zoo: Enjoy a day at the zoo, home to over 1,500 animals from around the world. The zoo offers interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and a zip line adventure. 5. Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum: Learn about the history, culture, and science of the region through engaging exhibits and displays. Don't miss the planetarium and the antique carousel. 6. Explore the Downtown Market: Indulge in local food, fresh produce, and artisanal products at the Downtown Market. Enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries or participate in a cooking class. 7. Take a walk along the Grand River: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Grand River and its surrounding parks. Rent a kayak or paddleboard for a fun water adventure. 8. Attend a live performance at the DeVos Performance Hall: Catch a Broadway show, concert, or ballet performance at this iconic venue. The hall hosts a variety of events throughout the year. 9. Discover the Heritage Hill Historic District: Take a stroll through this charming neighborhood, known for its well-preserved Victorian-era homes. The district offers guided walking tours to learn about its history. 10. Sample craft beer at local breweries: Grand Rapids is known for its thriving craft beer scene. Visit breweries like Founders Brewing Co., Brewery Vivant, and The Mitten Brewing Co. to taste a variety of unique brews. 11. Explore the Grand Rapids Children's Museum: If you're traveling with kids, don't miss this interactive museum with hands-on exhibits, educational activities, and play areas. 12. Attend an event at Van Andel Arena: Check the schedule for concerts, sporting events, and other live performances at this multi-purpose arena. 13. Take a scenic drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline: Grand Rapids is just a short drive away from the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan. Enjoy the sandy shores, dunes, and stunning sunsets. 14. Explore the local food scene: Grand Rapids offers a diverse culinary scene with farm-to-table restaurants, ethnic eateries, and food trucks. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like Michigan cherry pie and pasties. 15. Visit the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA): Experience contemporary art through rotating exhibits, film screenings, and special events at this vibrant cultural center. These are just a few of the many things to do in Grand Rapids. The city offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
When is the best time to travel to Grand Rapids?
The best time to travel to Grand Rapids, USA is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius). During the summer, Grand Rapids offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as exploring the city's parks, biking along the Grand River, and enjoying outdoor concerts and festivals. The city is also known for its craft beer scene, and many breweries host events and beer festivals during the summer months. If you prefer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, the spring and fall seasons can also be a good time to visit. Spring (April to May) brings blooming flowers and trees, while fall (September to October) offers beautiful foliage colors. However, keep in mind that the weather can be more unpredictable during these seasons, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10s to 20s Celsius). Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Grand Rapids, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, if you enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, nearby ski resorts offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Overall, the best time to travel to Grand Rapids depends on your preferences for weather and activities.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids, located in the state of Michigan, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in Grand Rapids: 1. Art and Museums: Grand Rapids is known for its thriving art scene. The city is home to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, one of the most significant sculpture parks in the country. The Grand Rapids Art Museum showcases a diverse collection of art, including American and European works. Additionally, the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum are worth a visit. 2. Craft Beer: Grand Rapids has been dubbed ""Beer City, USA"" due to its flourishing craft beer industry. The city boasts numerous breweries and brewpubs, offering a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. Visitors can take brewery tours, participate in beer tastings, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local beer scene. 3. Music and Festivals: Grand Rapids hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including Festival of the Arts, which showcases local talent in music, dance, and visual arts. The city also hosts the Grand Rapids Symphony, which performs a variety of classical and contemporary concerts. Additionally, there are numerous live music venues and bars that feature local and national acts. 4. Food Scene: Grand Rapids has a burgeoning food scene, with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and local ingredients. The city offers a diverse range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to food trucks and ethnic eateries. The Downtown Market is a popular destination for food lovers, featuring a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal products, and prepared foods. 5. Outdoor Recreation: Grand Rapids is surrounded by natural beauty, with numerous parks, trails, and waterways to explore. The city's proximity to Lake Michigan provides opportunities for beach activities, boating, and fishing. The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park also offers beautiful gardens and scenic walking trails. 6. Sports: Grand Rapids is home to several sports teams, including the Grand Rapids Griffins (American Hockey League) and the West Michigan Whitecaps (Minor League Baseball). Sports enthusiasts can catch a game and experience the local sports culture. Overall, Grand Rapids offers a mix of art, music, food, and outdoor activities that make it a vibrant and culturally rich travel destination.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Grand Rapids
When visiting Grand Rapids, USA, there are several shopping options where you can find unique souvenirs and items to take back home. Here are some shopping lists or souvenirs you can consider: 1. Local Artwork: Grand Rapids is known for its vibrant art scene, so consider visiting local art galleries or shops like LaFontsee Galleries or Avenue for the Arts to find paintings, sculptures, or prints by local artists. 2. Craft Beer: Michigan is famous for its craft beer, and Grand Rapids is home to several renowned breweries. Visit stores like Founders Brewing Co. or Brewery Vivant to pick up some local brews or beer-related merchandise. 3. Furniture and Home Decor: Grand Rapids is known as the ""Furniture City"" due to its history of furniture manufacturing. Explore stores like Klingman's Furniture or UBU Home Furnishings for unique furniture pieces or home decor items. 4. Michigan-made Products: Look for stores like Rebel Reclaimed or Michigan Pantry, which offer a wide range of products made in Michigan. You can find items like locally produced food products, handmade crafts, clothing, and more. 5. Outdoor Gear: If you're an outdoor enthusiast, visit Bill & Paul's Sporthaus or Moosejaw Mountaineering to find a variety of outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories for activities like hiking, camping, or kayaking. 6. Books: Schuler Books & Music is a local independent bookstore where you can browse a wide selection of books, including local authors or books about the history and culture of Grand Rapids and Michigan. 7. Clothing and Accessories: For fashion lovers, explore the boutiques and shops in the Eastown or Gaslight Village neighborhoods, such as Lee & Birch or Pink Lemonade Boutique, to find trendy clothing, accessories, and jewelry. 8. Farmers Markets: Visit Fulton Street Farmers Market or Downtown Market Grand Rapids to discover fresh produce, local food products, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors. Remember to check the operating hours and availability of the stores or markets you plan to visit, as they may vary. Enjoy your shopping experience in Grand Rapids!
Grand Rapids travel review
Grand Rapids: A Gem in the Heart of the USA Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Grand Rapids is a vibrant city that offers an array of attractions and experiences for travelers of all interests. From its thriving arts scene to its picturesque outdoor spaces, this hidden gem in the USA has something to offer everyone. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Grand Rapids will captivate you with its charm and hospitality. One of the city's biggest draws is its thriving arts and culture scene. Grand Rapids is home to the renowned Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, a 158-acre botanical garden that showcases stunning outdoor sculptures and beautiful landscapes. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Grand Rapids Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of American art, ranging from the 19th century to the present day. The city is also known for its annual ArtPrize event, one of the largest art competitions in the world, where artists from around the globe display their work throughout the city. For those who love the great outdoors, Grand Rapids offers plenty of opportunities to explore nature. The city is surrounded by picturesque lakes and rivers, making it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can kayak along the Grand River, go fishing in one of the many nearby lakes, or simply relax on the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan. In the fall, the city comes alive with vibrant colors as the leaves change, making it the perfect time for a scenic hike in one of the nearby state parks. Foodies will also find themselves in heaven in Grand Rapids. The city has a thriving culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors. Beer lovers will be delighted to discover the city's booming craft beer industry, with numerous breweries offering unique and delicious brews. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the famous Founders Brewing Co., known for its award-winning beers and lively atmosphere. History buffs will also find plenty to explore in Grand Rapids. The city is home to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, where visitors can learn about the life and presidency of the 38th President of the United States. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica of the Oval Office. Additionally, the Grand Rapids Public Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history, with exhibits on Native American culture, the logging industry, and the city's role in the furniture manufacturing industry. Grand Rapids is also a city that values community and celebrates diversity. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its rich cultural heritage. From the Festival of the Arts, a three-day celebration of music, dance, and visual arts, to the Hispanic Festival, which highlights the contributions of the Hispanic community, there is always something happening in Grand Rapids that brings people together. In conclusion, Grand Rapids is a city that offers a little bit of everything. From its thriving arts scene to its stunning natural landscapes, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're exploring the city's museums, enjoying the outdoors, or indulging in its culinary delights, Grand Rapids will leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return again and again. So, pack your bags and discover the charm of this hidden gem in the heart of the USA.