Grand Rapids: Art, Adventure, and Ice Cream Delight!

Discover the family adventure that awaits in Grand Rapids.

19 July 2023

Grand Rapids in the United States offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. With its vibrant art scene, the city boasts world-class museums like the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, providing an enriching cultural experience for all ages. Additionally, families can enjoy outdoor activities at the John Ball Zoo, explore beautiful parks like Millennium Park, and indulge in delicious local cuisines, making it a memorable trip for everyone.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Art, Adventure, and Ice Cream Delight!

  • Start your day with a visit to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, an enchanting wonderland of art and nature.
  • Channel your inner Picasso at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, where creativity pulsates through every brushstroke and sculpture.
  • Have a blast at the John Ball Zoo, where you can monkey around with the primate pals and roar with the mighty lions.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping at TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park, an epic treetop playground for daredevils and thrill-seekers.
  • Indulge in a scoop (or three!) of Double Dapple Dip Ice Cream at Jersey Junction, a charming ice cream parlor that turns every cone into a sweet, creamy masterpiece.
  • End your day with a picturesque stroll along the Grand River, as the sun dips below the horizon and paints the city in hues of fiery gold.

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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Five Days of Fun: Grand Rapids on a Budget

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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.

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.