The Best Things to Do in Grand Rapids This Summer (And Where to Stay)

Summer is one of the most vibrant times to visit Grand Rapids, Michigan. With long sunny days, outdoor festivals, scenic parks, and a thriving food and arts scene, the city comes alive with energy and opportunity. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a girlfriends’ getaway, or a relaxing escape, Grand Rapids offers something for everyone.

Here are some of the best things to do in Grand Rapids this summer to make the most of your stay.

A summer visit to Grand Rapids isn’t complete without exploring the amazing Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This world-renowned attraction combines beautifully curated gardens with impressive sculptures from artists around the globe, including Dale Chihuly this summer.

The gardens are in full bloom during the summer, offering colorful landscapes, peaceful walking paths, and shaded spots to relax. The park also hosts a popular summer concert series, making it a perfect destination for both daytime exploring and evening entertainment.

If your visit falls in late summer, don’t miss ArtPrize, one of the most exciting art events in the country. Artists from around the world transform downtown Grand Rapids into an open-air gallery, with installations displayed in parks, museums, and public spaces.

Visitors can walk from venue to venue, discovering everything from large-scale sculptures to interactive exhibits. It’s a fun, inspiring way to experience the city’s creative spirit.

The West Michigan Whitecaps are the single A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers.  They play at the LMCU Ballpark in Comstock Park just north of the city.  If you are looking for a fun local baseball experience, this is a can't miss!

The Grand River runs through the heart of the city and offers a scenic backdrop for a relaxing summer day. Take a walk along the riverfront, rent bikes, or simply find a bench and enjoy the view.

Crossing pedestrian bridges and exploring nearby parks is a great way to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. It’s especially գեղեցատ beautiful in the early morning or at sunset.

Downtown Grand Rapids is full of energy in the summer, with outdoor dining, local shops, and frequent events. Spend an afternoon browsing boutiques, stopping into coffee shops, and discovering local art installations.

Be sure to visit Grand Rapids Downtown Market, where you’ll find a mix of food vendors, artisan goods, and rooftop seating. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, try something new, and soak up the local flavor.

Summer evenings are perfect for live entertainment, and Grand Rapids delivers. From outdoor concerts to Broadway performances, there’s always something happening.

Venues like DeVos Performance Hall and Van Andel Arena host a wide range of concerts, shows, and events throughout the season. You can also find smaller live music performances at local venues and outdoor spaces across the city.

Grand Rapids is often called “Beer City USA,” and summer is the perfect time to experience why. Many local breweries offer outdoor patios where you can relax with a craft beer and enjoy the warm weather.

Sampling local brews, sharing appetizers, and spending time outdoors makes for a laid-back and enjoyable afternoon or evening—especially for couples or groups of friends.

One of the best parts about staying in Grand Rapids is how close you are to Lake Michigan. In less than an hour, you can reach beautiful beach towns like Grand Haven or Saugatuck.

Spend the day relaxing on sandy beaches, swimming in the lake, shopping in charming downtown areas, or enjoying waterfront dining. It’s an easy and memorable addition to your summer getaway.

Summer in Grand Rapids is filled with festivals celebrating music, food, art, and culture. From neighborhood street fairs to large citywide events, there’s always something happening on the calendar.

These events are a great way to experience the local community, try new foods, and enjoy live entertainment in a fun, lively atmosphere.

One of the best things about a summer getaway is simply taking time to slow down. Whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee on the porch, reading in a quiet garden, or unwinding after a day of exploring, Grand Rapids offers the perfect setting to relax and recharge.

From world-class gardens and vibrant festivals to relaxing riverfront walks and nearby beaches, there’s no shortage of things to do in Grand Rapids during the summer.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, you’ll find plenty of ways to create memorable experiences and enjoy everything this welcoming city has to offer.

Start planning your Grand Rapids summer getaway and discover why it’s one of Michigan’s best warm-weather destinations.

Be sure to book your stay with us at the Leonard at Logan House B&B.