Make the most of your trip by spending an extra day or more in the area and seeing everything Grand Rapids has to offer. From award-winning breweries and top-tier dining to a vibrant arts scene and outdoor adventures, the city is full of things to do. Explore why it’s ranked among the best U.S. towns to visit and turn your conference trip into an unforgettable getaway!
Geography and climate
Grand Rapids is situated along the Grand River, approximately 25 miles (40 km) east of Lake Michigan. Average temperatures in September range from the 70s to the mid-50s, reflecting the transitions of the season with warmer days and cooler nights that require a light jacket.
Pleasant September weather fills parks, trails and golf courses with activity, and the downtown area showcases outdoor art for the international ArtPrize competition.
A culinary capital
Home to numerous restaurants and breweries, Grand Rapids is nicknamed Beer City, USA and is also ranked as a Top 20 U.S. Foodie City. The Beer City Ale Trail boasts more than 80 breweries. Below is just a sampling of our DigiCol volunteers’ local favorite breweries, restaurants and bars.
Bars
- Drip Drop.
- IDC (a speakeasy that requires a code—don’t worry, we’ve got you covered).
- Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar.
- House Rules.
Get outdoors
Grand Rapids offers plenty of outdoor activities in September, with pleasant weather and early fall colors starting to emerge.
- Fish Ladder Park – Walk 20 minutes from the conference hotel for a chance to see the salmon migration.
- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park – Stroll through beautifully curated gardens and see impressive sculptures.
- Provin Trails Park – A great spot for hiking with scenic wooded trails and sand dunes.
- Blandford Nature Center – Explore trails and see wildlife at this nature preserve.
- Riverside Park – A peaceful spot for walking, biking, or kayaking along the Grand River.
- Millennium Park – Features over 18 miles of paved trails, plus a beach and kayak rentals.
- Reeds Lake Trail – A scenic 4.2-mile loop for walking or biking around the lake in nearby East Grand Rapids.
- Seidman Park – Offers a mix of forested and wetland trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Downtown running paths and drop-in running groups.
- Kayaking or paddle boarding on the Grand River – Rent equipment and explore the waterways from Riverside Park or other launch points.
- Fishing – Try your luck at the Grand River or nearby Reeds Lake.
- Lake Michigan beaches – Grand Haven, Holland, and Muskegon beaches are all within an hour’s drive for a beach day.
Visit places like Robinette’s Apple Haus for fresh cider, donuts, and apple picking.
Arts and culture
Local festivals
We are excited that Grand Rapids will be hosting its annual ArtPrize during the conference! ArtPrize is an international art competition and cultural festival, celebrating ideas, conversations, experimentation and inclusiveness.
The Pulaski Days annual festival is also taking place Sept. 28-Oct. 5, celebrating Polish heritage and culture. The festival is known for its lively atmosphere, featuring traditional Polish food, polka music, and plenty of beer.
Concerts and events
- DeVos Performance Hall, the Grand Rapids Symphony.
- Van Andel Arena, concert venue.
- 20 Monroe, concert venue.
Museums
- Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM).
- Grand Rapids Public Museum, offering Tuesday night swing dancing!
Within a 3-hour drive
- Frank Lloyd Wright houses in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo.
- For history lovers: Sojourner Truth’s grave in Battle Creek, Michigan.
- Traverse City / Leelanau peninsula wine tours.
- Detroit (2 hours and 30 minute drive).
- Chicago (2 hours and 45 minute drive, Amtrak ~4 hours).
Additional resources
Looking for more? Check out Experience GR’s curated lists of things to do while you’re visiting Grand Rapids.
Questions?
Email conference@digicol.org for support.