Looking for a quick weekend getaway from Chicago? Well, look no further! Grand Rapids has everything you need to have the best time, regardless of who you are traveling with or what you are planning on doing. Whether you are looking to check out the food scene, the nightlife or the art scene, you will be sure to find it here! Below guide lists some of the things to add to your visit while here.
Where to Stay?
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is located in the heart of Grand Rapids and offers an exceptional service along with many amenities. Not only does it have 5 restaurants, incredible lobby bar, spacious rooms, spa, pool, but it also has a pickleball court! It was really fun to stay here especially if you run into a rainy day, you will find something to do here.
Where to Grab a Drink?
We learned quickly that Grand Rapids has an amazing food and nightlife scene (no surprise since it is considered Beer city USA). We found it quite easy to come across some of the best breweries and cider houses during our visit.
Farmhaus Cider- located in the outskirts of Grand Rapids, Farmhaus serves variety of cider from dry to sweet. The location is incredible, as it surrounds you with trees, you can’t help to feel like you are in the forest, which makes for a super cozy vibe. They often have a food truck there, as well as live music. Check out their website for the most up-to-date events.
IDC Rooftop – this bar is located at Amway Hotel on the 2nd floor. However, it is “hidden” so it’s not too easy to find (ask anyone from the hotel staff and they will guide you in the right direction). In order to get in, you will need a 4 digit code that is sent out via email on the first of every month, after you subscribe to their newsletter. We loved the chic vibe, looking over the city while enjoying neatly crafted cocktails. Perfect spot for a night cap before you head back to your room.
The Painted Turtle- another cider house that should not be missed! Their grounds are stunning and they also offer variety of ice cream and local goodies such as jams, sauces and more. You can also go to the orchard and pick your own apples if you visit during early fall months.
Max’s South Seas Hideaway- if you are up for a Tiki vibe with creative cocktails, than this is your spot! The interior is so intriguing and every corner of this restaurant will capture your attention. This is a full blown restaurant that offers variety of dishes with a tropical spin.
Mammoth Distilling- lately with our travels, we started looking for more distilleries, as they provide unique experience along with intriguing cocktail menu that has a bit of something for everyone! We loved the vibe and the cocktails were super delicious. The interior is very elegant and modern, yet super inviting. There is also a patio with plenty of space as well. Check out their website for events since they tend to have a DJ, Trivia, and more!
Where to Eat?
We always love exploring new cities and places by eating (I mean who doesn’t?!). Grand Rapids food scene is certainly unique and you will have a hard time deciding where to go and grab some grub. Probably not the worst problem to have 😊
Vander Mill- yet another cider house, but one that offers lots of great food options. They have a really big patio where you can enjoy listening to a band, sit by a fire, all while tasting crisp cider and stuffing your face with some deliciousness.
New Holland Brewing- now this brew pub is a giant! This is probably the largest brew pub we’ve been to. The original brewery is in Holland MI, but this is their second location that opened in GR. Their menu includes artisanal and locally sourced food along with their craft beer which makes for a delicious experience.
Brown Butter Creperie & Café- if you want to be transported to France for breakfast, then look no further but right here! They offer both savory and sweet crepes, so there is something for everyone. It started as a food truck few years back and grew exponentially and for the right reasons.
Terra Bagels- if you are looking for something quick while on the go, Terra Bagels won’t disappoint. They have two locations in Grand Rapids that offer the best bagel experience.
What To Do?
Grand Rapids is one of those places where you will not be bored at all! They always have something great going on regardless of the season. We truly enjoyed below activities and we recommend them all.
Go hiking with Dreamgoats – if you have a goat obsession like we do, then this is THE one thing you have to do while visiting. Upon arrival we were greeted by a herd of goats that were the most loving creatures ever. They all wanted our attention and had zero personal space (which we absolutely loved!). After introductions, we went on a 45 min hike along the farm while the owner told us more about the goats, their everyday routine, what they like, and more. Check their website for different events. Currently till November they offer hiking with the goats while in spring they offer cuddles with the babies which I am sure is the best time! Highly recommend this activity!
Explore the Gerald R Ford Presidential Museum- explore the life of Gerald R Ford who was the only Michigan President. Museum is conveniently located across the river from Amway Hotel, so it makes for a quick stroll. The Museum was extremely informative and engaging. You will get a chance to see a pretty good replica of oval office, have a seat as the cabinet board and learn so much about one of the most loved Presidents.
Check out Frederik Meijer Gardens- regardless of the season, these gardens never disappoint. The grounds are so beautiful, and every corner makes for the best photo opp. We loved going on a self-guided tour along the sculptures while trying to interpret their meanings. You can easily spend a couple of hours here exploring everything these gardens have to offer.
Go on a Ghost Tour- who would have thought that Grand Rapids is considered one of the most haunted cities in Michigan? We sure didn’t! We highly suggest going on a tour with Tours Around Michigan guided by Candice: she was awesome! We even got to experience a bit of activity, so that sure added to our experience. This is a walking tour, so we strongly suggest comfy shoes and appropriate clothing depending on the season.
Take a self-guided tour of the local wall art- as always: we love local street art. Grand Rapids offers a map of over 100 local murals that you can find while exploring the city. They always make for a great photo opp!
Hope this quick guide will let you experience Grand Rapids in the best way possible! You will have a blast, no matter what you end up doing here 😊
XoXo
Adri & Kam
Hozzászólások