Jump into West Michigan’s Best Splash Pads

Splash pads are a great way to cool off during hot summer days, and also a great activity for families to enjoy together during warmer weather. West Michigan has plenty of fun parks and splash pads to choose from—so we’ve compiled a list of the best ones for you!

Here are some of the most fun splash pads for kids in the West Michigan area:

Image from Unsplash

Indoor Water Parks

Gold Rush Waterpark

For a special treat, we’ve included some indoor water parks for your family to enjoy! This waterpark has something for everyone, from thrilling water slides to lazy rivers and wave pools. This park is also family-friendly with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing day by the pool or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Gold Rush Waterpark is definitely worth a visit.

Grand Rapids

Millennium Park

Located in Grand Rapids, the Millennium Park Splashpad is a popular spot for families. It features a variety of water features like fountains, sprayers, and water jets that kids can run through and play with at their leisure. The splash pad is free and open to the public, and there are plenty of picnic tables and benches available for families to use. The season begins May first and ends October 31 and the hours are 9 a.m. to sunset, daily. Tickets are free for children two and under but range from $2 to $4 for older kids and adults, which is so affordable! Definitely plan to visit this one once the warm season begins.

Highland Park

The Highland Park Splash Pad is another great option for families looking to cool off during hot summer days. Located in Grand Rapids, the splash pad features a variety of water features like fountains, in-ground jets, and water sprayers. The splash pad is free and open to the public, and there are plenty of picnic tables and benches available for families to use. The park also has a playground, picnic area, and basketball court—making it a great place for families to spend the day. Side note, kids will love how they can jump through the different shapes of water sprayers!

Riverside Park

Riverside Park Splashpad is located in Grand Rapids and is a great place for kids to cool off during hot summer days. It features a variety of water features like fountains, in-ground jets, and a water tunnel. The splash pad is free and open to the public with plenty of picnic tables and benches available for families to use. They are open usually beginning in May and run daily from 2 to 6 p.m.

Aberdeen Park

Aberdeen park isn’t just a splash pad, they have grills for gatherings, basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and tons of fun park equipment for the kiddos to play on. Admission ranges from $1 to $5, so it’s very affordable and they take cash or credit as well! Splash pad opens with regular hours on July fourth, according to the website linked above. You can click that link to learn more info about this West Michigan splash pad location.

Zeeland

City of Zeeland

This is one of the best splash pads you can visit in the area! With lots of fun water fountains, interactive water activities, and more—you won’t want to miss out with this one! Bring the whole family down between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. from Monday to Saturday or noon to 9 p.m. on Sundays, starting on Memorial Day and ending on Labor Day. Admission is free and so is the fun, so make sure to come on down to the Zeeland splash pad this summer season!

Muskegon

City of Muskegon

Located in downtown Muskegon, this Splash Pad is a plethora of watery, fun activities! The City of Muskegon splash pad opens the first Saturday in May and runs through the third Saturday in September. The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. It’s near the waterfront by plenty of food and the center for performing arts, so this location has the potential to fill a whole day of fun for you and your family!

Jenison

Maplewood Park

The Maplewood Park Splashpad in Jenison is a newer addition to the area and has quickly become a popular spot for families. The splash pad features a variety of water features like fountains, water cannons, and in-ground jets. The splash pad is free and open to the public and is surrounded by a large playground and picnic area.

Kalamazoo

Florence Street

Florence Street Splashpad is located in downtown Kalamazoo and is a great place for kids to cool off during hot summer days. It features a variety of water features like fountains, in-ground jets, and a water tunnel. The splash pad is free and open to the public, and there are plenty of picnic tables and benches available for families to use.

Beautiful Waterfronts

Kollen Park

The Kollen Park Splashpad in Holland is a great spot for families looking to cool off. The splash pad features a variety of water features like water cannons, fountains, and in-ground jets. The splash pad is free and open to the public and is surrounded by a large, grassy area that’s perfect for picnics and playing games.

Oval Beach

Located in Saugatuck, Michigan, Oval Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the country. With its soft sand, clear water, and beautiful dunes, it’s a great place to spend a day in the sun. The park also has a picnic area, a playground, and a concession stand.

Muskegon State Park

Located in Muskegon, Michigan, this state park offers over 1,200 acres of land and two miles of beach along Lake Michigan. With hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a playground—there’s plenty to do here. The park also has a picnic area and a campground for overnight stays.

These are just a few of the many fun splash pads for kids in West Michigan. Whether you’re looking for a quick way to cool off on a hot summer day or a fun place to take the kids, these splash pads are sure to provide hours of entertainment for the entire family.

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Find other fun things to do in the West Michigan area—here!

Dancing with the Local Stars Enters Season 15

Once again, the 2023 Dancing with the Local Stars (DWLS) takes place on February 24 through 25 at the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center at 460 W. Western Ave. in Muskegon. These fifteen years of fun and frolic have netted thousands of dollars for local charities and it couldn’t be more enjoyable or entertaining if they tried!

The theme this year is “Fabulous 50s” and 38 local dignitaries, business owners, and civil servants will join twelve professional dancers during the two-day event. Proceeds will support local programs and food pantries in Muskegon County and parts of Oceana and Ottawa counties.

Last year’s entertainment raised $258,240 and was the biggest-ever event! Funds are generally raised by the dancers, sponsors, and through community donations. Cast members also organize a variety of fundraising activities, in addition to distributing community canisters throughout the area.

Mary Kendall, the DWLS co-chair, has no doubts that this year’s event will again break records.

“Between the pandemic and the fluctuating economy, one thing has remained certain: this community’s love and support of others,” Kendall said. “Dancing With the Local Stars remains the community event that everyone can count on to make an impact in a fun and engaging way.“

The full lineup of community dancers includes Wander West Michigan’s own Sara Moore, owner/creator of the company.

“I am so excited to be joining this diverse group of individuals who are all coming together to help the local community,” says Moore. “It’s going to be a great show!”

Meet the Local Stars:

• Liberty Abraham, Nurse Practitioner at Premier Health MD
• Amanda Alexander, Senior Vice President of Sales at iHeartMedia West Michigan
• Beth Bessinger, Artist and Retired Teacher
• Daniel Bonner, Outdoor Adventure Specialist at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
• Thea Brown, Support Coordinator at Senior Resources of West Michigan
• Josh Bytwerk, Executive Director of Love in Action Tri-Cities
• Andrew Cutler, President of Muskegon Brake and Tire
• Mario Flores, Branch Manager of VanDyk Mortgage Corporation
• Eddie Fortenbacher, Founder and Co-Owner of Fort Freight, LLC
• Jeff Fortenbacher, CEO of Access Health
• Josh Foster, Owner of Ade’s Collision Service
• Karmen Gearhart, Certified Financial Planner and Co-Founder of Kar-Mel Financial Planners
• David Hatter, Business Analyst at Skytron of Grand Rapids
• Mike Huston, CPA, Finance Director for the City of North Muskegon
• Nichole Imhoff, Travel Registered Nurse
• Samantha Jaggassar, RN, Health and Science Academy Instructor at Muskegon Career Tech Center and Teacher at Baker College-Muskegon
• Michael King, General Manager of Cannon-Muskegon Corporation
• Nichole Lamb, Family Nurse Practitioner at Muskegon Family Care
• Aaron Langlois, Outside Processing Buyer for GE Aerospace and Mayor of Roosevelt Park
• Leigh Lohman, Residential Associate Broker at Capstone and the Owner of Unsalted Living
• Dave Matuzeski, Co-Owner and Photographer for RIVERSEDGE Lifestyle Photography & RE Still+Motion
• LeighAnn Mikesell, Deputy City Manager of Muskegon
• Mike Miller, Executive Director of Love, INC of Muskegon
• Sara Moore, Owner/Creator of Wander West Michigan
• Emily Morgenstern, Director of Marketing and Advocacy at Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce
• Jon Munson, Sales Guru at Johnson Auto Sales
• Katie Norton, Senior Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Muskegon County
• Chelsea Robinson, Food Service Director at AgeWell Services of West Michigan
• Kendrah Robinson, Senior Assistant-Felony Division, Muskegon Public Defender’s Office
• Maria Secord, Community Relations and Social Media Director at Betten Baker of Muskegon
• Abby Selby, CPA, Founder of Selby Tax and Accounting, PC, Muskegon and Grand Haven
• Joshua Spyker, Designer at Blended Furniture Market
• Samara Tobar, Human Resources Business Partner at ABC Technologies
• Carly Wasserman, Respiratory Therapist at Trinity Health
• Toni Winskas, President of Muskegon Federal Credit Union
• Julie Witte, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Muskegon Family Care
• Bob Zabavski, Registered Nurse at Mary Free Bed at Home
• Carly Adams, Diagnostic Medical Sonographer at Spectrum Health Butterworth and Blodgett Hospital

Make sure to check out the other fun things to do in the Muskegon area, like dining, hitting the beach or checking out the Muskegon Luge Adventure Park!

Amway Plaza Hotel Isn’t Good – It’s Grand.

If you’re looking for the absolute best choice for western Michigan hotels, The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is where you need to stay. Since 1913, the Amway (formally the Pantlind Hotel) has provided travelers with its modern amenities and classically elegant feel. It is the perfect hotel destination for all travelers in western Michigan.

Keep reading below to learn about all the fabulous packages, special features, and more that The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel has to offer. We can’t wait to see you there!

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used, which means if you purchase via my link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

All photos by Farmers Fotos!

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History

Did you know the Amway used to be called, “The Pantlind Hotel” and started development in 1913? Well, now you do! During a historical time and on President Ford’s birthday, the now Amway Grand sets its own world records with one of the largest gold leaf ceilings and two beautiful chandeliers located directly in the lobby. In 1981, the Pantlind reopened as the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and was restored to its original glory and popularity. The glass tower was added in 1983 and the rest is… well, history! The Amway Grand continues its luxurious legacy today and continues to serve its patrons with dedication.

Modern Design, Traditional Elegance, and Unmatched Service

When you enter the Amway Grand, you’re greeted by pure elegance—with its luscious green velvet seating, cascading crystal chandeliers, and, frankly, royal entryway. Let’s face it, you’re bound to feel like you’ve entered your own castle! As a matter a fact, it can be your castle for a day, week, or more! All year round, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel has fantastic packages and pricing depending on the season. Keep reading for details on rooms, how to book, and more.

Rooms and Packages

Read below for room pricing examples and possibilities for your stay or simply go to their website by clicking here. There are 656 guest rooms and eight different types for guests to select. During certain seasons, they even feature uniquely curated holiday packages that include special features only available that time of year!

Rooms:

• CLASSIC GUEST ROOMS
• RIVER VIEW ROOMS
• ONE KING BED SUPERIOR ROOM
• SUPERIOR TWO QUEEN
• ONE KING BED JUNIOR SUITES
• TOWER LUXURY SUITES
• PLAZA LUXURY SUITES
• PLAZA EXECUTIVE SUITES

Each room, no matter the type, is designed for the pure comfort of the modern traveler. They’ll make you feel at home, but without losing the feeling that you’re being treated luxuriously!

Packages:

There are four packages to choose from that will help you save money and celebrate any event throughout the year:

• BED & BREAKFAST PACKAGE
• WOLFGANG PUCK PACKAGE
• CELEBRATION PACKAGE
• RUTH’S CHRIS PACKAGE

These packages exist so that you have everything you need during your stay. If you desire, you won’t even need to leave the hotel, as they have coffee, restaurants, and even a spa to cater to your every whim. Keep reading to find out more!

Event Spaces and Amenities

Amway Grand has award winning meeting and event spaces, throwing events such as Ballroom Bashes or even corporate parties. With 47,120 square feet, delicious in-house catering and the best service, they have won “Best of” in Smart Meetings Magazine for five years now.

Spaces:

• SPA AND SALON
• BALLROOMS
• MEETING SPACES
• CATERING
• AUDIO VISUAL
• DEVOS PLACE CONVENTION CENTER
• ROOFTOP PICKLEBALL

Amenities:

• GUEST ROOM AMENITIES
• BUSINESS SERVICES
• FITNESS CENTER
• CONCIERGE
• HOTEL SHOPS
• CAKE ORDERS

Guest Services:

Guests of the Amway Grand Plaza can enjoy the following services:

• Safety deposit boxes
• Notary service
• Complimentary wireless internet in common areas and guest rooms
• 24-hour onsite security
• Luggage storage
• Guest laundry
• Dry cleaning services
• Upgrade Your Stay
• There are a number of ways to upgrade your stay. Here are just a few suggestions:
• Parking: Valet and self-parking, as well as oversized vehicle parking
• Shoeshine Services: Available in the lobby
• Water: Take a swim in their pool or a soak in the sauna
• Spa: Treat yourself to a trip to their spa and salon
• Food: Dine in one of their spectacular restaurants

I don’t know about you, but I certainly can’t wait for an excuse to make a booking at this fabulous Grand Rapids hotel location!

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Check out other places to stay in Grand Rapids!

Best of Winter Outdoor Dining in Grand Rapids

The team at Wander West Michigan has done it again, making it the easiest it’s ever been to find the perfect winter outdoor dining spaces you just have to visit this Holiday season. Looking for a “treat yourself” day or couples night out? A family outing? These outdoor dining spaces are all heated too—because who can be bothered with the cold anyway? (Sorry Elsa!)

Whatever the case, we’ve got an exhaustive list of the best winter, outdoor, eating and event spaces for all of your holiday and winter festivities. Heated igloos, mini-greenhouses, individual outdoor dining shacks, covered patios and more await you, below.

Keep scrolling to see these amazing destinations or add this page to your bookmarks for safe keeping and easy access for future winter dining and activities!

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

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Field & Fire Cafe – Established in 2016

820 Monroe Avenue, NW, Suite 100, Grand Rapids

To kick off our winter outdoor dining recommendations for Grand Rapids, this destination has four individual greenhouses—each with the ability to seat four people! These cozy outdoor seating spaces are first-come, first-serve. It’s important to note this is a cafe atmosphere, with breakfast and brunch options as well as their original bakery that became the current Field & Fire Cafe.

Field & Fire Cafe boasts that their greenhouses range at a temperature at least 20 degrees above the outside temperature—making it perfect for an intimate group setting or a small family outing to cozy up together, have warm drinks, and some tasty bakery treats!

There are conveniently placed barcodes outside of each of the greenhouses which guests are encouraged to use to order from.

What do you think… would you visit this spot?

Uccello’s Ristorante

122 Monroe Center or 2630 E. Beltline Avenue, SE, Grand Rapids

If you’re looking for an outdoor dining area, during the winter season with bigger meal options and the ability to seat a larger group, this might be the spot for you!

This dining locale carries food items like pizza, burgers, and more and features a propane-heated, covered patio. The space is called “The Atrium” and can hold up to 60 people—making for a wonderful ambiance. Watch out, though, because this comfy-cozy spot for outdoor seating is first-come, first-serve as well.

Would you try this atrium out?

House of Wine

53 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids

Similar to the first item on our list, this outdoor destination has individual covered spaces that look like mini houses! Each personal shack is heated conveniently for guests and each building can hold up to four people at a time. There’s a major bonus though… huts are dog friendly!

These huts do require a reservation ahead of time and you must use the space for at least one hour. They also have alcoholic drinks to-go, such as mulled wine, cider, Irish coffees, and other delicious beverages.

Farmhaus Cider Co.

5025 Stanton Street, Hudsonville

These outdoor dining igloos cost $15 per 50-minute time slot. Neither the outdoor or indoor dining requires reservations, but they’re first come first serve—so make sure to call ahead if you’d like to know about availability. As the name rightly states, this unique western Michigan destination is sought after for its delicious and unique ciders. Get all the advantages of indoor dining outside in these fun, dome-shaped huts!

If you’re looking for an outdoor getaway in a wintery-woodsy setting, this is definitely the spot for you and yours!

The Holiday Bar

801 5th Street NW, Grand Rapids

This holiday-themed outdoor dining destination features two options for patrons—an open patio or a covered pavilion. The patio holds up to 25 people and is first-come, first-serve while the pavilion has two large tables and a full service bar. You can always call ahead to see what the availabilities for outdoor seating are like on any given day!

Friesian Gastro Pub

720 Michigan Street NE, Grand Rapids

At this unique destination, you’ll get to enjoy your meal in a heated and cozy outdoor patio, under a sky of sparkling string lights. This destination does require reservations that can be made through Open Table.

Highly recommend this for those seeking an outdoor winter experience that is relaxing and cozy.

Friesian Gastro Pub | photo via @goodvibesgrandrapids

The Winchester

648 Wealthy Street SE, Grand Rapids

The Winchester boasts an enclosed, outdoor, heated patio with walk-in seating. This Grand Rapids dining spot has a fantastic variety of high-quality dishes, bar items, and even catering options, if that’s what you’re looking for on your special night out. It boasts of a pub atmosphere, scrumptious food, and drinks at this delicious dining location!

Their sister location is hosting igloo dining this year and can be found below. (Donkey Taqueria)

*Important to note for patrons: The previous sister location entitled “Royals” is permanently closed.

Donkey Taqueria

665 Wealthy Street SE, Grand Rapids

At this destination, you get to experience not only the excitement of outdoor, heated, igloo dining… but also the taste of delicious Mexican food and yummy cocktails! Plus, the outdoor facilities hold up to six people, so be sure to book them quickly! Reservations can be made on their site here.

Stella’s Lounge

53 Commerce Avenue Southwest Grand Rapids

One of the most exciting things about this location—besides the outdoor seating—is the Thursday night burger specials! Every Thursday when you purchase a drink, you get $5 off one of their famous burgers—and, if case you haven’t heard, they’re sensational! They also have many more specials throughout the week, making them a great destination for budget-friendly food seekers. Not only do they have great food and drinks, but they also have vintage arcade games to play like Pacman, Donkey Kong, Tron, and more.

New Holland Brewing

417 Bridge Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

This might be one of my favorite destinations on the list! This brewery has just added a retractable, outdoor roof for its all-season and full service bier garden. NHB also features tons of weekly specials on drinks and food, making it a truly welcoming space and one that you can visit for any holiday! During the winter, the retractable roof features its own heating source making it a unique and enjoyable experience for summer and winter babies alike.

GRNoir Wine and Jazz

35 Division Avenue South, Grand Rapids

For a more formal option, GRNoir is a great choice. They feature live jazz music every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. There is both walk-in seating and the ability to make reservations. However, walk-ins are first-come, first-serve so be sure to plan ahead and reserve your spot if you’ve got this location in mind for a specific date! The seats are limited to 75 minutes per guest(s) but can possibly be extended per request, depending on the waitlist that day.

Get your cute winter gear: Here!

Make it a weekend! Book your Grand Rapids Hotel Room

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