I know, I know. Summer is the time not to have a to-do list, but I’m too much of a “planner” not to make a list of things I’d like to do before heading back to school in August. So here’s 5 things on my summer “to-do” list!

1. Relax in East Grand Rapids

I’m actually doing this as I write this article. East Grand Rapids is the perfect place to go to unwind. My favorite things to do are to go to John Collins Park with a good book and just enjoy looking out onto the beautiful Reeds Lake as I read. Or if I’m feeling more active I love to take a walk on the trail that goes all the way around the Lake. After my walk, it’s always essential to go into Gaslight Village and grab an ice cream cone from Jersey Junction.

2. Festival of the Arts Downtown

I look forward to this event every single summer because I’ve gone every year since I was a young girl (I’ve even gotten the chance to be in the festival a few times!) This festival is always the first weekend of June. It is a showcase of the fine arts in Grand Rapids which includes performances of music and dance on six stages across downtown, artists selling their own art, and the best food vendors (not really art, but with how good this food is, it might as well be considered art). It’s so fun to spend a day (or a couple days) downtown exploring all the great art that Festival has to offer!

3. Movies in Ah-Nab-Awen Park

Honestly, I’ve never actually attended a movie showing in Ah-Nab-Awen Park, but I’ve heard they’re great! I start each summer intending on going but just never have. However, this summer I’m making it a point to go to at least one movie showing!

Check out the website for more info on what movies are showing when! http://downtowngr.org/our-work/projects/movies-in-the-park

4. Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival 

Okay, so this isn’t technically a GR experience but it really is a must do for those living in Grand Rapids. The Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival’s mission is this: “We are committed to honoring men and women of the United States Coast Guard by hosting a nationally recognized festival that honors and respects these men and women who serve. Hosting a festival that provides family friendly activities.” This is a week-long festival and it is SO FUN. Some of my favorite activities are ship tours, the downtown carnival, the grand parade, and the firework extravaganza held on the closing evening of Coast Guard. There really is something for everyone to enjoy!

5. Visit with Old Friends in Coffee Shops

Considering I just finished my first year at Judson University, I have a lot of catching up to do with friends back here in Michigan. One of my favorite ways to spend time with friends is by catching up over a cup of coffee. Some of my favorite coffee spots in Grand Rapids include The Early Bird, Sparrows Coffee and Tea, and Madcap Coffee.

*(I haven’t gone to Darts Donuts yet, but I’ve seen pictures and I have a feeling I’ll have to add it to my favorites list once I go haha)

Looking forward to a great summer of relaxation and fun!