3 Best Places To See in Grand Rapids, MI

“Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a 158-acre botanical garden, art museum, and outdoor sculpture park that is one of the world's most significant botanical gardens and sculpture parks. The garden aims to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts. Meijer Gardens is a charitable and not-for-profit corporation with a Board of Directors overseeing the organization's successful operation. The organization is operated by almost 200 full and part-time staff, more than 850 active volunteers, and is supported by gifts from over 28,000 member households and many donors. Their commitment is to create a legacy of lifelong learning, enjoyment, and rich cultural experience for generations to come. The indoor galleries host changing sculpture exhibitions. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park offers free admission for children under 2 and members with ID.”

Read more

“John Ball Zoological Garden is committed to advancing public education on the need for wildlife conservation and preservation. The zoo is situated on the ravines and bluffs along the west edge of the property. The zoo has a variety of animals from around the world. The zoo offers behind-the-scenes training and care to the public daily. Here, guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor exhibits. John Ball Zoological Garden is visited by more than 500,000 visitors annually. The zoo strives to provide opportunities for its guests and partners to grow their knowledge, appreciation, and support of wildlife conservation. Their veterinary team provides the highest level of care. Whether you’re looking for a camp opportunity for your child, a Twilight Tour for the whole family, or want to make your zoo visit even more memorable with a Behind the Scenes Tour, John Ball Zoo has something for everyone. John Ball Zoological Garden offers free admission for children under 2.”

Read more

“Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is the burial spot of Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the US, and his wife, Betty Ford. The museum core is the permanent exhibition, which allows visitors to experience highlights from President and Mrs. Ford's lives. The museum's show teaches democratic citizenship and allows for quiet reflection. They also host a wide variety of family-friendly performances & lectures regularly. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum's Store sells items relating to the Ford presidency, other Presidents and First Ladies, and other souvenirs. The museum collections house approximately 20,000 artifacts from the life and career of President Ford. The museum offers free admission to children under the age of 5. Free parking is also available for all museum patrons.”

Read more