In Grand Rapids, you can combine museum visits, local history, and nature experiences as different focuses for your stay. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and the Grand Rapids Art Museum offer different perspectives on history and art; trails, winter activities, and the Grand River round out the picture. When choosing a hotel, it can help to first consider which of these aspects interests you most.
Museums, Art, and Local History
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is a 54,000-square-foot educational and cultural facility in downtown Grand Rapids, on the banks of the Grand River. Its permanent exhibition offers insights into the lives of President and Mrs. Ford. The museum is also the final resting place of President Ford and Mrs. Ford. As a result, exhibits and remembrance come together at one institution.
Another glimpse into the city’s history can be found at the Calkins Law Office, dating to 1836. Located in southeast Grand Rapids, the building is the oldest timber-frame structure in the Grand River Valley. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is at a DASH stop; its current facility also includes the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium. These sites are quite different: a historic timber-frame building and a planetarium sit alongside the themes explored at the Ford Museum.
The Grand Rapids Art Museum’s collection ranges from paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs to design and modern craft. It includes more than 7,000 objects. The Discovery Gallery also offers an interactive space where children can engage with art at their own pace. The gallery is open during regular museum hours. Those interested in public-space design can also visit Rosa Parks Circle: the downtown plaza was designed by artist and architect Maya Lin.
Natural Spaces, Trails, and Activities
Parts of Millennium Park are in Grand Rapids. The park’s expansive natural areas provide a habitat for wildlife to thrive. The park also has a six-acre beach and a splash pad. Its trails extend for about 18 miles, and most are open to pedestrians and cyclists. This qualification is important when planning: the information applies to most trails, not necessarily every single one.
Winter also brings its own opportunities. Snowshoes and fat bikes are available to rent at Indian Trails Golf Course, and cross-country skiing is permitted on the course’s trails. Since seasonal operations may change, it’s a good idea to check rental availability before your visit. Kayaking on the Grand River is also among the recreational activities offered by Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation.
These options offer different ways to spend your time in the city: museums and collections, local history and design, trails and natural spaces, or winter and river activities. If you’re looking for hotels in Grand Rapids, these differences can help you tailor your stay to your interests.
Explore more destinations: Caledonia, Wyoming, Grandville, Ada, Plainfield Township, Kentwood.
For the regional travel overview: Kent.
