Northeast Grand Rapids Area Real Estate And Homes For Sale In Grand Rapids, MI

This past week, with the temperatures in the 80's and not in the 90's, my family took the chance to head to the beautiful Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. If one enjoys art, sculptures, being outside, beautiful flowers, and plants from different climates as well as a place for children to enjoy, you will love the beautiful building and 158-acre gardens and sculpture park!

FMG&SP has much to see! Inside the building, they have a rotating gallery that changes the works of art and artists every three months throughout the year. They also have their permanent works that focus on established and emerging artists from the modern tradition (early 19th century) to the present. One can see the beautiful, light-catching blown glassworks of Dale Chihuly.

Also inside, are the desert and tropical gardens exhibit. My sons, Otto and Arlo, love this part because they get to see and lightly touch cacti and see giant leafed trees that they would not see unless they went into a jungle. In the Spring, they have the butterfly exhibit. Enter into the massive tropical zone to see hundreds of butterflies flying around in the breathtaking high glass ceilings. Sometimes they land right on your shoulder! The inside of the building also has a cafe, library, and gift shop.

The outside is by far where we spent the most time. Not only can we go mask free outside, but the grounds are gorgeous and again, there is so much to do and see. We first went to the children's area where there is a massive "treehouse" with a giant birds nest featuring large blue Robin eggs to climb on, fake spiders, lookout glasses in various spots, and animal tracks left in the cement and a fossil dig. They also have a search and find sculpture game where the children have to find the sculpture from just a picture of a part of the sculpture. There is a sensory garden where children (and adults) use their senses to discover nature. Additionally, there is a beautiful fountain called the "The World's Children" that children splash in on hot days. There is also a large, elevated flowing pool of the great lakes that children can use boats to sail through the waters.

When we were done with the children's area we went on to look at some of the massive sculptures on the grounds. If not interested or able to walk, they offer a trolley tour! During COVID guests have to reserve their seats. We were not able to do the trolley this time around, but there were plenty of sculptures nearby that our children were able to walk to (with the help of a stroller). There are a total of 50 sculptures on the grounds and inside the building. Some of them are the size of people and some are giants! Our favorites of the ones we were able to see were the American Horse (Otto), I, You, He or She (Arlo), The Neuron (Justin), and the Iron Tree (me). Another favorite of mine was the WaterFalls and Koi Pond. I could have sat there and enjoyed the view all day!

We would recommend spending a morning or afternoon visiting the garden. The kids had fun and actually enjoyed looking at all the sculptures as well as the children's area. I love that we can start instilling respect and enjoyment of art.

The northeast is a great family centered location! These days it seems a bit difficult to find a home in this area partially due to the fact that once you have lived here it's likely that you will be satisfied to stay sometimes well into past the school age years! Northview School is known for its academic and sports teams!

If you haven't been to Robinette's, take your family there this fall. Located in Northeast Grand Rapids on the corner of four mile and the Beltline, Robinette's is a winery, an apple orchard, and so much more. They have a corn maze, hay rides, and apple cider and doughnuts for everyone to enjoy. It has become a destination, so be prepared on a perfect fall weekend that it will be busy. But it's worth it. Nothing like a corn maze and apple cider this time of year.

Peacefully nestled in a 425 acre forest, you will find one of the most spectacular golf courses in Michigan. This championship golf course is surrounded by oak trees and features rolling hills, amazing views and lush landscaping. In 2001, it was voted the best new course in Michigan. Sumptuous dining can be enjoyed at the Acorn Grille or celebrate your wedding reception at the Grand Oak banquet facility. Not only will you be captivated by the beauty of this course you will be amazed at the luxury homes and condos that surround this gorgeous course. The Thousand Oaks community is truly one of north east Grand Rapids most desirable areas. It is located just minutes away from downtown Grand Rapids. Come check it out today.