Things To Do in Grand Rapids – A 4 Day Adventure Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Michigan, the city of Grand Rapids is a must-visit.  You might not know too much about what to do in Grand Rapids but by the end of this 4 day itinerary, you’ll be blown away by just how much there is to offer whether it’s the beer, culinary, art, historic, outdoor, and adventure scene.  It’s a city that’s on the up and up and I’m going to show you why you need to visit and ultimately the best things to do in Grand Rapids.

4 Day Grand Rapids Itinerary Highlights

Grand Rapids is a city of surprises and it’s a perfect place to add to your itinerary whether you’re driving in from Toronto like I did or if you’re doing a road trip around Michigan.

Here were my top 5 highlights of Grand Rapids:

1. Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
2. GR Paddling
3. TreeRunner
4. The GRAM
5. Downtown Market

Curious where I stayed?  The JW Marriott Grand Rapids is the perfect place to base your Grand Rapids adventures from but if you’re looking for other options, keep reading down below.

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Things To Do In Grand Rapids – A 4 Day Itinerary

When it comes to planning your trip to Grand Rapids, you’ll find that there’s plenty of things to do but it all depends on what you’re interested in.  I designed this itinerary to be a balance of some of the things that I love – outdoor adventure, food (more drink in this case), and culture.  Of course, depending on your own interests and when you’re arriving and leaving, you’ll have to adjust your itinerary accordingly.

Trip Planning Map

As I’ve continued to refine my trip planning process, I’ve found creating and using a custom map like this makes my life a lot easier because I’m not scrambling to remember what things were called and trying to find where things are located.  Maps are also really good in showing where things are relative to each other so if you’re ever in a bind, you can take a look at what might be near you if you need to adjust your schedule.

Tip: View the Grand Rapids 4 Day planning map in full screen and create a copy (this step is key) for yourself.  Make tweaks for your own trip and in Google Maps, you’ll be able to view it by going into the menu, selecting “My Places” and the “Maps” tab.

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Day 1 – One Spectacular Garden and Park

Depending on when you arrive in Grand Rapids, you’ll have more or less time than what I have here but one thing’s for sure, dedicate your day to the incredible Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.  For someone like me that wasn’t 100% sold on this park initially, I came out of it completely blown away.  Sufficed to say, it’s not “just a park” or “just a garden”.

First of all, this place is plain massive.  When you drive in, you might not get a sense of it as you pass by a number of tall-standing sculptures.  It’s not until you get to the main Welcome Center and the glass tropical conservatory that you realize that this isn’t your run-of-the-mill city park.

Within the Welcome Center, start off with the Sculpture Galleries which contains some of their smaller collections.  It’s a good primer to start off with because you begin to understand a bit more about the influential family that made this garden/park possible.

Walk down the hallway and you’ll discover the Lena Meijer Tropical Observatory and furthermore the greenhouses that are themed to carnivorous, arid, and Victorian.  Inside the observatory you’ll be treated to waterfalls, a walk-through tunnel, and butterflies.  If you have time, take a seat on one of the benches and take it all in.

It’s finally time to head outside and that’s when a whole new world opens up to you.  The first thing you’ll encounter is the Children’s Garden which is the most fun any kid or even adult will have in park.  With treehouses, interactive sculptures, water playground, log cabin, education centers, maze, and even a child-safe quarry to play in.  I’m not shy to admit that even I had fun here!

The star of show is what’s to come next and that’s the Japanese Garden.  As you know, I’ve made many trips to Japan and I can give the high praise that what they’ve built here is both impressive in scope and scape, and also in authenticity.  This part of the grounds took the longest to go through because of just how many things there were to see here.  You have the zen garden, tea house, zen waterfalls, raised walkways, huge lake, and even traditional boats to boot.  I could tell that every inch of the garden was meticulously planned and materials directly brought in from Japan.

Then comes the sculpture part of the park and it starts with a giant horse that’s based on the work of Nina Akamu.  Walk further into the Sculpture Park loop and it’s almost an Alice in Wonderland moment where you won’t believe how many known and new works you’ll find there that range from something small on the ground to beams standing 50 feet tall.

Head into downtown Grand Rapids and check into your hotel at this point so you can get settled in.

Once you’re ready to head back out again, walk over to HopCat which is one of the city’s most popular restaurants.  A must-have are their Cosmik Fries which were ranked Top 10 French Fries in America.  These come with dishes like the Grand Royale which was also featured by the Travel Channel.  Pair this with a nice refreshing beer like Short’s Brewing Company’s Soft Parade and you’re all set!  The Peanut Butter Porter Pie is also quite magical if you’re looking for something sweet.

PARKING: If you’re staying downtown, one thing you’re going to have to take into consideration is parking.  At the JW Marriott Grand Rapids, there’s a daily fee of $36 USD but since you’re a guest, you’ll have in and out privileges.  The lot is right next door and connected by a skybridge.  Also, a major benefit is that your car is going to be much safer since the lot is exclusive for the JW.

Looking for a good spot to shoot the sunset?  The Blue Bridge, which is marked on the map, is a pedestrian bridge that provides the perfect vantage point for the sun setting and reflecting off the skyscraper mirrors and the cascade of bridges downrange.

What you’ll see:

• Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

Where you’ll eat:

• Dinner – HopCat – A spunky pub/restaurant that has a lot of cred for having one of the best fries (Cosmik Fries) in town, an awesome collection of beer, and has food featured by the Travel Channel.

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Day 2 – Experience the Outdoors

What will surprise you is how amazing the outdoors are in Grand Rapids and for your second day, you’ll get to see that up-close.

You’ll need to load up on energy so start off your day at Anna’s House.  Dubbed Grand Rapid’s best breakfast, I can also corroborate this claim.  With a retro 50’s vibe, it’s got a pastel and bright energy.  Their Corned Beef Benny contains hand pulled corned beef is delicious and if you can share with someone, definitely grab their enormous cinnamon bun.  Vegans can also rejoice here as they have a special menu just for you.

Take advantage of your morning and use your Culture Pass GR to gain entry into the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.  Whether or not you know too much about Ford’s, you’ll come out of your 2-3 hours here with that much more of an appreciation of who he was as a President and more importantly as a person.  Sworn in as the 38th President under a swarm of controversy with President’s Nixon’s resignation, you’ll learn about Gerald Ford’s ascent, controversial decisions, what made him a good President, his fall, and passing.

This is a museum that isn’t overwhelming, and is easy to navigate.  What I liked about it the most was how it easy to parse the information with large and bold texts and combination of photos and artifacts on display.  It is also set right along the Grand River with a ton of green space which makes it a great place to sit outside.

Get the Culture Pass GR

Pick up the 3 Day pass booklet in preparation for your trip to Grand Rapids. It gives you access to all of the city’s main attractions and is valid for 3 days which is perfect for this itinerary. It only costs $24, it includes the Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, and passes are instantly available through your phone.
PICK UP

For lunch, make your way to the brewery that started the craft brewery scene in Grand Rapids.  Founders Brewing Company has grown to become America’s 15th largest brewery and now occupies several blocks in downtown Grand Rapids including the Founders taproom.  With outdoor and indoor seating, take advantage of the seasonal and limited production beers that they have on their menu.  Also, I recommend that you try their Beer Cheese Dip which contains a blend of two IPAs, smoked gouda, cream cheese, and freshly chopped garlic.  It’s a very Michigander thing to have.

NOTE: As of September 2020, GR Paddling is closed. For an alternative, consider AAA Canoe Paddle On or Lakeshore Kayak Rental for rentals, or Wisner Canoes which operates out of Newaygo.

Head back to your downtown hotel and wait for your GR Paddling pick up.  What I really appreciated about them is that this isn’t one of those activity outfits where you join a big bus of people to do your kayaking.  These are private trips which means you get attentive service, it’s more comfortable, and ultimately you have more freedom.

The particular route I picked called the G6 starts at the Northland Drive Bridge upstream along the Grand River and takes you down to Riverside Park near downtown Grand Rapids.  There’s a gentle current on your tail while you’re kayaking which means that you also don’t need to paddle that hard.  Along the way, there are small side detours that you can take and you might be lucky enough to spot an eagle, heron, and lots of turtles.  It’s a relaxing non-strenuous paddle that gets you outdoors and enjoy a part of the city that most locals will say they’ve never done before.  Owners Rita and Jeff are a pleasure to work with and have put together a tremendous product.

After you’re dropped back off at your hotel, take some time to clean up and when you’re ready head out and over to another local favourite, Stella’s Lounge.  This is a bar that really shows you how incredibly diverse the scene is in Grand Rapids and how each place has had to step up their game and do something completely different.  Stella’s Lounge is known for their award-winning giant stuffed burgers, 250+ whiskeys, retro arcade from the 90’s and vegan options.  I ended up trying the Stella Blue which has what almost seems like two patties except it’s one that has bacon and blue cheese stuffed inside.  There’s a reason why it was voted best burger in Grand Rapids by GQ Magazine!

To round out your day, you’re going somewhere that takes a new spin on something that some would say is a bit overplayed now – treetop trekking.  You’ll find this jungle gym up in the trees in most cities now but what TreeRunner Adventure Park has done in Grand Rapids is make this an activity that you can do at night under the glow of neon lights.  They call it Glow Nights and from sunset to 11PM, you get the unique experience of going through ropes courses, zip-lines, obstacles under the cover of the neon that glow off of the canopy of trees and the wribbits of frogs.

What makes TreeRunner a notch above the rest is that they also offer 7 different courses (3 easy, 3 medium, 2 hard) and when they say medium or hard, they actually mean it.  During my 3 hours there, I managed to complete 3 easy and 1 medium and I found that one medium I did quite challenging.  The glow aspect of the course was more than just a gimmick as it gave it a true ethereal elven atmosphere and more practically messed up my depth perception which added to the fun.

What you’ll see:

• Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

What you’ll do:

• GR Paddling
• TreeRunner Adventure Park

Where you’ll eat:

• Breakfast – Anna’s House – Top breakfast spot in Grand Rapids
• Lunch – Founders Brewing Company – Popular bakery that has amazing pastries, fresh juice, cakes, and cookies.
• Dinner – Stella’s Lounge – Located right next to Aromas and serving up similar food but equally as good.

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Day 3 – Art, Markets, and Hiking

Today, you’ll see just how diverse the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan is.  That is why you’ll be surprised by just how much there is to do here!

Another amazing breakfast spot in the city is Wolfgang’s Restaurant.  Located in a part of town called Eastown, this bustling spot that’s known for their large portions, reasonable prices, and funny photoshopped posters.  I love that they always keep your coffee topped up and you can take a cup away to go for free.  One thing to keep in mind is that this restaurant isn’t affiliated with Wolfgang Puck.  I ended up ordering the Tiramisu Pancakes which was way too much to eat for one but quite enjoyed it.  Between here and Anna’s House, I’d have to give the edge to the latter.

Your next stop is the Grand Rapids Art Museum which sits across from the Rosa Parks Circle and Maya Lin’s Ecliptic which is what revitalized this whole area of downtown.  Locally known as the GRAM, I was blown away by the museum’s permanent and temporary exhibits.  It’s a manageable 3 floors with a mix of classical to modern art.

The highlight is the special exhibit and currently they have Maya Lin’s Flow on display.  With her fascination with water and the intersection of art and science, you’re treated with installations that are both awe-inspiring and thought-provoking.

From the GRAM, walk south to Downtown Market to fill up your stomachs again with delicious foods.  This is a new and vibrant gathering place for food-centered experiences and local artisanal crafts.  The market hall itself is a permanent fixture in Grand Rapids so you can come any time in the week and pick up anything from sushi, fresh juices, pies, ice cream, and fresh butchered meats.  If you happen to be here on the weekend, you’ll find stalls line up their outdoor market shed that lead into the market.

Since you’re here, make sure you head to Fish Lads.  Must-try items are their lobster rolls and halibut fish & chips.  You won’t be disappointed!

Make sure you have some time left for your final big activity for the trip.  Just a little outside of the core is the Blandford Nature Center.  This is a mash up between forested green space with a maze of walking trails, a wildlife education center, and heritage village with buildings as old as 1853.  Come here to go for a refreshing and easy hike around the woods that pass through bogs and creek.  The heritage buildings such as the blacksmith shop, log cabin, and sugarhouse make great backdrops for photos.  Lastly, you’ll be able to get close to a number of rescued and rehabilitating animals including a bobcat, barn owl, hawk, and turkey vultures.

For dinner, you can have your pick of where to go.  You can either grab a quick beer at one of the most unique bars I’ve ever been to in Brewery Vivant which is set in an old funeral home and then have dinner at Ando Sushi + Bar.  Or if you just want to stick to one place, grab food and drink at Brewery Vivant.  Having done both, I recommend just sticking to Brewery Vivant.  Their Belgian-style ales are superb and pub fare the perfect match.  You have to try their duck confit nachos.

Brewery Vivant is what sealed the deal for me in considering Grand Rapids truly top ranking when it comes to Beer City USA.  Grand Rapids is serious about their local brews and through the few places you’ll get to go on this trip and so many more that weren’t mentioend, they have a serious culture that’s innovative, loyal, and spirited.

What you’ll see:

• Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM)
• Downtown Market

What you’ll do:

• Blandford Nature Center

Where you’ll eat:

• Breakfast – Wolfgang’s Restaurant – Located in an area of the city called Eastown, this is another popular breakfast spot where you can expect long lines.
• Lunch – Fish Lads – Located inside the Downtown Market, come here for the fish & chips and lobster roll.
• Dinner – Ando Sushi + Bar – If you’re craving sushi, check this spot out although I have to say I wasn’t that impressed.
• Drinks – Brewery Vivant – Brewery and bar that’s built right into an old funeral home, stained glass and everything.

Looking for deals?

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Day 4 – Frank Lloyd Wright

With a shortened day to work with, you have just enough time to hit up a few spots.

Your first stop is to hit up another popular breakfast stop in Real Food Cafe.  I didn’t find that this was as good as the first two but it had a homely old-fashion feel to it and I would say is more on the traditional side of things.

From here, drive to where the Meyer May House is located.  Loyal fans of Frank Lloyd Wright will immediately recognize his architectural style and design principles.  It sits on a corner lot of the Heritage Hill Historic District which means you can stroll through the outer edges of the house for photos.  If you’re interested in doing the tour, they offer them for free but their hours are quite limited so plan accordingly.

If you have time, a recommended lunch spot is Butcher’s Union which serves great American food and has a hidden patio.  Their salads, sandwiches, and flank steak are quite good.

What you’ll see:

• Mayer May House

Where you’ll eat:

• Breakfast – Real Food Cafe – Traditional breakfast diner
• Lunch – Butcher’s Union – Quality food with a great outdoor patio

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Where To Stay In Grand Rapids

For my trip to Grand Rapids, I had the pleasure to stay at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids.  For its location, class, and service, this is the best choice for where you want to stay in the city.  That said, I know everyone likes to know what else is out there so I’ve curated 3 other properties in the city that are also great selections for where to stay in Grand Rapids.

I STAYED HERE

JW MARRIOTT

The premiere hotel in Grand Rapids and of course the JW brand itself carries a lot of weight so you’re guaranteed a level of quality.  I loved my stay here including taking advantage of the eucalyptus steam room, location right by the river front, spacious rooms, and convenience to most of the main attractions.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

BRAND NEW

EMBASSY SUITES

One of the newest properties in the city, the Embassy Suites is a little further north along the river but the trade off is that you have a brand spanking new hotel that features a free buffet breakfast, complimentary drinks via happy hour, indoor pool, and free wifi.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

SOLID PICK

HOLIDAY INN

Those on a bit more of a budget will like the Holiday Inn Downtown Grand Rapids as its right across from the Gerald R. Ford Museum.  Free breakfast included and you’ll find a pool and fitness centre to pair with comfortable rooms.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

CLASSIC

AMWAY PLAZA HOTEL

As far as historic hotels go, this property under the Hilton umbrella via Curio Collection is quite beautiful as one that is the most classically decorated and filled with history.  The rooms have been renovated and is almost adjacent to the JW so location wise, is also very excellent.

TripAdvisor

Booking.com

Recommended Grand Rapids Activities to Book

If the above activities don’t suit your fancy and you’re wanting to try something a little different in Grand Rapids, make sure to check out a few of these.

Zombie Scavenger Game – Collect supplies to survive this interactive scavenger hunt.  Sign up with a team and use your smartphone to find items that you need to survive a zombie apocalypse and the goal is to find everything on your list.  This is a fun way to get to know the city on the ground.

Pub Cruiser Party Bike – This is a 16 person adult party bike that is powered by the pedaling of the riders.  This 2 hour long tour takes you to different pubs in Grand Rapids and is refreshingly different.

A Quick Grand Rapids Travel Guide

Money – Credit card is widely accepted everywhere including American Express so there’s no real need to have cash.  I found that even the local vendors accepted credit cards through Square so you should be fine without cash.

When is the best time? – The best time to come is during the summer season between June and August because this is when the city is the most lively and the weather is perfect.  This is the time of street festivals, concerts, and special events which means there are a lot of things to do especially if you take a look at the Experience Grand Rapids events page.

Getting here – The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the second largest airport in Michigan and offers 120 nonstop daily flights to and from 29 major market destinations including Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, New York, Orlando, and Philadelphia.  If flying isn’t an option, one of the most popular ways to get to Grand Rapids is by car as Michigan is very much a road trip type of state.  The drive from Detroit is 2 hours and 18 minutes, 6 hours from Toronto, 3 hours from Chicago, and 4.5 hours from Cleveland.

How do I get around the city? – While public transportation is certainly an option, having your own rental car will give you the freedom and flexibility to get to all the different key highlights in the city.  That said, if you stay at say the JW Marriott, you are walking distance to places like the GRAM, the Gerald Ford museum, most of the best bars and breweries, and the Downtown Market so there’ll be plenty of opportunities to walk.

Where should I stay? – The most comprehensive platform for bookings based on personal experience was Booking.com.  They had everything from hotels, hostels, and guesthouses and we always managed to find an awesome place for a great place.  As an alternative, there’s also Agoda and VRBO.

Do I need travel insurance? – As always, travel insurance is highly recommended. My philosophy is that you want to make sure you’re covered in case the unknown happens.  Make sure to read our guide on choosing the right travel insurance for you. Overall, World Nomads has the best balance of price and coverage.

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The Grand Rapids Experience

Grand Rapids isn’t a city that gets a lot of hype but once you spend 3-4 days here, you’ll get a sense from all the places you’ll get to visit and the people that there’s a true sense of energy and optimism that things are only going to get better.

What  stuck out to me the most was just how good the beer scene is here.  It’s a beer lover’s paradise and it felt like if I wasn’t outdoors or going through a fascinating museum, I was drinking another pint of beer and hey that was alright with me!

Speaking of the outdoors, it’s another understated feature of the city but whether it was kayaking, jogging around the riverwalk, hanging perilously on a challenging ropes course, or saying hello to a rehabilitating bobcat, there’s a ton the city has to offer.

Now you just have to go out there and explore it for yourself!

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This trip was in collaboration with Experience Grand Rapids but all opinions and thoughts are my own.

Got questions for your own trip to Grand Rapids? Let me help by simply dropping a comment down below!