Activities

Grand Rapids, MI, is a vibrant city known for its art, culture, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore world-class museums, scenic parks, a thriving craft beer scene, and exciting events like ArtPrize. Whether enjoying the Grand River, visiting historic sites, or tasting local flavors, there’s something for everyone to experience.

Entertainment

Van Andel Arena

130 West Fulton Street Grand Rapids, MI 49503 +1 616-742-6600 For more information, visit: Van Andel Arena

DeVos Performance Hall

303 Monroe Avenue NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
+1 616-742-6500

For more information, visit: DeVos Performance Hall

The Intersection

133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
+1 616-723-8571

For more information, visit: The Intersection

FESTIVALS

ArtPrize

Held biennially in downtown Grand Rapids, ArtPrize is an open, independently organized international art competition and festival. Artists from around the world display their work in various venues throughout the city, and winners are determined by public vote and expert juries. The event typically takes place over several weeks in the fall.

For more information, visit: ArtPrize

Festival of the Arts

Taking place during the first weekend of June, the Festival of the Arts is a community celebration featuring multiple stages with free live performances, food booths offering a variety of cuisines, art demonstrations, and sales. Centered around Calder Plaza, this volunteer-driven event has been a Grand Rapids tradition since 1969.

For more information, visit: Festival of the Arts

World of Winter Festival

Spanning from January to early March, the World of Winter Festival transforms downtown Grand Rapids into a winter wonderland. The festival showcases large-scale art installations, interactive exhibits, and numerous free events designed to encourage outdoor exploration and appreciation of the season.

For more information, visit: World of Winter Festival

LAKES & CAMPGROUNDS

Reeds Lake

Located in East Grand Rapids, Reeds Lake is a popular 283-acre lake offering activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, hiking, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by parks and trails, making it a great spot for outdoor recreation.

Steamboat Park Campground

Situated just 7 miles from downtown Grand Rapids, Steamboat Park Campground offers RV campsites along the Grand River. Amenities include full hook-up utilities, a heated pool, concrete boat ramp for boating access, and proximity to the Idema Explorers Trail for biking and walking.

Woodchip Campground

Located in Byron Center, approximately 9 miles from Grand Rapids, Woodchip Campground provides family-friendly camping with amenities such as a swimming pool, sports facilities, Wi-Fi, and weekend activities. The campground accommodates both short-term and long-term guests with various site options.

Family Fun

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

1000 East Beltline Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

+1 616-957-1580

For more information, visit: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

John Ball Zoo

1300 W Fulton St Grand Rapids, MI 49504

+1 616-336-4300

For more information, visit: John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids Children's Museum

11 Sheldon Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503

+1 616-235-4726

For more information, visit: Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

GOLF & TENNIS

The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe

A scenic 18-hole course featuring bentgrass fairways and stunning views along the Thornapple River, offering a mix of challenge and enjoyment for golfers.

7211 48th St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
+1 616-554-4747

For more information, visit: The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe

Indian Trails Golf Course

A historic 18-hole public course established in 1928, featuring a driving range and practice facilities, making it ideal for golfers of all levels.

2776 Kalamazoo Ave SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
+1 616-245-2021

For more information, visit: Indian Trails Golf Course

The Mines Golf Club

Built atop historic gypsum mines, this 18-hole course offers rolling terrain and a unique golfing experience just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids.

330 Covell Ave SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49534
+1 616-791-7544

For more information, visit: The Mines Golf Club

Thousand Oaks Golf Club

A premier 18-hole course designed by Rees Jones, known for its lush landscapes and challenging layout, providing a top-tier golfing experience.

4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
+1 616-447-7750

For more information, visit: Thousand Oaks Golf Club

FARMERS MARKET

Fulton Street Farmers Market

1145 Fulton Street East Grand Rapids, MI 49503

+1 616-454-4118

Established in 1922, this historic market operates year-round, featuring a wide array of vendors offering fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and crafts. The main season runs from May to October on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8 AM to 2 PM, with a second season from November to April on Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM.

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

435 Ionia Avenue SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

+1 616-805-5308

This modern market hosts over 20 indoor food vendors and restaurants, offering a diverse selection of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and artisanal products. Open daily, the market also features a rooftop greenhouse and holds various public events throughout the year

East Grand Rapids Farmers Market

750 Lakeside Drive SE East Grand Rapids, MI 49506

Conveniently located in the Community Center’s north parking lot, this market offers easy access to parking and restrooms. It’s within walking distance of the Kent District Library, Gaslight Village, John Collins Park, and the Reeds Lake Trail.