Dynamic Variation:
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Matthew Makowski

Matthew Makowski is a professional storyteller, positivity promoter, and local tourist who loves sharing the awesomeness of Grand Rapids for Experience Grand Rapids. Away from his work, Matthew enjoys burying his nose in a good comic book, cosplaying for charity as Captain America with The League of Enchantment, and exploring West Michigan with his wife, son, and far-out corgi, The Dude.

A Local's Guide to GR Comic Book Shops

There are many different “scenes” in Grand Rapids — performing arts, craft beer, food, history, and even comic books. Given the steadfast popularity of blockbuster superhero films and TV shows, I'd say we're experiencing a key moment in comic book culture. The Grand Rapids area is filled with comic…

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Take a Tour of Grand Rapids’ Ghostly History

As the colors begin changing around West Michigan each year and things start going bump in the night, there are many fall activities in and around Grand Rapids that you can find to add spooktacular Halloween fun to your calendar. But, the eeriness of the season may just find you if you are exploring…

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A Local's Guide to GR-Area Playgrounds

The Makowski family loves flights. Not of the airplane variety, however. I’m talking about “flights” typically associated with beer, pizza, ice cream, dips, donuts, or really anything you can turn into a sampling of variations of things you love. For our family, that now includes playgrounds thanks…

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Grand Rapids Staycation

If you’re experiencing some frustrations because vacation plans have changed or been canceled this year, you can still keep those getaway aspirations alive by crafting a fun-filled staycation right here in Grand Rapids. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, avid foodie, family fun instigator, arts…

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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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Grand RAPPids: Apps to Help Make Your Visit Awesome

“Where should I eat?” “What’s fun to do in Grand Rapids?” “Where do I park?” These questions don’t need to weigh you down when you’re adventuring around Grand Rapids. Each question can be quickly and easily answered through numerous mobile apps that aim to make your time in Grand Rapids as enjoyable…

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