Grand Rapids Yellow PagesOther Cities

Grand Rapids Quick Guide

As the second largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids continues to grow not only as a center for furniture and automobile manufacturing but as a forward-thinking city set on preserving its midwestern charm.

Once known as the "Furniture Capital" of America, Grand Rapids now may be on the way to becoming the "Green Capital," too. The city prides itself by leading the nation in LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) buildings per capita, with modern architectural feats like the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), which is the world’s first newly constructed "green" art museum.

After enjoying Grand Rapids' art and green space at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, visitors also can honor our 38th president at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum or venture toward Lake Michigan to one of the region's many apple orchards.

For information about Grand Rapids city offices and departments, call (616) 456-3000 or visit Grands Rapids City Hall, located at 300 Monroe Ave. NW (Map).

Getting Around Grand Rapids

• Get maps, driving directions and latest traffic info.
• Find rental car agencies.
• Find airport transportation services, if you're flying in or out via Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR).
• Learn about The Rapid (ITP) transit routes: (616) 776-1100

Making Grand Rapids Your Home

• Find a place to live: real estate agents, apartments and rental services.
• Set up utilities: electric, water, gas, garbage collection, phone, internet, cable/satellite television.
• Register to vote, or get voter information: (888) 767-6424.
• Get or renew your Michigan driver's license: (888) 767-6424.

Grand Rapids Shopping and Services

• Shop for the basics: department stores, shopping centers, grocery stores, farmers' markets, pharmacies, pet supplies.
• Enlist some help: employment agencies, day care centers, financial services.

Where to Go in Grand Rapids

For a taste of Grands Rapids cuisine, try Bistro Bella Vita, which boasts natural Mediterranean country cuisine and a large martini bar. Nightlifers may want to grab some cold ones at The Black Rose Irish Pub or opt for bottle-service, VIP treatment and all-night dancing at Moxie.

History buffs should enjoy the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, while art- and outdoor-lovers might want to stroll Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, a 125-acre botanical garden and sculpture park that's home to the famous 24-ft-high "American Horse," the second casting of Leonardo da Vinci's "The Horse" in Milan.

Things to Do in Grand Rapids

In the beginning of June, join more than a half-million people at the Festival of the Arts, one of the country's largest free events showcasing visual, culinary and performing arts. After nearly four decades, the annual fete has grown from a small bash in Calder Plaza (Map) to an ubiquitous celebration that takes over downtown Grand Rapids. More info: (616) 459-1300.

Every year on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday after Labor Day, head to the end-of-summer Celebration on the Grand for concerts, the Taste of Downtown and nightly fireworks. More info: (616) 752-8257.

For everyday entertainment: movie theaters, ticket sellers, night clubs, restaurants, museums, golf courses

Popular Grand Rapids Attractions

• Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park: (616) 957-1580 Map
• Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum: (616) 254-0400 Map
• Grand Rapids Art Museum: (616) 831-1000 Map
• Meyer May House by Frank Lloyd Wright: (616) 246-4821 Map
• Public Museum of Grand Rapids: (616) 456-3977 Map

Weather