The apple orchards in Michigan have provided families with plenty to do (and eat) in the autumn for generations. There’s just something special about going Michigan apple picking and enjoying a warm homemade donut with a cup of cider from a Michigan cider mill.
While West Michigan boasts some of the best Michigan apple orchards, Grand Rapids’ donuts will always leave you wanting more. Here are the best orchards and donut spots in West Michigan and Grand Rapids.
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!
Look no further than Robinette’s Orchard if you’re looking for apple picking, corn mazes, fresh apple cider, and some of the best Grand Rapids donuts. For over 100 years, they’ve been growing apples and making cider at this popular historic farm north of Grand Rapids. They also offer tastings and bottles of their wines and ciders made in-house.
Robinette’s Michigan cider and donuts are the perfect fall treat. You can watch workers crush the apples at the cider mill and fill up your jug of fresh cider literally in front of you. Pair a cup of hot cider with a warm cinnamon or apple donut from Robinette’s Bakery, and you won’t be disappointed.
Robinette’s has u-pick apples and a corn maze for you to get lost in. There is also wine tasting and a gift shop. Visit Robinette’s activities page for details.
If you do visit, make sure to give yourself some extra time because Robinette’s is a very popular apple orchard in Michigan and can get busy at peak times in the fall.
Moelker Orchards is a Greater Grand Rapids orchard west of the city and has plenty of family fun to offer. They grow apples, peaches, pears, plums, and cherries, plus have a pumpkin patch in the fall.
Moekler’s Old Bell Bakery has warm apple cinnamon, pumpkin, and buttermilk donuts to enjoy after a day of Michigan apple picking. On top of that, they also make their own apple dumplings and creamy fudge for you to sink your sweet tooth into!
For some family fun, take a horse-drawn wagon ride or take a kid-friendly guided tour of the orchard. To see what events are happening now, visit the Moelker fall fun page.
If you’re looking for the quintessential west Michigan fall farm experience, you’ll find it at Post Family Farm in Hudsonville. Autumn brings a harvest of fall produce and family activities for you and your family to check out.
Take a hayride to the u-pick pumpkin patch and find the perfect one for your Jack-o’-lantern. Plus, there’s an outdoor kiddie corral, a covered straw play area, and giant tube slides for the little ones.
You can’t leave the Post Family Farm before you try one of their homemade pumpkin donuts with a glass of cider. Iced or with cinnamon sugar, the donuts will leave you bringing home a dozen to enjoy later.
The farm also offers fall evening events, with moonlit wagon rides, bonfires with marshmallows, and more. For details, visit the Post Family Farm site.
Just a touch north of Grand Rapids nestled along the main stretch of Michigan’s fruit-growing region, lies Fruit Ridge Hayrides in Kent City.
Head to “The Ridge” to find u-pick apples and pumpkins. In addition to u-pick, they also offer pony rides, horse-drawn hayrides, a corn maze, a petting zoo, and more!
If you need a break from all the fall fun, Fruit Ridge Hayrides offers fresh homemade apple spice donuts and apple cider. Need something a little more? They also offer hotdogs, nachos, and more for your enjoyment. Grab your snack and head to the picnic area with a bonfire to help keep you warm while you indulge.
While they don’t offer apple picking or donuts, Hill Bros is worth a stop because they press some of the best award-winning apple cider in the area. This six-generation apple farm focuses on quality above all else. They also sell their Michigan apples in the fall and sell jams and jellies in their farm market.
Made fresh on the farm, their cider is UV treated with no preservatives. Stop by and grab a gallon mid-September through January and see why West Michiganders swear by the stuff.
Located on 6 Mile Road in Grand Rapids, Dunneback has been a staple fall excursion for many Michiganders for generations. Apple picking starts in September with a whole variety of Michigan apples available, including Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Braeburn, and more! Another great West Michigan Apple Orchard experience!
Besides apple picking, you can find your next jack o’lantern in Dunneback’s pumpkin patch, get lost in a corn maze, take in some weekly live music, and (perhaps best of all) enjoy a craft beer, hard cider or wine in the taproom.
Be sure to take the kids on the weekends to take advantage of Fall Fun Land with five new attractions this year, including a mega slide, bounce pad, corny bin, and more!
Schwallier’s Farm has been a Sparta family fun destination since 1989. It offers u-pick apples and pumpkins, kids’ play area, a corn maze, a petting barn, and rides around the farm on a cow train. You can even schedule private bonfires with your family or friends on the weekend evenings in the fall for a unique country experience right on the farm. They also offer a great adventure going Michigan apple picking!
Don’t forget to check out the new back 40! Children and adults alike will enjoy running around among a John Deere combine tractor, rock maze, bouncy ball course, and a straw mountain. Top it off by shooting some apples out of their brand-new apple cannons!
Schwallier’s farm market also has warm donuts, fruit pies, and cider for you to enjoy at the farm or take home with you. They make apple cinnamon and pumpkin spice donuts topped with a variety of things, including sugar, salted caramel icing, and cream cheese.
Make plans to visit Schwallier’s Country Basket between August and October. For more details, see their website.
Sprinkles Donut Shop has some of the best Grand Rapids donuts and cinnamon rolls. They’re somehow classic recipes but feel modern at the same time. There are four locations in Ada, Allendale, Rockford, and Hudsonville.
The owner’s dad who founded the business used to say, “A donut is more than flour, sugar, and water…it takes equal parts love and experience with a dash of good old fashion intuition,” and that definitely comes across in the donuts made here. You’ll find classic cake and yeast donuts that are fluffy and flavorful. There are also cinnamon rolls that are out of this world (I personally recommend the cherry-frosted cinnamon roll, it can’t be beaten).
Marge’s has been a staple of Wyoming, MI for over 40 years. This bakery has a large variety of donuts, muffins, and danishes, and even offers custom donut and cookie designs for your special occasion.
Marge’s Donut Den has a classic diner vibe, even down to the friendly atmosphere of regulars grabbing their daily coffee and donut. There’s an unbelievable selection made fresh each day, from bird’s nest donuts to peanut butter-filled donuts. The apple fritters are something special, too.
This Westside Grand Rapids donut shop is the perfect place to stop for donuts and coffee before you head out to the Fruit Ridge orchards.
They switch up their varieties daily and offer a bunch of fall favorites, including apple crisp donuts and pumpkin cream cheese muffins.
It’s best to get in early so you can pick the freshest donuts. If you want an idea of what’s available, they update the Sandy’s Donut House Facebook regularly with what they’re baking.
Fall is my favorite West Michigan season, hands down. The cider starts flowing, ArtPrize is in full swing, the hiking trails burst with color, and the wind off the lakeshore is crisp and brisk. There are so many things to do in Michigan in the fall and fall activities, in Grand Rapids, are as abundant as the apples falling off the trees! From pumpkin patches to fine wine tasting, Grand Rapids covers the full spectrum of autumn experiences.
Read on for the top fall things to do in Grand Rapids and make it an unforgettable autumn, year after year.
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!
Fall is the time to make sure you visit Robinette’s Orchard. For over 100 years, they’ve been growing apples and making cider at this popular historic farm north of Grand Rapids. They also offer tastings and bottles of their wines and ciders made in-house.
Robinette’s cider and donuts are the perfect fall treat. You can watch workers crush the apples at the cider mill and fill up your jug of fresh cider literally in front of you. Pair a cup of hot cider with a warm cinnamon or apple donut from Robinette’s Bakery, and you won’t be disappointed.
Robinette’s has u-pick apples and a corn maze you can get lost in. There’s also wine tasting and a gift shop. Visit Robinette’s activities page for details.
If you do visit, make sure to give yourself some extra time because Robinette’s can get busy at peak times in the fall.
Other Grand Rapids Orchards and Cider Mills to Check Out:
Located on 6 Mile Road in Grand Rapids, Ed Dunneback and Girls Farm Market has been a staple fall excursion for many Michiganders for generations. They have a huge selection of pumpkins of every size, from small decor gourds to big pumpkins perfect for carving.
Along with the pumpkin patch, you can pick apples, take in some weekly live music, and (perhaps best of all) enjoy a craft beer, hard cider, or wine in the taproom.
When it’s fall, you’ve gotta do a corn maze, and the one at Deep Roots Produce is certainly a-maze-ing! (Sorry, I’m not so sorry—haha!)
Located southeast of Grand Rapids in Alto, the Deep Roots Produce farm market has been hosting its corn maze for a couple of years now, but the latest design is, once again, something special.
In 2022, the 10-acre maze paid tribute to no other than Happy Gilmore himself! In this Happy Gilmore-themed corn maze, you’ll try your hand at finding your way through golf clubs, golf balls, and Happy’s head! There’s even a space in the maze to work on your putting game!
The maze offers three trails, all differing in length and difficulty. Some nights they also do a haunted or glow night in the corn maze! Come get lost with your family and friends, and don’t forget to pick up some fresh produce and visit the petting zoo when you’re done.
Happening in the fall every other year, ArtPrize is an art extravaganza at its biggest and boldest. Since 2009, a quarter of a million people descend on Grand Rapids as the city itself is transformed into an art exhibit for two weeks. Over 150 venues around the area feature works done by amateurs and professionals, while everyone votes on which one will win the $400,000 public and juried prizes and $200,000 in artist grants.
Walking between the venues, in the comfortable fall air, is a great way to see more of the city and visit some places you haven’t been to before.
More About ArtPrize
The best place to start with ArtPrize is downtown. You can take in a lot of pieces just by visiting the Public Museum, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, DeVos Place, The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, and, of course, the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
However, it’s also a great opportunity to check out the smaller venues you haven’t visited before. You may just discover your new favorite restaurant or shop in the city.
ArtPrize 2023 takes place from September 14 to October 1, 2023. You can visit ArtPrize’s venues page now to plan what you want to see and do.
Zoo Goes Boo at John Ball Zoo (JBZ) is a memorable event for kids and families. Dress up as your favorite monsters or superheroes and walk through decorated paths while kids trick-or-treat through stands and tents set up by community businesses and organizations. It’s a fun way to see lots of costumes, get a taste of the Halloween spirit before the big night, and visit all the animals!
More About John Ball Zoo
Fun things to do at John Ball Zoo include funicular rides to the top of the property (which has great views of downtown Grand Rapids), taking a camel ride, and running through the Sky Trail Ropes Course.
Don’t miss Crawford Tigers of the Realm, a newer habitat that lets you get up close and center with the John Ball Zoo’s tigers. You may see them roaming between the trees or taking a bath in their pool. The red pandas near the tiger exhibit are a must-see, too.
If you’re looking for a Grand Rapids aquarium, JBZ’s Van Andel Living Shores Aquarium allows you to see Magellanic penguins flying through the water as the waves quickly go in and out of the tide pool.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park (Meijer Gardens) is a great place to be when the colors of the trees are changing, and the crisp air is perfect for a walk around the sculptures and horticulture. The autumn foliage is really a sight to see! Mums take over the outdoor gardens with deep reds, purples, and oranges, and the Michigan Farm Garden is in full harvest mode with heirloom vegetables and gigantic pumpkins large enough to sit on.
Meijer Gardens boasts eight different garden displays, including the Earl and Donnalee Holton Arid Garden, the Earl and Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor, and the Kenneth E. Nelson Carnivorous Plant House.
The hot and humid Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory is a five-story greenhouse filled with tropical plants and birds. In the spring, it holds the largest tropical butterfly exhibit in the US, with 60 plus different species flittering freely around the conservatory.
Built in 2015, The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden is something straight out of Kyoto. Plants, sculptures, and an authentic Japanese Teahouse surround a tranquil lake. There’s also a bonsai garden and Cherry Tree Promenade to enjoy.
The Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse changes display throughout the year and, in the winter months, features a model train chugging through charming models of the Grand Rapids buildings and landmarks.
The outdoor sculpture park has dozens of art pieces for you to enjoy. A must-see for everyone is The American Horse, a 24-foot-tall cast based on a piece by Leonardo da Vinci. It’s the perfect photo opportunity and is surrounded by grassy hills where you can get a better view of the park and relax.
If you bring kids to Meijer Gardens, you can’t go wrong with the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. A water table replica of the Great Lakes, an entire sensory garden, and a fantastic wooden playhouse are just some of the things that will thrill (and tire out) your kiddos.
I could go on and on about what to see at Meijer Gardens, but I’ll leave some surprises for you to discover on your next trip there. Visit the Meijer Gardens website to start planning.
Taking place this fall in November, the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival is an established tasting event in West Michigan. More than 1,500 bottles of wines, beer, cider, and more are yours for the tasting, along with unique and signature foods from local Grand Rapids restaurants.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of the finest wines and gourmet food, or someone completely new looking for a way to learn more and break into the world of exceptional food and drink—this festival will surely introduce you to some new favorites.
Click here to learn more and pick up your tickets to attend.
Photo provided by Showspan/Beer, Wine and Food Festival
Grab a stein and a wurst and answer the call of the alphorns at Grand Rapids’ Oktoberfest!
Oktoberfest brings German-style beir and wein to Riverside Park for one weekend in the fall. Live music and bands play throughout the event, usually featuring polka bands and traditional alphorns. There are also games and competitions like the keg throw and stein-holding competitions (don’t know what that is? Neither did I—check the rules out here). The cutest event by far is the Dachshund Dash, which has the little wiener dogs galloping through a course.
There are scenic drives all over West Michigan, but they’re never as beautiful as they are when at peak color during the fall season.
When the reds, oranges, and yellows really start to pop, hit the road with these maps from the Kent County Road Commission. You’ll see some great views and spectacular colors that show off what this area offers. The maps also mark some of the best parks to stop at along the route.
Slow down and really take in the fall splendor with a walk through the Calvin University Ecosystem Preserve. Located just outside downtown Grand Rapids, the ecosystem preserve is a system of wooded trails through 100+ acres of forest.
Crunch through the leaves as you spot squirrels burying nuts for winter and, if you’re lucky, a doe and her fawn moving through the trees. There’s a pond overlooking that’s idyllic in the fall, with the colorful leaves reflecting off the water.
It’s free to access the Calvin University Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens. To start planning your visit, click here.
Twenty minutes north of Grand Rapids off of Route 37 you’ll find Sparta—a beautiful Michigan town known for its delicious restaurants, fun events, and bountiful orchards. There are plenty of things to do in Sparta throughout the year, including Sparta Town and Country Days and the Sparta Celtic Festival.
Keep reading for a guide on how to spend the perfect day in Sparta and enjoy everything this historic west Michigan town has to offer.
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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Eat and Drink
Sparta restaurants offer a lot of variety, from diners and pubs to some of the best Mexican food in the area.
Maxine’s Family Restaurant in Sparta is your quintessential family diner experience, with breakfast specials that fill the plate and big fluffy omelets. Order a stack of pancakes or some corn beef hash to start your morning in Sparta off right.
Maxine’s also serves burgers and sandwiches for lunch.
Located in downtown Sparta, wood-fired pizzas, lasagna specials, and strombolis await you at Angela’s Italian Restaurant. It’s the perfect place to unwind and grab a slice of your favorite hand-tossed pizza or enjoy a huge helping of lasagna. Everything is made with fresh ingredients and the portions will definitely leave you stuffed.
If you ask a Spartan which restaurant to check out when you’re in town, nine times out of ten they’ll tell you to get a taco or burrito at Downtown Trini’s. Just down the road from Angela’s, Trini’s has been part of the Sparta community since 1994, serving authentic Mexican cuisine and their house Sangria.
Order the Trini’s Big Nasty burrito, overstuffed with steak, chicken, taco meat, and more. There are all kinds of tacos to try, including Joe’s Tacos—deep-fried with taco meat, chicken, or steak.
Ice cream is the perfect way to cap off a day of fun, and Sparta Tasty Treat has a full menu of cones, shakes, and specialty sundaes to choose from. They often have specials, too, such as red, white, and blue parfaits on Independence Day. Follow them on Facebook for updates on the latest specials.
There’s still plenty of things to do in Sparta, Michigan after the sun goes down. It’s time to grab a drink or hit the bowling lanes.
Brick Haus Brews:This downtown Sparta brewpub has a full bar and a full food menu. Stop in and enjoy wood-fired pizza or the signature, Drunken Haus Pasta, paired with your favorite local craft beer.
Sparta Pub:This hometown bar and restaurant has live music and drink specials on the weekends. It also has some great food, including dinners you may not expect—like a bistro steak dinner and a calamari platter.
Sparta Lanes and The Garden Patch: For a fun night with friends, lace up your bowling shoes and go for a turkey at Sparta Lanes Bowling Center. The bowling center also has a restaurant, The Garden Patch, serving up a full menu of pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, and more.
Sparta’s beautiful and iconic Rogers Park is a cornerstone of downtown Sparta. Its huge playground, splash pad, weekly concerts, and paved trails make it the spot to spend a day in Sparta—no matter your age.
The play structures at Rogers Park are quite impressive and include a wheelchair swing. Kids can spend hours climbing and sliding on the playground. The splash pad shoots jets of water at any child (or adult) who dares to run across it.
Sparta’s Concerts in the Park take place Wednesday nights throughout the summer at the wooden concert pavilion. Come spend an evening with local bands and entertainers. Visit Sparta Today’s Facebook page for more info and to see what concerts are coming up.
You can also enjoy walking the trails along Nash Creek and grab some ice cream at Sundaes at the Park, the ice cream shop right next to Rogers Park.
It may be the biggest one, but Rogers Park isn’t the only park in Sparta, Michigan. Here are a few you may want to visit:
Sparta Sports Park:The new Sparta Sports Park has 11 sports fields and courts to meet any need, from baseball and soccer fields to a disc golf course. There are also trails to walk around, too. Check the calendar and see what pick-up games you can get in on.
Spartan Park: Spartan Park is Sparta’s skate park. It features ramps and rails for your amateur skateboarder or rollerblader, along with a basketball/street hockey court, and a kid’s play structure.
Long Lake Park: Located northeast of Sparta, this nature park offers a public beach, swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating at Long Lake.
Grab a bushel of iconic Michigan apples or pick your own at The Ridge, just west of Sparta. The premier spot for orchards in Michigan, fruit and other produce is in abundance at The Ridge no matter the season.
Schwallier’s Farm has been a family fun destination since 1989. It offers u-pick apples and pumpkins, kids play area, a corn maze, a petting barn, and rides around the farm on a cow train. You can even schedule private bonfires with your family or friends on the weekend evenings in the fall for a unique country experience, right on the farm.
Schwallier’s farm market also has warm donuts and raw honey among the fresh fruits and produce.
Make plans to visit Schwallier’s Country Basket between August and October. For more details, see their website.
Visiting this family-run Michigan cider mill in the fall for some of the best-unpasteurized apple cider on The Ridge. Klein blends different apples into their cider depending on what’s in season—so the taste is always changing and evolving. Klein Market has plenty of fresh produce throughout the year, including bell peppers, cucumbers, peaches, plums, sweet corn, and more. Pick up a carving pumpkin in the fall so you’re ready for Halloween.
Ten minutes south of Sparta, Michigan is Bretching Farms, offering u-pick on a wide variety of fruits and veggies. Depending on the season, you can pick tomatoes, peppers, beans, pumpkins, plums, blackberries, and more! You can even grab some delicious pickles at Bretching.
Sparta hosts a bunch of fun events and festivals throughout the year. Sparta Town and Country Days and its Celtic Festival are huge draws. Here are a few Sparta events you won’t want to miss:
Sparta Town and Country Days: This annual festival brings bands, food trucks, and market stalls to downtown Sparta for four days of fun and celebration. There are plenty of crafts and events for kids to check out as well. Bring the family to the parade and fireworks that really put an exclamation mark at the end of the celebration.
Sparta Celtic Festival:Sparta Celtic Fest is a family-friendly annual festival that happens on the second Saturday in August. The day is filled with Celtic music and traditional dances, as well as highland games and historical encampments. Admission to the Celtic Festival is free, so there’s no reason not to check it out!
Michigan Apple Fest:Celebrate everything apples on this sweet weekend in September. Sparta’s Michigan Apple Fest has a bunch of apple-filled contests including apple pie baking, apple peeling, apple eating, and even apple sling-shotting! There’s also live music and artisans selling their crafts and hand-made goods.
Located on Wealthy Street, Dime & Regal features a variety of hand-crafted items made locally by women makers and creatives. You can even see some of the amazing artists at work in the shop at the Regal Studio! Dime & Regal offers a variety of services in addition to their retail items including custom jewelry creation, jewelry repair, and bridal/wedding jewelry.
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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About Dime & Regal
Dime & Regal, located on Wealthy Street, is a curated collection of jewelry, gifts, stationery, candles, and so much more! All of these specialty items are handcrafted by women artists, makers, and designers. Dime & Regal’s mission is to provide a platform for women who are emerging as creative professionals and help connect them with their customers.
The storefront has been in operation since2015 and is owned and operated by Courtney Jones andSamantha McIntosh, both of whom are artists and makers. You can also shop at their online store- here!
Location
Shop
The storefront has a variety of items to browse and explore including necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, stationery, candles, pottery, prints, macrame, and other gift items.
Dime & Regal offers a variety of Bridal Jewelry options from engagement rings to bridal party jewelry sets. They can craft unique bridesmaids’ jewelry or create custom wedding bands. In addition, you have the option to work with their stationery designer to complete the wedding save the dates, invitations, and anything else you might need for your special day.
Wedding bands can be created in a wide range of designs, metal types, band widths, and custom accents to fit your personality. Options also include personalization, engravings, custom colors, and more!
Dime & Regal also makes it a point to use only ethically sourced material.
Jewelry Repairs of all kinds are also offered at Dime & Regal. These include ring resizing, ring facelift, jewelry cleaning, and custom repairs. Everything from putting a small prong back in place to a ring resizing- Dime & Regal can do it all!
Looking to have something custom-made? Dime & Regal specializes in creating unique pieces made just for you. Click here to book your consultation appointment.
Within Dime & Regal, Krista Pischner Studio creates hand-illustrated stationery designs for weddings and events. She can create save the dates, invitations and so much more. Krista offers semi- customizable ready-to-go designs or you can work with her to create a custom look.
Located in the back area of Dime & Regal is the Regal Studio. Here you can watch these amazing makers at work! Witness the creative process and the coming-to-life of their artist’s vision. Throughout the week, you will find various artists working here.
There are tons of great Michigan-made products that represent West Michigan. Everything from local guidebooks to apparel to beautiful artist creations. Check out the best of the best in the list below:
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!
No West Michigan visit is complete without a trip to the lakeshore to see the beautiful lighthouses! Read our guide to the lighthouses- here! Or pick up this great book below. Perfect for yourself or a gift!
The charming town of Lowell, Michigan, also known as the Showboat City, is nestled about 20 minutes east of Grand Rapids and boasts a wide variety of dining options and activities. Whether you’re new to the area or stopping by for the day, here’s a list of fun things you can enjoy in the quaint city of Lowell.
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Eat in Lowell
With Lowell’s wide array of dining options, everyone is bound to find exactly what they’re craving. Flat River Grill, a neighborhood restaurant that’s part of the Gilmore Group, highlights wood-fired entrées, such as the Rustic Grilled Cheese, Flat River Burger, or one of their many wood-fired pizza options. Enjoy your meal in one of the two unique dining spaces or on the four-season patio nestled along the Flat River and the famous Lowell Showboat. Make sure you head over on Wednesdays for their Wine Down Wednesday’s deal or their happy hour deals Tuesday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Get more information on their Wednesday special or take a look at their menu by clicking here.
Photos Provided by the Flat River Grill
If you’re craving more of a fall-off-the-bone, low and slow-cooked barbecue meal, head over to Main Street BBQ. Most of their menu is smoked for 12 plus hours and comes with mouthwatering sides and homemade dry rubs and sauces. Kick your taste buds into overdrive with their Spicy Main Street Sauce or devour the satisfying Kansas City Sweet Sauce. Check out their weekly specials including Ramen Day on Monday, Taco Tuesday, and Build Your Own Mac n Cheese Bowl on Thursdays!
Photos provided by Main Street BBQ
Click here for more information on their menu and hours.
Whatever satisfies your cravings, everyone is sure to find something to enjoy. Your taste buds will be ignited with the wide variety of cuisine that the city has to offer.
Stop in to one of the city’s many shops on Main Street in Lowell, Michigan. Whether you enjoy perusing through antique shops, shopping at local boutiques, or picking up some charming home furnishings, make sure you take some time to explore the shops in Lowell’s downtown district.
Lavender & Lace, a local, high-end boutique is one of the many shops you can check out in downtown Lowell. This family-owned brick-and-mortar was started as an online shop by the mother and daughter team, Emma and Cheryl. Find yourself some adorable pieces of clothing or pick up some fun gifts for your friends and family. Browse their website by clicking here.
If you’re searching for antique collectibles, make sure you stop into North Star Antiques. Find everything from vintage postcards to timeless jewelry. Start or add to your antique collection or simply find a unique and special gift at North Star Antiques. For store information, click here.
The city of Lowell has encapsulated its rich history throughout its community, but for those wanting to learn a bit more, a visit to the Lowell Museum will not disappoint. Founded in 1989, the museum is home to more than 15,000 photographs and artifacts that preserve the city’s rich history. For more information on hours and what the museum has to offer, visit their website by clicking here.
Red Barn
One of the local’s favorite spots is the Red Barn. Bring your whole family out to enjoy this family-owned and operated business. During your visit, make sure to eat at the café/ice cream shop, enjoying a cold, crisp Painted Turtle Hard Cider, pick up some locally grown produce at the Farm Store, and let the little ones run around and admire the animals at the Barnyard.
Experience the beauty of nature while hiking on Lowell’s many nature trails. Enjoy the breathtaking riverfront trails at Fallasburg Park and pack a picnic lunch to munch on while taking in all the historic character the park has to offer. Make sure to check out the covered bridge and disc golf course.
Also make time for the North Country Trail, which is the longest in the National Trail Systems. It stretches 4,700 miles and is perfect for hiking a few miles during the day or embarking on an overnight backpacking trip. With the headquarters for the whole trail being located in Lowell, Michigan, there are many ways for locals to get involved and for travelers to learn more about the trail.
Want to hike more during your visit? Discover more trail information by clicking here. Download a local trail map by clicking here.
If you’re visiting during the summer, there are plenty of extra activities to enjoy during your stay. Below are just a few of the fun, family-friendly activities you can enjoy.
Showboat Concerts:
Thursday evenings, beginning in June, you can enjoy free outdoor concerts downtown at Lowell’s famous Showboat on the Flat River. All shows begin at 7 p.m. and this summer’s lineup offers a wide variety of musical talent. Check out the summer schedule by clicking here.
Perfect your golf game at the beautiful, 18-hole Arrowhead Golf Course. Test your skills while playing through rolling, wooded terrain on their 6,188-yard course and step up to the challenge of holes 11 and 18—known for being the two most difficult holes in Michigan. With this course’s combination of challenge and fun, this is a great way to spend a day in Lowell. Visit their website for more information and to book a tee time.
Farmer’s Market:
Also on Thursdays, you can visit the Lowell Area Farmer’s Market. The Farmer’s Market is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot of Impact Church, across from Meijer. There’s room for up to 30 booths each week, so stop by and grab your local veggies, fruits, honey, breads, meats, and much more. Check out other local farmer’s markets by clicking here.
Click on this link to see what other events are happening in the area.
Events in Lowell
Riverwalk Festival
You can enjoy various events, including street entertainers, Flea on the Flat River, check-out vintage cars during the Riverwalk Cruise-In Classic, and the Ducky Derby. Bring the kids to the Kidz Zone for scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and storytime. You can also participate in the Run the River 5k. Follow the link for registration and participation information. For a schedule of events, click here.
Fallasburg Arts Festival:
Enjoy perusing through over 100 unique booths featuring fine art, craft demonstrations, food, music, and a children’s craft area. This event is free but does accept donations for LowellArts and many other community non-profits. For more information and to plan your visit, check out this information page.
Harvest Celebration:
On a Saturday in October (specific to each year), head down to the historic downtown to enjoy crafts, antiques, home-grown food, and much more at their annual Harvest Celebration. Save this link and check back for more information on this year’s events and offerings.
Check out this link for more fun events to enjoy in Lowell.
Lowell has a rich history that is embodied throughout the community. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing visit or want to stay busy—anyone can enjoy the experience Lowell, Michigan has to offer. Read more at Discover Lowell.
West Michigan is a vibrant region teeming with local farmers eager to share their bountiful harvests with both local residents and visiting travelers. This area is particularly renowned for its luscious apples, plump blueberries, succulent sweet corn, and a variety of other delicious produce. To truly experience the freshest flavors Michigan has to offer, a visit to one of the many local farmers markets is a must. These markets provide an opportunity to support local agriculture while indulging in high-quality, farm-fresh products. Be sure to consult this comprehensive West Michigan Farmers Market Guide to discover the ideal market for your needs and savor the best of what this fertile region has to offer.
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!
The Grand Haven Farmers Market is located near the water at Chinook Pier and features many different vendors twice a week. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce to popcorn and bread. They also host special events throughout the year such as Reading Days, Produce Donation Days, Music at the Market (each Saturday), and the Power of Produce children’s program.
Details:
Saturdays in May Starting May 4;
Wednesdays & Saturdays starting June 5 – October 28
The Spring Lake Farmers Market takes place every Thursday at Tanglefoot Park! Here you’ll find an assortment of different products from many different vendors. They also host a number of events throughout the year including a special day with the Critter Barn where live animals visit the market! Don’t forget their Library Storytime for the children, Education Station Days, and Produce Donation Days. The creators of the market intend it to be a place to experience community, education about healthy living and more.
Owned and operated by the City of Muskegon, this great farmers market showcases locally-grown foods, flowers, nursery stock, handcrafted items, baked goods, and more. They also host a flea market at the same time where many unique items are sold! They also value green initiatives by having many recycling and educational programs.
The Details
Location: 242 West Western Ave. (Next to the post office in downtown Muskegon.)
Summer Season: May – November on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Winter Season: December – April on Saturday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m.
The Flea Season: May – October from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Interested in becoming a vendor? Find all the details on how to be a Farmers Market Vendor, here, and Flea Market Vendor information, here.
Located in Holland, the Holland Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday. Choose from over 100 local farmers and vendors who offer produce, baked goods, craft items, and more! They also have a food court at the market so you can get lunch while you explore the booths. View the map of vendors by clicking here!
*Pro-tip: vendors recommend earlier visits to get the best produce and most choices!
The Details:
Time: Wednesday and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain or shine)
Another great West Michigan Farmers Market located in Rockford is the Rockford Farmers Market! It’s open from NOW through October 26 on Saturdays. Here you’ll find a variety of vendors selling all the best farm market products. Find a weekly list of vendors on their Facebook page by clicking here!
The Details:
Time: Saturdays May 4 to October 26 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: The new city lot behind the post office, across from Rocky’s..
One of the oldest Michigan farmers markets, the Fulton Street Farmers Market has been connecting farmers to the community since 1922 – that’s over a century.
Today, the market has a new facility and has 118 outdoor booths each week. While it has an amazing variety of products like other markets, what sets this one apart is their generosity! This market donates produce they collect throughout the week to neighborhoods requesting aid. They also host art markets, BIPOC night markets, rummage sales and more community events. You can shop, be a vendor or you can even volunteer! Apply to be a vendor by clicking here.
The Details:
Summer Season: May 4 – October 26 on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8AM – 2PM
Winter Season: November – April on Saturdays from 10PM – 1PM
The Kentwood Farmers Market takes place every Thursday throughout the summer! This bustling market is a haven for both residents and visitors, offering a delightful variety of goods and crafts from passionate vendors. From fresh produce and artisanal foods, to handmade crafts and unique treasures, there’s something for everyone to discover! Come explore the Kentwood Farmers Market and experience the joys of supporting local businesses while also enjoying the lively atmosphere and the fruits of their loving labor.
Interested in becoming a vendor? Find all the information by clicking here!
The Details:
Location: 4900 Breton SE Kentwood, MI 49508 (Kentwood City Hall)
Time: June 6th – August 29th on Thursdays from 4:30 – 7:30PM.
Another great West Michigan farmers market takes place in Ada every week! The Ada Farmers Market’s goal is to generate fresh, wholesome connections with the people and local farmers. They take pride in providing the community with high-quality farm and artisan products in a comfortable family-friendly environment. They even have special music and kids market programs to get involved with if you like!The Ada Farmers Market hosts numerous special events and programs including Kids in the Market,Chef in the Market, and more! Interested in becoming a vendor? Click here!
The Details:
Time: June 6 to October 31 on Tuesdays from 9am – 2pm
Located in Lowell, in the Impact Church East Parking Lot, is the Lowell Farmers Market. This great West Michigan Farmers Market takes place each Thursday from 2-7PM, June through September. Vendors provide various goods to choose from including veggies, fruits, honey, maple syrup, cheese, bread, eggs, meats, and more!
The Details:
Time: June 6 – September 26 on Thursdays from 2PM-7PM.
Location: Downtown Lowell, North of the Library along the riverwalk.
Another great West Michigan Farmers Market is the Southeast Area Farmers Market. This market is run by the Our Kitchen Table (OKT) with their partners The Greater Grand Rapids Food Systems Council and the Kent County Health Department. This market takes place every OTHER Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the MLK Jr. Park. There are also several events that take place at the market throughout the year including Market Moves, Green Tomato Times, Art at the Market, and Harvest Happening. They also happily take SNAP, WIC and many other benefit programs as payment.
If you would like to become a vendor, email SEAFM@OKTjustice.org for a Vendor Application Packet.
The Details:
Time: July 8 to November 4 every OTHER Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Caledonia Farmers Market connects local consumers with growers and artisans in the area in a safe and fun environment. The market takes place May through early October from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday. Here you’ll find an assortment of goods and foods including fish, meats, eggs, wool, baked goods, potted plants, fruits, and veggies.
The Details:
Time: May 18 to October 12 on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: CRC Church parking lot,
9957 Cherry Valley Ave SE Caledonia,
North West Corner of M-37 and 100th Street
Byron Farmers Market
Byron Farmers Market, located in Byron Center, takes place May through October each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. They host the market at Bicentennial Park, behind the library. Check out updates and details at the link above. You can apply as a vendor by emailing Zach12behling@gmail.com.
The Details:
Time: June 10 to September 24 on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The Grandville Farmers Market, operated by the Downtown Development Authority of Grandville, is held each Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market runs from June to mid-October. Some of their highlighted offerings include flowers, herbs, bread, seasonal fruits and veggies, and so much more!
The Details:
Time: June – September on Tuesdays from 9AM-1PM.
Location: Public parking lot behind KDL Grandville Branch, under new structure.
Located in Hudsonville, Terra Square Farmers Market brings together the community with farm-fresh produce and local growers. The farmers market takes place on Wednesdays and the last Saturday of every month from June through September. Market times are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition to fresh produce, the market also has quality, hand-made products and live entertainment! And don’t forget all the community and educational opportunities as well. You can also Rent an event, business or co-working space at the market by clicking here!
The Details:
Time: June to September on Wednesdays from 9AM-1PM. and the last Saturday of every month from 9AM-1PM.
Sparta holds a great farm and craft market full of the very best locally sourced fruits, veggies, flowers, syrups, crafts, baked goods, and so much more! The market takes place on select Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. from May through mid-September. This event now has live music and alcoholic beverages, so be advised for family-oriented market goers!
The Details:
Time: May 6th-September 29th, On Thursdays from 4PM-8PM.
The U of M Health – West Farmers Market features 35 vendors selling plants, fresh produce, meats and cheeses, and more. There are also Artisan vendors that sell handmade items. The market takes place every Thursday from May 12 to early October from 9 a.m. until noon. Don’t miss Kids Day, on June 16, which is back for the first time in two years and features many activities for children to enjoy including a traveling zoo!
The Details:
Time: May 16 – October 10 on Thursdays from 9 a.m. until noon.
The Middleville Market has been around for 17 years and is a well-established market to find fresh produce, baked goods, succulents, a wide array of handmade crafts, and more! Along with all the vendors the market also holds hands-on learning experiences and live entertainment. The market is held every Friday, from May 21 to October 21.
Interested in becoming a vendor? Find all the information by clicking here!
The Details:
Time: May 31 to August 16 on Fridays from 3PM-7PM.
Location: Middleville Community Pavilion on Main Street
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Find it on the Map!
West Michigan Farmers Market Cheat Sheet!
Find other things to do in West Michigan by clicking here!
West Michigan comes alive with a plethora of exciting summer festivals, spanning art, music, flowers and more. Whether it’s beachside revelry, quaint town gatherings, or the urban buzz of Grand Rapids, there’s something for everyone. From May to September, this comprehensive list highlights the region’s top festivals month by month, ensuring festival enthusiasts don’t miss out on any of the vibrant celebrations.
Save this post or share it with fellow festival aficionados to make the most of West Michigan’s festive spirit!
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!
Tulip Time, a beloved summer festival in West Michigan, epitomizes the region’s vibrant Dutch heritage each May. Holland bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors as thousands of tulip blooms adorn streets, parks, and the iconic Windmill Island. From engaging children’s activities to a bustling Dutch artisan market, photo classes, tours, and a lively carnival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this festive week.
Step into the captivating world of the East at the Asian Pacific Festival, an enchanting annual affair tucked away in downtown Grand Rapids at Calder Plaza. Curated by the Grand Rapids Asian Pacific Foundation, this June jubilee promises an eclectic spectrum of experiences, ranging from tantalizing culinary delights and handcrafted treasures to immersive children’s adventures and spellbinding live cultural showcases. Embark on a journey of exploration and enlightenment, where the vibrant threads of Asian Pacific heritage weave together in a symphony of colors and flavors, inviting you to revel in every enchanting moment while learning about other cultures – without even leaving the Midwest.
Get ready to embrace the summer vibes at the Start to Summer Festival, located right in the heart of downtown Rockford, West Michigan! This vibrant event offers an abundance of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. From a lively children’s activity tent filled with free crafts to dynamic live entertainment, a buzzing beer tent, exciting carnival rides, a spirited parade, thrilling duck races, and a dazzling fireworks spectacle, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Check out this festival for a summer kickoff celebration brimming with excitement and unforgettable moments!Want to spend more time in Rockford? Learn how to spend A Day in Rockford with this post!
Set sail on an adventure along the breathtaking West Michigan lakeshore to the charming town of Grand Haven, where the Coast Guard Festival awaits! This week-long celebration pays tribute to the courageous men and women of the United States Coast Guard while offering a plethora of family-friendly entertainment. Immerse yourself in exciting activities such as ship tours, live musical performances, a bustling carnival, a captivating car show, a special Kids Day, a heartwarming community picnic, a grand parade, and an awe-inspiring fireworks spectacle synchronized with the mesmerizing Grand Haven Musical Fountain. Join us for a celebration filled with patriotism, joy, and cherished memories against the backdrop of this scenic lakeside locale!
The Ionia Free Fair is a classic West Michigan festival to take the entire family to! The event takes place at the Ionia fairgrounds and features a carnival, live music, parade, monster truck events, kids talent show, derby, rodeo, livestock auction, tractor pull, 80s night and so much more. Find all the events-here!
Indulge in the ultimate beer and music experience at the renowned Burning Foot Beer Festival, featuring an incredible lineup of live entertainment and an abundance of craft brews to savor, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. Held at Pere Marquette beach in Muskegon, this festival showcases over 80 beer vendors alongside a variety of delectable food options. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event! Tickets are available now—secure yours today and join us for a day of brews, beats, and beachside bliss. Click here for tickets!
Join the charming city of Greenville for the annual Danish Festival, a cherished tradition honoring Danish history and heritage since 1965. Immerse yourself in the festivities with an artisan craft fair, tantalizing food vendors, a lively parade, captivating live entertainment, and the prestigious Miss Danish Festival pageant. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Denmark right here in West Michigan!
Prepare to be swept away in a cultural extravaganza like no other as ArtPrize, a globally acclaimed art festival, returns for its 18th edition since its inception in 2009. This awe-inspiring event annually attracts over a quarter of a million art enthusiasts from across the globe to the vibrant city of Grand Rapids. Both seasoned professionals and budding amateurs showcase their masterpieces, vying for the esteemed $450,000 in public and juried prizes.
With more than 1,000 captivating artworks adorning various venues throughout the city, ArtPrize promises to ignite your imagination and stir your soul. Mark your calendars for the upcoming installment from September 14th to October 1st, 2023, and be part of this unparalleled celebration of creativity and expression. What sets ArtPrize apart is its democratic approach to selecting winners, allowing the public to cast their votes through the ArtPrize app. Additionally, a distinguished panel of international art experts bestows the remaining prize funds, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and tastes are represented in this prestigious event.
You can find artwork throughout the city at various venues that chose to host artwork. See the full list of venues-here!
Find other Artsy things to do in Grand Rapids-here!
The Fallasburg Art Festival presented by LowellArts takes place each September in Fallasburg park. The event features over 100 unique fine art and craft booths, food booths, a children’s craft area, craft demonstrations and so much more! The event is totally free to attend!
Located just 15 minutes west of Grand Rapids, Coopersville which was founded in 1845 by Benjamin Cooper, gives visitors that quaint small-town feel. With a rich agricultural heritage, the city of Coopersville has much to offer. From historic train rides to lively downtown concerts, this city is full of life and friendly faces. Plus, this small town has lots of fun events throughout the year, such as the Annual Car Show and the Santa Parade. Discover all that Coopersville has to offer below!
Keep up with all the fun things going on in Coopersville, Michigan with Discover Coopersville!
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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Taste the Farm Freshness
Located near Coopersville are several farms offering local produce, fresh flowers, cheeses, and so much more! Make sure to visit Gavin Orchards, a family-owned farm offering sweet cherries, apples, peaches, squash, pumpkins, and sweet apple cider in the fall. Another great stop is Grassfields Cheeses, a fifth-generation family farm that makes and sells fresh cheese as well as grass-fed beef, pork, chicken, and more.
There are also several wonderful Blueberry Farms near Coopersville that are worth a visit. Venroy Blueberries and Lindberg Blueberries are both located southwest of the city and offer you an option to pick your own blueberries each season.
Don’t forget a stop at Rasch Cherries to pick fresh Michigan Cherries!
Attend an Event
Coopersville has a number of events that take place weekly, monthly, and on an annual basis—so there’s always something fun to do! Check some of them out below:
Coopersville Summerfest and Car Show: This annual summer event offers three days of fun, festival activities including live music, car cruise, kids activities, an entertainment tent, and more! The festival normally takes place on the second weekend of August, each year. There’s also a special kids night to kick off the festival full of carnival games, live animals, craft booths, and so much more!
Music On Main: This annual summer concert series brings free entertainment every other week to downtown Coopersville. They offer lively bands, food, and craft vendors plus a new social beverage zone on Main Street. Check out the full entertainment line-up here!
Santa Parade: This annual parade has been running since 1980 and takes place the first Friday in December. The parade, filled with professional and amateur floats, plus firetrucks and sponsored vehicles, runs from the corner of Eastmanville down to Main Street. They also have free refreshments, visits with Santa, and live Reindeer! Make sure to get here early to get a good spot—this event is extremely popular.
Visit the Farmers Market
Coopersville Farmers Market: The market takes place every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. located in the parking lot of Naturally Nourished and Ireland Chiropractic Clinic.
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission:
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission: Coopersville Farmers Market is a place where locally grown and locally made foods can be bought in one location to make it easy for our community to find and buy. Small family farms are essential to our economy and to our community. We believe making connections between consumers and farmers is key to a thriving community.
Looking to make Coopersville, Michigan your new home? Contact Brad Moore with EXP Realty for exclusive Coopersville Real Estate!
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Find more West Michigan Things To Do by clicking Here!
Take a Train Ride
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Coopersville and Marne Railway train. The railway is an all-volunteer historic railway operating vintage train rides for visitors with 1920s themed train cars. The train ride takes you from Coopersville to Marne and back, which is about a seven mile track. The city has a rich steam railroad history that played a significant role in the emergence of the town. The town emerged after a contract with its founder Benjamin Cooper brought the railroad through the area in 1858.
Train Events
Today the train has many fun events throughout the year in which visitors can book a ticket and enjoy the ride. Some of the train events are:
You can event book private events on the train, such as birthday parties and even weddings! Check it out here!
Ready to ride the Coopersville Train? Book your tickets here! Make sure to book well in advance. The more popular train experiences, such as the Santa Train and the Bunny Train, fill up quickly.
Taste the Farm Freshness
Located near Coopersville are several farms offering local produce, fresh flowers, cheeses, and so much more! Make sure to visit Gavin Orchards, a family-owned farm offering sweet cherries, apples, peaches, squash, pumpkins, and sweet apple cider in the fall. Another great stop is Grassfields Cheeses, a fifth-generation family farm that makes and sells fresh cheese as well as grass-fed beef, pork, chicken, and more.
There are also several wonderful Blueberry Farms near Coopersville that are worth a visit. Venroy Blueberries and Lindberg Blueberries are both located southwest of the city and offer you an option to pick your own blueberries each season.
Don’t forget a stop at Rasch Cherries to pick fresh Michigan Cherries!
Attend an Event
Coopersville has a number of events that take place weekly, monthly, and on an annual basis—so there’s always something fun to do! Check some of them out below:
Coopersville Summerfest and Car Show: This annual summer event offers three days of fun, festival activities including live music, car cruise, kids activities, an entertainment tent, and more! The festival normally takes place on the second weekend of August, each year. There’s also a special kids night to kick off the festival full of carnival games, live animals, craft booths, and so much more!
Music On Main: This annual summer concert series brings free entertainment every other week to downtown Coopersville. They offer lively bands, food, and craft vendors plus a new social beverage zone on Main Street. Check out the full entertainment line-up here!
Santa Parade: This annual parade has been running since 1980 and takes place the first Friday in December. The parade, filled with professional and amateur floats, plus firetrucks and sponsored vehicles, runs from the corner of Eastmanville down to Main Street. They also have free refreshments, visits with Santa, and live Reindeer! Make sure to get here early to get a good spot—this event is extremely popular.
Visit the Farmers Market
Coopersville Farmers Market: The market takes place every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. located in the parking lot of Naturally Nourished and Ireland Chiropractic Clinic.
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission:
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission: Coopersville Farmers Market is a place where locally grown and locally made foods can be bought in one location to make it easy for our community to find and buy. Small family farms are essential to our economy and to our community. We believe making connections between consumers and farmers is key to a thriving community.
Looking to make Coopersville, Michigan your new home? Contact Brad Moore with EXP Realty for exclusive Coopersville Real Estate!
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Find more West Michigan Things To Do by clicking Here!
Grab a Pint at Coopersville Brewing Company
Brand new to town is the Coopersville Brewing Company (CBC)! No visit to Coopersville is complete without enjoying a pint of the good stuff at the unique bar at this awesome brewery. They have a variety of unique brews on tap, including It Was All A C.R.E.A.M. which is a light-bodied cream ale and Another Man’s Treasure which is a midwest IPA. Check out their entire tap list here! They also offer some hard ciders, seltzers, and juice boxes for the kiddos.
CBC also regularly have live music and food trucks. See the full schedule of events here!
Take a Train Ride
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Coopersville and Marne Railway train. The railway is an all-volunteer historic railway operating vintage train rides for visitors with 1920s themed train cars. The train ride takes you from Coopersville to Marne and back, which is about a seven mile track. The city has a rich steam railroad history that played a significant role in the emergence of the town. The town emerged after a contract with its founder Benjamin Cooper brought the railroad through the area in 1858.
Train Events
Today the train has many fun events throughout the year in which visitors can book a ticket and enjoy the ride. Some of the train events are:
You can event book private events on the train, such as birthday parties and even weddings! Check it out here!
Ready to ride the Coopersville Train? Book your tickets here! Make sure to book well in advance. The more popular train experiences, such as the Santa Train and the Bunny Train, fill up quickly.
Taste the Farm Freshness
Located near Coopersville are several farms offering local produce, fresh flowers, cheeses, and so much more! Make sure to visit Gavin Orchards, a family-owned farm offering sweet cherries, apples, peaches, squash, pumpkins, and sweet apple cider in the fall. Another great stop is Grassfields Cheeses, a fifth-generation family farm that makes and sells fresh cheese as well as grass-fed beef, pork, chicken, and more.
There are also several wonderful Blueberry Farms near Coopersville that are worth a visit. Venroy Blueberries and Lindberg Blueberries are both located southwest of the city and offer you an option to pick your own blueberries each season.
Don’t forget a stop at Rasch Cherries to pick fresh Michigan Cherries!
Attend an Event
Coopersville has a number of events that take place weekly, monthly, and on an annual basis—so there’s always something fun to do! Check some of them out below:
Coopersville Summerfest and Car Show: This annual summer event offers three days of fun, festival activities including live music, car cruise, kids activities, an entertainment tent, and more! The festival normally takes place on the second weekend of August, each year. There’s also a special kids night to kick off the festival full of carnival games, live animals, craft booths, and so much more!
Music On Main: This annual summer concert series brings free entertainment every other week to downtown Coopersville. They offer lively bands, food, and craft vendors plus a new social beverage zone on Main Street. Check out the full entertainment line-up here!
Santa Parade: This annual parade has been running since 1980 and takes place the first Friday in December. The parade, filled with professional and amateur floats, plus firetrucks and sponsored vehicles, runs from the corner of Eastmanville down to Main Street. They also have free refreshments, visits with Santa, and live Reindeer! Make sure to get here early to get a good spot—this event is extremely popular.
Visit the Farmers Market
Coopersville Farmers Market: The market takes place every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. located in the parking lot of Naturally Nourished and Ireland Chiropractic Clinic.
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission:
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission: Coopersville Farmers Market is a place where locally grown and locally made foods can be bought in one location to make it easy for our community to find and buy. Small family farms are essential to our economy and to our community. We believe making connections between consumers and farmers is key to a thriving community.
Looking to make Coopersville, Michigan your new home? Contact Brad Moore with EXP Realty for exclusive Coopersville Real Estate!
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Find more West Michigan Things To Do by clicking Here!
The Coopersville Historical Museum, also located in downtown Coopersville, has historical exhibits such as a century-old sawmill, 19th-century drugstore replica, interurban train, household exhibits, and memorabilia from early rock-n-roll star, Del Shannon (a Coopersville native).
The museum’s main building was once a depot for the Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Muskegon Railways. The eclectic rail served the area in the early 20th century. Added to the museum’s buildings are a rustically designed sawmill and an early settlers building, which was completed in the early 2000s. It is a Michigan Historic Site and on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the main exhibits in the museum is the Tasker Drug Store display. This recreation of an early local store includes nine-foot-high exterior doors, an original counter, apothecary jars, shelves, medicine packages, and lots of other pharmaceutical items. The museum’s steam railway and interurban train exhibits are also other major exhibits.
Hours and Admission:
Tuesday: 2 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. *Open other times for group tours and special visits.
No admission fee during regular hours. Donations are welcome!
Read a Book at the Coopersville Area District Library
Located within walking distance of the main downtown area, the Coopersville Library has a vast array of books, computer access, a children’s book area, and an adjacent playground area! The library began serving citizens in the area in 1913 and became a district library in 1994. The building was renovated through a 1.65 million dollar bond millage in 2016 and reopened at its new location on Ottawa Street in May of 2017. The library is one of 42 member libraries belonging to the Lakeland Library Cooperative, which covers eight counties in West Michigan.
The Library’s Mission:
Preserving the past. Providing technology and education for a lifetime of learning. Promoting culture and community through literature and the arts.
The Coopersville District Library also has a large event space that is available to certain groups to rent. Find all the information here! The library also hosts a number of events throughout the year for adults and children alike. See the full events calendar here.
Grab a Pint at Coopersville Brewing Company
Brand new to town is the Coopersville Brewing Company (CBC)! No visit to Coopersville is complete without enjoying a pint of the good stuff at the unique bar at this awesome brewery. They have a variety of unique brews on tap, including It Was All A C.R.E.A.M. which is a light-bodied cream ale and Another Man’s Treasure which is a midwest IPA. Check out their entire tap list here! They also offer some hard ciders, seltzers, and juice boxes for the kiddos.
CBC also regularly have live music and food trucks. See the full schedule of events here!
Take a Train Ride
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Coopersville and Marne Railway train. The railway is an all-volunteer historic railway operating vintage train rides for visitors with 1920s themed train cars. The train ride takes you from Coopersville to Marne and back, which is about a seven mile track. The city has a rich steam railroad history that played a significant role in the emergence of the town. The town emerged after a contract with its founder Benjamin Cooper brought the railroad through the area in 1858.
Train Events
Today the train has many fun events throughout the year in which visitors can book a ticket and enjoy the ride. Some of the train events are:
You can event book private events on the train, such as birthday parties and even weddings! Check it out here!
Ready to ride the Coopersville Train? Book your tickets here! Make sure to book well in advance. The more popular train experiences, such as the Santa Train and the Bunny Train, fill up quickly.
Taste the Farm Freshness
Located near Coopersville are several farms offering local produce, fresh flowers, cheeses, and so much more! Make sure to visit Gavin Orchards, a family-owned farm offering sweet cherries, apples, peaches, squash, pumpkins, and sweet apple cider in the fall. Another great stop is Grassfields Cheeses, a fifth-generation family farm that makes and sells fresh cheese as well as grass-fed beef, pork, chicken, and more.
There are also several wonderful Blueberry Farms near Coopersville that are worth a visit. Venroy Blueberries and Lindberg Blueberries are both located southwest of the city and offer you an option to pick your own blueberries each season.
Don’t forget a stop at Rasch Cherries to pick fresh Michigan Cherries!
Attend an Event
Coopersville has a number of events that take place weekly, monthly, and on an annual basis—so there’s always something fun to do! Check some of them out below:
Coopersville Summerfest and Car Show: This annual summer event offers three days of fun, festival activities including live music, car cruise, kids activities, an entertainment tent, and more! The festival normally takes place on the second weekend of August, each year. There’s also a special kids night to kick off the festival full of carnival games, live animals, craft booths, and so much more!
Music On Main: This annual summer concert series brings free entertainment every other week to downtown Coopersville. They offer lively bands, food, and craft vendors plus a new social beverage zone on Main Street. Check out the full entertainment line-up here!
Santa Parade: This annual parade has been running since 1980 and takes place the first Friday in December. The parade, filled with professional and amateur floats, plus firetrucks and sponsored vehicles, runs from the corner of Eastmanville down to Main Street. They also have free refreshments, visits with Santa, and live Reindeer! Make sure to get here early to get a good spot—this event is extremely popular.
Visit the Farmers Market
Coopersville Farmers Market: The market takes place every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. located in the parking lot of Naturally Nourished and Ireland Chiropractic Clinic.
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission:
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission: Coopersville Farmers Market is a place where locally grown and locally made foods can be bought in one location to make it easy for our community to find and buy. Small family farms are essential to our economy and to our community. We believe making connections between consumers and farmers is key to a thriving community.
Looking to make Coopersville, Michigan your new home? Contact Brad Moore with EXP Realty for exclusive Coopersville Real Estate!
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Find more West Michigan Things To Do by clicking Here!
Located right on Main Street, Coopersville Farm Museum celebrates the area’s agricultural history. They have a great exhibit of antique trackers, traditional handmade quilts, and so much more! The museum also has rotating art exhibits and live entertainment. They have a great Jam Night with live music that takes place each month. In addition, the museum has a monthly kids’ event called Kids Crafts and Critters. See a full list of their events here!
Looking for a place to hold a large event? Coopersville Farm Museum can help with that! They have a large event center space that can be rented out for any gathering. Check out the details here!
Hours and Admission
Open, year round, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
General Admission
Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (65+), and $3 for kids (ages 4 to 16). Admission for members and children (3 and under) are free. Fees may vary for events.
Annual Memberships:
Individual Membership are $40 and Family Memberships are $60.
Members receive complimentary admission to Jam Night, Quilting Circle, and general museum entry.
Members may also receive discounts on facility use and special events.
Member newsletters are mailed and available online.
Members receive half-price booth fees for all craft and vendor shows.
The Coopersville Historical Museum, also located in downtown Coopersville, has historical exhibits such as a century-old sawmill, 19th-century drugstore replica, interurban train, household exhibits, and memorabilia from early rock-n-roll star, Del Shannon (a Coopersville native).
The museum’s main building was once a depot for the Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Muskegon Railways. The eclectic rail served the area in the early 20th century. Added to the museum’s buildings are a rustically designed sawmill and an early settlers building, which was completed in the early 2000s. It is a Michigan Historic Site and on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the main exhibits in the museum is the Tasker Drug Store display. This recreation of an early local store includes nine-foot-high exterior doors, an original counter, apothecary jars, shelves, medicine packages, and lots of other pharmaceutical items. The museum’s steam railway and interurban train exhibits are also other major exhibits.
Hours and Admission:
Tuesday: 2 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. *Open other times for group tours and special visits.
No admission fee during regular hours. Donations are welcome!
Read a Book at the Coopersville Area District Library
Located within walking distance of the main downtown area, the Coopersville Library has a vast array of books, computer access, a children’s book area, and an adjacent playground area! The library began serving citizens in the area in 1913 and became a district library in 1994. The building was renovated through a 1.65 million dollar bond millage in 2016 and reopened at its new location on Ottawa Street in May of 2017. The library is one of 42 member libraries belonging to the Lakeland Library Cooperative, which covers eight counties in West Michigan.
The Library’s Mission:
Preserving the past. Providing technology and education for a lifetime of learning. Promoting culture and community through literature and the arts.
The Coopersville District Library also has a large event space that is available to certain groups to rent. Find all the information here! The library also hosts a number of events throughout the year for adults and children alike. See the full events calendar here.
Grab a Pint at Coopersville Brewing Company
Brand new to town is the Coopersville Brewing Company (CBC)! No visit to Coopersville is complete without enjoying a pint of the good stuff at the unique bar at this awesome brewery. They have a variety of unique brews on tap, including It Was All A C.R.E.A.M. which is a light-bodied cream ale and Another Man’s Treasure which is a midwest IPA. Check out their entire tap list here! They also offer some hard ciders, seltzers, and juice boxes for the kiddos.
CBC also regularly have live music and food trucks. See the full schedule of events here!
Take a Train Ride
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Coopersville and Marne Railway train. The railway is an all-volunteer historic railway operating vintage train rides for visitors with 1920s themed train cars. The train ride takes you from Coopersville to Marne and back, which is about a seven mile track. The city has a rich steam railroad history that played a significant role in the emergence of the town. The town emerged after a contract with its founder Benjamin Cooper brought the railroad through the area in 1858.
Train Events
Today the train has many fun events throughout the year in which visitors can book a ticket and enjoy the ride. Some of the train events are:
You can event book private events on the train, such as birthday parties and even weddings! Check it out here!
Ready to ride the Coopersville Train? Book your tickets here! Make sure to book well in advance. The more popular train experiences, such as the Santa Train and the Bunny Train, fill up quickly.
Taste the Farm Freshness
Located near Coopersville are several farms offering local produce, fresh flowers, cheeses, and so much more! Make sure to visit Gavin Orchards, a family-owned farm offering sweet cherries, apples, peaches, squash, pumpkins, and sweet apple cider in the fall. Another great stop is Grassfields Cheeses, a fifth-generation family farm that makes and sells fresh cheese as well as grass-fed beef, pork, chicken, and more.
There are also several wonderful Blueberry Farms near Coopersville that are worth a visit. Venroy Blueberries and Lindberg Blueberries are both located southwest of the city and offer you an option to pick your own blueberries each season.
Don’t forget a stop at Rasch Cherries to pick fresh Michigan Cherries!
Attend an Event
Coopersville has a number of events that take place weekly, monthly, and on an annual basis—so there’s always something fun to do! Check some of them out below:
Coopersville Summerfest and Car Show: This annual summer event offers three days of fun, festival activities including live music, car cruise, kids activities, an entertainment tent, and more! The festival normally takes place on the second weekend of August, each year. There’s also a special kids night to kick off the festival full of carnival games, live animals, craft booths, and so much more!
Music On Main: This annual summer concert series brings free entertainment every other week to downtown Coopersville. They offer lively bands, food, and craft vendors plus a new social beverage zone on Main Street. Check out the full entertainment line-up here!
Santa Parade: This annual parade has been running since 1980 and takes place the first Friday in December. The parade, filled with professional and amateur floats, plus firetrucks and sponsored vehicles, runs from the corner of Eastmanville down to Main Street. They also have free refreshments, visits with Santa, and live Reindeer! Make sure to get here early to get a good spot—this event is extremely popular.
Visit the Farmers Market
Coopersville Farmers Market: The market takes place every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. located in the parking lot of Naturally Nourished and Ireland Chiropractic Clinic.
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission:
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission: Coopersville Farmers Market is a place where locally grown and locally made foods can be bought in one location to make it easy for our community to find and buy. Small family farms are essential to our economy and to our community. We believe making connections between consumers and farmers is key to a thriving community.
Looking to make Coopersville, Michigan your new home? Contact Brad Moore with EXP Realty for exclusive Coopersville Real Estate!
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Find more West Michigan Things To Do by clicking Here!
Explore Downtown Coopersville
Downtown Coopersville has that great small town feel and is filled with shopping and restaurants! Located right on Main Street, you will find a splash pad and park area perfect for the little ones. Plus, down the street are cute boutiques for shopping!
Eating and Drinking
Coopersville has a good variety of dining options downtown and in the greater Coopersville area. Everything from a great pizza to donuts to Mexican food! Right downtown you’ll find several options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. See these below:
Downtown Coopersville is quaint and Main Street is easily walkable from end to end. In addition to the dining options, there are also several different stores and boutiques to visit as well. Everything from a small-town grocery store to a high-end boutique — it can all be found in Coopersville!
Located right on Main Street, Coopersville Farm Museum celebrates the area’s agricultural history. They have a great exhibit of antique trackers, traditional handmade quilts, and so much more! The museum also has rotating art exhibits and live entertainment. They have a great Jam Night with live music that takes place each month. In addition, the museum has a monthly kids’ event called Kids Crafts and Critters. See a full list of their events here!
Looking for a place to hold a large event? Coopersville Farm Museum can help with that! They have a large event center space that can be rented out for any gathering. Check out the details here!
Hours and Admission
Open, year round, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
General Admission
Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (65+), and $3 for kids (ages 4 to 16). Admission for members and children (3 and under) are free. Fees may vary for events.
Annual Memberships:
Individual Membership are $40 and Family Memberships are $60.
Members receive complimentary admission to Jam Night, Quilting Circle, and general museum entry.
Members may also receive discounts on facility use and special events.
Member newsletters are mailed and available online.
Members receive half-price booth fees for all craft and vendor shows.
The Coopersville Historical Museum, also located in downtown Coopersville, has historical exhibits such as a century-old sawmill, 19th-century drugstore replica, interurban train, household exhibits, and memorabilia from early rock-n-roll star, Del Shannon (a Coopersville native).
The museum’s main building was once a depot for the Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Muskegon Railways. The eclectic rail served the area in the early 20th century. Added to the museum’s buildings are a rustically designed sawmill and an early settlers building, which was completed in the early 2000s. It is a Michigan Historic Site and on the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the main exhibits in the museum is the Tasker Drug Store display. This recreation of an early local store includes nine-foot-high exterior doors, an original counter, apothecary jars, shelves, medicine packages, and lots of other pharmaceutical items. The museum’s steam railway and interurban train exhibits are also other major exhibits.
Hours and Admission:
Tuesday: 2 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. *Open other times for group tours and special visits.
No admission fee during regular hours. Donations are welcome!
Read a Book at the Coopersville Area District Library
Located within walking distance of the main downtown area, the Coopersville Library has a vast array of books, computer access, a children’s book area, and an adjacent playground area! The library began serving citizens in the area in 1913 and became a district library in 1994. The building was renovated through a 1.65 million dollar bond millage in 2016 and reopened at its new location on Ottawa Street in May of 2017. The library is one of 42 member libraries belonging to the Lakeland Library Cooperative, which covers eight counties in West Michigan.
The Library’s Mission:
Preserving the past. Providing technology and education for a lifetime of learning. Promoting culture and community through literature and the arts.
The Coopersville District Library also has a large event space that is available to certain groups to rent. Find all the information here! The library also hosts a number of events throughout the year for adults and children alike. See the full events calendar here.
Grab a Pint at Coopersville Brewing Company
Brand new to town is the Coopersville Brewing Company (CBC)! No visit to Coopersville is complete without enjoying a pint of the good stuff at the unique bar at this awesome brewery. They have a variety of unique brews on tap, including It Was All A C.R.E.A.M. which is a light-bodied cream ale and Another Man’s Treasure which is a midwest IPA. Check out their entire tap list here! They also offer some hard ciders, seltzers, and juice boxes for the kiddos.
CBC also regularly have live music and food trucks. See the full schedule of events here!
Take a Train Ride
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Coopersville and Marne Railway train. The railway is an all-volunteer historic railway operating vintage train rides for visitors with 1920s themed train cars. The train ride takes you from Coopersville to Marne and back, which is about a seven mile track. The city has a rich steam railroad history that played a significant role in the emergence of the town. The town emerged after a contract with its founder Benjamin Cooper brought the railroad through the area in 1858.
Train Events
Today the train has many fun events throughout the year in which visitors can book a ticket and enjoy the ride. Some of the train events are:
You can event book private events on the train, such as birthday parties and even weddings! Check it out here!
Ready to ride the Coopersville Train? Book your tickets here! Make sure to book well in advance. The more popular train experiences, such as the Santa Train and the Bunny Train, fill up quickly.
Taste the Farm Freshness
Located near Coopersville are several farms offering local produce, fresh flowers, cheeses, and so much more! Make sure to visit Gavin Orchards, a family-owned farm offering sweet cherries, apples, peaches, squash, pumpkins, and sweet apple cider in the fall. Another great stop is Grassfields Cheeses, a fifth-generation family farm that makes and sells fresh cheese as well as grass-fed beef, pork, chicken, and more.
There are also several wonderful Blueberry Farms near Coopersville that are worth a visit. Venroy Blueberries and Lindberg Blueberries are both located southwest of the city and offer you an option to pick your own blueberries each season.
Don’t forget a stop at Rasch Cherries to pick fresh Michigan Cherries!
Attend an Event
Coopersville has a number of events that take place weekly, monthly, and on an annual basis—so there’s always something fun to do! Check some of them out below:
Coopersville Summerfest and Car Show: This annual summer event offers three days of fun, festival activities including live music, car cruise, kids activities, an entertainment tent, and more! The festival normally takes place on the second weekend of August, each year. There’s also a special kids night to kick off the festival full of carnival games, live animals, craft booths, and so much more!
Music On Main: This annual summer concert series brings free entertainment every other week to downtown Coopersville. They offer lively bands, food, and craft vendors plus a new social beverage zone on Main Street. Check out the full entertainment line-up here!
Santa Parade: This annual parade has been running since 1980 and takes place the first Friday in December. The parade, filled with professional and amateur floats, plus firetrucks and sponsored vehicles, runs from the corner of Eastmanville down to Main Street. They also have free refreshments, visits with Santa, and live Reindeer! Make sure to get here early to get a good spot—this event is extremely popular.
Visit the Farmers Market
Coopersville Farmers Market: The market takes place every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. located in the parking lot of Naturally Nourished and Ireland Chiropractic Clinic.
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission:
The Coopersville Farmers Market Mission: Coopersville Farmers Market is a place where locally grown and locally made foods can be bought in one location to make it easy for our community to find and buy. Small family farms are essential to our economy and to our community. We believe making connections between consumers and farmers is key to a thriving community.
Looking to make Coopersville, Michigan your new home? Contact Brad Moore with EXP Realty for exclusive Coopersville Real Estate!
Pin it for Later!
Find more West Michigan Things To Do by clicking Here!
Grand Rapids is home to some of the best art museums, public art, and broadway-quality shows in the Midwest! The city is full of vibrant artwork throughout the streets and on the walls of the museums, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum and Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Also, check out a show at one of the many theaters in town including the Civic Theatre, The Wealthy Street Theatre, or Broadway Grand Rapids. Make sure to read this guide of all the artsy things to do in Grand Rapids so you don’t miss a thing!
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!
Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) hosts a vast collection of artwork dating from the 1400s to the present, focusing on European and American paintings, sculptures, and other artwork. This beacon of an art-loving city believes that art is essential for everyone both connecting people and inspiring them. The building in which the museum’s collection is housed is a LEED-certified building and was designed by Munkenbeck+Marshall Architects and Kulapat Yantrasast of WHY Architecture.
GRAM Mission:
Connecting people through art, creativity, and design.
Collection and Exhibits:
The GRAM’s collection is a diverse selection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, and more. The collection has over 6,000 objects and it spans over 5,000 years of human art and creativity. Some of the highlighted artists include Alexander Calder, Édouard Manet, Marvis Pusey, Jacob Lawerance, and Mathias J. Alten.
The GRAM also has rotating exhibits throughout the year. To see the most up to date exhibit information, click here.
Admission and Hours:
Hours vary depending on the season. Please visit the GRAM’s website for the most up to date information.
Admission: Adults are $10, seniors and students are $8, youth are $6, and children who are 5 and under are free.
The GRAM also has a wonderful membership program with numerous benefits. Find all the information by clicking here!
GRAM Events:
The Grand Rapids Art Museum also hosts events throughout the year including art workshops, walking tours, live music, member nights, and so much more! See the events calendar by clicking here. You can also rent the GRAM space for private events such as weddings, parties, meetings, and more—click here for more information.
Up next on this list of artsy things to do in Grand Rapids is to pay a visit to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Ranked in the top 100 most visited art museums in the world, the museum has more than 200 works in the permanent collection inside and outside. The main campus of the museum is 158 acres and they’re constantly making improvements and renovating.
The permanent collection has works from established and emerging artists alike. Some of the more well-known artists include Edgar Degas, Auguste Rodin, and Albert-Ernest. Frederik Meijer Gardens also hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year within a large indoor gallery space and several outdoor spaces. In the past, exhibits have been presented by modern artists and honored traditional artists. Several in the past have included Auguste Rodin, Pablo Picasso, and Henry Moore to contemporary artists such as Ai Weiwei, George Segal, Claes Oldenburg, Coosje van Bruggen, Mark di Suvero, Anthony Caro, and Richard Hunt.
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park also holds many events throughout the year including the Summer Concert Series, children events, and more! Find everything at their events calendar by clicking here! You can also hold your own event including weddings, parties, and meetings—get the details by clicking here.
Admission: Adults are $14.50, seniors and students are $11, children ages five to 13 are $7, children ages three to four are $4, and children two and under are free.
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park also has a great membership program that gives you many benefits including free admission, early access to special event tickets, members-only hours, reciprocal entrance to other museums, and so much more. Get all the information by clicking here!
The Urban Institute of Contemporary Arts (UICA) presents modern art, events, and educational programs to visitors of the community. The UICA features artwork from regional, national, and international artists as well as creative films, performance art, and more. They also provide tours, gallery talks, artists’ receptions, lectures, and more. Find the list of their latest exhibits and events by clicking here!
In addition, the UICA has a great educational program for adults, teens, and children. Some of these include Family Days, ArtWorks summer programs for teens, group tours, and more. Get all the details by clicking here. There are also several programs to get more involved with the UICA and give back—including Internships, volunteer programs, artist opportunities, and more. Get all the information by clicking here!
Admission and Hours:
Admission to the UICA is completely free and you can join their membership program for free, as well. Learn more by clicking here.
The UICA is currently in the progress of moving to a new location in the historical Woodbridge N. Ferris building on the campus of Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University. They had a soft opening on July 15, 2021. Find all the information by clicking here.
Grand Rapids is full of wonderful art all around the vibrant streets and can be found in many neighborhoods! You can find them on the sides of buildings, along walkways, and even on the streets themselves. Grand Rapids is home to hundereds of talented artists who create their art around the city to share with the community. You only need to walk a few blocks to find a beautiful mural or creative art project.
A-Z Project
In 2019, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. initiated the Rad American Women project which brought 27 female artists to the area to create representations of influential females throughout the city. The project was inspired by “Rad American Women A-Z,” a New York Times bestselling book written by Kate Schatz and illustrated by Miriam Klein Stahl. Several of the women whose image were portrayed in the project include Angela Davis, Dolores Huerta, and Ella Baker.
The UICA also has several spaces around the city in which public art is encouraged. It’s called the Exit Space Project and is a part of their ongoing community outreach programming. This project attacks talent, both locally and at the national level, bringing great public works and street art to the city. To date, they have curated and installed over 16 murals in Grand Rapids and have plans for several more. Find all the information by clicking here!
Exit Space Project Locationscan be found all around the city. For a complete, current list with directions and information about each mural, download the VAMONDE app and search for Grand Rapids Murals by UICA Exit Space Project.
Find a full guide to all of the public art in Grand Rapids from our friends at GRKids by clicking here!
There are many places to see a wonderful performance in the city of Grand Rapids. Everything from live theatre to ballet to broadway performances. There’s something for everyone to see and enjoy! Check out some of the great options below:
One of the most popular art festivals in the world, ArtPrize is an 18-day event that started in 2009. This event alone draws over a quarter of a million people each year, bringing art lovers from around the world to the Grand Rapids area. Professional and amateur artists alike submit their best work to compete for the $450,000 public and juried prize. More than 1,000 works of art are on display each year at various locations across the city. The event takes place each year from late September to early October.
One of the most unique things about ArtPrize is the fact that the public gets to vote on some of the winners. Simply download the ArtPrize app and vote for your favorite pieces. The rest of the prize money is awarded by a panel of esteemed art professionals from around the world.
You can find artwork throughout the city at various venues that chose to host artwork. See the full list of venues by clicking here!
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