Paddling Grand Rapids: So Much Water, So Many Choices

Grand Rapids has been named America’s Best River Town (Outside Magazine) and one of the country’s Top 10 Beach Towns (National Geographic). So it’s no surprise that the area is a mecca for stand up…

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Plenty of Places to Launch in Grand Rapids

Summer days and boating go hand-in-hand. When temperatures climb and days get longer the urge to hit the water often grows strong. But where can you launch that runabout, sailboat, kayak or rowboat…

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Grand River Coho Salmon Fishing

As summer winds down and thoughts turn to fall, area sport anglers often turn their attention to the Grand River. September is prime time for salmon runs. The city’s downtown fishery draws anglers…

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Explore West Fulton Street

Anchored on one end by the burgeoning downtown campus of Grand Valley State University and on the other by historic John Ball Zoo, West Fulton is located directly across the Grand River from downtown…

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A Parent's Guide to GR-Area Playgrounds

More than 50 of the 160+ public parks in and around Grand Rapids have playgrounds. You can find them all by visiting our Parks page and clicking “Playground” under “Narrow Your Search” on the…

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Visiting Blandford Nature Center

Looking for a fun family adventure in Grand Rapids? Head to Blandford Nature Center! Tucked away off Leonard Street in a residential section of the city’s West Side, Blandford’s mission is to provide…

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Explore Greater Grand Rapids: Bike the White Pine Trail

Biking the White Pine Trail provides a simultaneous exercise in solitude and solidarity. The trail allows for an escape from the buzzing cars on the roadway and fosters a sense of camaraderie with…

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Iconic Public Art Spots in Downtown Grand Rapids

The art scene is an integral part of Grand Rapids and locals know outdoor art is everywhere you look downtown. Whether it’s your first visit, or you live nearby, here are suggestions for “must-see”…

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