Top 10 Reasons to Visit

Looking for ways to discover things to do in Grand Rapids? Check out these ideas for the summer.

1. Fresh Picks

The newly remodeled Fulton Street Farmer's Market offers just-picked fruits, veggies, eggs and more, every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Artisans sell their wares on Sundays. Opens May 5.

2. Shore Thing

What Condé Nast Traveler calls "one of the world's Top 25 shorelines" is just 30 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids. Take your pick of more than a dozen pristine public beaches.

3. Beer Bash

Founders Brewing Company, rated among the planet's top craft breweries, throws its annual "Founders Fest." This street-wide celebration includes incredible live music, killer grub and some of the world's greatest beer. June 23.

4. Van Andel Variety

Downtown's Van Andel Arena features a variety of huge touring shows, including: Red Hot Chili Peppers (May 26), Roger Waters: The Wall (June 6), Barry Manilow (June 14) and Van Halen (July 26).

5. Ear Candy/Eye Candy

The B-52s, Melissa Etheridge, Jimmy Cliff, Foreigner, Al Green Gov't Mule, Emmylou Harris and 18 additional superstars play in a stunning outdoor setting at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. June 1 - Aug. 29.

6. Circle of Fun

Circle Theatre launches its 60th season with the musical Cabaret (May 10-23), followed by the hilarious "Yooper" comedy Escanaba in Da Moonlight (June 7- 20), and the ‘60s rock musical Hair (July 12-25).

7. Festival of the Arts

The streets of downtown Grand Rapids become a showcase for art of all kinds -visual, performance, culinary and more - during the 43rd Festival of the Arts. See, create, buy, eat and applaud!

8. Play Ball!

The West Michigan Whitecaps play 70 home games through September. This Class A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers offers great family-friendly promotions and some of the world's coolest ballpark food, all season long.

9. State Games of Michigan

Cheer thousands of athletes from dozens of sports competing for glory in Olympic-style competitions around GR. Don't miss the gala opening ceremonies! June 24-26.

10. Traveler's Choice

There's something for everybody in Grand Rapids. If we haven't hit your sweet spot with reasons 1-9, 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.