Your Guide to Budget-Friendly Adventures Around Grand Rapids

Looking for fun, budget-friendly ways to make memories around Grand Rapids? Whether you’re planning a weekend with the kids, a casual date night, or a solo adventure, there’s no shortage of free and affordable things to do in and around the city. From hands-on activities and splash pads to live music and scenic hiking trails, this guide is packed with ideas to help you explore, unwind, and enjoy your community — without breaking the bank.

 

Family Friendly Activities

Home Depot Kids Workshop
Held the first Saturday of every month, these free workshops let kids build a fun project — like birdhouses, race cars, or treasure boxes — using kid-safe tools. They’ll get a keepsake apron, certificate, and plenty of pride in their handiwork.

Perfect for ages 5-12, workshops run 9am-12pm at most Home Depot stores. Supplies are free, and online registration is recommended to reserve your kit.

Library Adventures
Your library card opens up more than books! At Kent District Library, enjoy free storytimes, STEAM classes, and access to movies, video games, and board games. Grand Rapids Public Library offers similar resources, plus cozy reading areas and creative tech like 3D printers.

Both KDL and GRPL also offer the PerkPass, giving you free tickets to museums, attractions, and games!

A Real-Life Treasure Hunt
Turn your next outing into an adventure with geocaching — a family-friendly activity that transforms parks and neighborhoods into treasure maps! Using the free Geocaching app, you and your kids can search for hidden “caches” tucked away in local parks, trails, and even downtown corners. It’s a great way to explore the city together, get outside, and spark curiosity. All you need is a smartphone, a sense of adventure, and maybe a few little treasures to trade!

Splash Pads in the Summer
When summer temperatures rise, splash pads offer the perfect and totally free way for kids (and grown-ups) to cool off and have fun. Popular spots like Pinewood Park in Kentwood, Allendale Community Park, and Alger Park in Grand Rapids provide plenty of space to splash, run, and play. Whether you’re planning a playdate or need a spontaneous way to cool down, these community favorites make for an easy, budget-friendly outing.

Looking for more options? Check out the City of Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation splash pad directory for the full list.

Grand Rapids Art Museum
Art lovers, take note — the GRAM opens its doors for free every Tuesday from 12pm-5pm and Thursday from 5pm-8pm. Explore rotating exhibitions, timeless pieces from the permanent collection, and interactive art spaces for all ages. Free admission hours often include extra perks like gallery chats, community events, and hands-on art making.

Sunset Cinema at Studio Park
Free summer movies under the stars? Yes, please. Sunset Cinema transforms the piazza at Studio Park into an open-air theater, complete with cozy vibes and a giant screen. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, grab some popcorn (or your favorite local snack), and settle in for a lineup of family favorites, cult classics, and feel-good date night flicks.

Movies typically start at sundown and are open to all ages. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming — perfect for a casual evening downtown without spending a dime.

Disc Golf
Disc golf can be a great family sport! It’s easy to pick up for beginners, but can get competitive once you’ve got the basics down. There are 14 courses right here in Grand Rapids and over 200 throughout the entire state, so there are plenty of options at all difficulty levels. Some of our favorite local places to play include Garfield Park’s beginner course, Johnson Park’s course for a great intermediate level, and Brewer Park’s course for the star players.

Gerald R. Ford Airport Viewing Park
Watch jets take off and land while picnicking from the back of your car — a simple but exciting outing for kids and adults alike. The park includes paved parking, benches, picnic tables, and a covered pavilion, making it a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the action. It’s open daily and completely free to the public, making it a great stop for aviation enthusiasts or families looking for something a little different to do outdoors.

Want to plan your visit? Check out more details on the official Viewing Park page and get ready for takeoff!

 

Friends, Dates & Solo Adventures

Wine Tastings at The Crushed Grape
Just a few minutes from Knapp’s Corner, The Crushed Grape offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for wine lovers. Each week, they host complimentary wine tastings, giving guests the chance to sample a curated selection of wines from around the world — no purchase required. It’s a fun and low-pressure way to explore new varieties, learn tasting tips from knowledgeable staff, and maybe even discover your next favorite bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just getting into wine, it’s a perfect midweek outing to sip, socialize, and expand your palate.

Parkrun at Riverside Park
Start your weekend off strong with Parkrun at Riverside Park, a free, timed 5K event that happens every Saturday morning at 9am. Whether you prefer to run, walk, or jog, this inclusive event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels—from seasoned runners chasing a personal best to families pushing strollers or individuals just looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Enjoy Live Music
Catch great tunes without spending a dime. Multiple local spots feature live music on a regular basis, so there’s often something to tune in to! Horrocks Market hosts live music every Thursday-Saturday from 6pm-9pm in their cozy greenhouse, Speciation Cellars offers indie and folk sets every Friday night, and Harmony Brewing’s Vinyl Night on Thursdays brings laid-back vibes with guest DJs.

Downtown Market Public Events
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market isn’t just for foodies — it’s a hub for vibrant, free-to-attend events all year long. From vintage markets packed with local treasures to seasonal pop-ups celebrating everything from tulips to tacos, there’s always something fresh happening under the greenhouse roof.

Bonus: You can often find free street parking nearby on weekends and holidays, especially along Ionia Avenue and surrounding side streets.

Festivals & Community Events
From ArtPrize and World of Winter to Return to the River, Grand Rapids knows how to throw a (free) party. Keep an eye on local newsletters and community boards — nearby towns often host their own festivals, markets, and family-friendly events that are totally budget-friendly.

Pickleball Courts
Challenge your friends, rally with your S.O., or just show up for some fun! Grand Rapids has plenty of public pickleball courts where competition meets community. Whether you’re a seasoned player or totally new to the game, it’s an easy sport to pick up and a great way to get active outdoors.

A few popular spots to check out:

• Belknap Park – A local favorite with dedicated pickleball courts and stunning city views.
• Ada Park – Quiet and well-maintained, perfect for a low-key rally session.
• Cannon Township Park – Scenic and spacious, with multiple courts and room to move.

Note: Most public courts are BYO—so be sure to bring your own paddle and pickleball!

Picnic In The Park
A classic summer pastime — pack up a meal and head to your favorite park for a relaxing picnic. Reeds Lake is a favorite picnic destination, with a 4.2 mile loop around the lake, enjoy a peaceful stroll followed by a waterfront picnic. Or head out to Lowell’s Fallasburg Park for a picnic by the river and a trip through the historic covered bridge.

Heritage Hill Self-Guided Tour
One of the country’s largest urban historic districts, Heritage Hill is a treasure trove of Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman-style homes. Download a walking tour map and stroll past over 1,300 lovingly preserved beauties — each with its own story.

Tour a Frank Lloyd Wright Gem
Step inside a true slice of American architectural history. Tucked away in the heart of Heritage Hill, the Meyer May House is a fully restored example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s signature Prairie Style design — complete with art glass windows, custom furniture, and all the thoughtful details that make his work so timeless.Tours are offered several days a week, but spots fill up fast—so be sure to book ahead.

Explore the Trails: Hike, Walk, or Wander
Whether you’re seeking solo serenity or planning an outdoor outing with friends or family, Grand Rapids has no shortage of scenic trails to explore. Millennium Park offers nearly 20 miles of both paved and unpaved trails — perfect for walking, biking, or pushing a stroller. If you’re craving more of a hike, Provin Trails delivers sandy paths and rolling hills that’ll make you forget you’re still in the city.

For something quieter, check out the Calvin Ecosystem Preserve — a 104-acre oasis filled with boardwalks, wooded trails, and interpretive signs that help you learn about Michigan’s natural ecosystems as you go. It’s a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown.

Check out all of our trails here.

No matter your age or interests, Grand Rapids offers countless ways to get out and enjoy life — often at little to no cost. With a little inspiration, everyday outings can turn into something memorable — whether it’s enjoying the outdoors, tapping into local creativity, or just slowing down and taking in the moment. However you choose to spend your time, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city and the experiences that come with it. So grab your calendar (and maybe a picnic blanket) and start planning your next adventure — you don’t have to go far to find something fun.