Whether you’re new to the Grand Rapids area or a veteran resident, you’ve probably hit the slump of the summer. Your 4th of July was a huge success, but now what? The summer seems to be flying by and you don’t want to miss a minute of it. But what can you do in this Michigan summer heat without breaking the bank? Try these 5 activities to make the most of your Grand Rapids summer:
1. Take a Beach Day
If you live in the Grand Rapids area, beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan are right around the corner in Grand Haven and Holland. Grab a good book from your local library, pack your sunscreen and soak up the sun. On this mini vacay, the only money you’ll spend is on parking… and maybe a couple bucks when you give into that Pronto Pups temptation.
2. Pack a Picnic
With so many gorgeous parks in the Grand Rapids area, the options are endless. Pack a lunch and a blanket and pick a shady spot under some trees. This activity takes minimal effort and minimal spending. Even if you’re just taking a short lunch break at work, sitting down to a picnic with the summer breeze blowing is a great way relax and unwind before returning to real life.
3. Go Tubing
You don’t have to own a lake house and a speedboat to tube in Grand Rapids. There are so many bodies of water here, all you have to do is gather your friends and family and pick a location. The Thornapple River is a great place to start. Pack some drinks and a couple inner-tubes and drift down the river for a fun and refreshing activity in the summer heat.
4. Host a Cook-Out
Cook-Outs sound ambitious, but they don’t have to be. Invite all your friends and have everyone bring a dish and some yard games. Fun for people of all ages, cook-outs give you the opportunity to reconnect with the people you love while taking advantage of the pleasant weather and eating some great food. What more could you possibly need?
5. Visit a Farmers Market
Every town in Grand Rapids seems to have its own version of a farmers market where you can buy fresh produce and experience the unique culture. After starting your day buying fresh fruit and veggies and visiting with local artists, you can take what you’ve purchased and experiment with new recipes. Try making your own smoothie or brewing that artisan coffee you picked up. Visiting a farmers market can turn into a day full of new experiences and give you a better appreciation for your community without breaking the bank.
In a place like Grand Rapids, there is so much to do in the summer. And you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to do so. These are just a few examples of how to save your Grand Rapids summer. Add them to the list of reasons to love GR.