One of the oldest history museums in the country, Grand Rapids Public Museum offers an immersive and educational experience to those visiting. Ideal for people of all ages, over 250,000 exhibits at this museum are all each better than the previous one. Special emphasis is given to educate the visitors regarding the history, eco-system and culture of Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Children's Museum encourages children to learn new things in a fun way. The many exhibits here are aimed at helping children grasp things in such a way that they will remember it for a long time to come. The combination of playing and learning make visiting Grand Rapids Children's Museum a fun experience for the little ones.
Located on Pearl Street, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum opened its doors to public in 1981. Managed and operated by National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), this museum highlights important aspects of President and Mrs. Gerald Ford's life. Apart from the enlightening permanent exhibits, there are regular visiting exhibits from organizations like the Smithsonian, National Archives and such. The facility also plays host to some community festivities like the Fourth of July fireworks. Artist Stuart Padnos designed a huge, robotic-looking Gerald Ford as a University of Michigan football player made of scrap metal. This artwork was installed in the museum campus in 2003.
This is one place that has striven to propogate art. When you're done admiring the watercolors, learn how you can create your own. Family workshops consist of storytelling, performance art and musical concerts. Lecture series are also held from time to time. This is great place for those who are die hard art lovers.
Located on Fulton Avenue, the John Ball Zoo is owned and operated by the County of Kent. One of the most attended cultural facilities in the city, the zoo is home to over 250 species of animals, amounting to one of the largest collections of zoo animals in Michigan. The management also arranges for many educational programs and events for children. Apart from the friendly, live animals, the ceramic Loch Ness monster in the zoo pond is also a local favorite.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is experiencing the Lena Meijer Conservatory, which is home to tropical plants from five of the seven continents. In addition to Pacific coconut palms and Indian fig trees, you get to admire some wonderful rock landscapes. The orchid collection contains over 3500 varieties, and these displays change regularly. The annual exhibit of tropical butterflies, held in March and April, is a wondrous event, and it is worth visiting the Lana Meijer Conservatory solely to see the beautiful creatures, imported from Central America and other regions, have free rein in the conservatory.
The Peoples Cider Co. produces refreshing cider. The place is an industrial warehouse where cider brewing processes are carried on. Surprisingly, there is a seating area around large wooden barrels where you can not only taste the sample but also enjoy the complete drink or purchase your favorite cider. Day’s special variety is displayed on the chalk board. Cider is a great alternative to beer. Taste the locally crafted varieties of cider in a warm friendly atmosphere at Peoples Cider Co, Grand Rapids.
Located in the Lowell High School, Lowell Performing Arts Center puts on shows throughout the year. From a Seussified Christmas Carol to Annie Get Your Gun, productions here are usually full of laughs and family friendly. Visit the website to know more about upcoming shows.
One of the oldest history museums in the country, Grand Rapids Public Museum offers an immersive and educational experience to those visiting. Ideal for people of all ages, over 250,000 exhibits at this museum are all each better than the previous one. Special emphasis is given to educate the visitors regarding the history, eco-system and culture of Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Children's Museum encourages children to learn new things in a fun way. The many exhibits here are aimed at helping children grasp things in such a way that they will remember it for a long time to come. The combination of playing and learning make visiting Grand Rapids Children's Museum a fun experience for the little ones.
Built in the year 1911, the historic Wealthy Theatre is operated by the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. Various events like plays, classical and contemporary concerts and even dance performances are held here on a regular basis. The theater also houses a movie theatre that screens everything from classics like Lord of the Rings Trilogy to documentaries and short films. There is also a studio and meeting room on-site. Each room is equipped with a state-of-the-art lighting and sound system contributing to the success of every event.
An institution that follows the principles of the Christian Reformed Church of North America, the Calvin College believes in educating minds while keeping a focused emphasis on God. Founded in 1876, the college is a liberal arts college that offers a range of degrees and programs to eager students. The campus itself, spread over an area of about 390 acres (157.8 hectares), is well-equipped with the facilities that maybe required to help a student reach his or her potential. For more information on the academic courses offered at Calvin College, do see the website.