Heartside-Downtown Grand Rapids Area Real Estate And Homes For Sale In Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Public Museum is my six and three-year-olds' favorite place to visit. Amazing, right? If they had the choice of going to the zoo, the children's museum or the Grand Rapids Public Museum, they would choose GRPM 90% of the time. Why? The museum has so many amazing exhibits, collections, and hands-on activities to offer people of all ages. It's also beautiful and affordable!

The last time we went to the museum was at the beginning of November. We wanted to be sure to see the Design Zone exhibit before Bodies Revealed opened on the 16th. First of all, we were able to park in a parking garage and get our ticket validated by the museum for free parking. That already is a plus for me as a parent. A short walk across the street brings you to the museum. Children are free and Kent County residents get a discount, so it was only $10 for the four of us that day. The first floor of the museum has the gift shop and the museum's eclectic collection of popular items from the past. When one looks up at the tall ceiling, one sees the huge skeleton of the blue whale they call "Finny." My sons are always in amazement at how huge the whale would be and we imagine what we would feel if a whale swam up to us that was that big! The main floor also houses the mummies, prehistoric bones and fossils, the old town Grand Rapids shops that make you feel like you have stepped back into time, and many other very interesting collections. Often times they have lawn sized games to play and other interactive items for the patrons to touch-like the virtual reality Finny game.

The second-floor houses not only the cafe and planetarium (a show anyone can view for an extra fee) but it houses the newest exhibits. When we were there in November we saw the Design Zone. It has various STEM games that allowed the patrons to learn about different mathematical, musical and scientific principles. Another part of the exhibit allowed one to mix their own music on a mix table, put on their own light show and various other music and show production aspects. It was great! My family spent a lot of time in this exhibit and my sons would have spent all day learning while having fun! Also on that floor is the Toys! Exhibit. This has been there for quite a time and I hope it remains for some time to come. It has toys from the last century throughout the room in untouchable scenes that made me smile from my own personal memories and other parts of the room where kids could play with the toys including, hot wheels race track, potato heads, a giant battleship game, giant Operation game, guessing the toy by touch and smell, a whole little house/kitchen area and arcade games! There were several spots to sit and rest while the kids played and explored. It is also on this floor that one can see how the giant wheel works, the ivory collection, coin collection, many other artifacts and a corner with different hands-on experiments with magnetism.

The third-floor houses many very realistic scenes of our Michigan animals (taxidermy) in their natural habitat and a skeleton of a Mastodon found right here in Michigan as well. The first time we went and saw this collection, my sons were horrified thinking all the animals were killed for this collection. However, there was a sign that stated that the animals were donated to the museum after they were found killed in the wild by cars or other natural causes or were ill and had to be put down. Throughout the collection, one can learn about the different Michigan trees, see what their different layers look like and all about the animals shown.

At the end of our visit, we usually head towards the Carousel. It is only $1 and the children love picking their animal and watching out the windows at the Grand River and the city buildings that surround the museum as they spin around and around. We are always excited and tired by the end of our visit, but eager to come back again and spend more time looking at everything. We will be going this month to see the Bodies Revealed Exhibit that allows one to see the various systems of the human body without skin! My son is a science lover and can't wait to go!

The museum also offers affordable memberships for the whole family which allows the family to come as much as possible and enjoy other perks of being a museum member. For our family, it is definitely worth it! To learn more about the GRPM, you can visit the website below.

Did you know that there is a designation for being a "Certified Tourism Ambassador" in the city of Grand Rapids? It is often referred to as "CTA." These designees have studied and passed an exam on their knowledge about Grand Rapids. This includes information such as what's up and coming to Grand Rapids, top employers around Grand Rapids, the history of Grand Rapids, and more. What an amazing way to learn about your city ... and/or ... your future city if you're moving here. Or, ask me! I'm proud to say I'm a CTA!

Looking for a magical and exciting time in downtown Grand Rapids? Visit Rosa Parks Circle where this summer music venue is turned into an ice skating rank for the winter. Surrounded by lit up trees, it's a treat to enjoy this downtown fun! Rent skates and enjoy time with the family, as a couple, or with friends!

The downtown Grand Rapids area has been long in need of a market open daily. The Bridge Street Market is now just that ... a market full of fresh produce, specialty coffee and more within walking distance for many downtown residents (or at least within a short drive). Although the market is owned by the local Meijer brand, you wouldn't know it when walking in the store. It has it's own look and urban feel. This is a wonderful addition to the west side!

If you're looking for a coffee shop with decent parking and ample seating near Downtown Grand Rapids, but not in the immediate hustle and bustle, your next stop should be to Roots Brew Shop! Not only do they have a variety of coffees, teas and specialty beverages, but they also offer an amazing menu of pastries, bagels, waffles, and more! They're open every day but Sunday and have fantastic hours.

Have you ever been to Two Scott's BBQ? If not, you're missing out! Located just west of the heart of Downtown Grand Rapids, Two Scott's is amazing! It was started by, you guessed it, two fantastic guys - both named Scott. Choose from ribs, pulled pork, coleslaw and more! Get there early because when they are sold out, they close for the day! Many times, you'll find a line long out the door. Enjoy their awesome patio with picnic tables around back on nice weather days.

Looking for an awesome brewery, in Downtown Grand Rapids, and with a Puerto Rican menu? You must try out City Built Brewing! They have an amazing menu and great beer too! If you're looking to host an event, they even have an area you can reserve that is sem-private and perfect for a small presentation, networking event, game night, etc.

Did you know that a Meijer Store is going up in Downtown Grand Rapids? Many downtown residents are looking forward to having this store just near the heart of downtown. Walk, bike or take a quick ride to the store for a one-stop-shop shopping experience. It's downtown's first large scale grocery store. It's finally happening! Keep an eye out for an opening soon!

While walking through downtown the other day, I came across a unique card/gift shop that I'd just love to spend a whole day in. If you're looking for a card that says it all, but not too much, or a card for a specific purpose that you're sure Hallmark hasn't come up with yet, this shop is the place for you!

The Paper Studio is located at 40 Monroe Center St NW. #103. Not only do they have a large selection of cards for every reason possible, but they also have some awesome gifts too. You'll find books, planners, jewelry, candles, decor, and so much more!

Imagine seeing Downtown Grand Rapids by bike with 15 of your friends. The Great Lakes Pub Cruiser is a fun way to do just that. Armed with planned tours around all of the hot spots in Downtown Grand Rapids, the pub cruiser travels in style. Get 15 of your friends and start pedaling. Once you are on the cruiser, you'll have a fun host, lots of water, and your own music to play. Pit stops are made throughout the tour to try local food and/or beverages. The tour is usually two or three hours long and stops for approximately 30 minutes at each location. What a riot!

There are so many great varieties of restaurants opening in Downtown Grand Rapids. Choose from restaurants, breweries, distilleries, beer gardens, and more! If you're looking for a fun group of places to check out, head over to Bridge Street. The Bridge Street's new lineup of unique places to check out include Sovengard, Butchers Union, One Bourbon, Knickerbocker, Harmony Hall, O'Toole's, and more. Next time you're looking to try something new, head to Bridge Street!

Did you know that downtown businesses stay open later on Tuesdays? That's right...to encourage those that live in/near Grand Rapids to enjoy the downtown shops and such in the evening, downtown has incorporated later hours on Tuesdays. You'll find most places that usually close earlier are open until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday evenings. Be sure to enjoy all that our wonderful Downtown has to offer! You won't be disappointed!

Did you know that there is an event every Thursday throughout May - September at Rosa Parks Circle in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids? This event is meant to be for all to enjoy a fun, laid-back and relaxed lunch hour with food trucks, live music, and more weekly through the summer months. Held every Thursday between 12 noon to 1:30 pm, this is a wonderful event to try to make it to this year.

The Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts does not let anyone down! The art festival each year has a ton to do for kids, adults, and families! Enjoy kids painting, lots of food, and lots to look at throughout downtown. You'll also find lots of exhibits, performances, and more. The best part is that it's "free" to go. Find out more by their webpage.

Located right downtown, Founder's Brewery is such a neat place to visit for dinner or lunch. They have a menu full of great food! Ask your server for suggestions on which crafted beer would go best with your meal. Afterwards, check out their store full of Founder's gear. They also have a huge patio to enjoy the outdoors. Planning a large event? Ask about their upstairs room/bar available for private parties.

Looking to try a new place in downtown Grand Rapids, but don't want to wait in a long line? JD Reardon's in the Boardwalk Condo's (old Berkey and Gay Furniture Building) is a great place to grab a quick and hearty lunch, meet a friend for a cocktail, and/or enjoy a wonderful dinner entree. Their portions are large and everything I've tried there has been amazing. Parking by meters out front is your only option during the day, but it's real convenient and typically many spots available.

In the heart of Downtown Grand Rapids is Rosa Parks Circle, an area for gathering in the summer for concerts, festivals, and events. In the winter, this area is turned into open skate for ice skating daily for kids and adults. Skate rental is available (and free) with paid admission also. What a neat opportunity for all to enjoy the sights of downtown and some fun activities as well!

"ArtPrize" is held each year in the heart of Downtown Grand Rapids for 19 days. Art from around the world can be found everywhere downtown within 3 square miles! See 2D, 3D and/or live art. You can search local sites to get suggested maps to follow and there are maps designed to be the best for a family and interactive with kids as well. The best part is that it's all free and open to the public!

Take several days over this time-frame to visit downtown and spend a few hours strolling and searching for the art. Be sure to stop in at the local restaurants and coffee shops too! Downtown Grand Rapids has been consistently growing and has lots to offer!

A group of homebrewing enthusiasts in Grand Rapids started Founders Brewery in 1997. They have many different types of beers that they brew throughout the year and also have a tap room right in downtown Grand Rapids. Their tap room offers all their brews and food. The brewery hosts many different events which you can check out at the link below.

Looking for something fun today on the weekend in Grand Rapids. Head to The B.O.B. (big old building)! The 70,000 square foot building use to be a warehouse for Judson Grocery. The B.O.B. now offers seven different venues in its five story building. Venues include a steak house, comedy club, dueling piano bar, sushi, a club, and more!

Welcome to the first LEED certified YMCA in the nation! Located directly in downtown Grand Rapids, this is a favorite of many Grand Rapidians. The state-of-the-art facility is full of activities for the entire family such as classes, day care, after school programs, personal trainers, sports leagues, a pool, and much more!

If you drive through downtown Grand Rapids, you are sure to drive past the B.O.B. (Big Old Building). You can't miss the 70,000 square foot, four story, red brick building on the corner of Monroe and Fulton. It has something for every taste bud with its eight venues, including a steakhouse, brewery, nightclub and comedy club. If you haven't already, you definitely should check it out!

The Van Andel Arena is located in the middle of the Heartside Business District in downtown Grand Rapids on Fulton Street. It seats over 10,000 people in its multi-use facility where concerts have been held for big names like Elton John and Kenny Chesney. It also houses the semi-professional Grand Rapids Griffins, an affiliate of the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, who are recent National Champions! It truly has something for people of all ages!

Looking for a fun activity to do? Check out downtown Grand Rapids from above. What do I mean? Quite simply, take a ride in a hot air balloon over downtown Grand Rapids. It is one of the most exciting and thrilling activities one can experience. In addition, the view of the city is incredible. This is a must add to the bucket list.