10 Amazing Things to do in Grand Rapids with Kids

May 27, 2026May 27, 2026 Anjali Wadhwa

(This article has affiliate links to products which we may make commission from at no extra cost to you.)

Visiting Grand Rapids with my kids has always been a blast! Whether we’re locals or just in town for a family getaway, there’s never a shortage of family-friendly activities and fun things to do together.

Grand Rapids is a big city, but it still feels calm and welcoming, especially for families. The neighborhoods have a friendly vibe that instantly makes us feel at home. Every time we visit, I’m amazed at just how much there is for kids to enjoy, from interactive museums to outdoor parks and creative play spaces.

If you’re thinking about bringing your family here for the first time, get ready for a wonderful adventure. Grand Rapids has plenty of surprises waiting, and I’m sure you and your kids will love discovering all the fun the city has to offer.

Things to do in Grand Rapids with Kids

1. Make Friends at John Ball Zoo

My kids absolutely love animals, so a visit to the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is always a highlight of our family trips.

What makes John Ball Zoo extra special is the many different exhibits. We’ve wandered through the Budgie Aviary, followed the Wild Way Trail, and marveled at the Van Andel Living Shores Aquarium. The Treasures of the Tropics and Turtle Exhibits are always a hit, and the North American Trek lets us see animals from closer to home. My kids get especially excited about seeing rare creatures like the Komodo Dragon and Gilda.

There’s so much to do here that a few hours isn’t nearly enough. The zoo also hosts a variety of events, and we love the option of renting space for an overnight adventure camping under the stars, surrounded by animals, which is an experience my family will never forget. John Ball Zoo is a must-visit for anyone with kids in Grand Rapids!

2. Have fun at the City Pools

When it comes to splash fun in Grand Rapids, my family is spoiled for choice! There are so many great pools around the city, and we’ve made a habit of checking out different ones each time we visit.

Some of our favorites include Briggs Park Pool, Heather Downs Community Pool, and the GRCC Gerald R. Ford Natatorium. Each spot has its own unique features; some have bigger pools, others offer fun rides, and each one has its own vibe and crowd. No matter where we go, the fun never disappoints.

Since my kids are still learning to swim, I love that many of the pools offer swimming classes for all ages and skill levels. There’s nothing like signing them up for lessons and watching their confidence grow in the water. If you’re looking for a memorable way to cool off and have fun in Grand Rapids, exploring the city’s pools is an absolute must.

3. Have fun learning at Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

One of the best experiences I’ve had with my kids in Grand Rapids was visiting the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. It’s a place truly dedicated to making learning fun for kids of all ages, and my children absolutely loved every minute we spent there. The building itself is vibrant and welcoming, and the exhibits are designed to keep little ones engaged for hours.

After the pandemic, the museum rolled out even more exhibits, many of which are interactive and educational. My kids were especially fascinated by the Robotics and AI displays; they couldn’t get enough of the hands-on activities! I found it to be the perfect spot for them to explore new interests and discover what excites them most.

A quick tip: the museum limits the number of visitors inside, so I always plan ahead and book our spot in advance. Tuesdays are reserved for members only, so I make sure to avoid those unless we’re registered. Typically, we visit between Thursday and Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM, but I always double-check the museum calendar before heading out.

If you want an exciting, educational outing with your kids, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a must-visit!

4. Run as much as you want at Huff Park

As someone who spends a lot of time indoors, I always look forward to open parks, especially when I’m with my kids. Huff Park in Grand Rapids quickly became one of our favorite spots. The moment we arrive, and my kids see the wide, green space, they can’t wait to run, play, and just be free.

We love packing a picnic and heading to the park. There’s a fantastic play area with swings, slides, and all sorts of equipment for kids to enjoy. I appreciate the convenience of picnic shelters, tables, restrooms, and grills, which make our outings comfortable and stress-free.

While the kids are busy playing, I take advantage of the walking trail. It’s a peaceful way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Huff Park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit for families looking to relax and have fun in Grand Rapids.

5. Enjoy the Ice Skating at Rosa Parks Circle

Rosa Parks Circle is one of those places in Grand Rapids that my family loves to visit, no matter the season. In the summer, we’ve danced at concerts and joined in on community events right in the heart of the city. But when winter arrives, the area transforms into a magical ice rink, and that’s when the real fun begins for my kids.

There’s something special about lacing up our skates and gliding across the ice together. The rink is always buzzing with families, laughter, and music, making it a highlight of our winter visits. My kids have a blast every time, and it’s such a great way for us to make new memories as a family.

Whether you’re in Grand Rapids for the summer festivities or the winter ice skating sessions, Rosa Parks Circle is always packed with fun activities.

6. Witness the Young Talents at the Civic Theatre

One of the things I love most about visiting Grand Rapids with my kids is seeing their eyes light up during a show at the Civic Theatre. As a school for performing arts, the Civic Theatre offers a fantastic range of productions that inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.

My kids especially enjoy seeing familiar stories like Mary Poppins and Beauty and the Beast come to life on stage. It’s a whole new experience compared to watching the movies at home.

I always make sure to check the theatre’s website for seat availability and show schedules, especially around the festive season when performances ramp up.

The energy in the theatre is contagious, and every show we’ve attended has left us talking about it for days afterward.

For families with theatre lovers, the Civic Theatre is an absolute gem in Grand Rapids.

7. Have a Water Splash at the Millennium Park

Whenever I’m seeking a true slice of paradise near Grand Rapids, Millennium Park is my top choice, especially when I’m with my kids. Just a few miles from the city, this park centers around a stunning 100-acre manmade lake, making it one of the best spots for family adventures.

One thing I really appreciate is the designated swimming area. It gives me peace of mind knowing my kids are safe while they splash and play on hot summer days.

But Millennium Park isn’t just a summer destination; we love soaking up the sun and exploring the nature trails even in winter. There are plenty of recreational facilities for everyone to enjoy, no matter the season.

Food is never a problem here. With plenty of eateries, food stalls, and food trucks around, we’re always able to find something tasty.

My kids can’t get enough of the Mehney Splash Pad, where they have a blast with sprayers, buckets, and splashers. Convenient amenities like lockers, restrooms, and changing rooms make every visit comfortable.

With so much to explore and enjoy, Millennium Park has become a family favorite, and I always look forward to our next adventure there.

8. Catch a Game Night

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of spending a night with my kids at a hockey game in the Grand Rapids Hockey Arena. Watching the Grand Rapids Griffins play always brings out the biggest smiles and loudest cheers from my family. The energy in the arena is absolutely electrifying, and my kids love being part of the crowd, joining in the chants, and celebrating every goal.

Before every trip, I make sure to check when the next Griffin’s tournament or game is scheduled, so we don’t miss out on the action. Sharing the adrenaline and thrill of live hockey together has become one of our favorite family traditions, and it’s an experience my kids always look forward to.

9. Visit Gerald R Ford Museum

You’ll find that visiting the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids is a fascinating experience, especially if you have teenagers who are history enthusiasts. As one of the city’s largest museums, it features an impressive library and education center, and there’s always something happening, from election campaigns to social events.

While many of the events cater to adults, your teens will be amazed by the historical documentation and the creative ways American history is brought to life throughout the museum.

You can easily purchase tickets either at the center or on the museum’s website, so you can plan your visit around whichever event interests you most. If your family loves diving into the past and exploring history together, the Gerald R. Ford Museum is a must-visit stop during your time in Grand Rapids.

10. Get Lost in the World of Grand Rapids Public Museum

If the Gerald R. Ford Museum appeals to just a few members of your family, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is a destination everyone can enjoy, no matter what sparks your curiosity. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or someone who loves ancient history and fossils, you’ll find something that captures your imagination here.

The museum spans three stories, and each level offers a new surprise. The best part is that it’s not just about absorbing information; you’ll find plenty of interactive exhibits and fun activities that kids of all ages can join in on. These rides and experiences are open again now that the pandemic has subsided, making a visit even more exciting for your family.

You can plan your day easily: weekday hours are 9 AM to 5 PM, and weekends run from 10 AM to 5 PM. Tickets are available right on the museum’s website, so you can secure your spot in advance.

If you set out to explore Grand Rapids with your kids, you’ll quickly discover that there’s no shortage of great activities and unforgettable experiences. Which of these adventures do you think your family would enjoy most? Share your favorites in the comments below!

Cheerful Trails

10 Amazing Things to do in Grand Rapids with Kids