Things To Do
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
We live just down the road from Frederik Meijer Gardens, one of our favorite spots to take out-of-town guests. There's so much to explore here, making it the perfect place to visit year-round. The indoor conservatory offers a beautiful collection of plants from tropical, desert, and Mediterranean climates, while the outdoor gardens showcase seasonal blooms, tranquil ponds, and landscaped areas. One of the highlights is the Sculpture Park, which features a stunning collection of large-scale sculptures set against the natural landscape. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens or taking in the art, it’s a wonderful way to spend a summer day.
Eastown
Eastown in Grand Rapids is a lively neighborhood with a mix of local shops, great restaurants, and a laid-back vibe. For food and drinks, check out Matchbox Diner for delicious comfort food, or head to Thai Table for flavorful Thai dishes. Zivio offers Mediterranean cuisine, while The Winchester serves up tasty American fare. Go to The Electric Cheetah for creative dishes, or visit Hancock for our favorite fried chicken sandwich. Less Traveled and Buffalo Traders Lounge offer unique cocktails. If you're in the mood for craft cocktails and food, Vivant Brewery & Spirits is a must-visit. For shopping, Eastown has plenty of unique spots to explore. Fox Naturals is perfect for natural products and skin care, while Commune, The Counting House, and Nostology offer curated home decor, clothing, and jewelry. Rebel is my favorite place to buy gifts for people and Sticky Fingers is a fun spot for candy. Don’t miss Mokaya for artisanal chocolates and delicious treats.
Saugatuck
If you are planning on spending some extra time on the west side of the state. Saugatuck is our favorite beach town to spend the day at. This charming lakeside town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor activities. Spend time exploring Oval Beach, one of the best in the state, or take a scenic boat ride on the Kalamazoo River. Stroll through the downtown area to visit unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the Saugatuck Dunes State Park for hiking and nature walks, or enjoy a relaxing visit to the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. For a great outdoor coffee experience, check out Woosah Outfitters and Outside Coffee in nearby Douglas. Whether you’re soaking in the natural beauty or experiencing the town's creative spirit, Saugatuck offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. Explore the fascinating history of the region with exhibits on local culture, science, and natural history. The museum features interactive displays, including the Science & Industry gallery, which engages visitors with hands-on activities. Don’t miss the historic Spinning Wheels exhibit, showcasing the city’s industrial past, or take a ride on the museum’s vintage carousel for a nostalgic experience. For a truly unique experience, check out the Queen light show at the museum's Planetarium, where stunning visuals are paired with the iconic music of Queen. With rotating exhibits and a variety of family-friendly programs, the Grand Rapids Public Museum provides a fun and educational experience for everyone.
Morning Ritual Coffee Bar
Our favorite place to grab a coffee or chai latte! I personally order off their seasonal menu which usually exhibits unique flavor combinations.
Fulton Street Market
This is our favorite way to spend a Saturday morning. Open year-round, this historic market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, flowers, and artisan products. Established in 1922, it’s one of Michigan's oldest markets, and its lively atmosphere reflects the heart of the city's commitment to supporting local farmers and small businesses. Even if you don't plan on buying any produce, we highly recommend grabbing some local baked goods and coffee from here. Open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 8 AM - 2 PM.
Grand Rapids Downtown Market
The Downtown Market in Grand Rapids is Spencer and I's go to place for fresh baked bread, French pastries, and boba tea! Situated in the heart of the city, it features 19 indoor food merchants and restaurants in its Market Hall, which is open seven days a week. The Market Hall offers a variety of dine-in and carry-out options from a culinary collective of butchers, bakers, fishmongers, ice cream makers, and more. Visitors can explore a wide range of fresh food, artisanal goods, and unique culinary experiences while supporting local businesses. With its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, the Downtown Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Grand Rapids.
The Deck
If you're staying on the west side of Michigan for a long weekend, we highly recommend spending an afternoon at The Deck Beachfront Restaurant in Muskegon, Michigan. This place is the city’s only beach restaurant located at Pere Marquette Park, offering a unique dining experience with spectacular views of Lake Michigan. Known as "an adult playground," it serves up a delicious variety of BBQ, tacos, fresh salads, and a wide array of frozen beverages. Guests can enjoy their meals while swinging on the beach, playing yard games, or dancing the night away with their live music.
Two Beards Deli
One of our favorite places to grab a quick and casual lunch! Two beards has classic deli staples and innovative creations – sandwiches, salads, and house-made soups cater to diverse tastes. The deli’s innovation shines through with an array of sandwiches featuring abundant deli meats, each piled high with creativity and uniqueness. Spencer's go to order is the The Frederick Douglass salad. I love getting the #62 The Silent Bob sandwich and the #78 The Hayao Miyazaki wrap.
Black Napkin
The best smash burgers and fries in the city. Trust us on this! This is a quick and easy take out place if your looking to grab lunch before the ceremony.
