Things to Do in Grand Rapids (2025)

A landmark blend of art and horticulture with works by Jaume Plensa, Louise Bourgeois, and more. Its Japanese Garden drew national attention from Architectural Digest, and 2025 programming marks 30 years of exhibitions and concerts. Expect a deeply local, global-class experience.

Michigan’s oldest museum pairs riverfront views with hands-on science, West Michigan history, and the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium. Recent press confirms 2025 exhibits and an expansion underway, keeping this community anchor lively and current.

A downtown hub preserving Black history through rotating exhibits, oral histories, and community events—free to visit. Local news in 2025 reports a move to a much larger home, reflecting strong community support and growth.

Since 1922, this neighborhood market has connected local growers, bakers, and makers with the city. It’s open year-round, supports SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks, and hosts lively themed markets that show GR’s grassroots culture in action.

A community-minded market hall and greenhouse filled with independent vendors—think artisan cheese, fresh bread, and small food counters. Frequently highlighted by national outlets for culinary browsing, it also incubates local food businesses and hosts pop-up events.

Housed in a restored historic building, this B Corp pioneer helped define Beer City’s flavor with Belgian-inspired ales and a scratch kitchen. Bon Appétit has recommended it, and recent coverage notes its expanded spirit and cocktail program.

A compact cocktail bar from an acclaimed local distiller, known for meticulous, spirit-forward drinks. It spotlights West Michigan ingredients and complements the brand’s new distillery campus with an intimate Uptown setting.

Grand Rapids’ specialty coffee standard-bearer. Food & Wine named Madcap Michigan’s best roaster, and the flagship café still anchors downtown with precise brews, seasonal drinks, and roastery classes that draw serious coffee fans.

An independent music venue and beloved pinball bar that champions touring acts and local bands. Its active 2025 calendar shows why it remains a go-to for GR’s alt music scene—and a hangout that feels unmistakably local.

A restored 1911 neighborhood theater run by the Community Media Center. Film series, comedy, and concerts fill the schedule, and 2025 bookings signal why locals treat it like the city’s living room for arts and ideas.

Locally led walks weave architecture, public art, and eerie lore into downtown routes. With year-round ghost, history, and mural tours praised by regional media, it’s an engaging way to meet the city’s stories on foot.

Since 1992, this independent tapas spot has anchored downtown dining with shared plates and lively energy. Frequently praised by local critics and travel writers, it’s a flavorful, social way to experience Grand Rapids around the table.