I wanted to try a week somewhere new this summer so I have a late August week at Traverse City. The best airport/ car rental combo is Grand Rapids, MI. Any suggestions for stops or things to do in Grand Rapids or anywhere in between or not more than an hour or so out of the way between GRR and TVC?
I went to Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids and still visit that area frequently, I've listed my favorite things to do in that area.
In Grand Rapids:
Gerald R. Ford Museum
Grand Rapids Public Museum
I'm not a museum person but I love visiting these two whenever I'm in GR.
Frederik Meijer Gardens
John Ball Zoo
Yesterdog (they have the best hot dogs ever)
Real Food Cafe (wonderful breakfast place)
On the Drive Up to TC:
Newaygo Brewing Company (really good food)
The Blind Squirrel Tavern (also really good food, it's like a hometown bar & grill)
William Mitchell State Park (I like to go an hang out for a bit and just look at the water and wildlife...They also have kayaks you can rent and that is so much fun)
Right Brain Brewery (this is in TC but just an awesome and unique brewery)