For those who are unfamiliar with Grand Rapids and are traveling in from out of town, here are some great places and venues to share with your guests for things to do in Grand Rapids either while in town for your wedding or in between ceremony and reception! Grand Rapids offers everything from breweries and bars to nearby beaches and museums. 

Museums

Enjoy a day at Frederik Meijer Gardens, a botanical garden, art museum, and outdoor sculpture park. 

With over 1,000 animals, the John Ball Zoo is a great place to visit with family and friends. In addition to seeing the animals, you can also engage in other exciting activities such as ziplining! 

Located in the heart of Grand Rapids, The Grand Rapids Art Museum is a great place to visit with family and friends. With more than 5,000 items on show, you are more than likely to find something to enjoy.

Spanning three floors, the Grand Rapids Public Museum has over 25,000 pieces ranging from fossils to classic cars. Here you can learn more about the culture of Michigan, history, science, and more!

If you have little ones accompanying you, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a great place to visit where there are hands-on learning spaces for children ages 2-10. 

Bars & Breweries

The B.O.B. is a four-story building containing a range of eateries, a brewery, piano bar, and comedy club. Enjoy a nice summer night in the Beer Garden, have dinner at Judson’s steakhouse, or experience a more posh night out at Eve Nightclub. With a variety of options, The B.O.B. will have something for everyone. 

Located in the East Hill area of Grand Rapids, Brewery Vivant has European inspired beers. Enjoy some cold ones or tour the brewery during your stay in Grand Rapids. You can also enjoy a bite to eat from their French and Belgian inspired food. 

With a wide variety of craft beers, Founders Brewing Company has something for everyone. Enjoy a brewery tour or enjoy one of their many educational fun food and beer pairing classes! 

Enjoy a full drink menu that includes craft beer, artisan spirits, handcrafted cocktails, wine, and cider at New Holland Brewing – The Knickerbocker. In addition to a wide selection of drinks, they have a diverse menu of food to choose from. 

With 18-25 beers on tap, Perrin Brewing Company has something that can accommodate anyone’s tastes. In addition to refreshing drinks, grab some delicious grub while you are there!

Coffee Shops

Enjoy a specialty coffee at Madcap during your stay in Grand Rapids. Visit  this modern cafe at one of their three locations! 

If you can’t decide to enjoy a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, visit the Squibb off of Wealthy Street! Enjoy coffee, tea, baked goods as well as cheese plates and wines. 

Whether you are an early riser or a night owl, The Bitter End will be open for all your coffee cravings and needs. This 24 hour coffee shop is housed in an old bank building and is sure to have something for everyone. 

Parks

Riverside Park offers a variety activities such as multiple trails to bike or walk on, disc golf, playgrounds, soccer fields, and more! This park can also be great for bridal party pictures.

Located in the heart of Grand Rapids is Rosa Parks Circle. In the summer it is used as a venue for events such as concerts and dances, and in the winter it is converted to an ice rink.

Positioned off of the Grand River, Ah-Nab-Awen Park has great city views and has large grassy areas to relax and host community events.

Also check out our post on our favorite venues in Grand Rapids for some great options close to all of these activities.