Frequently Asked Questions
Back to Top of ListHow to Experience Grand Rapids Public Museum:
What can I see and do at Grand Rapids Public Museum?
The Public Museum contains three floors of exhibits focused on science, history and culture. Permanent exhibits tell the tale of local people, animals and environments, past and present, in fun, interactive ways. Traveling exhibitions offer a wide range of entertaining, immersive experiences. The Museum is also home to the Roger B Chaffee Planetarium, a café and gift shop.
Is the Grand Rapids Public Museum good for kids?
The Museum is a wonderland for curious kids, with new things to see and touch and marvel at around every corner. Riding the 1928 Spillman Carousel is an iconic West Michigan activity. Enjoy 7 Fun Facts About the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Spillman Carousel.
When is Grand Rapids Public Museum open?
- 9am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 10am-5pm Saturday & Sunday
What is the admission price?
General admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62+), and $5 for children (3-17) and students with valid student ID. Children 2 and under enter free. Kent County residents enjoy reduced general admission.
Admission to Roger B. Chafee Planetarium at the Museum is $5 (or $4 on top of general admission).
Select featured exhibits may require an additional entry fee. Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum website for information and ticket purchase. Prices are subject to change, please confirm with attraction.
Are there any discounts available?
Show your active or retired military ID, AAA card, GR convention badge or teacher’s ID for $1 off general admission. Admission is free for GRCC students & faculty and members of the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) and Association of Science and Technology (ASTC). ID/membership cards are required.
Each summer, Grand Rapids Public Museum offers free general admission to those currently serving in the U.S. Military and as part of the Blue Star Museum program. The Museum also participates in the Museums for All program – present your SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card for $2-per-person admission, for up to four people.
Visit Grand Rapids Public Museum and other local attractions for one low price when you purchase Culture Pass GR, a digital three-day savings pass delivered to your smartphone.
Save on Grand Rapids Attractions with Culture Pass GR
Can I purchase or reserve tickets online?
Yes, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum ticket page.
Is Grand Rapids Public Museum accessible for guests with special needs?
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is committed to making all guests feel welcome, from the availability of parking to elevator access for each level. Scroll down for more accessibility info.
Where is Grand Rapids Public Museum located?
In the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, on the banks of the Grand River. It’s just steps away from hotels, restaurants and breweries, and it’s across the street from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
Where can I park?
Covered parking is available in a ramp just south of the Public Museum’s main entrance ($24 max fee). Handicap parking is available under the Museum’s overhang, with additional handicap parking in the ramp. Additional parking garages and lots are located within an easy walk.
Is food available?
The Museum Café offers a family-friendly selection of snacks, beverages, baked goods and pre-packaged lunch items. Seating overlooks the Grand River.
Is there a gift shop?
The Curiosity Shop is filled with items that celebrate curiosity and adventure, from Michigan artisan-made goods to toys and books.
Permanent Collections
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Anishinabek: The People of This Place
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
Many direct descendants of the original Ottawa, Potawatomi and Chippewa people of West Michigan still live in the region today. Here is the story of the Anishinabek – “the people” – in their own voices, with rare and fascinating…
Big Astronomy
- Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium at the Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
Join a live presenter to explore the wonders of the night sky. Come back each season to learn tips and tricks that will help you find planets and constellations from your own backyard. Fly to the far reaches of the solar system to get a…
Fashion & Nature 2022
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
This GRPM original exhibit, Fashion + Nature , showcases a wide variety of scientific specimens and fascinating garments from the Museum’s Collections. Designed with you in mind, journey through discovery, exploitation and sustainability…
Newcomers: The People of This Place
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
More than 45 ethnic groups now call West Michigan their home. Newcomers: The People of This Place includes more than 600 artifacts and images dating from the first French fur traders to the latest influx of refugees escaping wars and others…
Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
They flew with their fingers. They walked on their wings. Some were gigantic, while others could fit in the palm of a hand. Millions of years ago, the skies were ruled by pterosaurs, the first animals with backbones to fly under their own…
Grand Rapids Tuesday Night Swing Dance
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring weekly on Tuesday
The Grand Rapids Original Swing Society Returns to the Public Museum and the Masonic Center. Join us every Tuesday as 100s of dancers of all ages learn to dance at our 7 to 9:30pm event. Come to learn east coast swing and stay for the line…
Collections & Cocktails
Join us at the 2023 Collections & Cocktails fundraiser for an evening to support the Grand Rapids Public Museum and view selections from the Museum’s Rocks, Minerals, Gemstones, and Jewelry Collection. Rocks and minerals make up a…
Accessibility Information
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- 272 Pearl St. NW
- (616) 929-1700
This museum offers world-class exhibits on history, nature, cultural heritage and more. Ride a 1928 carousel, catch a show in the planetarium or eat in the cafe overlooking the Grand River. General Admission charged.
Explore More Grand Rapids Attractions
Experience Grand Rapids, Michigan's diverse attractions including parks, the John Ball Zoo, museums, nature centers and sculpture gardens. Whether you're vacationing with the family or traveling for business, you'll want to take some time to enjoy these fun things to do in Grand Rapids.