Are you planning a visit to Grand Rapids? Looking for some fun activities for the whole family? From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, Grand Rapids has something for everyone. Check out our list of the top things to do in Grand Rapids – you won’t be disappointed!
1. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a must-visit destination for any art enthusiast visiting Grand Rapids. This 158-acre combination botanical garden and sculpture park features exotic plants, stunning outdoor gardens, and world-renowned sculptures. Visitors can explore the Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, marvel at Leonardo da Vinci’s Horse, and snap photos in front of the Lying Man statue. With its diverse attractions, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is an ideal spot to spend a day outdoors. Voted one of the 30 museums in the world to visit in a lifetime, it is just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids.
2. Gerald R. Ford Museum
One of the top attractions in Grand Rapids is the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Located in the heart of the city, this museum is a tribute to the 38th President of the United States and his commitment to public service. Visitors can take a holographic tour of Ford’s White House and see a piece of the Berlin Wall. Docent-guided tours are offered weekdays during the school year, allowing guests to explore permanent exhibits and learn about Ford’s life, his wife, and his political partners. The museum also offers interactive galleries and videos that highlight many aspects of his presidency that often go unnoticed. No matter what age you are, a visit to Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is sure to be an educational and entertaining experience for everyone.
3. Meyer May House
The Meyer May House is an impressive example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture, located in Grand Rapids’ Heritage Hill Historic District. Visitors can explore the house and its surrounding gardens, complete with sculptures and floral displays. It has been meticulously restored with original furnishings and faithfully executed reproductions, bringing the vision of Wright to life. The architecture features natural materials, horizontal lines, and design and material uniformity. A 30-minute film entitled “The Renewing of a Vision” is shown at the house to help visitors experience the genius of Wright. It’s a wonderful addition to any tour of Grand Rapids’ historical attractions such as the Gerald R. Ford Museum or Van Andel Arena.
4. Leonardo da Vinci’s Horse
Visitors to Grand Rapids should definitely not miss the chance to view Leonardo da Vinci’s Horse at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. The bronze sculpture was commissioned from Da Vinci in 1482 by the Duke of Milan, and today visitors can wander amidst glassy conservatories, waterfalls, small bears, driftwood horses, and occasional glass spikes to see it. It even seemed appropriate that Charlie Dent spent so much of his time flying, an experience for which Leonardo yearned. Compare hotels near Leonardo da Vinci’s Horse in Grand Rapids and make sure to add this to your list of must-see attractions while in the area.
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