August approaches and there’s no better place to spend the peak of summer than Western Michigan. You’ll find a wide range of fun, exciting things to do in Grand Rapids during these beautiful days of August, and here are just a few highlights.

Sweet Treats

Summer and sweet treats go hand in hand. During the hot days of August, treat yourself to your favorite flavor of ice cream or try a new one at one of the many ice cream shops in Grand Rapids. Whether it’s hand-crafted ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, or sorbet, everyone can find something to tickle their tastebuds. As a bonus, many of these ice cream shops also offer mouth-watering pastries, cookies, pies, and other ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Hit The Links 

A great way to get outside and get active during the long, sunny days of August is a round of golf, and Grand Rapids delivers. Over 30 local courses located within a short 30-minute drive from the city give you plenty of options whether you’d like to play a leisurely game and enjoy the beautiful surroundings or test your skills on a more challenging course 

Golf Courses in the Area: The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe, Indian Trails Golf Course, Pilgrim's Run Golf Club, Scott Lake Country Club, AJ's Family Fun Center, Alpine Golf Club

Picnic in the Park

Relive an old memory of summer or create a new one by going on a picnic in the park. Order takeout from one of Grand Rapids’ many excellent local restaurants, including Burger Theory located right inside the Holiday Inn Downtown Grand Rapids Hotel then hop on over to one of the city’s over 130 green spaces. Spread out your blanket on the grass or grab a park bench and enjoy an outdoor meal with family or friends or Take a swing on the  Motu Viget large tire swing Fun for adults and kiddos. 

Near Parks and  Greenspaces:  Ah-Nab-Awen Park, Calder Plaza,  Belknap Park , Motu Viget

Experience The Arts

Art and culture are alive and thriving in Grand Rapids. From ongoing exhibits to seasonal attractions, you can find something to fit every interest and taste. For example, the John Ball Zoo (a fantastic attraction itself) features the Washed Ashore exhibit, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum hosts Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is home to Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs, and Circle Theatre presents several plays of all genres. 

Museums & Exhibits: John Ball Zoo, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum 

Festival Fun

No summer is complete without outdoor festivals, and Grand Rapids is home to unique festival themes. In August, you’ll find: the Hispanic Festival (Aug 5-7) with live entertainment, kid activities, dancing, food, and beverages; the downtown Dozynki Polish festival (Aug 26-28), a celebration of Polish culture and heritage with music, food, and drink; and the impressive 28th Street Metro Cruise (Aug 27), with 28 food trucks and concession booths, 12 live bands, and a whopping 12 miles of sweet cars to check out. 

Festival Information: Hispanic Festival, Polish Festival, Street Metro Cruise 

Beer City USA

USA Today has declared Grand Rapids to be the “Craft Beverage Capital of the US” and “America’s Best Beer City.” And for good reason: it features many craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, meaderies, wine bars, and of course coffeehouses. Many are within an easy walk around the downtown Grand Rapids area. During your stay check out Burger Theory featuring some of Grand Rapids' favorite breweries

Festival Information: Check this list of local craft breweries 

What's your favorite event in August?