Southwest Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
John Ball Zoo
Visit the native and exotic animals who live at John Ball Zoo during your trip to Grand Rapids. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music.
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
Let your kids run wild at the sand pits and tree house while you inspect the sculptures and floral displays in this park’s various gardens.
Van Andel Arena
Catch an event at Van Andel Arena during your trip to Grand Rapids. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.
Gerald R. Ford Museum
Take a holographic tour of Ford’s White House and see a piece of the Berlin Wall in this tribute to the 38th president in the town where he was raised.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
The sleek design of the modernist building reflects the gorgeous contemporary artworks within. Learn how to make art fun in the workshops and camps.
Heritage Hill Historic District
Lining the streets of this old residential area are more than 1,000 houses of 60 different designs. Spot Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece among these historic homes.
Our pick of the best Southwest Hotel Deals
Sonesta Hotel Grand Rapids Airport
Staff were friendly and helpful. While the hotel was generally clean, it needed some freshening up. With that being said, it was a perfect "close to the airport" and the city hotel. The free airport shuttle was so helpful! I had to leave for the airport at 4am and the driver was in the lobby waiting ...
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown
Overall, it was an okay stay. Friday night to Sunday morning. Breakfast was alright, if you like the frozen stuff that thaws out in those metal trays. The waffle area was a mess, but breakfast was fine overall. The pool and hot tub were functional. There was A LOT of loose hair and floating specs ...
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
Great place to stay with a bit of luxury like Nespresso coffee in the room and a wonderful breakfast served in the downstairs restaurant.
Reviewed on 15 Apr 2026
Drury Inn & Suites Grand Rapids
It was enjoyable to stay in a well maintained hotel. The swim through indoor/outdoor pool is a great touch. I would stay here again.
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grand Rapids East, MI
I was impressed that they served a mini omelette…never had that anywhere else. Also, there was a large variety of breakfast choices. The room was crisp and clean too!
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG
I was in town for a concert and chose this property across the river from the downtown core - a short walk away - as the parking was free. A free shuttle to the venue (and pick up afterwards) was a bonus as the weather was dubious. I prepaid for the breakfast buffet which was standard fare but hot ...
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southwest
Roosevelt Park
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Roosevelt Park and surrounding area, you can visit Downtown Market and Van Andel Arena.
Heartside
Heartside is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Van Andel Arena and Grand Rapids Children's Museum while in the area.
Heritage Hill
While visiting Heritage Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Heritage Hill Historic District and Voigt House Victorian Museum.
Garfield Park
Garfield Park might not have many top sights, but Downtown Market and Grand Rapids Children's Museum are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Downtown Grand Rapids
While visiting Downtown Grand Rapids, you might make a stop by sights like Broadway Grand Rapids and DeVos Performance Hall.
John Ball Park
While visiting John Ball Park, you might make a stop by sights like John Ball Zoo and Public Museum of Grand Rapids.
