With a long and storied history of hosting legendary musicians, Michigan is a well-known stop on concert tours by some of the biggest acts in the U.S., including Billy Joel, Kendrick Lamar, Shakira, and more in 2025. But while Detroit is usually the anticipated destination for high-profile concerts, the city of Grand Rapids, could also become a new hotspot for live music and other events, thanks to a new downtown outdoor venue: Acrisure Amphitheater.
Managed by Legends Global — the same company that manages other Grand Rapids venues like the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Performance Hall — the new Acrisure Amphitheater is set to open by May 15, with some top acts already confirmed to perform in the next few months. The first weekend will feature opening performances by Grand Rapids natives The War and Treaty and Brian Vander Ark, followed by the venue’s first concert headlined by Acrisure Brand Ambassador and ballad superstar Lionel Richie.
The amphitheater has already announced the full line-up for its opening season, with a packed event schedule from May through September featuring iconic rock groups like Foreigner and Lynyrd Skynyrd (touring together) and The Guess Who featuring Don Felder (of Eagles fame). Some of the biggest names in 2000s pop are also holding concerts at the Acrisure Amphitheater during its 2026 opening season, like The Pussycat Dolls, Pitbull, and Kesha. Although music events remain its main feature, the amphitheater has also booked a few comedy events by comedians like John Mulaney, Jerry Seinfeld, and “Weird Al” Yankovic. With its event schedule for 2026 already featuring internationally famous artists, the City of Grand Rapids projects the venue might bring in up to 300,000 visitors per season.
Seating and dining at the new Acrisure Amphitheater in downtown Grand Rapids
As the home state for iconic artists like Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder, as well as more modern hitmakers like Lizzo and Eminem, Michigan is known for having excellent music venues and some of the best music festivals across the United States. Its ease of access to music events even earned it 7th place on a list of the best states to score concert tickets (via Best Life). And Grand Rapids, known for its arts, beer, and “mini-Chicago” vibes, will ensure that just keeps growing. Acrisure Amphitheater boasts a 12,000+ capacity, of which 5500 seats are fixed, another 5000 people can be accommodated in the lawn, and the general admission area in front of the stage can hold approximately 2000 more. Regardless of where you sit, you’re guaranteed a clear view of the stage, assures Project Executive Scott Veine, as only two pillars on the side (well out of the audience’s way) hold up the canopy (via ABC 13 On Your Side)…