10 Fun Things to Do in Grand Rapids

Welcome to Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a small Midwest city which offers a big variety of fun. Plan a getaway to explore the food, museums, breweries, and plenty of live entertainment. 

Go to the Grand Rapids Public Museum

 The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers something for everyone. It’s a combination children’s museum, a planetarium, a natural history museum, and a hands on look into Michigan’s history. Before you leave, be sure to ride the historic carousel.

Stay at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel

The Amway Grand Plaza, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is elegant and historic, dating back to the 1920s. The hotel is also a lot of fun with a friendly staff and a great location. While there, have pizza at Wolfgang Puck’s The Kitchen. The Roasted Mushroom, with truffled cream and arugula, is amazing. (There's also The Kitchen Counter for those staying at the Amway Grand who prefer a quick meal or takeout 

Visit the Fountain Street Church

 Once a Baptist Church, the Fountain Street Church in Grand Rapids is now a “non-creedal, non-denominational, liberal church,” according to it's website. It’s also a historical and beautiful building. Attend an event there, or just go to check out the architecture and stained glass windows. 

Have breakfast at San Chez

 If you only have one breakfast in Grand Rapids, it must be at San Chez. You can’t go wrong with anything on this menu. The Veggie Hash is delicious and vegetable loaded, and the Breakfast Empanadas are a special treat. Whatever you choose, be sure to also order a warm, goey cinnamon roll. This fresh-from-the-oven treat is big enough for two.

Take the Tour at Founders Brewing

 Founders Brewing Co., home of the popular Dirty Bastard Ale, is constantly improving and expanding its already modern Michigan facility. They give daily tours, which are well worth taking. At the end, you’ll be given coupons for beer tasting and a souvenir glass to take home.

The Taproom not only has tastings of all the Founders beers available, it also has a delicatessen filled with fun and delicious sandwiches, such as the Louis A. Cornelius, with corned beef, roasted chicken, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, topped with thousand island dressing on placed on rye bread. It’s definitely big enough to share.

Enjoy the Childrens Museum

The Children’s Museum in Grand Rapids is filled with family activities for all ages and abilities, with many things to do accessible to wheelchairs and disabilities. Kids can play in the hands on areas and explore the exhibits. There’s also a “Happy Animal Clinic” and a calendar of programs.

Have a Root Beer Float at The B.O.B.

The B.O.B. is a unique venue that includes bars, a steakhouse, and a music hall. There’s a ton of craft beer here, but the biggest treat is the “Not Your Father’s Goblet.” This huge cocktail is made from Not Your Father’s Root Beer, Pinnacle Whipped Vodka, and Vanilla Ice Cream. They then put chocolate sauce and a cherry on top!

After you finish the float, stick around for a live music or comedy show at this Grand Rapids hot spot.

Stay during LaughFest

Once a year in March, Grand Rapids pays homage to one of its grandest ladies, the late comedian Gilda Radner, who grew up in the Michigan city. Gilda’s Club is the organization named after her that offers support to those dealing with serious illness. LaughFest raises money for this worthwhile cause. 

Have dinner at Six.One.Six

 Located in the Grand Rapids JW Marriott, Six.One.Six Restaurant offers fine dining in a casual atmosphere. The menu is wide-ranged and you’ll find lots of delicious choices, such as the Truffle Fries, the Butternut Squash Ravioli (with toasted walnuts, apples, and herbs), and the Chocolate Peppermint Sundae Fundae. You can also find a selection of perfectly cooked steaks and seafood at Six.One.Six. 

Check out the Grand Rapids Art Museum

 The Grand Rapids Art Museum has a Michigan Artist Series that highlights the many talented painters, sculptures, and photographers from Michigan. 

For more on Grand Rapids, visit the website of the Grand Rapids Convention and Visitors Bureau. 

To book a hotel in Grand Rapids, check out the offerings at Hipmunk.