Grand Rapids Spring Activities
Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal, in nature and around Grand Rapids, as some of our favorite attractions and activities return with the advent of warmer weather. John Ball Zoo reopens for a new year of fun and discovery, the West Michigan Whitecaps go back to the baseball field and Berlin Raceway readies its track for another season of NASCAR.
Spring Festivals & Events
Grand Rapids pulls out all the stops to celebrate spring holidays – like St. Patrick’s Day – and keep kids entertained during Spring Break. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park hosts its annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies are Blooming exhibit. Blandford Nature Center offers a series of popular events organized around the tapping of its maple trees for syrup. The Holland Tulip Time Festival – just 30 minutes of Grand Rapids – continues a nearly 100-year tradition with millions of tulips throughout the city, plus markets, parades, fireworks and more. DeVos Place welcomes the West Michigan Home & Garden Show, Ultimate Sport Show and Cottage & Lakefront Living Show for those dreaming of summer. Our museums and performing arts companies present a cavalcade of new exhibits and shows.
Tulip Time Festival (Event)
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
LaughFest: 10 Seriously Funny Facts
Spring Things to Do
There are lots of Grand Rapids, Michigan attractions worth a trip to the area. Like the family favorite John Ball Zoo, located in the west end of the city. The zoo is home to over 2,000 different animals and inspires visitors to get involved in conservation and learn about the creatures that inhabit our world. From the Forest Realm home to pandas and tigers, to the Africa wing, the Americas habitats, and more, there’s enough to see here over multiple trips. Plus, the zoo puts on regular events, like parties, live feedings, and interactive challenges.
Another popular Grand Rapids attraction is the Van Andel Arena, a multi-purpose event center with room for up to 12,000 spectators. Sports teams like the Grand Rapids Griffins, Gold, and Rise play at Van Andel, but the venue also hosts concerts and local events. So check the schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
There are plenty of other ways to keep busy throughout your time in the area, including a fun selection of tours, admiring the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and visiting museums where you can soak up local history and culture. Check out other popular Grand Rapids, Michigan attractions.
John Ball Zoo
Get up close to 2,400 animals? Check. Ride a zip line over a waterfall? Check. Take a funicular up…
Farm Markets
Dozens of farm markets throughout the area help keep restaurant and resident pantries well stocked.
Outdoor Spring Activities
And if outdoor recreation is your favorite spring thing, you’ll want to explore the endless trails, waterways, golf courses, and parks in and around the city.
FAQ About Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- photo by Alina Albin for Experience GR
- 2 min
Michigan's second most popular tourist attraction ... the country's best…
Grand Rapids’ Golf Scene Has Something for Everyone
- photo by Nick Irwin for Experience GR
- 10 min
With more than 650 public golf courses throughout the state, Michigan boasts some of…
Nature Nearby: Parks, Trails, Woods, and Wildlife Within 10 Minutes Of Downtown Grand Rapids
- photo by Nick Irwin for Experience GR
- 4 min
Though Grand Rapids' downtown is often bustling, nature is never far away: green…
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Receive admission into many cultural attractions around Grand Rapids as well as additional exclusive discounts with our $28.00 Culture Pass.