Grand Rapids Main Sites Self-Guided Driving Tour: Art, History & Iconic Landmarks

Places (POIs) visited during this tour

Place #1

Distance: 0.00mi

130 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Downtown Grand Rapids – Ottawa Avenue

We’re kicking off our Grand Rapids tour on Ottawa Avenue, right in the heart of downtown.

This area reflects the city’s growth from an industrial river town into a modern Midwestern city. You’ll notice a mix of early 20th-century commercial buildings, Art Deco influences, and modern glass-and-steel offices — all layered together within just a few blocks.

Grand Rapids is often called “Furniture City,” and that legacy of craftsmanship and design helped shape both the city’s architecture and its attention to detail. Today, downtown blends historic character with contemporary energy, driven by business, culture, and a lively arts scene.

From here, we’ll branch out to explore riverfront landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and some of the places that define Grand Rapids beyond the skyline.

Let’s get started.

Place #2

Distance: 0.10mi

135 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Rosa Parks Circle

Turn right on Monroe Avenue, and on your right hidign behind the trees is the Rosa Parks Circle, you'll see it better after we turn right again on Monroe Center.

This circular public plaza is one of downtown Grand Rapids’ main gathering spaces. In warmer months, it hosts concerts, festivals, and events, while in winter it transforms into a popular outdoor ice-skating rink.

Named in honor of Rosa Parks, the circle reflects the city’s commitment to civil rights, community, and public life. Its central location also makes it a key connector between museums, offices, restaurants, and nearby riverfront areas.

Place #3

Distance: 0.06mi

146 Monroe Center St NW Suite 150, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Monroe Center Street NW – Downtown Core

We’re now on Monroe Center Street NW, running through the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.

Rosa Parks Circle remains on your right, followed by the Grand Rapids Art Museum, which we’ve just circled around. Together, they anchor this part of downtown as a hub for art, public space, and city life.

This stretch of Monroe Center is one of the most walkable and lively areas in the city, especially during events and evenings.

Place #4

Distance: 0.08mi

Main Library (CCW), Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Grand Rapids Public Library

Get ready to turn right, but first on your left is the Grand Rapids Public Library, one of the city’s most important civic institutions.

Serving the community since the late 1800s, the library has long been a center for learning, access, and public life in Grand Rapids. The current building reflects the city’s investment in education and community spaces, offering everything from books and archives to public programs and events.

Place #5

Distance: 0.05mi

Main Library (CW), Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Veterans Memorial Park

On your right is Veterans Memorial Park, a quiet civic space dedicated to honoring those who served in the U.S. military.

The park features memorials and monuments that recognize service members across different eras, offering a place for reflection right in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.

Place #6

Distance: 0.16mi

Fulton/Barclay (EB), Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Grand Rapids Masonic Temple

Get ready to turn left, but first on your left is the Grand Rapids Masonic Temple, a striking early-20th-century building completed in 1914.

Masonic temples like this one were built as centers for civic life, hosting meetings, events, and gatherings for many of the city’s business and community leaders. The architecture reflects the confidence and prosperity of Grand Rapids during its furniture-making boom years.

Today, the building continues that tradition as a venue for concerts and events, blending historic character with modern city life.

Place #7

Distance: 0.29mi

127 Lafayette Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

The Lafayette House

On your left, at 135 Lafayette Avenue, is what’s commonly known as the Lafayette House — named simply for the street it sits on.

This home isn’t famous for a single historic figure, but for what it represents. It’s a well-preserved example of the kind of substantial homes built during Grand Rapids’ late-1800s and early-1900s boom years, when the city was rising to national prominence as “Furniture City.”

Lafayette Avenue and the surrounding streets became desirable residential areas for business owners and professionals who valued craftsmanship, design, and proximity to downtown. Many similar homes were later lost to redevelopment, which makes surviving houses like this important visual reminders of how Grand Rapids once looked and lived.

Place #8

Distance: 0.08mi , Attraction : Public Art, Plaza (Recommended selfie spot).

299-353 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Calder Plaza & La Grande Vitesse

On your right is Calder Plaza, home to La Grande Vitesse, one of the most famous public sculptures in the United States.

Created by artist Alexander Calder in 1969, La Grande Vitesse was the first federally funded public art project in the country. Its bold red steel forms became an instant symbol of Grand Rapids and helped spark the city’s long-standing commitment to public art.

Calder Plaza itself serves as a major civic space, surrounded by government buildings and often used for events, rallies, and gatherings.

This sculpture isn’t just art — it represents the moment Grand Rapids embraced creativity as part of its public identity.

  https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks-and-Facilities/Calder-Plaza

Place #9

Distance: 0.06mi

200 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

DeVos Performance Hall & DeVos Place

On your left is DeVos Performance Hall, one of Grand Rapids’ premier venues for concerts, Broadway shows, and symphony performances.

Just beyond it, also on your left, is DeVos Place, the city’s main convention and conference center. Together, these two landmarks form a major cultural and business hub along the Grand River, bringing performances, events, and visitors into the heart of downtown.

Place #10

Distance: 0.07mi

6 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Crossing the Grand River – Michigan Street Bridge

We’re crossing the Grand River on the Michigan Street Bridge.

The Grand River is the longest river entirely within Michigan and has been central to Grand Rapids since its earliest days. It powered mills, supported the city’s furniture industry, and helped shape Grand Rapids into a regional economic center.

Today, the river is just as important — not for industry, but for recreation, festivals, and the riverfront spaces you’ve been seeing along the way. As we cross, take in the views of downtown and the bridges that tie the city together.

Place #11

Distance: 0.23mi

Grand River Edges Trail West, 534-630 Scribner Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Fish Ladder Park & Grand River Edges Trail

On your right is Fish Ladder Park, where you can actually see the rapids in the Grand River.

The fish ladder allows migrating fish to move upstream past the dam, and during the right seasons, you can often spot fish working their way through the rushing water. It’s one of the best places in the city to see the river in motion.

Running alongside it is the Grand River Edges Trail, a riverside path that connects parks, overlooks, and walking routes along the water. It’s a great place to come back for a short walk if you want to get closer to the river and the sound of the rapids.

Place #12

Distance: 0.08mi

2103 Alpine Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544, USA

Crossing the Grand River – Sixth Street Bridge

We’re crossing the Grand River again, this time on the Sixth Street Bridge.

On this tour, we cross the river four different times, each from a slightly different angle. It’s intentional — some of the best views of Grand Rapids come from these river crossings, where you can really see how the city is shaped around the water.

The Grand River has always been the backbone of the city, and these bridges give you a front-row seat to how downtown, neighborhoods, and riverfront spaces connect.

Enjoy the view as we continue to the other side.

Place #13

Distance: 0.06mi

69 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Crossing the Grand River – Leonard Street Bridge

We’re crossing the Grand River once again, this time on the Leonard Street Bridge.

This bridge serves as an important east–west gateway between downtown Grand Rapids and the city’s West Side neighborhoods. While it’s more functional than flashy, it offers a great vantage point to see how the river separates — and connects — different parts of the city.

Place #14

Distance: 0.05mi

1149 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Broadway Avenue Building

On your left is the Broadway Avenue Building, a historic early-20th-century structure that reflects Grand Rapids’ working past.

Originally built during the city’s growth years, buildings like this supported small businesses, community life, and commerce tied to the nearby river and rail corridors. Its solid brick construction and simple, durable design were typical of the era.

Today, the building has been repurposed as a wedding and event venue, hosting celebrations, receptions, and gatherings while preserving its historic character. It’s a great example of how Grand Rapids has found new life for its older buildings — blending history with modern city life.

Place #15

Distance: 0.11mi

1057 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Grand Rapids Fun Facts

As we cruise along, here are a few fun facts about Grand Rapids:

Grand Rapids is known as “Furniture City”, once producing more furniture than any other city in the United States.

The city is home to the world’s largest Frank Lloyd Wright–designed residence open to the public, and several other Wright works are scattered around the area.

The Grand River is the longest river entirely within Michigan and has shaped the city’s industry, neighborhoods, and skyline.

Grand Rapids helped launch the modern public art movement, starting with Alexander Calder’s La Grande Vitesse in 1969.

It’s also known as “Beer City, USA,” thanks to a strong craft brewing culture rooted in both history and innovation.

Place #16

Distance: 0.19mi , Attraction : Park, Public Art (Recommended selfie spot).

Scribner/Pearl (NB), Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Get ready to turn right on Front Avenue, but first on your left is the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of President Gerald R. Ford, who grew up right here in Grand Rapids.

The museum covers Ford’s journey from a local upbringing to the presidency, including his role during a pivotal moment in U.S. history in the 1970s. Exhibits explore his presidency, personal character, and commitment to public service.

Its location along the Grand River reflects Ford’s lifelong connection to the city, and the museum has become one of downtown’s most recognizable landmarks.

  https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks-and-Facilities/Fish-Ladder-Park

Place #17

Distance: 0.09mi

1993 Front Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Grand Rapids Public Museum

On your left is the Grand Rapids Public Museum, one of the city’s longest-standing cultural institutions.

The museum focuses on local history, science, and culture, with exhibits that explore West Michigan’s past, from Native American history and early settlement to industry and innovation. Its modern riverfront building also offers great views of the Grand River.

If you’re traveling with family or enjoy hands-on exhibits, this is a great place to stop and spend some time learning more about the region.

Place #18

Distance: 0.09mi

GVSU (CCW), Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA

Crossing the Grand River – William Dean Memorial Bridge & Blue Bridge Views

We’re crossing the Grand River for the final time on this tour, now on the William Dean Memorial Bridge.

As you cross, take a look to your left for one of Grand Rapids’ most iconic landmarks — the bright blue Sixth Street Bridge, often simply called the Blue Bridge. It’s a pedestrian-only bridge and one of the most recognizable symbols of the city, especially when lit up at night.

Crossing the river multiple times on this tour wasn’t by accident. Each bridge offers a different perspective, and together they give you some of the best views of how Grand Rapids is shaped around the Grand River.

Place #19

Distance: 0.05mi

Ottawa/Fulton (SB), Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Van Andel Arena

This is Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids’ main sports and entertainment venue and home of the Griffins hockey team. It hosts major concerts, games, and events year-round and plays a key role in downtown’s energy.

Place #20

Distance: 0.26mi , Attraction : Market, Food Hall (Recommended selfie spot).

435 Ionia Ave SW Suite 114, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

On your right is the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, a year-round indoor market and food hall.

Inside, you’ll find a mix of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, international foods, and prepared meals. The market was created as part of the city’s downtown revitalization and has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

If you’re looking for a quick bite or want to sample local flavors later, this is a great place to stop.

  https://downtownmarketgr.com/

Place #21

Distance: 0.19mi

500 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Meyer May House - by Frank Lloyd Wright

Just after the crossing, on the right corner, is the Meyer May House, one of Grand Rapids’ most important architectural landmarks.

Designed in 1908 by Frank Lloyd Wright, this Prairie School home is known for its strong horizontal lines, natural materials, and interior spaces that flow together seamlessly. It was commissioned by Meyer S. May, a prominent local businessman.

The house was later carefully restored by Steelcase and is now open to the public free of charge, making it one of the best places to experience a Frank Lloyd Wright design up close.

Place #22

Distance: 0.05mi

356 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Wealthy Street SE – Historic Corridor to Reeds Lake

We’re now driving along Wealthy Street SE, one of Grand Rapids’ most historic and character-filled corridors.

This street has long connected downtown with the eastern neighborhoods and was once lined with streetcars, neighborhood shops, and homes built during the city’s late-1800s and early-1900s growth. You’ll notice a mix of older houses, churches, and small commercial buildings that reflect how this area developed as a self-contained neighborhood.

Today, Wealthy Street blends history with local life — independent businesses, cafés, and long-standing institutions give it a distinctly lived-in feel. It’s a great example of Grand Rapids beyond the downtown core.

As we continue east, the scenery gradually shifts from urban to residential, setting us up nicely for the calmer views around Reeds Lake ahead.

Place #23

Distance: 0.32mi

Wealthy & Lakeside, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506, USA

Reeds Lake

On your right is Reeds Lake, one of the most scenic and beloved spots in the Grand Rapids area.

This natural lake has long been a getaway from the city, surrounded by walking paths, historic homes, and peaceful waterfront views. It’s especially popular for strolling, biking, kayaking, and enjoying sunsets over the water.

Place #24

Distance: 0.14mi

2462 Leonard St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, USA

On the Way to Our Final Stop – Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

We’re now heading toward our final stop on this tour — Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

After exploring downtown Grand Rapids, historic neighborhoods, river crossings, and lakeside scenery, Meijer Gardens brings it all together. It combines art, nature, and design in one place, making it a fitting way to wrap up the journey.

We recommend this stop if you’re looking to slow down, stretch your legs, and experience one of the most celebrated attractions in Michigan. It’s especially rewarding in warmer months, but beautiful year-round.

We’ll continue ahead toward our last stop on this tour.

Place #25

Distance: 0.15mi , Attraction : Botanical Garden, Sculpture Park (Recommended selfie spot).

XCH6+FC Grand Rapids, MI, USA

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park – Parking & Farewell

We’ve arrived at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Parking is available here, and this is our final stop.

Thanks for exploring Grand Rapids with UCPlaces. We hope this journey gave you a deeper feel for the city — from its downtown core and riverfront to its neighborhoods and natural beauty.

Enjoy your visit, and travel safely on your next adventure.

  https://www.meijergardens.org/