Grand Rapids is a beautiful city—and the second largest city in Michigan. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of places to enjoy nature in Grand Rapids.
The city is known for its expansive office furniture manufacturers who have lovingly been dubbed Furniture City. But Grand Rapids is also known as River City given its location on the Grand River. It is also just 30 miles east of Lake Michigan.
There are plenty of things to do outdoors in the area to get back to nature. Check out these five beautiful places to enjoy nature in Grand Rapids.
1. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is filled with world-renowned sculptures and landscapes. Plan your visit. https://t.co/mrDPfKeMH5 pic.twitter.com/qPL3QPEkgq
— CHECK IN MICHIGAN (@CHECKINMICHIGAN) May 19, 2017
Opening to the public in 1995, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has become a staple to residents and tourists alike in the Grand Rapids area. More than 10 million visitors have already graced the gardens to view the exquisite gardens. The city is home to the largest conservatory in the state which boasts five stories and 15,000 square feet of space. Visitors will also find outdoor gardens, five indoor gardens, and many permanent sculptures as well. Classes and events are commonplace at Meijer Gardens to further love for nature.
2. Blandford Nature Center
Two thousand eighteen marked the 50th anniversary of Blandford Nature Center. The park covers 264 acres, and you’ll find many different events and classes to partake in. Camps are held throughout the year geared towards teaching attendees and often homeschoolers about the different seasons.
The Blandford Nature Center also includes access to the farm and a children’s garden for those youngest nature lovers. The many trails that canvas the area are famous for hiking and are well maintained year-round making them accessible even during the winter. Yearly memberships are offered, or guests can also enjoy access for just $3.00 per visit.
3. Millennium Park
Today's #facilityfriday bring us to Millennium Park. This 1,400 acre park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Throughout the park, there are 18 miles of trails along the Grand River, 6 acre beach, splash pad, boat rental facilities, and many more! #grandrapids pic.twitter.com/8FvR1kjicm
— West Michigan Sports Commission (@westmisports) October 5, 2018
As one of the nation’s largest urban parks, Millennium Park boasts over 1,400 acres of recreational fun for all. You’ll find 18 miles of trails for hiking as well as beach access in the warmer seasons.
The park was built beginning in 2000, hence the park’s name, and now is a place where area residents can rest and relax in nature. Boat rentals are available as well as access to the beach and splash pad in the summer months.
Visitors can rent the shelters of the park as well as find plenty to do on the sand volleyball and basketball courts. Playgrounds are located throughout the park, and you’ll see that many residents still enjoy the snow-covered trails during the winter for prime cross-country skiing.
4. Fifth Third Ballpark
Located just north of Grand Rapids sits Fifth Third Ballpark which is home to the West Michigan Whitecaps. This minor league baseball team enjoys playing on this beautiful and expansive field that gives every spectator a great view of the game. The ballpark can seat almost 9,000 people and be entirely funded via private funds. The ballpark is used for other large events including outdoor concerts as well as motorsports. The Fifth Third Ballpark was put on the map with their 5-pound Fifth Third Burger that was featured on the Travel Channel’s Man v. Food.
5. Riverside Park
As the largest park within the city limits, Riverside Park is a favorite spot for many residents to enjoy its over 186 acres. It features many biking and walking paths making it a staple for hikers in the city. You’ll find fishing lagoons, boat launches, and plenty of water to explore as well. Riverside Park is home to baseball fields and disc golf courses making it a fun recreational spot. The park itself also includes two playgrounds and soccer fields making this a favorite weekend stop for families.
No matter your outdoor interests, there are plenty of outdoor activities to discover in the Grand Rapids area. From catching a minor league ball game to hiking trails to enjoying manicured gardens, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Yard work restraining you from enjoying your new home in Grand Rapids? For information about gardening and lawn care services in the area, visit LawnStarter Grand Rapids.
