President Gerald R. Ford wasn’t actually born in Grand Rapids, but since his mother moved here when he was just two weeks old, the city has always claimed him as a native son. Ford never quibbled with…
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Facts about the 38th President of the United States Gerald R. Ford arrived in Grand Rapids in 1913, two weeks after his birth in Omaha, Nebraska. He was originally named Leslie Lynch King, Jr. but…
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A vibrant art community, eclectic shopping district and distinctive food-and-drink scene add character and charm to this largely rural city 20 minutes east of Grand Rapids. Historic downtown Lowell…
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Grand Rapids obviously doesn’t have the national profile of New York, Chicago, Los Angeles or Orlando. Meeting planners across the country may know little or nothing about our destination when we…
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"You have to see it to believe it." This saying resonates profoundly in the realm of destination marketing, especially when underscored by the pillars of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging…
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While downtown Grand Rapids boasts the city’s largest concentration of shopping and dining destinations, there are numerous neighborhood business districts offering their own distinct pleasures. Many…
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Grand Rapids turns 175 years old in 2025 – and the City is inviting you to join in the celebration. The City of Grand Rapids was incorporated on April 2, 1850, and then officially established one…
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Large numbers of Dutch farmers began immigrating to America in the early 19th century, driven by high taxes and low wages. Many settled in the Midwest, especially West Michigan. A wave of Calvinist…
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Research helps Experience Grand Rapids shape and evolve marketing strategies that engage our diverse audiences. Longwoods International, a global leader in tourism industry market research, is one…
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