Grand Rapids City Guide

Food includes local Michigan cherry products, pasties, and craft beer. Diverse international restaurants cover Mexican, Asian, Italian, and Middle Eastern. Many vegan and vegetarian options. Late-night food available downtown.

Known for craft breweries, live music venues, and a variety of bars. Nightlife is lively and diverse.

Strong coffee scene with many specialty roasters and quality-focused shops. Events like barista competitions sometimes happen.

Tipping is customary: 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for rideshares, similar for other services.

SIM cards can be bought at carrier stores like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. eSIMs are supported by major carriers. ID is needed for post-paid plans; prepaid may just ask for basic info.

Generally clean streets, especially downtown and residential areas. Recycling and waste services work well.

Late pharmacies and many 24/7 convenience stores. Emergency rooms open all day. Some late-night food options.

Good international product availability with stores like Horrocks Market and ethnic shops. Main supermarkets include Meijer, D&W Fresh Market, and Family Fare. Most open 6 AM to 11 PM or midnight, some 24 hours. Open Sundays and holidays with shorter hours.

Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, so cash isn't usually needed.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees range from $2.50 to $5.00.

Grand Rapids Public Schools cover most local students. Private and charter schools are also options. Instruction is mainly in English. Enrollment follows district guidelines.

A small but growing digital nomad community. Meetups happen occasionally, and there are plenty of cafes to work from.

Lots of green spaces like Millennium Park and Riverside Park. Trails along Grand River are shaded and good for walking.

Safe, scenic running routes along the Grand River Greenway and parks. Active running groups and annual races.

Multiple gyms with different styles and memberships.

Good access to tennis courts in parks and clubs. Hard courts common, coaching available. Equipment rental rare.

Padel courts are not widely available.

Many yoga studios offer various styles. English-speaking instructors are standard.

Dojo options for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, and Karate. Active communities and English-speaking instructors.

Several small ski resorts within 1-2 hours, like Bittersweet and Cannonsburg. Season from December to March.

Popular kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing on the Grand River and lakes. Rentals and guided tours available.

Limited surfing on Lake Michigan, mainly during storms. No dedicated surf schools.

Diving spots in Lake Michigan and inland lakes with freshwater species. Some local dive shops provide gear and certification.

Hospitals like Spectrum Health Butterworth and Mercy Health have English-speaking staff. Care quality is high but can be costly without insurance. Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens are common.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Good options for families with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and baby supplies at major retailers. Attractions include John Ball Zoo, Children's Museum, and Meijer Gardens.

Grand Rapids is generally accepting, with safe spaces downtown and active LGBTQ+ groups. Pride events are annual.

Pet-friendly parks and businesses abound. Veterinary care is easy to find. Pet supplies and dog walking spots are common.