Relocating to Grand Rapids? 6 Things to Know Before You Move

Grand Rapids gets its name from the Grand River, which runs through the center of town and out to Lake Michigan. Residents are friendly and relaxed, and the economy is strong with a bustling downtown and nightlife in many neighborhoods. It’s no surprise that real estate here is desired as more people want to call this community home.

Here are a few things to know about the area before making the move to Grand Rapids.

Lake Michigan beaches are about thirty to forty-five minutes from Grand Rapids. Oval Beach in Saugatuck is one of the highest-ranked beaches in the world. With clear water and white sand beaches, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.  If you prefer a less dense beach experience, visit Kirk Park near Grand Haven. Kirk has 68 acres of sandy beach, high bluffs, and wooded dunes. Nature trails with wooden stairways wind through the wooded dunes, which offer spectacular views of Lake Michigan.

People here take full advantage of all four seasons.  Spring is gorgeous with all the blooming flowers in the public parks. Fall might be the prettiest season due to the changing colors of the trees. Many houses for sale in Grand Rapids are in neighborhoods with lush, mature trees. There are apple orchards and cider mills where you can find all the best flavors of the season. The Fruit Ridge Market has a pumpkin patch, corn maze, apple picking, and other activities for the whole family. During the winter, you can ice skate at Rosa Parks Circle or go sledding, skiing, or snowboarding in one of the area parks.

Grand Rapids takes full advantage of enjoying all four seasons, and there are opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. Spring is gorgeous with all the blooming flowers in the public parks. Fall might be the prettiest season due to the changing colors of the trees. Many houses for sale in Grand Rapids are in neighborhoods with lush, mature trees. There are apple orchards and cider mills where you can find all the best flavors of the season. The Fruit Ridge Market has a pumpkin patch, corn maze, apple picking, and other activities for the whole family. During the winter, you can ice skate at Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink or go sledding, skiing, or snowboarding in one of the area parks.

 

Explore 158 acres of exotic plants, wetlands, wildlife, waterfalls, and outdoor gardens at Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. It has exhibits and activities to enjoy year-round. The Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens has trails across its 100-acre preserve. It is a significant area for research by students and educators at Calvin University. Millennium Park is fifteen minutes from downtown and is home to 1,400-acres running along the Grand River. There is a six-acre beach for the family to enjoy, and the park has boat access. On warm days, kids can also play in the splash pad. The Woodland Nature Center is a great place for children and adults to learn about wildlife in their 143-acre park. There are endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors when you invest in Grand Rapids real estate.

Being home to more than 80 breweries has earned Grand Rapids the title of Beer City USA. Be sure to stop and try a few when looking for houses for sale in Grand Rapids. Atwater Block Brewery specializes in German-style lager beer that is sold in Munich, Germany. Brewery Vivant is located in an old Chapel on Cherry Street. It retains the original stained-glass windows and communal wood tables and benches and holds the perfect ambiance for their Belgian and French country-style ales. New Holland Brewing is a leading innovator in the industry. Their craft beer and spirits are sold internationally. Greyline Brewing is a low-key, neighborhood brewery with an expert brewer behind the scenes. If you don’t like beer, there are plenty of other options, but you just might convert when you are surrounded by so many good breweries.

Grand Rapids prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability. They take carbon emission reduction seriously, which has made them one of the greenest cities in the country. The public transportation system, “The Rapid,” uses hybrid electric buses. You will see bicyclists everywhere, and with a designated app, navigating the bike paths can be an easy task. Grand Rapids is home to the first LEED Certified art museum, schools, church, and even microbrewery. The Grand Rapids White Water project is working to restore the Grand River to its natural state by adding an 18-foot drop, stone, and natural reefs. The goal is to restore and create a new riverfront that is sustainable. It will also revitalize Grand Rapids real estate near the riverfront.

Grand Rapids is divided into many neighborhoods — too many to list here! Some of the better-known neighborhoods include Downtown, Eastown, Fulton Heights, Heritage Hill, West Side, and Uptown. The West Side is a vibrant part of the city with dining, nightlife, and Grand Valley University.  Eastown has a strong identity. The community and business association work tirelessly to make the neighborhood an attractive and active place to live.  Midtown is within walking distance to the Medical Mile.

College students and retirees are attracted to this area full of quaint shops and restaurants.

Local real estate agents have in-depth knowledge of the different neighborhoods and communities in Grand Rapids, and they are here to help you find the best area for your needs and lifestyle. Experienced realtors are adept at navigating the changing Grand Rapids real estate market. Whatever your goals are, an experienced real estate agent will help you attain them.

The Realtors at Cheryl Grant Real Estate are happy to answer your questions about relocating to Grand Rapids. They are experienced real estate agents who enjoy helping their clients buy or sell their homes or investment real estate.