Your Future Day on the Grand Rapids Riverfront
With the transformation of the Grand Rapids Riverfront, both residents and visitors will soon have access to new or renovated spaces that seamlessly blend culture, adventure, relaxation, and entertainment all along the river. Here’s a glimpse of what a day exploring the vibrant riverside could look like in the near future.
Morning: A Scenic Start with Nature & Exploration
Start the day with a peaceful stroll or bike ride along the riverwalk and interconnected parks and green spaces. While these parks are already great places to spend time, improvements at various sites are making these spaces more accessible. As you travel from park to park, an enhanced riverwalk will serve as a great connector to the attractions you visit throughout your day.
Late Morning: Culture and Discovery at the Grand Rapids Public Museum
Next, head to the Grand Rapids Public Museum, which is currently undergoing significant updates – the first since the museum moved to this site in 1994. These improvements include upgrades to the fan-favorite carousel, an enhanced path along the river, and a brand-new outdoor learning space. Here, visitors will be able to explore the city’s history, natural sciences, and cultural heritage.
Lunch: Downtown Dining
For lunch, visitors will be able to take advantage of Grand Rapids’ growing restaurant scene. Lyon Square will serve as a key bridge between the riverfront and downtown dining opportunities, providing easy access from the riverwalk to a wide selection of restaurants. As projects along the riverfront are completed, more restaurants, like Allora located in Lyon Square, will be added to the city’s already impressive array of offerings.
Afternoon: Shopping and Local Flair
Similar to the restaurants, the riverfront area will also be home to new mixed-use retail spaces. While nothing has been announced yet, expect an expansive shopping experience you’ve come to expect in Grand Rapids, highlighted by small businesses and local entrepreneurs, who are the heartbeat of our economy. For residents, this means new spots to add to their growing list of favorites, and visitors will have access to vibrant and diverse retail experiences within walking distance of the downtown hotels. Downtown workers will have expanded access to additional options for quick after-work visits, adding to the vibrancy of the area.
Late Afternoon: Sports, Sports, Sports!
For sports fans, the new soccer stadium will be a perfect afternoon destination and an anchor for the area’s growing sports culture. Several years back, the city's passionate soccer fanbase would gather at SpeakEZ Lounge, located along the riverfront, and walk to Houseman Field to watch the Grand Rapids FC play. The new stadium will build on this legacy, offering an even greater experience for fans and solidifying soccer as a key part of Grand Rapids' sports scene. Depending on the season, you could also enjoy a sporting event at Van Andel Arena – home to the city’s hockey, basketball, and volleyball teams.
Evening: Concert at Acrisure Amphitheater
Wrap up the day with a concert at the Acrisure Amphitheater, where national and local artists will perform in a 12,000-seat outdoor venue. The amphitheater will attract a variety of acts that previously couldn't be showcased in Grand Rapids due to the lack of a large outdoor venue, including major touring artists, festivals, and unique large-scale performances. The state-of-the-art amphitheater plans to host over 50 ticketed performances each year, making it a cultural cornerstone of Grand Rapids when it opens in spring 2026.
Nightcap: Drinks and Skyline Views
End the night with a visit to a bar or lounge along the riverfront. Whether it’s a stop at a downtown hotel patio or one of the new spots being built along the river, expect drinks, food and views that rival any other city. Imagine sipping cocktails with friends or a date night overlooking the beautifully lit skyline of Grand Rapids, making the riverfront the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening.
In one day, you can seamlessly blend nature, culture, sports, dining, entertainment, and more, making the revamped Grand Rapids riverfront an exciting and versatile destination for visitors and locals alike. Stay up to date on everything Grand Rapids Riverfront at www.grandriverfront.com.
