Top 10 Reasons to Visit

There are so many reasons to come and visit Grand Rapids. If you need help making your list, start with our top 10 reasons!

1. Awesome Art

From the world's largest art competition to one of the world's most-visited art museums, Grand Rapids boasts an art scene to rival much bigger cities. Find art events that match your trip dates.

2. Fantastic Food

Grand Rapids is renowned for farm-to-fork restaurants that transform the dawn's harvest into the day's specials. From breakfast haunts to burger joints, we've got every taste covered. Find a restaurant that tickles your palate.

3. Magnificent Music

You'll find music to suit every taste and temperament here, every day of the week. A chart-topping superstar at Van Andel Arena, an indie favorite at a downtown club, a Broadway warbler at a local theatre ... see who's appearing when you're here.

4. Great Beer

Grand Rapids earned the title Beer City USA in 2012 - and we were named one of the Top 10 Best Vacation Cities for Beer Lovers. A craft beer tour will show you why. Don't miss the world's 2nd best brewery and 3rd best beer bar!

5. Grand Outdoors

Outdoor recreation is a four-season pursuit here, thanks to an abundance of natural resources. World-class golf courses, some of America's best fishing, endless biking and hiking trails ... Grand Rapids is a great place for an active vacation!

6. Beach Bonanza

Sugar-sand beaches, towering sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, glorious sunsets ... no wonder our Lake Michigan shoreline has been named among the world's best. A sight to behold in any season, it's just minutes from downtown GR.

7. Signature Shopping

Massive shopping malls and unique neighborhood shopping districts offer anything and everything your heart desires - especially if your heart desires art, antiques, furniture or clothing. Start your shopping plan today.

8. Culture Club

Visit our museums and historic sites for a look at those who shaped our culture, from the original Native American inhabitants to the Dutch immigrants that settled here in the 1800s to today's rich blend of races and ethnic groups.

9. Hospitality Plus

Grand Rapids offers big-city amenities without the big-city attitude. We cling tight to our small-town values - so expect friendly hellos, attentive service and pay-it-forward hospitality everywhere you go.

10. Connecting Point

Location, affordability and all-ages appeal make Grand Rapids a great place to connect with your favorite people. Get together for a friend meetup, family reunion, girls' getaway, or men's weekend.

Check our Events Calendar for even more events and attractions. Be sure to tweet your favorite finds for other travelers to enjoy: #Grand Rapids or #GR.