Families take advantage of the beach and splash pad at Millennium Park amidst the summer heatwave.
Grand Rapids is gearing up for a significant heatwave with temperatures expected to exceed 90 degrees. Local officials are urging residents, especially vulnerable populations, to take necessary precautions. The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch, advising hydration and limiting outdoor activities. Cooling centers have been set up throughout the city to provide relief. Meanwhile, Millennium Park has opened its beach and splash pad earlier this year, enhancing summer recreation options as residents seek ways to cope with the rising temperatures.
Grand Rapids, MI is bracing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures forecasted to reach 90 degrees or higher starting Saturday and continuing through Tuesday night. In response, local officials are urging residents to take precautionary measures, especially vulnerable populations, to ensure safety and comfort during the extreme heat.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat watch for the Grand Rapids area, emphasizing the importance of hydration and limiting outdoor activities during peak temperatures. It is also advised that pets be kept in shaded areas with plenty of fresh water available.
To help combat the rising temperatures, the Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness has made available a list of cooling centers across the city:
In addition to the local offerings, Ottawa County officials have also announced several cooling centers to accommodate residents seeking refuge from the heat:
Residents in Grand Haven can also find relief from the heat at local public buildings during their regular operating hours.
In a positive note coinciding with the heatwave, Millennium Park in Grand Rapids has opened its beach and splash pad a week early this year on May 16, 2025. This popular destination spans 1,400 acres and offers over 18 miles of trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The park features a 100-acre lake with a designated swimming area, a splash pad equipped with numerous sprayers, playgrounds, picnic areas, boat rentals, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball court. During the early and late summer months, the beach operates from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., while the splash pad is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Entrance fees to Millennium Park are set at $4 for adults, $3 for seniors over 63, and $2 for children aged 3-15. Admission is free for children under 2. A new bus route (Route 1000) now provides access to Millennium Park, running on weekends from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with service every half hour on Saturdays and hourly on Sundays. This route connects The Rapid’s Central Station to the Van Andel Beach House at Millennium Park, accommodating riders with bike racks available on every bus.
As temperatures rise, it is vital for residents to take these warnings seriously and utilize the available resources to stay cool and hydrated during this heatwave.
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