Seven things to do this fall in Grand Rapids

Fall has finally made its debut in the Grand Rapids area despite the random 80-degree days over the past few weeks. To many, who are new to the area it can be easy to see Grand Rapids as another concrete jungle with little to offer for nature and fall lovers. This is so far from the case; Grand Rapids offers several opportunities to get out and enjoy the cool fall breeze and take in the few weeks we have before the dread of winter. Here are seven ways to enjoy this fall in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

1. The leaves have just started turning and Grand Rapids will soon be at its peak for a fall color tour. Take a scenic drive to the Frederik Meijer Nature Preserve or head over to take in the view of the historic Fallasburg Covered bridge which is viewed best from the park across the bridge. For a full list of places to visit on a Grand Rapids color tour visit the Experience Grand Rapids page here.
2. By this time pumpkin, everything has taken over the minds of most people in Grand Rapids. To truly get into the fall spirit, visit the many cider mills and pumpkin donut shops such as Robinettes, Post Family Farm, and Fruit Ridge Markets.
3. Visit The Haunt in Wyoming, MI for some spooky fun. The Haunt has haunted walking tours during the weekends of October and beginning of November. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush for only $25.00 you can walk through the themed haunted areas such as the Exhumed, the Deranged, the Immortuos, and the Lougaru Bayou. For more details visit their website here.
4. For those of age, take advantage of the incredible local hard cider mills in the Grand Rapids area. Vander Mill and Farmhaus Cider Co. are just a couple of the hard cider mills that are worth trying. For a comprehensive list of delicious hard cider places, take a look at the Cider Guide here.
5. If you are less inclined to endure the chill breeze that fall brings, stay inside where it is warm and enjoy a show at the Actors Theatre. On November 8th – 10th  and 15th – 17th  at 8 pm as well as November 11th at 3 p.m. the Actors Theatre will be putting on the comedy show "At the Table". The show will test the limits of conversation when detached from social media and cell phones, as well as delve into the differences between privilege and minority. For more information on ticket purchasing and showtimes visit their website here.
6. Before the bike paths are covered in snow and turned into ice rinks, take a scenic bike ride through the Kent Trails along Millennium Park. The Kent Trails connect to several other biking trails and are not too far away from downtown Grand Rapids, opening up a world of possibilities for avid cyclists or family bike riders. Find a map of the Kent Trails and the connecting paths visit the Kent County Parks and Trails page here.
7. And finally, an event for animal lovers. Head over to John Ball Zoo October 26th -28th from 1 to 3 p.m. Dress up in your best costume for trick-or-treating, entertainment, decorations, and of course, enjoy hanging out with all of John Ball Zoo’s animals. For more info visit their website here.  

So, whether you are new to the area, have lived here for a while, or are just visiting, there is something for everyone to enjoy this fall in Grand Rapids. Sometimes it takes just getting out of the house to enjoy the beauty of this area, enjoy a good scare, or warm up with hot cider and donuts. It is as simple as that.