The history of Grand Rapids begins with the settlement of the Native Indians in the early 1700s. The people of the Three Fires, the Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Chippewa Indians, established villages around the Grand River in what would become Grand Rapids City. More than 1,000 Native Americans, mainly the Ottawa, had settled in the region by the end of the 18th century. The first American settlers were missionaries who lived among the Native Americans. In 1806, a French Canadian, Joseph La Framboise, and his wife Magdalene, a Metis, established a fur trading post. Two decades later, Louis Campau, a Detroit-born young man, built a trading post, cabin, and a blacksmith shop on the banks of the Grand River. Louis became known as the official founder of Grand Rapids. The federal survey of the Northwest Territory reached the Grand River in 1831, setting boundaries for Kent County. In 1838, Grand Rapids became a village after establishing a land office and focusing on more arrangements. Michigan State incorporated it as a city in 1850 after the industrial growth that Gypsum mining had brought to the region. The city grew throughout the 1900s, including developing a lumber center that processed timber. The region became a hub for excellent wood products, and the people nicknamed it “Furniture City.” Although the manufacturing industry shifted to North Carolina, Grand Rapids remains prominent in office furniture production.

Exploring Grand Rapids gives residents and visitors endless things to do. Visit Grand Rapids Public Museum, one of the top tourist attractions in the metropolis. You will learn about culture, history, and science. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is another tourist attraction. It is a 158-acres site that offers recreational, educational, and cultural spaces.

Art lovers should visit Grand Rapids Art Museum, home to more than 6,000 artworks. The museum has 20,000 square feet of gallery and exhibition space featuring Renaissance, contemporary, and modern creations. The most popular exhibits are 19th and 20th-century American and European art. You will never lack something to do in the numerous museums in the city.

John Ball Zoo is an excellent place for animal lovers. Visit over 1,100 animals within the zoo’s walls. The animals have realistic and suitable habitats, and there are many activities and fauna from across the world. Complement your visit to the zoo by visiting the Blandford Nature Center, where you will see flora and fauna such as falcons, hawks, and vultures.

Music enthusiasts can attend more than 100 live music venues across the city, ranging from simple outdoor settings to massive arenas. The city has live music in rollicking nightclubs, performing art centers, intimate coffeehouses, and unique outdoor environments that attract the world’s biggest touring superstars. You can also experience local music from up-and-coming artists.