When you think about Michigan, the city of Grand Rapids most likely isn't the first thing that comes to mind…It’s probably the lake, Detroit, or maybe the Flint Water Crisis. Who knew Grand Rapids is filled with these hidden gems?

1. Grand Rapids is Beer City, USA.

The readers of USA Today voted Grand Rapids Beer City, USA for a good reason. Good old Grand Rapids boasts more than 40 local breweries…That’s more craft beer per square mile than just about anywhere else on earth!

2. Grand Rapids is just one giant art museum.

In the fall, the whole city engages in a “radically open international art competition judged by public vote and expert jury”, which is called ArtPrize. In the days preceding the weeks-long competition, artists can be found in almost all local venues, getting their pieces ready for the public eye. Go basically anywhere in Grand Rapids between September 21 and October 9 and vote for the artwork you think should win the $200,000 first place prize!

3. Frederik Meijer Gardens.

At over 132 acres, Frederik Meijer Gardens’ “integration of horticulture and sculpture” makes it one of the top 30 most visited museums in the world. Complete with pieces from Degas, Chihuly, Miro, and Rodan, the sculpture park is truly a hidden gem nestled in outer Grand Rapids.

At over 132 acres, Frederik Meijer Gardens’ “integration of horticulture and sculpture” makes it one of the top 30 most visited museums in the world. Complete with pieces from Degas, Chihuly, Miro, and Rodan, the sculpture park is truly a hidden gem nestled in outer Grand Rapids.

4. It’s a “foodie” destination.

Turn left and you’ll see a cool new restaurant, turn right and your eyes will be drawn to a cute restaurant that’s been there since your grandpa was a young boy, turn left again and feast your eyes on a food truck or a stand. That’s just the way the cookie crumbles in Grand Rapids (pun intended).

…and speaking of food…

5. The movie American Pie was based off of the Grand Rapids suburb, East Grand Rapids.

The classic movie that your parents were most likely reluctant to let you watch was based right on the shores of the good old Grand River. Now that’s not something you hear every day. Take a trip down to Yesterdog and enjoy one of the most delicious hotdogs you will ever eat and catch a glimpse of what it was like to attend “East Great Falls”.