3-Day Fun-Filled Grand Rapids Adventure

Experience the art, culture and natural beauty of Grand Rapids.

22 April 2023

A trip to Grand Rapids in the United States offers a plethora of experiences to tourists. The city is known for its vibrant craft beer culture, historic landmarks, and beautiful natural parks. Whether you want to explore museums, enjoy outdoor activities, or savor the local cuisine, Grand Rapids is an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Art, Beer and Cocktails

  • Check into the hip and trendy CityFlatsHotel downtown Grand Rapids
  • Explore the Grand Rapids Art Museum, home to over 6,000 pieces of art
  • Take a tour and taste some local brews at Founders Brewing Co.
  • Enjoy an upscale cocktail at The Sovengard, a rustic-chic bar with a Scandinavian vibe
  • End the night with dinner at The Green Well, a farm-to-table restaurant offering sustainable and delicious dishes
Day 2

Outdoor Adventure

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Brown Butter Creperie and Cafe in Eastown
  • Hike to the top of the dunes at Saugatuck Dunes State Park for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan
  • Rent a kayak from Grand River Kayak and Canoe and paddle through the beautiful Grand River
  • Take a break with a tasty lunch from Brewery Vivant, a Belgian-style brewery and restaurant
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, featuring over 100 sculptures and a stunning Japanese Garden
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Fuel up with a breakfast sandwich from Wealthy Street Bakery
  • Learn about the history of Grand Rapids at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
  • Explore the Downtown Market, featuring local vendors and a variety of food options
  • Catch a performance at the historic Wealthy Theatre
  • End the trip with a delicious dinner at San Chez Bistro, a tapas-style restaurant showcasing flavors from around the world.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Grand Rapids by plane is to fly into Gerald R. Ford International Airport, located just 13 miles southeast of the city center. Several major airlines including Delta, American, and United offer nonstop flights to Grand Rapids from several major cities across the United States.

Car

Driving is also a popular way to get to Grand Rapids, as the city is located at the junction of several major highways including I-96, I-196, and US-131. If driving from the east or west, take I-96 to I-196 and follow the signs to downtown Grand Rapids. If driving from the north or south, take US-131 and exit at Pearl St. or Market Ave.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Grand Rapids. However, Amtrak offers service to nearby cities such as Chicago and Detroit. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Grand Rapids.

Boat

While there is no direct boat service to Grand Rapids, the city is located on the Grand River and is accessible by boat for those traveling through the Great Lakes. Boaters can dock at the Grand Rapids Public Museum or the Grand Rapids Yacht Club.

Bus

Taking a bus is a convenient way to get to Grand Rapids, with Greyhound and Megabus offering daily service to the city. Both companies have stops at the Greyhound Station located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.

Destination

Grand Rapids

Welcome to the city where beer flows like water and residents know how to pronounce Michigan correctly. Grand Rapids, where art, culture, and breweries all coexist in perfect harmony.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Grand Rapids Delights: A 2-Day Family-Friendly Journey

Grand Rapids in the United States offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its vibrant arts scene, numerous outdoor activities, and fantastic museums. Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where kids can enjoy the whimsical sculptures and interactive exhibits, or visit the John Ball Zoo to get up close and personal with a variety of animals. For a relaxing day, take a stroll along the beautiful Millennium Park, featuring splash pads, beaches, and scenic trails perfect for biking or walking.

3 Day Family Fun in Grand Rapids: Budget Bliss

Grand Rapids, located in the state of Michigan, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history and vibrant culture, families can explore numerous attractions including the interactive Grand Rapids Public Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park showcasing beautiful gardens and art installations, and the exciting John Ball Zoo offering a variety of animals to discover. Additionally, the city offers plenty of outdoor activities, delicious dining options, and family-oriented events throughout the year, making it a memorable destination for all ages.

Grand Rapids in a Day: Art, History, and Beer

Visiting Grand Rapids as a tourist allows you to experience the charm and uniqueness of a small city in Michigan. With a thriving art scene, visitors can enjoy visiting museums, galleries, and public art installations. The city is also home to a variety of breweries and restaurants, offering a taste of local cuisine and craft beer.

Grand Rapids on a Budget: Art, Beer, and Fun!

Grand Rapids may seem like an expensive destination, but it's possible to have a great trip on a limited budget. Stay in affordable accommodations such as Airbnb, take advantage of free admission days at museums and attractions, and explore the city's many parks and outdoor spaces for cheap or free entertainment. Sample local cuisine at food trucks and inexpensive restaurants, and don't miss the chance to try some of the city's renowned craft beers without breaking the bank.