Short But Sweet: How To Spend Only a Few Hours in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Having attended a small Calvinist school outside of Chicago, I made friends with a lot of people with Dutch heritage. As a result, I spent a lot of time making weekend trips back to pals’ homes in Michigan. I've found that quite a few folks with Dutch heritage hail from this area. Scattered throughout the Mitten, Grand Rapids was always a focal point of those trips. After years of taking day trips to Beer City USA, I’ve cultivated the perfect itinerary for spending a few hours in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

1. Explore the Grand Rapids Art Museum

The Grand Rapids Art Museum is always a must-stop on my list of things to do in the city. Between its permanent collection of more than 7,000 pieces and rotating exhibitions, I could easily spend all day. However, if you only have a few hours to spend in the city, it's the perfect size to explore for a quick taste of all the arts and culture that Grand Rapids has to offer.

2. Grab Lunch at The Electric Cheetah

For years, my go-to meal in Grand Rapids has been a big bowl of macaroni and cheese from The Electric Cheetah. Located in the trendy Wealthy Street neighborhood, this hot spot serves up craft mac and cheese dishes. My personal favorite is the “It’s not my brother's mac.” Of course, they also offer other options, such as salads, burgers, and lighter appetizers. Additionally, being in the Wealthy Street neighborhood allows you to explore the “hipster” coffee shops and boutique stores scattered along the main drag. I’ve found numerous little pieces of jewelry and knick-knacks over my many visits to the area.

3. Try Local Beer

Beer City is home to more than 35 craft breweries. Wherever you turn, you’re going to find a place to enjoy a pint. For something unique, I love to visit Vivant Brewery & Spirits. Here, you’ll find a microbrewery inside a refurbished funeral home. It sounds creepy, but it offers an intimate and cozy vibe. Alternatively, Founders Brewing Company is a Grand Rapids staple. It’s a much larger venue that overlooks the in-house brewing facilities and features a spacious outdoor patio. That said, whatever brewery you stumble into will be great.

4. Learn at the Grand Rapids Public Museum

I’m an advocate for visiting all museums, but the Grand Rapids Public Museum is a particularly fun way to spend a few hours in Grand Rapids with kids. Overlooking the Grand River, the museum features interactive exhibits fun for kids of all ages. One of my favorite memories of the museum is peddling on an old-fashioned bicycle. 

Grand Rapids is only less than three hours from either Detroit or Chicago, making it an easy day trip from either city. While I'm a Chicagoan, I still find spending a few hours in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a worthy adventure. Whether it's an extended day trip or a stop on the way to explore other parts of Michigan, there are plenty of fun and interesting things to do in Grand Rapids.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.