If anyone knows how to experience a new city as though he’s lived in it for years, it’s CBS News Travel Editor, author and all-around travel guru Peter Greenberg. His new Like A Local book series launched earlier this month, offering up real behind-the-scenes information you won’t find in any guidebook in a variety of destinations including Buenos Aires, Cuba and the Caribbean.

Whether you’re exploring a far-flung destination or a city a little closer to home, sometimes it’s nice to step off the tourist track (and completely avoid the tourist traps!) and find the restaurants, bars, and other attractions that have earned fame and loyalty from the local residents. When Peter Greenberg enjoyed a trip to Grand Rapids recently, keynoting the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism, we caught up with him at his room in the Amway Grand Plaza to get his take on exploring Grand Rapids like a local. His advice: [read more…]

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photo from lululemon via flickr

Whether you stick with a tried-and-true favorite or venture beyond your usual fare, there’s plenty to keep you busy in GR this week: [read more…]

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Looks like we’re heading into a warm and sunny weekend! Here are some events coming up in Grand Rapids this weekend, including several that will keep you out in the sun – and a few indoors options in case we get some rain: [read more…]

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Get Your Java Here: Coffee Shops in Grand Rapids

by Kirsetin Morello on May 9, 2012

If there’s one thing locals and visitors to GR can agree on, it’s this: we need our coffee, people.

photo by stevendepolo

For the Starbucks fans out there, you’re in luck. Starbucks hit the Grand Rapids scene a few years ago and hasn’t looked back. My husband belongs to your fraternity—you won’t see him coaching a soccer game without the ubiquitous mermaid cup in his hand. Click here for Starbucks location in the GR area.

However, for those of you who would rather skip your morning java than go national, no worries. Grand Rapids has plenty of local coffee shops for your sipping pleasure. Here’s a round-up of 5 local favorites: [read more…]

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Happy National Travel & Tourism Week!

by Jill Anderson on May 6, 2012

Grand Rapids Travel

Traditionally the first full week of May is National Travel & Tourism Week. And of course Experience Grand Rapids wants to help you celebrate!

Are you on the Instagram bandwagon yet? I must admit I have fallen in love with this app since it finally came to Android (you can also download it for your iPhone). Well now is the perfect time to get in on the craze. [read more…]

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It is a great weekend to be downtown Grand Rapids. There is a lot going on whether you are a family, bar hopper, artist or foodie. Here are a few highlights: [read more…]

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Fresh, Local Food in Grand Rapids: Fulton Street Farmers Market

by Kirsetin Morello May 2, 2012

It’s fresh. It’s local. And this Saturday, it’s open for business. Mark your calendar for the start of the 90th season of Michigan’s largest farmers market, the Fulton Street Farmers Market in Grand Rapids. Set your alarm for this Saturday morning, May 5, and begin your weekend with a stroll through the wonderful sights, sounds, [...]

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This week in Grand Rapids: Events for Civil War Buffs, Jazz Aficionados, Swing Dancers and Art Lovers

by Kirsetin Morello April 30, 2012

If you’re in Grand Rapids this week you’re in luck, because we have all of this and more. Here are a few events you can check out:

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What’s Up This Weekend: Roller Derby, The Odd Couple Community Theater and Dr. Grin’s Comedy Club

by Jill Anderson April 27, 2012

Is it just me or is time flying by? How is this the last weekend in April already? Thankfully there is a lot to do this weekend around Grand Rapids so you don’t feel like life is passing you by.

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Grand Rapids Girl’s Night Out

by Jill Anderson April 25, 2012

I recently took a family vacation with my kids and was reminded of a very important fact. Vacationing with your kids doesn’t really feel like a vacation. Sometimes you just need to leave everyone else behind and have a good old fashioned girl’s weekend away. But since I couldn’t get away for a whole weekend, [...]

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