Southwest Travel Guide
Grand Rapids
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.
Top hotels in Southwest
Sonesta Hotel Grand Rapids Airport
Desk clerk super nice and upgraded us at no charge due to hallway heating issue
Reviewed on 9 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
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
Yes
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton
Wonderful service and a comfortable stay.
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown
Great location, friendly staff. Room and public areas very clean and updated. Breakfast was good with many hot and cold options. Great stay!
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grand Rapids East, MI
Breakfast was great and the location was perfect for getting to the airport.
Reviewed on 9 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.