Things To Do In Grand Rapids Today

What Lies Behind Our Favorite Mall

The Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids, MI is a great place to find unique finds. You can find anything from clothing and jewelry to home goods and toys.

The mall has been open since 1965 when it was the first enclosed shopping center in West Michigan. Today, the mall includes more than 120 stores that are spread out on three levels. The mall also includes a food court with over 12 different restaurants as well as six eateries located at various spots throughout the building for your convenience. If you’re looking for something specific or just want to browse around, there’s no better place!

Woodland Mall is one of the biggest malls in Michigan. It’s located about 40 minutes outside of the metro Detroit area, and has been around for over 50 years. If you live near Grand Rapids or are planning to visit it soon, then be sure to check out this blog post on 10 things you didn’t know about Woodland Mall

1) Woodland Mall was originally an open-air shopping center.

The Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids, MI was originally an open-air shopping center. It opened its doors on August 25th, 1965 and marked the first time that customers could shop inside of a climate controlled environment.

2) The mall’s largest tenant is Macy’s, which takes up a whopping 1/3 of the total space.
The largest tenant is Macy’s, which takes up one-third of the total space. The department store has been open at Woodland since it opened in 1965 and continues to bring customers back for their favorite brands including Ralph Lauren , Michael Kors and many more!

3) Woodland Mall is home to over 200 stores and restaurants, including Victoria’s Secret
The Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids, MI is home to over 200 stores and restaurants.  Some of the most popular include Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works , JCPenney, Macys , H&M and many more!

4) You can find everything from clothes to home furnishings at Woodland Mall.
Woodland Mall has anything from clothes to home furnishings. It’s the perfect place to find something for everyone in your family or a special gift for someone you love!
The Woodland Mall is an amazing mall with so many stores and restaurants that you can get lost inside of it if you’re not careful. That being said, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening with friends and family!

5) The first ever Nordstrom Rack opened at Woodland Mall in October 2013.
The first Nordstrom Rack opened at Woodland Mall in October 2013. The store now has a dedicated section of the mall that’s filled with discounted designer clothes, shoes and accessories from brands like Calvin Klein, Nike, Michael Kors and more!

6) The mall contains an indoor ice rink that can be rented out for birthday parties and other events.
The mall contains an indoor ice rink that can be rented out for birthday parties and other events. It’s a great way to beat the heat during the summer months while enjoying some time on the ice!

7) The mall’s original design was inspired by a village center.
The mall’s original design was inspired by a village center. This idea reflects the local culture and brings in shoppers from all around West Michigan!

8) The mall has a grand total of 1,549 parking spaces available for use.
The Woodland Mall has a grand total of 1549 parking spaces available for use. This is more than enough room to accommodate all customers who come in and out of the mall on an average day.

9) The “Mall of America” in Minnesota is modeled after Woodland Mall.
The “Mall of America” in Minnesota is modeled after Woodland Mall. The mall even includes a small amusement park inside it to keep local families entertained.

10) The mall has undergone many renovations over the years.
The Woodland Mall has undergone many renovations over the years. The most recent took place in 2014 and included new flooring, lighting, seating areas and more.

Woodland Mall is one of the best places to shop in town.  This mall has everything from clothes, home furnishings, and even an indoor ice rink for your entertainment.

If you’re ever in the area please stop by this amazing shopping center and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a one-of-a-kind destination for art, nature and inspiring experiences. Located in Grand Rapids at the corner of 28th Street and Kalamazoo Avenue SE, it’s open year round to visitors from across Michigan and around the world. Designed by renowned landscape architect Piet Oudolf with gardens by Tom Wartenberg, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has become one of America’s must see destinations for public art.
The park features more than 100 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds that are home to outdoor exhibits including sculptures designed by artists like George Segal, Mark di Suvero, Andy Goldsworthy and Jaume Plensa, as well a five-acre lake, outdoor amphitheater and the largest tropical conservatory in Michigan. The gardens are home to thousands of plants from around the world as well as dozens of sculptures throughout the park. For those interested in exploring the grounds of Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, here’s a list of 10 must-do’s:

Top 10 things to do at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park:

1) Take pictures by the large bronze lion statue outside of Meijer Hall.
Visitors to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park will find this statue outside of the museum. Simply by taking a picture here, you can bring your best friend or significant other into the experience with you!

2) Explore the area known as “The Sensory Garden” which features scents such as lilacs or roses

The Sensory Garden features scents that are not typically found in nature, giving visitors a unique experience as they walk through it! It even changes throughout the seasons to create different smells for guests who visit at different times of the year.
This is one of our most popular areas within Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. There are a variety of flowers throughout this area, including ones that smell like chocolate or vanilla!

3) Visit the Children’s Garden

If you find yourself in Grand Rapids, Michigan, be sure to visit the Children’s Garden at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This is a free attraction that will delight children and adults alike with its whimsical design and interactive features. The garden offers plenty of space for kids to run around and explore nature while learning about animals like frogs or bugs they might encounter on an adventure outdoors. You can also take a seat on one of the park benches to enjoy the peaceful surroundings after spending time looking at all of the wonderful sculptures throughout this beautiful outdoor oasis!

4) Get lost in the Japanese Garden – it’s beautiful!

The Japanese Garden features an incredible water feature which is perfect for photos! This peaceful park within the larger Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park offers a quiet place to sit, relax and enjoy nature. There are areas throughout the garden that allow visitors to get closer to plant life than they might be able to in other places, making it a unique experience for people of all ages.
The Japanese Garden also features an incredible water feature that flows through the garden in different ways, depending on how much rain has fallen over time. Take some beautiful photos by this calming body of water.

5) Make sure to check out the Butterfly House!
The Butterfly House features more than 20 species of butterflies that are native to Michigan. There are also other types of insects inside the enclosure, including some beautiful beetles! The habitat is set up so that it’s easy for visitors to see all kinds of different creatures at once, giving them an interesting way to experience nature and learn something new about local wildlife.
In addition, the enclosure also features a waterfall and pond which are home to many different types of creatures including frogs!

6) Explore the Rock Valley!
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is made up of several different areas, but one of our most popular attractions within the park is called Rock Valley. This area features large rocks that visitors can climb on in order to get a closer look at some of the gardens throughout this outdoor space! If you’re looking for an activity that’s a little more exciting, this is it.
Visitors to the park will also enjoy exploring different sculptures throughout Rock Valley as well! There are large rocks and boulders placed around some of these works of art so you can get an up-close look at something interesting during your visit.

7) Bring your pup along for a walk or run in one of their dog parks!
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is dog-friendly! There are several areas throughout the park where owners can bring their pups. One of these spaces is called Dog Wood, which features a pond that’s perfect for dogs to go in and cool off after spending time out on the trails with their humans. If you have a pup, be sure to bring them along for an adventure at this beautiful place.

8) Walk through their Discovery trail!
The Discovery Trail at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is a great way to get up close with nature. This path features different types of plant life as well as information about the sculptures that are on display throughout the park.
This trail isn’t very long, but it’s fun to learn more about some of these pieces of art as you walk through the park.

9) Head down into one of six caves carved out by glaciers thousands of years ago!
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park features six caves that were carved out by glaciers thousands of years ago. Visitors can explore these spaces to learn more about the history behind this outdoor oasis as well as natural geology.
The entrance to each cave is a little different, but they all feature stairs leading down into the space so you can get an up-close look at some of the rock formations in these spaces.

10) Have lunch at The Terrace Garden Cafe or relax with a drink from The Gazebo Bar while taking in views of Lake Michigan!
The Terrace Garden Cafe is a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner! This cafe features locally-sourced food as well as seasonal menus so you can try something new every time you visit the restaurant. The dining room has beautiful views of Lake Michigan and beyond, which makes it an even more enjoyable experience.

There are many different things to do when visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park! If you’re planning a visit soon, be sure to include some or all of these activities into your itinerary for the day!

 The Ultimate Guide to Good Food and Fun In Grand Rapids

We all like to go out and indulge in a culinary experience now and then, but what makes Grand Rapids restaurants different? What are some of the best eateries in the city? Whether you’re looking for steak or sushi, we’ve got it covered with this guide to some of our favorite spots.

1) Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar

Leo’s Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, MI has been family owned and operated since 2004. They have a diverse menu with something for everyone including sushi, steak, seafood, pasta and more. The waitstaff are professional and knowledgeable about the food they offer. The chefs are well educated in their field of cuisine which goes into making an outstanding dish that is delicious and affordable. Leo’s is conveniently located close to the airport and many hotels which makes it a good choice for travelers looking for a great meal or locals looking for a night out.

2) San Chez a Tapas Bistro

San Chez a Tapas Bistro in Grand Rapids, MI is the perfect place to go when you’re looking for Spanish cuisine. With small plates and delicious meals it’s the ideal spot to get together with friends or family members who all have different tastes but want an equally amazing meal. They also offer catering services which make them great for any special occasion such as weddings and anniversaries. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot on the weekend, make sure to call ahead of time because they do book up quickly.

3) The Green Well

The Green Well in Grand Rapids, MI is a great place to go with friends or loved ones for happy hour and dinner. Their menu is full of choices that will excite anyone’s palate with options like their bacon wrapped dates stuffed with bleu cheese and topped off with prosciutto or maybe you’d prefer the goat & ricotta stuffed mushrooms. The Green Well has a full bar and is kid friendly which makes it a great spot to bring your family or stop in after work for happy hour with coworkers.

4) Bistro Bella Vita

Bistro Bella Vita in Grand Rapids, MI is a must try if you’re looking for an authentic Italian meal. They offer both vegetarian and meat dishes that will make your mouth water even before they arrive at the table. Their menu changes on a regular basis which means their food choices are always new and exciting while still offering some of the old favorites. The service is outstanding and they have a great wine selection which means you’re sure to enjoy every moment of your meal at Bistro Bella Vita!

5) Brewery Vivant

Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids, MI is a unique and inviting brewery with both great food and beverages. They use locally sourced ingredients to serve up tasty dishes that pair perfectly with their handcrafted beers or any of the other refreshing drinks they have on tap. Brewery Vivant offers live music as well as outdoor seating during warmer months which makes it a fun place to go for food and drinks.

6) Electric Cheetah

Electric Cheetah in Grand Rapids, MI is an upscale nightclub that offers everything from drinks to dinner. They have a variety of foods that are both delicious and affordable which makes it the perfect choice for locals who want to go out dancing but also enjoy their meal beforehand. The service at Electric Cheetah has been praised by many regulars so if you’re looking for a great night out without having to make reservations, this is the place you should visit.

7) Beer City Bread Co.

Beer City Bread Co. in Grand Rapids, MI has delicious sandwiches that are made with freshly baked breads and healthy ingredients. Their menu offers something for everyone including vegetarians who will enjoy their veggie burger or hummus sandwich while meat lovers can indulge in a classic turkey & cheddar sandwich on sourdough bread which is piled high with meat and smothered in mayo. Their soups are also homemade which means you can’t go wrong with any of their selections!

8) Real Food Cafe Eastern Ave

Real Food Cafe Eastern Ave. in Grand Rapids, MI is the perfect spot to stop for breakfast or lunch when you’re on your way into work or running errands around town. Their menu has a wide variety of food choices that will satisfy anyone’s tastes including pancakes and waffles topped with fruit as well as healthier options like their salads and sandwiches. Their breakfast options are also incredibly affordable which makes it the perfect place to stop if you’re looking for a cheap meal that will fill up your belly without breaking the bank!

9) Butcher’s Union

Butcher’s Union in Grand Rapids, MI is a steakhouse that also offers great lunch and dinner specials which means you can enjoy their food even if it isn’t quite time for a special occasion. Their menu has something to satisfy every taste with options ranging from steaks & burgers to salads & tacos so there’s truly something for everyone at Butcher’s Union. They have a full bar as well so you can enjoy your meal with an ice cold beer or one of their specialty cocktails!

10) Wolfgang’s Restaurant

Wolfgang’s Restaurant in Grand Rapids, MI is the perfect place to go for date night or a special occasion with friends and family. Their menu has so many great options that you’ll want to try them all but be warned: their portions are huge which means you may not have room for dessert! Wolfgang’s offers everything from burgers & sandwiches to salads & steaks so there is truly something for everyone.

Grand Rapids is a city with many great restaurants which means there are plenty of options for every kind of palate. Whether you crave classic American dishes or want to try something new, Grand Rapids has an amazing restaurant that will have your mouth watering in anticipation! We hope this guide helped narrow down the choices and give you some ideas about where to go next time you’re craving good food and fun times.

 Tips for an Amazing Saturday At The Farmers Market

Fulton Street Farmers Market is a bustling market filled with the freshest produce, meats and seafood from all over the world. Fulton Street’s incredible variety of vendors offer something for everyone! Whether you’re looking to pick up some fresh produce, find quality meat or fish for your dinner table, or just want to browse through aisles of craft items and unusual gifts, Fulton Street has it all.

The best part? You can experience it all on Saturday mornings year-round! For those who have never been before, don’t worry about being overwhelmed by choice. Here are our top ten tips for an amazing Saturday at Fulton Street…

1) Get there early so you can explore each aisle without feeling rushed.
The best part? You can experience it all on Saturday mornings year-round! For those who have never been before, don’t worry about being overwhelmed by choice. Here are our top ten tips for an amazing Saturday at Fulton Street…

Top 10 Tips For An Amazing Saturday at Fulton Street Farmers Market:
1) Get there early so you can explore each aisle without feeling rushed.
Fulton Street can be really crowded with enthusiastic shoppers. Getting your shopping done earlier will make you more comfortable shopping without feeling rushed.

2) Bring your own reusable tote bag if possible, or buy one from a vendor while you’re there to help cut down on plastic waste that often ends up in the ocean.
This will help you get more out of your shopping trip at Fulton Street Farmers Market by avoiding both the burden of using plastic bags and buying new ones every week.

3) Haggle with vendors – bargaining is expected and encouraged!
Haggling is a fun part of shopping at Fulton Street Farmers Market. Just remember that it’s not expected, and you should only haggle if you’re willing to walk away without purchasing the product. It’s also important to consider how much room for negotiation there is before starting any discussion with vendors about prices or discounts.

4) Look for produce that’s a little bruised or misshapen to get the best deals.
Fulton Street has a variety of high-quality, organic and inorganic produce. If you’re willing to take home some less than perfect looking fruits and vegetables, there are always great bargains to be found when you shop at Fulton Street Farmers Market.
When you’re looking to buy produce, be sure that it’s ripe and not overripe. The best way to test a fruit is by smelling it – an apple with no smell will still taste pretty good, but one that smells like its going bad should always be avoided.

5) When it comes to fresh meat, look for signs of quality.
In addition to fruits and veggies, Fulton Street has great deals on meats and seafood.
When it comes to fresh meat, look for signs of quality like clear eyes and bright red blood rather than brown or dull colors that indicate an older animal. The best way to tell if a fish is good is by smell; generally speaking, the fresher something smells, the better its going to taste.
You’ll be able to tell if it’s fresh with clear eyes, bright red blood rather than brown or dull colors that indicate an older animal. The smell is another indication of quality; generally speaking, the fresher something smells, the better its going to taste!

6) Watch for produce that’s in season to pick up the best deals.
Fulton Street has a variety of high-quality, organic and inorganic produce. Seasonal fruits are often cheaper because they’re easier to grow – if you see beautiful strawberries or peaches on sale while it’s still January here in Sacramento, consider buying some extra to freeze for later.

7) Don’t miss the samples!
Fulton Street Farmers Market has a lot of excellent offers, but if you want to make sure you get the best deals for your groceries, try everything first. You can even ask vendors to give away free samples so that you know exactly what each product tastes like before buying it.

8) Make friends with the vendors.
The best way to really get a feel for what Fulton Street Farmers Market has to offer is by getting to know your favorite vendors personally, which you can do simply by starting up friendly conversations or asking them questions about their produce. You’ll be able to learn which items are in season and where they come from – two things that are always good to know when you want the best deals.

9) Bring cash for quick transactions – no need to wait in line at an ATM.
Some of the Fulton Street Farmers Market accepts cash or credit cards – just be sure to bring cash for quick transactions so that you don’t have to wait in line at an ATM.

10) Have a list of what you are looking for.
Make a list before you go to Fulton Street Farmers Market so that you don’t forget anything. It’s always good to have a shopping list with what produce and products you’re looking for, which will help the vendors know if they should offer samples of items or not.

Top 7 Reasons Why You Should Bring Your Child to Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is the best place to have fun.
It has a huge indoor play space, full of great activities for kids and adults alike. It also features an outdoor area with more than 10 acres of rolling hills, paths, gardens and exhibits where you can explore the natural world. There are even some live animals on display! The museum offers family programs year round that will keep everyone busy at home or on vacation.
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is one of the best places to have fun in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The museum offers interactive exhibits that are designed for children three years old and up. The museum also hosts birthday parties, summer camps, and other special events.
The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum has been open since 1992. It was founded by a group of parents who wanted to create a place where their children could explore new things through creative play, interaction with others, and hands-on learning experiences. Here are some of the reasons why you should bring your child to Grand Rapids Children’s Museum:

1) The museum has an imaginative, hands-on play area where visitors can experience pretend play as well as learn about science, math, or history. There are more than 50 exhibits that encourage children to learn new things.

There is a discovery center where kids can play with water and sand, an outdoor play area which features gardens and natural spaces, hands-on learning experiences in the Imagination Station, and much more!

2) There are over 100 activities at the museum for kids to explore, so they are sure to have a great time. Kids can spend the whole day here and still not see everything.

This museum has exhibits that focus on natural habitats around the world, pretend play areas where children can dress up as doctors or chefs, learning centers with activities for all ages, musical instruments in our music studio for kids to play, and much more!

3) It provides a space where children and adults alike can enjoy themselves. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a great place to meet friends, visit with family members, or just spend the day by yourself.

There are spaces for adults and children alike throughout the museum where they can relax and play together. This includes a special spot in our Imagination Station that kids can use alone! Adults will enjoy shopping at our gift shop or exploring the outdoor play area.

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum also offers family programs, special exhibits, and birthday parties for kids throughout the year!

4) Grand Rapids Children’s Museum partners with local businesses who give discounts on their products or services when you show your membership card at checkout.

There are so many great deals at the museum. Whether you are shopping for toys, having lunch in our cafe, or buying groceries from one of Grand Rapids’ local food markets, your membership card will save you money.

5) There is something for everyone – from babies and toddlers to school-aged children  and adults. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a great place to visit with family or friends, even if your kids are all different ages!

There are age-appropriate exhibits throughout the museum that will keep each child engaged and learning something new. There are also spaces where adults can relax while their children play in an adjacent room. You may not be able to enjoy everything with your kids, but you will still have fun!

6) It’s a great way to spend quality time with your child.

Taking your child to Grand Rapids Children’s Museum can be a special way for you and your child to bond. Whether they are looking at the exhibits, playing in Imagination Station with their friends, or shopping together at our gift shop, this is a great day out!

7) The museum has educational exhibits that are designed to be interactive, so it will keep them occupied for hours.

There are so many activities that children can participate in at the museum. Our exhibits have hands-on learning experiences with pretend play, music, science experiments, creative arts and crafts, special events with local businesses throughout the year – there is something for everyone!

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a great place for parents to take their children. Whether you are looking for an educational day out or something fun and creative, this museum has it all! If your child loves playing dress up, exploring science experiments with friends, learning about the world around them through pretend play – Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is perfect. Try visiting today and see how much of our amazing exhibits they can explore in one day!

Remember that if these activities sound like too much fun – there are also areas where adults have time to relax while their kids play nearby.

Heritage Hill Historic District: A Place You’ll Fall in Love With

Do you live in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area and want to find a great place to take your family? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Heritage Hill is a historic district that has something for everyone; with over 500 acres of beautiful scenery and wonderful things to do. There’s no need for you or your loved ones to be bored here as there are many activities such as walking tours, fishing, picnics and more! Not only does this incredible location boast some of the best views around but it also offers year round activities for those who enjoy living an active lifestyle.

If you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, this is definitely your destination. You can find Heritage Hill at 3800 North Saginaw Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This blog post will go over some things you can do within Heritage Hill’s boundaries, as well as what you cannot do while visiting the area.

Things You Can Do At Heritage Hill Historic District

1) Walk around Heritage Hill Park, where you can see a variety of trees and flowers.

The Heritage Hill Historic District is a one of the most popular destinations in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With its quaint streets and beautiful homes, it’s easy to see why this area is an attraction for locals and tourists alike. The natural beauty of the neighborhood offers plenty of things to do with family or friends.

2) Exploring old houses and buildings with permission from building owners.
Heritage Hill Historic District is a one of the most popular destinations in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The natural beauty of the neighborhood offers plenty of things to do with family or friends.  If you’re looking for a place where there are old houses and buildings that have been preserved by their owners then Heritage Hill is your destination. There are many structures that have been well-preserved over time which means they offer an experience unlike anywhere else in the city. In order to explore these amazing places, permission from building owners must be obtained beforehand so make sure to contact them before going on any tours.

3) You can also take a guided tour through the district or enjoy some live music at one of their annual festivals.
The district has self-guided walking tours and also offers guided walking tours with a knowledgeable tour guide. With so much history in the area, it is worth taking a tour through this historic neighborhood.

Things You Can’t Do At Heritage Hill Historic District:

1) Visitors may not go beyond the fences surrounding the property or climb any trees onsite without permission from staff members.

In order to preserve the historic properties at Heritage Hill, there are some rules that must be followed while onsite. First off, visitors may not go beyond the fences surrounding the property or climb any trees onsite without permission from staff members. This includes going into any buildings without permission either. It’s also important to note that there are many live animals present onsite so stay on the walkways and avoid contact with these animals. Visitors not complying with the rules and regulations of Heritage Hill will receive a written warning or be asked to leave.

2) Use fireworks, explosives, or other incendiary devices within 300 feet of any building in the District.

Heritage Hill contains live animals, including deer, so it is very important to avoid using fireworks here because these animals are sensitive to the noise and may become frightened. Furthermore, some homes in Heritage Hill are built with old-fashioned wood siding, so explosives could potentially cause great damage to these homes. Finally, Heritage Hill can be a very crowded and congested place and incendiary devices would only make the situation more dangerous and chaotic.
3) Put up any signs or advertisements, including political campaign materials
Putting up any signs or advertisements especially political campaign materials is prohibited in Heritage Hill Historic District. This is because the goal of Heritage Hill Historic District is to preserve and protect history, so any signs or advertisements would not be consistent with this philosophy.
If you’re looking for a place where there are old houses and buildings that have been preserved by their owners, then Heritage Hill is your destination.  Whether it’s exploring the historic structures onsite or attending one of their annual festivals, this neighborhood has plenty to offer any visitor.

What other interesting things can visitors do while visiting Heritage Hill? Send us a message with suggestions!