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. This year, I traveled up to Grand Rapids to visit my sister and we packed in as many festive adventures as we could in one day. Below are some of my favorite ways to spend the holidays 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. It really is fun for the whole family! 

Outside Coffee Co.

Our next stop on the holiday adventures tour 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 only 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! 

Boutique Shopping 

While we were on Wealthy Street we decided to take advantage of some of the great shopping in the area. They have some of the cutest shops if you need to check some people off your shopping list (or maybe just treat yourself).

Some of my favorite shops were: 

• Lee and Birch
• Dime and Regal
• Woosah Outfitters (connected to Outdoor Coffee Co.)
• La Fleur

Lee and Birch

Rosa Parks Circle

Next up was one of my FAVORITE holiday activities of all time - ice skating! During the winter months, Rosa Parks circle converts into an ice rink in the heart of downtown. They have rentals available on site and a room to store your shoes and belongings while you wait. It's a small rink compared to most and during peak times it can get a bit crazy so I would suggest going on an off day/time - especially if you're not comfortable with crazy children whipping around you on skates. 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 great way to spend an afternoon with a group of friends. 

Other holiday activities we didn't have time for that day but are certainly on my list for next year: 

• Christmas Lite Show at Fifth Third Ballpark - drive through nearly two miles of Christmas lights (all from the warmth of your car)
• GR Beer Trolley - BYOB and ride along to take in some of the city's best holiday spots including Fifth Third Park and Rosa Parks circle. A great way to see the lights without the hassle of driving yourself and parking. 
• 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. 

What are your favorite holiday activites? I'd love to hear in the comments below!