Where to stay

The biennial ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids is a coming together of over 1,400 artists and widely viewed as among the world's biggest and best. Stay in accommodations in Heartside to be at the center of the event, held within a large area at various venues, including museums, bars, galleries, restaurants, and hotels. At any time of year, book a room in downtown Grand Rapids for an easy walk to La Grande Vitesse, a 1969 structure that symbolizes the city's love for art. For the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, one of the world's most visited art museums, find accommodations near Cornerstone University east of the city center.

Regularly voted among the best places in the United States to raise a family, this city has no shortage of activities to keep the kids entertained. Book a hotel in downtown Grand Rapids for the John Ball Zoo and an excellent children's museum. The Meijer State Games of Michigan has welcomed athletes of all ages since 2010 to take part in the Summer Games and Winter Games. Events are held all over the city, so find accommodations based on your sporting preference. Choose a hotel in Wyoming to see softball, judo, or wrestling. Consider accommodations in Walker to watch one of Michigan's favorite sports, ice hockey, at the Walker Ice and Fitness Center.

Having been voted "Beer City USA," Grand Rapids attracts plenty of attention for its popular craft breweries and has enough to warrant an Ale Trail with dozens of stops. Stay in Heartside to be within strolling distance of Founders, the largest and most famous brewery in the city, and to enjoy a drink at the popular brewpub, HopCat. In addition to the breweries of the downtown area, Hudsonville is a great place to stay to combine a brewery visit with a trip to the Rivertown Crossings Mall. Alternatively, consider accommodations in Walker or Allendale, where even more breweries add to the lively student atmosphere near Grand Valley State University.