When my family isn’t out on a day trip somewhere, we usually find one or two fun things to do in greater Grand Rapids area. Since I live nearby, Grand Rapids is an area I’m extremely knowledgeable about.
Whether you’re a GR local, Michigander seeking something fun to do in Grand Rapids during a day trip, or visitor from out of state, I hope this list inspires you to check out something new outside of downtown Grand Rapids.
1. Selfie Wrld
Buckle up West Michigan! And brace yourself, because we have a new, first class attraction in town. Selfie Wrld is now in Grand Rapids!
Selfie Wrld is an interactive art museum where YOU come to life as part of the exhibit. Looking to upgrade your Instagram feed? Need a fun new rainy day activity? Or are you just looking for something fun to do? Check out Selfie Wrld Grand Rapids!
Selfie Wrld is family friendly and open to all ages. From my experience, it’s a lot of fun going with your friends or as an hilarious date night. If you’re looking for a fun party or group event idea, Selfie Wrld also hosts private events.
Located within Tanger Outlets, Selfie Wrld is convenient to get to, find parking, and once you’re done, grab a bite to eat or do some shopping.
Some Tips to Know Before You Go:
- Make sure your phone is fully charged before you head over!
- There are 25 booths to explore! Some contain props like swings, bicycles, coffee mugs, basketball hoops, and more! While others have neon signs conveying a theme or phrase.
- Upon arrival, you’re given a ring light and bluetooth clicker to take a photo hands free. It’s recommended to use just one phone and share photos later to save time. The ring light lasts about an hour before it loses charge.
- The booths are regularly sanitized, and masks need to be worn when outside the booth.
- Consider wearing a neutral color or carry a couple tops/outfits. This helps so you don’t clash with any of the backgrounds. There are two changing rooms if needed.
- Come back again! Every four months a few of the booths change to flow with the season or keep up with the latest trend.
Cost and Hours
Selfie Wrld is open daily from 10am to 7pm. It costs $20 for adults and $15 for kids age 3-12.
2. Blandford Nature Center
One of my new favorite fun things to do in greater Grand Rapids is visit the Blandford Nature Center. We especially recommend their events! They develop a ton of family friendly events held throughout the year (following safe protocols during COVID) such as the Sugar Bush festival in March, seasonal camps, and other learning opportunities. Check out the details on these here.
Originally, the area the nature center sits on was a family farm owned by the Collins Family. They later sold it to Victor Blandford. Then, in the 1960s, Mary Jane Collins convinced the Blandford family to donate 17 acres of the land to the Grand Rapids Public Museum, where she worked as a nature educator. Over the years, more and more land transferred to the Nature Center. Today, 264 acres make up the Blandford Nature Center.
What You Can Do!
On this 264 acres resides a lot of things to explore! One of my favorites is the Heritage Village, which is only open during the events. Within Heritage Village, there are a number of historical buildings such an an old one room schoolhouse, two bedroom log cabin, and working blacksmith shop. In the blacksmith shop you can actually watch horseshoes and nails be made! Come with questions as the volunteers are happy to share the history behind each building.
If you’re looking to see and possibly interact with animals, there are options. One, inside the visitors center there are a number of animals such as owls, turtles, and rabbits. While outside the visitors center there is a porcupine, hawk, wild turkeys and more. If you attend an event, you may interact and learn more about the animal from a guide. These animals were taken in due to an injury and are unable to be released into the wild. Finally there is also a 2.5 acre farm with farm animals like chickens and goats to check out!
Not to be missed are the 13 different trails throughout the property. Each trail contains different sights, perks, and difficulty levels. Check out their website here for some fun kid friendly trail activities!
Cost and Hours
If you are planning on visiting during their open hours (recommended), they suggest paying $3 per visit per person unless you’re a member. Their official hours (when the visitors center is open) are Monday through Saturday from 10am to 3pm with a 30 minute closure at 12:30 for cleaning.
3. Frederick Meijer Gardens
The Frederick Meijer Gardens is one of the crown jewels of Grand Rapids. Combining art and nature, the Meijer Gardens continues to grow and evolve ever since it’s opening in 1995.
What You Can Do!
One of my favorite things to do in the late winter/early spring is visit their Tropical Conservatory. Spending time in an oasis with a waterfall and tropical flowers does wonders in getting me over the final cold spell of the season. Throughout March and April, butterflies are released throughout the conservatory which adds to the charm.
Outside, there is a large interactive children’s garden, Japanese garden, and miles of trails leading you around a fantasy land of many interesting, large scale sculptures.
Throughout the year, there are events and regular attractions. As mentioned, the spring draws in visitors to see the butterfly’s, while around the holidays, visitors come to check out the international Christmas tree display. During the years Art Prize runs, the Meijer Gardens is a popular exhibit venue.
Another big feature of the Meijer Gardens are the summer concerns held at their amphitheater.
Some Tips to Know Before You Go:
- Arrive early (especially during the COVID era). There are no online ticket sales.
- If you plan to explore the conservatory and outdoor sculptures, plan on spending at least a few hours here.
- There is a café if you don’t want to carry a picnic. Menu available here.
- Tiered admission is based on age and student status. General admission is $14.50, students and seniors are $11, and children 5-13 are $7.
- Check out their hours on their website here. Due to capacity limits and at times, popular attractions, their hours keep getting updated.
4. Airport Viewing Park
As the name suggests, this park is located within viewing distance of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s runway. It’s a great place to go to watch airplane’s take off and land without needing to step foot into the airport. Another fun fact about it: this is the closest park to any active commercial runway in the US!
Originally opened in 1995, the Airport Viewing Park underwent an upgrade in 2017. Redesigned by Mathison Architects, the park includes a large covered and paved seating area with picnic tables and bench’s, restrooms, water fountain, and plenty of parking.
What You Can Do!
This is a fantastic spot to carry a picnic and watch planes take off and land. And if you have children, fun, cheap entertainment. Another great idea is to take your kids here before their first trip aboard an airplane to show them what it’s going to be like.
If watching the planes from your car or have a radio app on your phone, tune to 1650 AM to listen to the air traffic controllers and pilots as they clear to land or takeoff.
The Airport Viewing Park is free and open daily from 7:30 am – 8 pm.
5. John Ball Zoo
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! You can see all these three “scary” animals and more at the John Ball Zoo located on Grand Rapids’ west side.
The history of John Ball Zoo dates back to 1891. Named after the land’s original owner, John Ball, he donated the land to the city when he passed away. The original zoo floundered during the Great Depression when the animals were sold off or eaten (ew). Then, in the 1950’s, a zoological society was formed and the zoo reopened. One of the earliest exhibits is the Monkey Island Exhibit, which still stands but was renovated in 2009.
Animals to See
The most popular animal attractions include the Tigers, Red Panda’s (3 baby girls were born summer 2020!), and Chimpanzees. Another popular spot (particularly on a hot summer day) is the penguin exhibit in the aquarium. However, my personal favorite animals to see are the grizzly bears (say hi to Boo Boo!), lions, and flamingos. While visiting, I never had an issue seeing them. Another friend of mine says her daughter’s favorite animal is the armadillo inside the reptile house. 🙂
Additionally, there are some animals who may interact with you! Deep inside the zoo is a petting zoo where you can pet goats, sheep and chickens. There are also wallaby’s with an open, walk through area. At times, they may hop down to be pet! Feed the budgies in the aviary. It’s free to enter, however it’s $2 per stick of bird seed. Finally, for an additional fee, you may ride on a camel.
Other Things to Do
Other add ons include a zip line, ropes course, and riding the funicular to the tallest point of the zoo, which ends by the tigers and red panda exhibits.
This summer (2021), Bricklive Supersized takes over the zoo! Using toy bricks, colorful, giant animal sculptures are on display throughout the zoo. So not only can you admire the real life glorious animals, but also a larger than life replica built out of brick blocks.
One of my favorite non-animal sights in the zoo is the waterfall. It’s a special place for me as I remember getting my picture taken every summer here with my parents. And now I can continue this tradition with my son!
If you or someone you’re with get’s hungry, there are several dining options throughout the zoo. And the gift shops sell authentic décor and knick knacks from places such as my favorite country and former home – Kenya!
Finally John Ball Zoo hosts several events throughout the year such as the Zoo Goes Boo, Harry Potter festival, Superhero day, and more! Check out when these events are happening and how to register here.
Cost and Hours
John Ball Zoo is open seasonally, from mid spring through fall.
Timed tickets are recommended due to Covid capacity constraints. One nice bonus about this is knowing how many tickets are currently available (and potentially how busy it will be when you go!) Tickets for nonmembers cost $12 for 13 years+, $10 for 3-12, and free for 2 and under. The prices jump up to $15 for 13 years+, and $12 for 3-12 between late April and late September.
Due to Covid, masks are required at all times, both inside and outside.
6. Millennium Park
Another of my favorite fun things to do in greater Grand Rapids is spend time at Millennium Park. This massive park spreads out across 1,400 acres and is one of the largest urban parks in the United States.
Back in 2000, planning for this park began. The goal was to convert the area, which was once an old gypsum mine and gravel pits, back into a beautiful natural place to enjoy outdoor recreation. In 2004, the park officially opened. But since then, new features keep being added. It’s newest feature is the addition of a ninja warrior course.
What You Can Do!
There are currently over 18 miles of hiking and biking trails, which connects with the larger Kent Trails network. Many of these trails are paved making them assessable and stroller friendly. I recently wrote about Millennium Park in another post detailing the best Stroller friendly parks and trails in West Michigan.
In the summer, enjoy the six acre beach and large splashpad. It costs $4 for adults and $2 for kids age 3-15 to enter. Hours are 10am-8pm daily. Within the beach area, there are also concessions for food, drinks, and snacks. In addition to the beach, there’s a separate entrance if you wish to rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or paddleboat.
If you pack a picnic or wish to grill, there are plenty of picnic tables and grills located conveniently near the parking lots.
7. Action Wake Park
Next up is Action Wake Park, Michigan’s first full size cable water park. During the summer, people come here to wakeboard, water ski, or kneeboard. For those new to the activity, they also provide lessons and equipment rentals. Founded by Action Water Sports in 2016, this unique and adventurous water park is definitely something fun to keep in mind in the greater Grand Rapids area.
If you aren’t interested in participating, it’s fun to watch when a contest is happening, which is something I’ve done. The Wake Park is also open for birthday parties or group events. Costs range from $35 per person for a 2 hour session to $55 for all day use.
8. Gaslight Village in East Grand Rapids
Tucked away from bustling downtown Grand Rapids is the adorable town of East Grand Rapids. Also known as Gaslight Village, East Grand Rapids’ streets are lined with actual gas lanterns.
Adding to the charm are a variety of independently owned restaurants such as Jose Babushka’s for Latin, Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen for Southern cuisine, or Rose’s for modern American fare with a beautiful view on Reeds Lake. Jersey Junction is a longtime local favorite for ice cream. It’s been around since 1963 and is founded by local children’s book illustrator Chris Van Allsburg’s mom.
There’s also great boutique shopping. In total, there are eight stores selling everything from women’s, men’s or kids clothing, athleticwear, and home décor.
John Collins Park is a beautiful waterfront park on Reeds Lake to hang out at or take a walk around during the warmer months. Be on the lookout for movies in park during summer evenings! Reeds Lake was named after the Reed family that originally settled in the area in the 1830s from New York.
A couple public art pieces are also on display here. One is the Regatta, a 40 foot fiberglass sculpture meant to look like a ship’s sails. Another is a bronze statue of President Gerald R. Ford, who once lived in East Grand Rapids.
9. Fantastic Hiking Trails
Beyond the hiking and biking trails available at Millennium Park, there are so many other fantastic hiking trails within the greater Grand Rapids Area.
Some of my favorite hiking trails are at Grand Ravines in Jenison, Seidman Park in Ada, and the Saint Francis of Assisi Sculpture Garden for Prayer and Meditation.
Grand Ravines
My first recommendation is the Grand Ravines Park. I go way back with this park. Growing up nearby, my friends and I used to visit this seemingly forgotten place often. A couple decades ago, this park was nothing more than a tiny dirt parking lot, worn out barn, and overgrown trails. One of the things we used to like to do was climb down the ravines to explore.
After some time, Ottawa County reinvigorated the Grand Ravines. They updated and repainted the barn, put in a dog park (that’s extremely popular), built a pavilion, added modern restrooms, and even installed a suspension bridge over the ravines. Throughout the trails, there are some ravine overlooks and recently, the Parks department announced a tree house coming soon!
Seidman Park
On the east side of town, there’s another park I recommend. Seidman Park in Ada has a trail cutting through its 400 acres of woods, wetlands, and open space. Altogether there are 5 miles of trails. My favorite spot in Seidman Park is near the parking lot off Conservation Street. There is a bridge that crosses over a scenic creek. One thing to be mindful of is that there are several elevation changes throughout the trail. It may be challenging for some!
St Francis Sculpture Garden
Finally, I recommend checking out the St Francis Sculpture Garden located at the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids. This 11 acre garden and prayer path was constructed and maintained by the nonprofit Instruments of Hope.
There are 16 bronze sculptures of St. Francis of Assisi located along the trail. At each site, there’s information posted to learn more about St Francis. There are also hand carved benches at each station should you wish to take some time to pray, reflect or meditate.
10. Rockford
Exploring downtown Rockford is another fun thing to do in Greater Grand Rapids. This charming small town has a vibrant downtown area filled with restaurants and stores. Ever since Covid hit, the Rockford community was one of the first west Michigan communities to pivot and embrace using the outdoors to support local businesses – especially the restaurants hit hard by indoor dining bans.
To this day, sections of downtown Rockford remain closed to vehicular traffic on weekends to allow for a bigger area to eat, drink and be merry. This “Refreshment Area” allows patrons of one of the 9 licensed and participating restaurants and breweries to purchase an alcoholic beverage and walk around downtown with it.
Another neat feature of downtown Rockford is the White Pine Trail that cuts right through it. If you’re looking for an adventurous date, a fun option is going for a bike ride along the White Pine Trail from Cedar Springs to Rockford and back. Along the way, stop for a drink (and appetizer) at Cedar Springs Brewing, Rockford Brewing, and Third Nature Brewing.
If you’re looking for more great options of what to do in Rockford, check out this post on my day trip to Rockford.
Fun Things to Do in Greater Grand Rapids Map
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If you’ve visited or live nearby, what is your favorite fun thing to do in greater Grand Rapids?
from Michigan with Love,
Jackie
