Grand Rapids expresses itself through its many works of art. Beyond what you’d find in a gallery, this industrious mid-western city is a masterpiece for the senses adorned with natural beauty, intriguing sculptural exhibits, and brilliant local talent. From visually captivating botanical gardens, and vibrant downtown murals, to lively art, and music events, Grand Rapids is a mecca of artistic inspiration and creativity. Voted one of Michigan’s top five cities for art by Movoto.com, this cultural destination will leave a lasting impression on any art connoisseur.
Visual Arts
A visit to Grand Rapids isn’t complete without experiencing ArtPrize. This annual 19-day event transforms the city into a canvas of international artistry, and imaginative displays. From the most far out abstracts to Da Vinci inspired classics, this annual competition awards two grand prizes of $200,000, along with additional grants donated in support of local artisans, and businesses. Dozens of top rated art venues including the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the renown Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, and LaFontsee Galleries offer a glimpse into the city’s rich art culture.
Live Performances
From Broadway shows to big-name concerts, the performing art scene in Grand Rapids takes center stage. Nothing says cultural sophistication like a night at the opera or ballet, and the DeVos Performance Hall is where all the excitement takes place. Home to the Grand Rapids Symphony, and Ballet Company as well as Opera Grand Rapids, this iconic venue also features comedy shows, theater productions and live music performances. For grand-scale entertainment, the Van Andel Arena is the city’s largest performing arts center with a seating capacity of over 10,000, and an endless schedule of events from sports, and shows to legendary concerts.
Outdoor Artistry
Grand Rapids is graced with an abundance of scenic beauty, but no place is quite as magical than Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Part art gallery, part Garden of Eden, this enchanting paradise features a 30 acre sculpture park designed to capture the imagination, along with a remarkably diverse array of horticultural exhibits from a Japanese, and woodland shade garden to the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, and Amphitheater Garden. Annual exhibits, summer concerts, and showy displays of seasonal blooms make this one of the most sought-after places in the country to visit.
