Things To Do
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
This is where we had our first official date as a couple, and also where we got ENGAGED!!! An absolutely beautiful garden and sculpture park with big indoor and outdoor sections. Come try and spot the last butterflies of the season in the butterfly garden, or wander the Japanese Sculpture Garden trying to imagine us sheepishly hunting for photo spots. Bonus points if you spot and send us a picture of the rabbit people sculptures tucked all the way in the back.
Beer City, USA
Grand Rapids proudly holds the title of "Beer City USA" because of its thriving craft beer scene. Founders brews some of Jacob's favorite beers - try the Dirty Bastard or Breakfast Stout if you like something darker, or the Rubaeus if you're feeling something lighter and a little tart. Or swing by Arktos Meadery for something a little different - check out their underground dungeon and drink honey wine from a chalice like a viking. Other local favorites include Brewery Vivant, Mitten Brewing Company, and Greyline.
Downtown Holland
Named one of America's "prettiest towns" in some lists we found, and we'd agree! Holland is about a half hour drive from Grand Rapids and has over a hundred cute shops, art galleries, eateries, and bars all in a small area. If you forgot your dress shoes, pick up some wooden Dutch clogs and get ready to be a menace on the dance floor.
Lake Michigan Beaches
Lake Michigan is just a 30-minute drive west from Grand Rapids. You’ll find stunning white sand beaches and breathtaking sunsets at Holland State Park and Grand Haven State Park. For a quieter experience, Anh’s favorite spot is North Beach Park. It’s smaller and usually less crowded but still offers the same beautiful, silky white sand.
Tunnel Park
This cute lakefront park holds lots of sentimental memories for Anh. In the summers, her family would come barbecue and play badminton and volleyball. Walk through the tunnel to get to the white sand beach and see a beautiful sunset (a perfect spot for Anh's High School Senior photos!)