Philip & Riley
Things To Do
Art Prize
Art Prize is a major festival made up of public art exhibitions all over downtown Grand Rapids. We are so excited that it will take place during our wedding weekend! More information about venues will become available closer to September, but there should be plenty to see right next to the hotel, ceremony and reception.
Fulton Street Farmer's Market
Top-notch Farmer's Market with 118 outdoor booths under a roof. Don't miss the apple cider and donuts.
Founders Brewing Co
Grand Rapids is known as "Beer City USA" for a reason. Founders is the most famous of the GR breweries, producing several highly rated and award-winning craft-style ales, including Centennial IPA, Dirty Bastard, and Founders Porter.
John Ball Zoo
The John Ball Zoo is a large zoo in a small city. The red pandas, howler monkeys, and toucans are worth the visit. Make sure to ride the funicular!
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Just outside of the city. Experience masterpieces of art and nature that will delight your senses at one of the nation's premier horticultural display gardens and sculpture parks.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
A three minute walk from the hotel, the Art Museum features collections ranging from Renaissance to Modern Art and special collections on 19th and 20th-century European and American art. The museum has in its collection 5,000 works of art, including over 3,500 prints, drawings and photographs.
San Chez Tapas
Incredible tapas with a fun atmosphere.
Downtown Market Grand Rapids
A unique indoor market with several incredible eateries and vendors. Good place to go for a quick bite and to stroll around.
The B.O.B.
Venue for nightlife featuring 4 restaurants, a craft brewery, live music venue, nightclub and stand-up comedy club.
HopCat
HopCat is a craft beer lover's paradise with over 30 beers on tap and unique decor. They also have excellent bar food - their "cosmic fries" are a must. HopCat is a five minute walk from the AC Hotel and has fun, eclectic decor.
The Pyramid Scheme
The Pyramid Scheme has over 20 pinball machines ranging from $0.50 to $1 per play, and has a concert venue attached.
Donkey Taqueria
Great margaritas and tacos with a fun outdoor seating area. Located near the East Town Neighborhood which has several restaurants and cafes and is pleasant for a stroll.
SIDEBARGR
Tiny bar serving a selection of handcrafted cocktails.
Kilwins Downtown Grand Rapids
Since the groom loves ice cream, we knew we needed an ice cream parlor less than five minutes away! Enter Kilwins: an old-fashioned confectionery chain selling chocolates, ice cream and handmade sweets.
The Blue Pedestrian Bridge
The Blue Bridge crosses over the Grand River and offers a nice view of the city. It also connects downtown Grand Rapids to the various attractions on the other side of the river including the Public Museum (where we will hold our reception).
