Southwest Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
Van Andel Arena
Catch an event at Van Andel Arena during your trip to Grand Rapids. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.
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.
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
Courteous staff Clean room
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG
Yes
Reviewed on 3 Mar 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown
Very clean friendly staff
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
This was our second time staying here and we absolutely love everything about this hotel
Reviewed on 1 Mar 2026
Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel
Great weekend!!
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown
Only thing I would complain about is the breakfast. Had a big event at Van Andel Arena the night before and a ton of people stayed here to. The event lasted longer than most people stay up and so we were all sluggish in the morning and didn’t make it to breakfast until 9, breakfast was until 930. ...
Reviewed on 3 Mar 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.
