Nothing quite compares to summer in Michigan. Embrace the sunshine and warmth we’re promised in July by getting out and exploring all that Grand Rapids and the suburbs have to offer. Whether you’re itching to get out and explore Grand Rapids parks, indulge in local craft beer or simply attend as many concerts as possible, there are a slew of fun places to go this month.
The best part of these events is that they’re all free admission, affordable and transit-friendly. This means you can leave your car at home, take a walk to your nearest bus stop and let The Rapid do the driving.
We hope to see you on board as we get you to these great events:
Walk, bike or ride with us to Ah-Nab-Awen Park every Monday night in July to enjoy jazz from the West Michigan Jazz Society. You can even come straight from work! Jazz starts at 6:30 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m.
Routes 7, 9 can get you there. Plan your trip.
2. Standale Summer Concert Series
Ride The Rapid to Walker Community Park on July 7 and July 21 for musical performances for the whole family. The shows kick off at 6:30 p.m.
Route 7, 12 can get you there. Plan your trip.
Spend your Sunday searching for your next favorite vintage treasure at the Downtown Market’s Vintage Flea Market! Ride with us on July 10 to enjoy shopping and all the Downtown Market has to offer.
Routes 1, 2, SL can get you there. Plan your trip.
4. Free Grand Rapids Public Museum Day
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly excuse to explore indoors, don’t miss Free Day at Grand Rapids Public Museum on Sunday, July 10. From 12:00 p.m. to 5: 00 p.m., visitors will receive free general admission to explore three floors of core exhibits at no cost.
Routes 7, 9, 12 can get you there. Plan your trip.
5. Kentwood Summer Entertainment Series
Ride The Rapid to the lawn at Kentwood City Hall on July 14 and July 28 for food trucks and entertainment. You can also watch Frozen on July 21! Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket and their own beverage to enjoy.
Route 2, 44 can get you there. Plan your trip.
Enjoy an evening in Ah-Nab-Awen Park for activities, food, fun and a movie. There are two movies taking place in July: A League of Their Own on July 8; The Mask of Zorro on July 22. Movies begin rolling at dusk but ride with us to get there at 7:00 p.m. to enjoy some entertainment and good eats while you settle into your spot by the river.
Routes 7, 9 can get you there. Plan your trip.
Join Grand Rapids Swing Society for swing dancing in Ah-Nab-Awen Park and at Rosa Parks Circle. Every Tuesday in July, you’ll have an opportunity to get your groove on and enjoy the weather downtown.
Routes 7, 9 and 6, 9, 11, 13, SL can get you to either Ah-Nab-Awen Park or Rosa Parks Circle.
Spend your Thursday lunch breaks or days off down at Rosa Parks Circle enjoying free entertainment. From 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., enjoy live entertainment, summer weather and food trucks downtown.
Routes 6, 9, 11, 13, SL can get you there. Plan your trip.
9. Free Community BBQ at Richmond Park
On Tuesday, July 26, grab your friends and family for an evening at Richmond Park. This free event will kick off with a small park enhancement project and end with a free BBQ featuring a fresh, nutritious menu.
Route 9 can get you there. Plan your trip
Get on board to ride to the Grand Rapids Art Museum for Meijer Free Thursday Nights. The museum is open late and you’ll also get a chance to enjoy outdoor live music, dancing, food trucks, and a cash bar.
Route 6, 9, 11, 13, SL can get you there. Plan your trip.
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