Summer means adventure—getting out there and experiencing all the world has to offer.
Now that we’re all thoroughly thawed out from the long Michigan winters, we’re ready to leave the house and explore. That means zoos, go-karts, mini golf, museums, skydiving, escape rooms and so much more.
Whether you’re looking for a quick family outing or heading out with the whole friend group in tow, there’s something for you in West Michigan. Here are a few recommendations for your next adventure.
FAMILY FUN
John Ball Zoo
1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids / jbzoo.org
A West Michigan favorite for generations, John Ball Zoo continues to give visitors plenty of reasons to come back. Along with seeing animals from around the world, guests can explore updated habitats, seasonal events, and special experiences like Twilight Tours and behind-the-scenes encounters.
For a more hands-on visit, the zoo also offers activities including camel rides, ziplining, a ropes course, pygmy hippo feedings, and sloth encounters.
Michigan’s Adventure
4750 Whitehall Rd., Muskegon / miadventure.com
Michigan’s Adventure combines two classic summer attractions in one location: an amusement park and a water park. Visitors can spend the day riding roller coasters, enjoying family rides, cooling off in the wave pool, or taking a break with food and drinks.
With more than 60 attractions, including seven roller coasters, the park offers options for thrill seekers and families alike. Guests can choose from day tickets, season passes, group pricing, and add-ons like cabana rentals and Fast Lane access.
Nelis’ Dutch Village
12350 James St., Holland / dutchvillage.com
Nelis’ Dutch Village offers a family-friendly look at Dutch culture and traditions through rides, demonstrations, food, and activities. Visitors can ride the windmill Ferris wheel, visit farm animals, shop for wooden shoes, and try making traditional stroopwafel cookies. The village also features the new Tulip Tower, along with longtime favorites like the wooden shoe slide and golden angel street organ.
EDU-TAINMENT
Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum
6151 Portage Road, Portage / airzoo.org
The Air Zoo combines aviation history, science, and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. The museum features more than 100 air and space artifacts, historic aircraft, flight simulators, and hands-on learning experiences. Visitors can also experience indoor amusement rides, full-motion flight simulators, and unique programs like overnight adventures beneath an SR-71B Blackbird.
Grand Rapids Public Museum
272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids / grpm.org
The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers a mix of local history, science, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore changing displays, see the iconic carousel, visit the current Backyard Adventures and Unseen Oceans exhibits, and take in a show at the planetarium. It’s a destination that works equally well for longtime residents looking for something new or visitors building a West Michigan itinerary.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids / meijergardens.org
At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, art and nature come together across 158 acres of indoor and outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore gardens, sculptures, the tropical conservatory, and seasonal exhibits.
The Japanese Garden and Children’s Garden—which has been newly expanded with nine new areas and an ice cream stand—offer different ways to experience the property, making it a destination that appeals to both art lovers and families.
NATURE’S PLAYGROUND
Cannonsburg Ski Area
6800 Cannonsburg Rd. NE, Belmont / cannonsburg.com
Known for winter skiing and snowboarding, Cannonsburg offers plenty to do once the snow melts, too. Summer visitors can explore the trails by bike, walk, or run before stopping at The Sweet Spot for ice cream, Dole Whips, microbrews, and seasonal food events. It’s an easy way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the Grand Rapids area.
Blandford Nature Center
2715 Leonard St. NW, Grand Rapids / blandfordnaturecenter.org
Blandford Nature Center provides a quiet escape just minutes from the city. The 264-acre property includes eight miles of trails through forests, wetlands, and meadows, along with historic buildings, a working farm, and wildlife ambassadors including owls and turtles. Seasonal events, educational programs, and hands-on experiences make it a destination for visitors of all ages.
Saugatuck Dune Rides
6495 Blue Star Hwy., Saugatuck / saugatuckduneride.com
For a unique Lake Michigan experience, Saugatuck Dune Rides offers open-air tours through the area’s dunes. The 40-minute ride combines scenic views with plenty of twists, turns, and steep climbs. Along the way, guides share stories about the area’s history, landscape, and local folklore.
THREE HOURS OR LESS
Taste of GR Food Tours
tasteofgr.net
A food tour offers a different way to experience Grand Rapids, whether you’re new to the city or have lived here for years. Guests visit local restaurants, learn about the city’s food scene, and hear stories from the people behind the businesses. It’s a chance to explore neighborhoods, discover new favorites, and experience the city through its food.
Break Room Therapy
7988 Clyde Park Ave. SW, Byron Center / breakroomtherapy.com
Break Room Therapy offers a different kind of stress relief: breaking things. The West Michigan rage room gives guests the opportunity to safely smash glass, electronics, and other objects with protective equipment provided. It’s an unusual group activity, whether you’re looking for a unique night out or simply want to try something different.
Abandoned Acres Escape Rooms
450 S. State St., Sparta / abandonedacresescaperooms.com
Located in Sparta, Abandoned Acres Escape Rooms offers immersive puzzle experiences for groups looking for a challenge. Originally known for its haunted attraction, the business has expanded into year-round escape rooms with detailed themes and storylines. With multiple rooms to choose from, including Jurassic Island, visitors have the chance to work together, solve puzzles, and beat the clock.
GETTING ACTIVE
TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park
2121 Celebration Dr. NE, Grand Rapids / treerunnerparks.com
TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park offers a challenge for visitors looking to get moving. The aerial adventure course features zip lines and obstacles spread across different trails, heights, and difficulty levels. Before starting, guests receive safety training and remain harnessed throughout the experience, making it accessible for beginners while still offering challenges for experienced climbers.
Allegan Event
439 River St., Allegan / alleganevent.com
Allegan Event brings adventure activities indoors and outdoors with climbing, zip rails, and obstacle courses. Attractions include the Sky Trail ropes course, climbing walls, mini golf, outdoor mazes, and Sky Tour: six outdoor self-paced zip rails giving breathtaking views. There’s also an arcade, making it an option for groups and families looking for a variety of activities.
Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
462 N. Scenic Dr., Muskegon / msports.org
The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park offers activities throughout the year, including summer options like ziplining, rock climbing, archery, and Trail Quest, a treasure hunt-style adventure game. Of course, the luge is the signature attraction, but visitors can easily spend several hours exploring everything the park has to offer.
