50 Things To Do In GR Before You Die

50 Things To Do In GR Before You Die
(Part 3 of 5)

​Grand Rapids is small to some people and big to others. However, I think we can all agree that GR offers things to do for all people no matter what your interests are. I'll be listing 50 things to do in Grand Rapids that may interest you. Each article will list 10 new options. If you missed the the first 10, find them HERE. If you missed the last 10, find them HERE. Enjoy!

21. Bar Crawl
During the Summer months, you'll see many groups of people aboard the GR Beer Trolley or Great Lakes Pub Cruiser on a bar crawl. It's a fun way to explore the bars within the city while not having to worry about driving to and from locations. Make sure to schedule early because the time slots fill up quickly.

22. Attend a Whitecaps game
The West Michigan Whitecaps are a minor league baseball team affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. Home games are a great time for people of all ages. Even if you aren't a big baseball fan, you're sure to enjoy one of the many between-inning shows and contests. Look out for nightly specials, such as $2 beer & $2 hotdog night.

23. Gilda's LaughFest
Enjoy some comedy standup, improv, and showcases for a good cause. All proceeds from this festival of laughter go to Gilda's Club Grand Rapids, which is a free emotional health support community for the cancer community as well as anyone grieving of a death from any cause.

24. Summer Concert Series
​This amphitheater, located at Meijer Gardens, hosts an array of popular artists whether local or from outside Michigan. Meijer Garden members get first dibs at purchasing tickets. These sell out quick, so don't wait to purchase these directly after they go on sale.

25. See a show at the Listening Room
The Listening Room is a venue located in Studio Park which was recently built in downtown Grand Rapids. It only seats 200 people which makes the experience much more intimate. From open mic nights to musicians and comedians, they are certain to have something that piques your interest.

26. Festival of the Arts
For more than five decades, Festival of the Arts has been going on in Grand Rapids. Centered around the "La Grande Vitesse" sculpture, there are blocks of grand rapids streets filled with art and culture. This is one of the biggest Grand rapids festivals of the year. Whether you want to stick around all day and watch performances or eat a quick meal, it's well worth the visit.

27. Grand Rapids Public Museum
The GRPM is full of interesting exhibits, activities and knowledge for all ages. Every time I visit, I notice new things and leave with an entirely different experience. The genres include History, Science, Fashion, Nature, Culture, Astronomy, Entertainment, & more. Highly recommended!

28. Blandford Nature Center
Explore 264 acres of natures beauty, containing 200 different varieties of vegetables and 40 rehabilitated wildlife ambassadors. There is also a venue on the grounds that holds events such as weddings. Don't miss the seasonal camps, school trips, and other wildlife experiences.

29. GR Tree Lighting
Every year, the community comes together for the lighting of downtown GR. This is done at Rosa Parks Circle where a massive decorated Christmas tree stands. Put on your winter clothes and come watch the city light up while enjoying performances, snacks and of course, hot chocolate. 

30. GR Ballet
​These world class dancers show off some of the most creative works in contemporary dance. Performances are located in the heart of Grand Rapids (Peter Martin Wege Theatre) as well as other local venues. Next up, they perform "The Nutcracker" this December at the DeVos Performance Hall.​

Stay tuned for the next 10 things to do in Grand Rapids before you die. Feel free to find me on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter where I post more GR related content.