Living in Grand Rapids means your day doesn’t end when work does. Once 5 o’clock hits, you can enjoy live music, riverfront trails, happy hour menus, art, and Lake Michigan just a short drive away. Here are 5 things to do when your workday ends in GR!
1. Take a free outdoor fitness class
The Grand Rapids Department of Parks and Recreation offers free outdoor fitness classes throughout the summer. A variety of classes ranging from yoga and Zumba to HIIT and cardio drumming are hosted by local instructors in parks and public spaces across Grand Rapids for 16 weeks. Lace up your sneakers, get outside and make some new friends!
Some of the classes you’ll find include:
- Yoga @ Mulick Park
- Zumba @ Rosa Parks Circle
- Line Dancing @ MLK Park
- Barre @ The Blue Bridge
- Sunset Yoga @ Lookout Park
- Pumped Up Strength @ Cherry Park
- Sunrise Yoga @ Indian Trails Golf Course
- Mat Pilates @ Riverside Park
- Hip Hop Barre @ Pleasant Park
- Turn Up Dance Fitness @ Garfield Park
2. Explore the Downtown Market
Grand Rapids’ Downtown Market is a hub of 21 indoor food merchants and restaurants, public events, a great shopping for unique food products—all under one roof! Grab a table at Rák Thai, snag a sandwich from Juju bird, or the catch of the day from Fish Lads. If you’re looking for a great spot for happy hour, check out Sav Sav by Squibb for a delicious curated menu. Head upstairs at the market for open seating and cool views from the upper level. Before you leave, don’t miss a boba tea or a pastry for the walk home!
3. Grab a drink with a view
There are plenty of great options for a drink al fresco within walking distance of downtown offices! Check out the view from Knoop, the rooftop bar at the Canopy hotel, or soak up the energy of the West Side from the rooftop at Rapid River Stillhouse.
Other patios to check out:
- The Winchester (East Hills)
- New Holland Brewing (Bridge Street)
- Gin Gin’s (West Side)
- The Friesian (Medical Mile)
- Our Brewing and the adjacent Picnic (Wealthy Street)
- Broad Leaf Underground Bar (Bridge Street)
- Butcher’s Union (Bridge Street)
- Founders Brewing Co. (Heartside District)
4. Go for a walk along the Grand River
Grand Rapids continues to expand its river trail network, and from downtown it’s a breeze to hop on the path and stretch your legs…