When the weather is just right in Grand Rapids, there’s no excuse to stay inside. Whether you’re into heart-pumping adventures, laid-back afternoons, or family-friendly fun, GR offers endless ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the best activities you can dive into right now:

Walk or Bike the Trails

Grand Rapids is packed with scenic trails perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The White Pine Trail, Millennium Park trails, and Riverside Park paths let you soak in the beauty of the Grand River and Michigan’s changing seasons. Whether you’re looking for a quiet solo walk, family outing, or a full-day bike adventure, the city’s trails give you plenty of ways to stay active while connecting with nature.

Explore the Grand River by Kayak or Paddleboard

If you’re craving a little adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard and get out on the Grand River. It’s a refreshing way to see the city from a new perspective and sneak in a workout at the same time. With rentals available near downtown, this activity is accessible even for beginners—and nothing beats paddling past the skyline on a sunny afternoon.

Stroll Through Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Nature and art meet at Frederik Meijer Gardens. From serene walking paths to world-class outdoor sculptures, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and take in something beautiful. Seasonal flower displays and special events make it worth visiting multiple times a year, so you’ll always find something new and inspiring.

Hit the Farmers Markets

Outdoor shopping counts as an activity, right? Places like Fulton Street Farmers Market and the Downtown Market’s outdoor stalls make it easy to stock up on local produce, flowers, and artisan goods—all while enjoying the fresh air. Many markets also host live music, food trucks, and community events, making them a lively hub for locals and visitors alike.

Have a Picnic in the Park

Sometimes, simple is best. Grab a blanket, pack some snacks, and head to spots like Ah-Nab-Awen Park or Riverside Park for a laid-back afternoon outdoors. You’ll find plenty of green space, shaded areas, and river views that create the perfect backdrop for family picnics, date nights, or just a solo reset in the sunshine.

Take a Brewery Patio Tour

Grand Rapids didn’t earn the title Beer City USA for nothing. Many local breweries have outdoor patios where you can sip craft beer, listen to live music, and soak up the sunshine. With more than 40 breweries in the area, you can easily turn an afternoon into a casual “brewery crawl,” discovering new flavors and favorite hangouts along the way.

Join a Community Event or Festival

From ArtPrize to neighborhood concerts and food truck rallies, GR always has something happening outside. Check local calendars and you’ll never run out of options. These events bring the community together in a way that’s both lively and welcoming—perfect for making memories with friends, family, or even just meeting new people.

No matter your pace—whether it’s biking along the trails, sipping a local brew on a sunny patio, or wandering through a garden—Grand Rapids has endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. So grab your gear, gather your friends, and step outside the city is ready when you are.