Southwest Travel Guide
Grand Rapids
Popular places to visit
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
Let your kids run wild at the sand pits and tree house while you inspect the sculptures and floral displays in this park’s various gardens.
John Ball Zoo
Visit the native and exotic animals who live at John Ball Zoo during your trip to Grand Rapids. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music.
Van Andel Arena
Catch an event at Van Andel Arena during your trip to Grand Rapids. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.
Gerald R. Ford Museum
Take a holographic tour of Ford’s White House and see a piece of the Berlin Wall in this tribute to the 38th president in the town where he was raised.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
The sleek design of the modernist building reflects the gorgeous contemporary artworks within. Learn how to make art fun in the workshops and camps.
Heritage Hill Historic District
Lining the streets of this old residential area are more than 1,000 houses of 60 different designs. Spot Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece among these historic homes.
Things to do
Top hotels in Southwest
The Center Hotel Grand Rapids Airport
"Excellent hotel to stay at, close to restaurants, stores for shopping, and easy access to highways. Facility was clean, and the rooms were spacious, clean and beds were comfortable. Definitely a place to stay at while in Grand Rapids."
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG
"Clean Hotel and friendly staff"
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grand Rapids East, MI
"The beds were so comfortable and the rooms were very clean. I loved that they had a tribute to all military members with different memorabilia and information from each of the wars. I’m always proud to stay in a place that supports our service members."
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown
"The hot tub was cold and full of a foan. Because was not good due to equipment issues. Over all not planning on staying there again"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Holiday Inn Express Grand Rapids Airport North by IHG
"The hotel was very clean and well kept."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton
"Everything was great!"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southwest
Roosevelt Park
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Roosevelt Park and surrounding area, you can visit Downtown Market and Van Andel Arena.
Heartside
Heartside is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Van Andel Arena and Grand Rapids Children's Museum while in the area.
Black Hills
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Black Hills and surrounding area, you can visit John Ball Zoo and Downtown Market.
Heritage Hill
While visiting Heritage Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Heritage Hill Historic District and Voigt House Victorian Museum.
Garfield Park
Garfield Park might not have many top sights, but Downtown Market and Grand Rapids Children's Museum are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Downtown Grand Rapids
While visiting Downtown Grand Rapids, you might make a stop by sights like Broadway Grand Rapids and DeVos Performance Hall.
