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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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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Chef Cliff Rome, who grew up on the south side of Chicago and navigated poverty on his way to becoming a chef for former President Barack Obama, came to Grand Rapids in February 2026 to speak to…
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On September 17, 2024, the Experience Grand Rapids Board of Directors ratified a new three-year strategic plan that is guiding our operations through 2027. Our 2025-2027 Strategic Plan is the…
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The role of destination marketing Experience Grand Rapids uses an aggressive mix of marketing, group sales and promotional strategies to drive billions in visitor spending to our region. Each year…
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For decades, game-changing building and revitalization projects driven by strong public-private partnerships have been the hallmark of the Kent County region. Grand Action 2.0 – and its earlier…
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