Best Instagram-Worthy Places in Grand Rapids, MI

Calling all Instagram enthusiasts! Get ready to take stunning photos and videos in Grand Rapids, Michigan. From awe-inspiring architecture to captivating murals, this city boasts countless IG-worthy places perfect for capturing special moments and wowing your followers. 

The Blue Bridge

Stretching across the Grand River, Grand Rapids' beloved Blue Bridge is one of the city’s top selfie spots. This pedestrian walkway, instantly recognizable by its bright blue beams, offers stunning backdrops for your photos. Snap a picture with the bridge or capture the vibrant city skyline stretching behind it. With ever-changing art installations and dazzling nighttime illuminations, the Blue Bridge guarantees an eye-catching photo opportunity any time you visit

Ah-Nab-Awen Park 

Ah-Nab-Awen Park offers multiple photo ops in a place significant to the city's history. This park was once a Native American village, and its name, meaning “resting place,” pays homage to that time. While here, take photos of the city across the Grand River or pose for selfies by the numerous art installations. Since this park hosts community events throughout the year, including a 4th of July fireworks show, it’s also a great place to capture the spirit of the Grand Rapids community. 

Rosa Parks Circle 

Looking for an Instagrammable spot that blends the beauty of nature with impressive cityscapes? Look no further than Rosa Parks Circle! This vibrant plaza offers something for everyone. Stand alongside the iconic statue of the civil rights leader for a photo steeped in history. In the winter, lace up your skates and capture a mid-glide selfie on the ice rink. 

Public Art Installations

Grand Rapids boasts a vibrant art scene extending to the streets themselves! Public art installations are sprinkled throughout the city, doubling as fantastic selfie backdrops. Snag a classic shot with the iconic LOVE sculpture on Louis Campau Promenade. For a unique perspective, capture yourself posing beside Calder Plaza's bright-red La Grande Vitesse sculpture. Top off your photo shoot with a selfie of Lorrie's Button at Ah-Nab-Awen Park.

Public Murals

The stunning art murals around town also make for a photo-worthy backdrop. Wherever in the city you find yourself - from Downtown and Heartside to the West Side, Southtown, and beyond – you’re sure to come across the work of local and visiting artists. 

With its eye-catching colors, Raining Wisdom, the 2023 ArtPrize winner, is a must-see and a great selfie spot. Have your travel companions take a picture of you sauntering down Rainbow Road or capture the iconic G-Rap Map while visiting The Apartment Lounge. On the West Side, take a picture of the Comedy Project Mural, check out the Hearts of Heartside, appreciate the quote embedded within the “You Belong” mural in Southtown, snap a pic of Poppy Dreams at Sparrows Coffee, or head to Matchbox Diner in Uptown for lunch with a side of street art. 

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park 

Although you must pay to enter this botanical garden, named America’s Best by USA Today, it's one of our favorite Instagram-worthy places in town. Wander around the sculpture collection, check out seasonal exhibitions (like butterflies in the spring!), and take pictures with everything from the calming Japanese Garden to the sprawling Tassell-Wisner-Bottrall English Perennial Garden. 

John Ball Zoo

With over 2,000 animals in residence, the John Ball Zoo is a fun place to explore and one of Grand Rapids’ most Instagrammable locations! Start by riding the Funicular, which brings guests to the top of the zoo and offers a unique experience you’ll want to share with your followers. Then head to the interactive aviary, a great selfie spot where you can pose with colorful birds. In the mood for a camel ride or zipline adventure through the treetops? Make sure to have your phone or camera at the ready!

No matter your social media aesthetic, you’ll find plenty of Instagram-worthy places in Grand Rapids during your visit.