Welcome to Grand Rapids! This wonderful city is located in West Michigan just a short drive from the sandy white beaches of Lake Michigan. If you are looking for a city filled with culture and excitement, you have come to the right place. Grand Rapids offers fine dining with more restaurants per capita than most cities; huge malls with most national chains, a renown museum (only city of its size to attract the Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibit); and a huge arena seating 12,000, where you can watch your favorite performers and sporting events. There are many community events such as the 4th of July Celebration and Celebration on the Grand which both feature fireworks and activities all day long. Our downtown "Festival" celebrates the different cultures and arts in our community and is the largest all-volunteer event of its kind in the country.

Beaches, parks, trails, sports and fun.  From scenic Lake Michigan beaches to multi-sport recreational lakes and rivers, West Michigan people know how to have fun!  And more than 1.5 million people go to (or visit) museums, galleries, theatres, sporting events, and live performances every year.  Before and after, they dine in gourmet, ethnic, and casual restaurants or visit a variety of night clubs, neighborhood pubs, and wine bars.

The vitality of the region stems from the area’s original Dutch settlers. Fields and forest gave way to the lumber industry, then furniture-making, as Michigan's second-largest city took shape in the second half of the 19th century. Today the people of Grand Rapids share a character marked by a strong work ethic, community involvement, and an emphasis on family values. Want some more interesting facts about Michigan, then click here.

Browse through these pages and get a feeling for Grand Rapids' diverse communities and their unique characteristics.

From watching a Pro game to participating in a recreational sport, you will find something here for every sports enthusiast.

Check out the local malls in the area, including the newest Rivertown Crossings Mall.

Having trouble finding things to do?   Here you will find many ways to enjoy your free time.

Great links for job hunters; West Michigan's largest employers are displayed.

Want a place to stay while househunting?  Study this list of hotels and apartments.

If you want casual or gourmet dining or just want to relax with a cup of coffee, take a look at my favorite Grand Rapids restaurants and coffeehouses.

This category includes: local hospitals, retirement/nursing homes, transportation, taxes and license, what's new and famous natives.