What’s in store for visitors of Grand Rapids

There's a lot in store for visitors exploring Grand Rapids, Michigan. Shopping options range from high-end retailers to thrift stores. Many of the storefronts have renovated the Italianate-style architecture to sell their products within.

Rustic boutique Woosah Outfitters, 738 Wealthy Street, is a perfect example of this with unique merchandise centered around nature.

Rebel is right down the street and is packed with modern gifts for any occasion thanks to the queer owners. The 12th House, 8 Jefferson Avenue, is another LGBTQ+-friendly place where one can pick up a rainbow of merchandise to celebrate Pride year-round.

For comic book lovers try Vault of Midnight in the downtown area. This well-organized store founded in 1996 presents one of the largest graphic novel selections in the Midwest.

The art scene is strong in Grand Rapids not only on paper but with important museums to visit.

Start with the Grand Rapids Public Museum with three floors at 272 Pearl Street. See the iconic 1928 Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ up close and take a spin on the indoor Spillman Carousel.

Just across the street, one can learn more at the Gerald R Ford Presidential Library & Museum. Ford and Betty B. Ford were buried on the grounds so pay your respects before leaving.

Head over to the Grand Rapids Art Museum for both permanent and seasonal collections that include both Renaissance and Modern works of art.

For outdoor art amongst the foliage, the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park at 1000 East Beltline Avenue is very impressive. Contemplate life while following paths in the serene Japanese Garden Loop and check out the indoor spaces before exiting the 158-acre main campus.

For nightlife entertainment try The Apartment Lounge, 33 Sheldon Avenue, which is Michigan's oldest gay bar where a wide range of ages can be found convening on any given night. Nab a booth, gab with a friendly crew and view videos for entertainment.

Catch a traveling act at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Avenue, or visit St. Cecilia Music Center which is 140 years old and was built by women to promote the wide world of music.

The World of Winter festival runs from January 12-March 10, 2024 with over 100 free events and 50 ice sculptures this massive event could be the cure for one's seasonal depression.

For more information on the festival or to plan a trip please visit experiencegr.com and sample a bit of Pure Michigan!