Although I’m a relative newcomer to Grand Rapids, I am still a Midwesterner, and I can tell you we’re a practical bunch. Case in point: winter. Midwesterners make the best of this season with festivals, outdoor adventures, and warming food. And while I am likely biased, if you’re looking for an easy ..read more

Hard seltzer continues to attract new fans across the nation and is one of the hottest new trends in boozy drinks. Hard seltzer, or spiked seltzer, is an alcoholic beverage containing carbonated water, alcohol, and usually a fruit flavoring. These beverages have really made a comeback over the past ..read more

As the hot humid air gives way to crisp cool mornings, Grand Rapids is ready for its glorious transition to all things fall… and so am I. Not only do the colors of the trees change, but so do the types of events and activities the Grand Rapids area has to offer. If you’ve been wondering what there ..read more

Every year, thousands of visitors and locals enjoy the sights and sounds of Grand Rapids’ robust downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods. Grand Rapids and those who own and operate its diverse array of experiences strive to accommodate visitors with special needs so that everyone can enjoy the ..read more

The 49507 Project is a liberated public arts project unlike anything that I’ve seen in West Michigan. The Diatribe, a Grand Rapids based nonprofit, partnered with local businesses and artists to raise awareness about redlining and disinvestment in the Southside neighborhoods, and they did so in a ..read more

As a proud Grand Valley State University alumna, I was looking forward to returning for the school’s 2023 Homecoming Celebration. I’m always happy to visit the city I call a mini-Chicago. While the GVSU festivities were the reason for my trip, most of my itinerary can be recreated for your own ..read more

The term “dive bar” has evolved in meaning over the years. What once meant an uncertain destination for many now points to an off the radar, unpretentious spot that serves great drinks and is full of local character. If you’re looking for a lesser-known option that’s not as mainstream, Grand Rapids ..read more

One of my absolute favorite reasons for living in Kent County is the diverse mix of urban, rural, and natural areas intertwining to create a wide variety of unique worlds to explore. If “natural” piqued your interest there, Kent County offers a plethora of parks and hiking trails for outdoor ..read more

Congratulations to the soon-to-be-married couple! So many of my friends (and now my friends’ children) have tied the knot in Grand Rapids, and for good reason. Our setting, with plenty of outdoor space and a thriving riverfront, and our countless and varied venues, are gorgeous any time of year. But whether you’re getting married next month or next year, first you’ll want to host a Bachelor or Bachelorette party. Using one or a combination of the following ideas, Grand Rapids will deliver one to remember ..read more

On a recent Saturday morning, my family of four embarked on an adventure to Blandford Nature Center. Tucked away off Lenoard Street on Grand Rapids’ West Side, Blandford’s mission is to provide a place for people in the community to enjoy, explore, and learn in nature. The Mary Jane Dockeray ..read more