Things To Do
Živio
Our favorite neighborhood restaurant: gastropub vibes with a great selection of drinks and a mix of Turkish, Greek and many Central European cuisines. Jason loves the lamb dip and Melanie is a big fan of the fiery feta gyro. Can't go wrong with the whipped feta dip or the "Can't Stop Won't Stop" fries.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Gardens and art on a beautiful walkable campus. There is so much to see and experience including a gorgeous Japanese garden, lovely flowers and plants in the huge green house and world renown statues.
Los Mariscos de Pancho
The best birria tacos and aguaschiles/ceviche there is. Family run and delicious.
Heritage Hill
Take a walk around our neighborhood, the beautiful historic houses and shops along Wealthy street will leave you with plenty to look at and explore. Grab a bite at Zivio, our favorite neighborhood restaurant serving a mix of Turkish, Greek, and Central European cuisines; have a cocktail at Eastern Kille's Wealthy street tasting room; if you're feeling tacos head to Donkey for some chips and guac, flautas (Jason's favorite) and some delicious tacos (warning they don't have a sign); grab a treat at Wealthy Street Bakery (Melanie loves the breakfast cookies and townies); and explore Art of Table for wine, and specialty products. Head a little north on Union and you'll find Martha's Vineyard (oh hey, they're catering our wedding!) for specialty food and beverage, their pizza shop, Lyon Street Café, and Nantucket Baking Co.
Grand Rapids Downtown Market
Explore the Downtown Market for a strolling lunch or snack. Inside of the market you'll find a wide selection of food and beverage: restaurants, coffee, baked goods, Thai food, ice cream, tacos, fried chicken, BBQ, and more all in one downtown location.
Grand Rapids Public Museum
A great museum that shows the robust history of "Furniture city" and includes so many great exhibits. Go for a ride on the carousel and enjoy views of downtown.
Butcher's Union
This is the spot for great cocktails, appetizers, and steaks! The restaurant is on Bridge street which has a bunch of other great restaurants, bars, and breweries.
Grand Haven
One of our favorite places to go in West Michigan during the Summer and only a 30 minute drive away to see Lake Michigan. We love walking through downtown Grand Haven (Fortinos for candy, Odd Side Ales for beer, Temptations for ice cream) all the way down to Grand Haven State Park for the beach and pier. Go to Halaula for some shaved ice and on the weekend there is a world renown light show... the Magical Fountain! Fun fact: Jason grew up in Grand Haven!
Founders Brewing Co
Visit the brewery that helped name Grand Rapids "Beer City USA". Some yummy beers to try at the taproom: Reds Rye IPA, CBS, Rubaeus, All Day IPA, and the Porter. Their sandwiches are great.