Located on the Grand River in the state of Michigan, Grand Rapids is a city known for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and exciting entertainment options. While the city's games and attractions are definitely worth exploring, there are times when you might want to skip the games and experience the city in a different way. Whether you're a local looking for something new to do or a visitor wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions, here are five ways to skip the games in Grand Rapids.
Explore the City's Breweries
Grand Rapids is famous for its craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours, tastings, and a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. Instead of spending the day playing games, why not explore the city's breweries and sample some of the best beers in the country? From Founders Brewing Co. to Bell's Brewery, there are plenty of options to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and selection of beers.
Take a Brewery Tour
Many of Grand Rapids' breweries offer guided tours, which provide a fascinating insight into the brewing process and the history of the brewery. These tours often include beer tastings and samples, allowing you to experience the full range of flavors and styles on offer. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking for something new to do, a brewery tour is a great way to skip the games and explore the city's vibrant beer culture.
Discover the City's Outdoor Spaces
Grand Rapids is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with numerous parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces to explore. Instead of spending the day indoors playing games, why not get outside and enjoy the fresh air and stunning views? From the scenic trails of Millennium Park to the beautiful gardens of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is one of the city's most popular attractions, and for good reason. With over 160 sculptures on display, as well as a stunning variety of plants and flowers, this beautiful park is a must-visit for anyone looking to skip the games and enjoy the outdoors. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admire the sculptures, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the City's Art Scene
Grand Rapids has a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and street art installations to explore. Instead of spending the day playing games, why not immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art culture? From the Grand Rapids Art Museum to the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Visit the Grand Rapids Art Museum
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is one of the city's premier cultural attractions, with a diverse collection of art from around the world. With a focus on contemporary art, the museum features a wide range of exhibitions and installations, from painting and sculpture to photography and film. Take a tour of the museum, attend a lecture or workshop, and enjoy the beautiful architecture and stunning views.
Take a Food Tour
Grand Rapids is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks serving up everything from classic American comfort food to international cuisine. Instead of spending the day playing games, why not take a food tour and sample some of the city's best eats? From the city's famous craft beer pairings to its vibrant food truck scene, there's something for every taste and budget.
Visit the Grand Rapids Farmers Market
The Grand Rapids Farmers Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to skip the games and experience the city's food culture. With over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, this bustling market is a great place to sample some of the city's best food and drink. Take a tour of the market, attend a cooking class, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Explore the City's Neighborhoods
Grand Rapids has a number of unique and fascinating neighborhoods to explore, each with its own character and charm. Instead of spending the day playing games, why not take a walking tour of the city's neighborhoods and discover some of its hidden gems? From the vibrant arts district of the Avenue for the Arts to the historic charm of Heritage Hill, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Visit the Avenue for the Arts
The Avenue for the Arts is one of Grand Rapids' most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods, with a diverse range of shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore. Take a walking tour of the neighborhood, attend a gallery opening, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
We hope this article has given you some inspiration for things to do in Grand Rapids beyond the usual games and attractions. Whether you're a local looking for something new to do or a visitor wanting to explore the city's hidden gems, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and beautiful city.
What are some popular breweries in Grand Rapids?
+Some popular breweries in Grand Rapids include Founders Brewing Co., Bell's Brewery, and Perrin Brewing Co.
What are some popular outdoor spaces in Grand Rapids?
+Some popular outdoor spaces in Grand Rapids include Millennium Park, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and Riverside Park.
What are some popular art galleries in Grand Rapids?
+Some popular art galleries in Grand Rapids include the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.