Grand Rapids Travel Guide, Michigan

Grand rapids, MI, US, Overview Grand Rapids, a perfect example of today’s urban attitude with traditional custom  

From the ultra modern Van Andel Arena to the exquisite historic locality of Heritage Hill and from the state of the art IMAX Theater at Celebration Village to the majestic Frederick Meijer Gardens. From the international specialties and eclectic tapas to classic Midwestern style steaks, Grand Rapids in Michigan is a fascinating example of how a capital can embrace custom as well as keep an eye on its tomorrow. 

History of Grand Rapids

The European missionaries as well as the fur traders initially settled Grand Rapids at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Louis Campau in 1826 made his Native American trading station over the Grand River’s east bank. Eventually Campau bought 72 acres through the federal government, igniting interest from various land speculators. The settlement developed in a village and in 1850 became the official city.  

Grand Rapids and its features 

Grand Rapids is one of the largest cities in Michigan, US. The Grand River flows through the middle of the capital, giving Grand Rapids its identity and name. Strewn bridges with light across the river, joins the notable array of historic structures and contemporary towers of the city. The downtown district features numerous parks, river walks in addition to an amazing collection of contemporary and modern sculptures. 

Grand Rapids attractions

Grand rapid is home to the famous Gerald R. Ford, Belknap Hill and John Ball Park. Few of the eminent buildings in downtown include Van Andel Arena, De Vos Place Convention Center, the JW Marriott Hotel and the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. This city boasts the Van Andel Museum Center, which was instituted in 1854. In the past several years, the museum has hosted a handful of significant exhibitions such as The Quest for Immortality: the Treasurers of Ancient Egypt and the Dead Sea Scrolls.      

The Heritage Hill in the southern east section of the town is the greatest Urban Historic District, with above 1000 Victorian homes. Another outstanding must see site is the Meyer May House, made by Frank Lloyd Wright and commissioned via local mercantile Meyer May.  

When it comes to culture of Grand Rapids, the city boasts the festival of the arts since 1970. In the initial phase of the festival in June, various blocks of the downtown neighboring Calder stabile in the Vandenberg Plaza are shut down for traffic. The festival features different stages with several live performances, art demonstrations, food booths offering a plethora of ethnic cuisine in addition to other associated activities.     

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