Grand Rapids Holiday Guide

I am a warm weather girl through and through but there is just something about the holiday season that I can't get enough of. The lights, the decorations, the carols, the traditions, and of course the cute cold weather accessories!

Each year, as the holiday season rolls around I become giddy as I wait for all the magic to unfold. One of my favorite traditions is traveling up to Grand Rapids to visit my sister as we pack in as many festive adventures as we can in one day. Below are some of my favorite ways to celebrate the holiday season in the city. 

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Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World at Fredrick Meijer Gardens

Each year Meijer Gardens hosts a special holiday-themed exhibit featuring nearly 400,000 colorful lights and 42 international trees and displays. You can learn about how the holidays are celebrated in different parts of the world, wander through the tropical garden covered in twinkling lights and explore the sculpture park and outdoor paths covered in snow. On select days throughout the season they also feature strolling carolers, visits from Santa, and rooftop reindeer. Fun for the whole family! 

Outside Coffee Co.

Our next stop of the day was the cutest outdoor coffee shop. Igloos seem to be all the rage this year and now I understand why - everything just seems to taste better in them. There are three igloos on site so I can get a bit crowded but it's definitely worth the wait. Each igloo is heated has a couple different seating options and they are communal so you can just hop in and make some new friends. I am not a coffee drinker but I tried the Brother Bear hot chocolate and it was delicious! They also have hammocks and other tables for seating on the grounds. Definitely worth the stop! 

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Boutique Shopping 

While we were downtown we decided to take advantage of some of the great boutique shopping in the area. You'll feel great about supporting small businesses while checking a few loved ones off your Christmas list (or maybe just treating yourself). Many of the stores also feature show-stopping Christmas decoration displays if you're just in the mood for some window shopping.

Some of my favorite shops are: 

• Lee and Birch
• Dime and Regal
• Woosah Outfitters 
• La Fleur
• Rebel 
• The Counting House 

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Rosa Parks Circle

Ice skating is one of my holiday traditions and a great way to stay active. During the winter months, Rosa Parks Circle transforms into an ice rink in the heart of the city. Enjoy the twinkling lights while you skate in circles with holiday carols playing in the background.

The park has rental skates available on site and a clubhouse to store your shoes and belongings while you skate. While the rink is a good size it can fill up quick during peak times on the weekends. If you want to avoid waiting in long lines or if you're going with smaller children just learning to skate, try going during the week to avoid the crowds.

Rosa Parks is also home to the city's 47 foot Christmas tree which is a site to see when it's all lit up at night. This is the perfect date night or a fun afternoon with a group of friends. 

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Wax Poetic Candle Bar

Stop in to Wax Poetic to create your own candle with one of their festive holiday scents. This is a fun hands on activity and they walk you through each step of candle making including choosing your jar, mixing your scents, and pouring the wax. Reservations aren't needed for smaller groups and the candle bar is pet-friendly so you can enjoy a fun day with your furry friend!

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Fifth Third Lite Show

Put on some Christmas pajamas, whip up a glass of hot chocolate and pile in the car as you drive through two miles of twinkling lights at the Fifth Third Lite Show - West Michigan’s largest, animated, drive-thru light show! Cost is $25 per carload which makes it an affordable holiday outing for the whole family. 

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Downtown Market

Pick up a fresh Christmas tree or decor from Lenderink Tree Farm in the market's outdoor shed, visit with Santa, or stroll through the dozens of unique shops and eateries inside the market hall. Downtown Market also offers a number of culinary classes throughout the holiday season including Holly Jolly Cookies and Cocktails to Leave for Santa.

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Grand Rapids Beer Trolley

BYOB and hop on the Grand Rapids Beer Trolley every Saturday and Sunday in December for a holiday outing to remember. The three-hour tour starts with a complimentary flight at Craft Beer Cellar and then travels throughout the city showcasing the best holiday light displays including the Fifth Third Lite Show, residential areas, and Rosa Parks Circle. This is a great way to see the lights without the hassle of driving yourself or finding places to park. 

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Broadway Bar 

Celebrate Christmas cheer in one of the most festive spots in the city. This bar's decor is hard to beat during the holidays. They also offer holiday-themed drink specials and events throughout the season. Tables are typically reserved far in advance during the holidays, but you can occasionally find a seat at the bar or just grab a drink and enjoy the festivities. 

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Grand Rapids Ballet 

Experience a holiday classic with a live performance of the Nutcracker performed by the Grand Rapids Ballet with music by the Grand Rapids Symphony. Embark on an adventure to the Land of Sweets happening December 13-15 and 20-22, 2019.

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Brush Studio

Let your artistic side shine while you sip on your favorite wine and paint one of Brush Studio's many holiday-themed canvases. Perfect for a girl's night out or a fun activity with the whole family. And you'll have a new piece to add to your home for years to come. 

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The Mud Room 

Make your holidays a bit more colorful this year! Paint a holiday-themed wood sign, pottery or fused glass ornament. These unique pieces make the perfect gift for someone special on your list or in your own home. 

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Bittersweet Ski Resort 

Take a quick day trip and hit the slopes at Bittersweet Ski Resort - located just 40 minutes south of Grand Rapids,. The resort features 20 different runs and seven chairs lift. The indoor lodge also offers a full service ski shop, restaurant, and bar if you need to take a break and warm up.