When it comes to easy and efficient air travel, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is in a bit of a sweet spot.
It’s big enough to be serviced by seven airlines and offer 30+ daily nonstop flights to major cities, but small enough to be easy to navigate and get in and out of.
So easy, in fact, that GRR was recognized in the category of Easiest Airport Journey in North America in the 2023 Airport Service Quality Awards bestowed by Airports Council International (ACI).
ACI is an organization of airport authorities aimed at uniting industry practices for airport standards. In 2023, it also cited GRR in the categories of Airport with the Most Dedicated Staff in North America, Cleanest Airport in North America and Best Airport serving 2 to 5 Million Passengers Per Year in North America.
Here are a few reasons why GRR earns such lofty praise – and makes traveling easy for anyone flying into or out of West Michigan.
The freshly redone Concourse A features eight new gates, an increased variety of seating options, new concession concepts and more!
Photo by Peter McCullough Photo for Gerald R. Ford International Airport
$600 Million in Improvements
GRR is in the midst of one of the largest capital expansions in the U.S. for a small-hub airport. Already completed is a Gateway Transformation project that enhanced ticketing, security processing, baggage screening and baggage claim, and added a new post-security marketplace, pre- and post-security nursing rooms, pre- and post-security business centers and more, all aimed at improving the passenger experience.
In summer 2023, GRR unveiled a newly expanded Concourse A with eight new gates, bringing the airport’s total to 14. New concession and retail concepts, a greater variety of seating options and a new companion care restroom were also introduced.
In spring 2024, GRR broke ground on a Terminal Enhancement Project, which includes a Consolidated Baggage Inspection System to streamline the checked luggage process, an expanded baggage claim area, new ticket counter spaces and an Individual Carrier System for baggage handling. GRR is the first small-hub airport in the U.S. to install and Individual Carrier System.
Additional enhancements to come include a Federal Inspection System to serve international passengers on a non-stop basis, a Consolidated Rental Car Facility and a new Air Traffic Control Tower.
Therapy Dogs
Does travel make you anxious, scared, stressed or frustrated? Maybe petting a friendly dog will help. In 2013, the Ford Airport introduced volunteers from West Michigan Therapy Dogs Inc. The dogs and their handlers roam the terminals throughout the week to relieve travel stress for passengers, calm kids who may be impatient while waiting and help ease the frustration of weather-delayed flights.
Passengers can also request therapy dogs to meet them by contacting the airport in advance of their travels. The dogs can’t work around the clock, but the airport will do its best to honor requests. There is no charge for this service.
Traveling with your own furry friend? GRR offers a post-security pet relief area featuring a synthetic grass surface (with fire hydrant!) that drains water and urine to stay clean and fresh.
Aletitude, located in the new and improved Concourse A, is a full service restaurant with breakfast, lunch and dinner options.
Photo by Bryan Esler for Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Dining & Shops
While you’re waiting for your flight, enjoy delicious food and drink at nine restaurants, including Prospect Hill, serving beer from local Founders Brewing Co., Uccello’s Ristorante, a local chain beloved for its Italian classics and bar food, and the Blue Bridge Market – named for a downtown GR landmark – whose offering includes selections from local favorites Madcap Coffee and Nantucket Baking Company. There’s also a bookstore and wine bar, a magazine store that also has travel gear and souvenirs, and a “travel essentials” shop for last-minute items that might have been left behind.
Sensory Room
Located at the beginning of Concourse A, the Sensory Room provides a therapeutic setting that helps travelers with sensory sensitivities feel comfortable. The space is designed to minimize overstimulation and provide a calm and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages with cognitive and/or development disabilities. Features include a transition zone, active zone, respite zone, airplane simulation zone, activity wall, campfire sitting area and soft surface play area.
The airport also participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which enables individuals to discreetly indicate that they have a non-visible disability and may need additional assistance. Airport staff have been trained to recognize the Sunflower symbol and provide aid and accommodations as needed.
Art Program
Viewing art can reduce stress and induce feelings of peace and relaxation. GRR’s art program features both permanent and rotating exhibitions that refine the airport environment while supporting local artists, art program students, and community institutions. The 15+ murals and sculptures on display reflect the cultural and artistic diversity of West Michigan and the world at large. Sit yourself next to the bronze statue of airport namesake Gerald R. Ford, just outside the parking garage, for a perfect selfie.
For any question you might have about your stay in Grand Rapids, the Experience Grand Rapids airport ambassador team is there to help!
Photo by Brian Kelly for Experience GR
Information on Demand
Trained Experience Grand Rapids ambassadors staff the GRR Visitor Information Desk seven days a week from 9am-midnight, armed with broad knowledge of the area and its services. The Desk is stocked with maps, brochures, event information and other helpful resources that are available 24/7.
The ambassadors – identifiable by their signature light blue coats – also spread throughout the terminal and concourses to answer any questions people might have, whether it’s about airport services or the city and surrounding area.
Transportation Services
Taxis are always waiting at the airport, ride share services like Uber and Lyft are easily accessible, and The Rapid bus system provides an economical way to get from the airport to downtown Grand Rapids and the Downtown Convention Neighborhood, only a 20-minute drive away.
Numerous local hotels offer shuttle service from the airport to their properties. Also, it’s a 45-second walk from the baggage claim area to the five car rental companies serving the airport – a great choice if you’d like to explore the Lake Michigan coast (30-45 minutes from Grand Rapids) in addition to the city proper.
Additional Amenities
GRR also offers three complimentary Business Centers outfitted by locally headquartered Steelcase, Inc., a global design and thought leader in the world of work. A Military Welcome Center is open to military members, veterans and their families 24 hours a day. Dedicated family restrooms, companion care restrooms and nursing rooms maximize convenience.
There’s also a free mobile app for checking real-time flight info, security wait times and more; free WiFi in terminal and concourse areas; device charging stations in gate areas; electric vehicle charging stations in the short-term parking area; two aviation-themed playrooms for kids and much more.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the perfect gateway to Grand Rapids – a destination that is as easy, accommodating and enjoyable as its airport. Book a flight today!
