Dynamic Variation:

Grand Rapids Restaurants That Focus on Accessibility

Several years ago, Experience Grand Rapids asked four local residents with disabilities to share their perspective on the accessibility of area restaurants, hotels, transportation options and trails. We recently asked them to revisit these articles and share any new insights and recommendations they…

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Your Romantic Getaway Weekend Itinerary in Grand Rapids

Although I’m a relative newcomer to Grand Rapids, I am still a Midwesterner, and I can tell you we’re a practical bunch. Case in point: winter. Midwesterners make the best of this season with festivals, outdoor adventures, and warming food. And while I am likely biased, if you’re looking for an easy…

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LGBTQ+ Weekend Getaway in Grand Rapids

Ranked as one of the “Gayest Cities in America,” Grand Rapids is a must-visit for LGBTQ+ travelers! Just 3-hours from Chicago, you’ll find tons of LGBTQ-owned businesses, queer coffee shops, art, music, delicious (vegetarian-friendly) food, and even the oldest gay bar in Michigan! Here are…

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A Local’s Guide to Accessible Hotels in Grand Rapids

Every year, thousands of visitors and locals enjoy the sights and sounds of Grand Rapids’ robust downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods. Grand Rapids and those who own and operate its diverse array of experiences strive to accommodate visitors with special needs so that everyone can enjoy the…

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Local Gifts to Give from Grand Rapids

When it comes to making sure you have something special for everyone on your list, it’s easy to stop by a chain store when you’re working through your list. But, there’s nothing more charming than the small businesses and local attractions that make our city more unique and creative. These business…

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Local Guide to Grand Rapids Thrift Stores & Consignment Shops

When it comes to shopping second-hand for clothing, there are many unique shops to choose from in the Greater Grand Rapids area. As an avid thriftier and personal stylist, the questions I’m asked most often are, “where did you get that” and “tell me your secrets”, so here I am to spill it all…

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Dive Bars to Check Out in Grand Rapids

The term “dive bar” has evolved in meaning over the years. What once meant an uncertain destination for many now points to an off the radar, unpretentious spot that serves great drinks and is full of local character. If you’re looking for a lesser-known option that’s not as mainstream, Grand Rapids…

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The 49507 Project Mural Tour

The 49507 Project is a liberated public arts project unlike anything that I’ve seen in West Michigan. The Diatribe, a Grand Rapids based nonprofit, partnered with local businesses and artists to raise awareness about redlining and disinvestment in the Southside neighborhoods, and they did so in a…

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Locally Crafted Hard Seltzer in Grand Rapids

Hard seltzer continues to attract new fans across the nation and is one of the hottest new trends in boozy drinks. Hard seltzer, or spiked seltzer, is an alcoholic beverage containing carbonated water, alcohol, and usually a fruit flavoring. These beverages have really made a comeback over the past…

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Explore These 6 Totally Pawesome Dog-Friendly Trails in Kent County

One of my absolute favorite reasons for living in Kent County is the diverse mix of urban, rural, and natural areas intertwining to create a wide variety of unique worlds to explore. If “natural” piqued your interest there, Kent County offers a plethora of parks and hiking trails for outdoor…

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