If you’re looking for an easy Michigan getaway that feels like a true reset, Grand Rapids is one of those cities that delivers every time.
I recently spent 24 hours there for a mini-birthday treat to myself and I made sure to pack in a little bit of everything – shopping, local food spots, a unique market experience, and a relaxing hotel stay. The best part is how close everything is, making it easy to fit a lot into a short trip!
Here’s how I spent 24 hours in Grand Rapids.
🛍️ Start Your Trip at Uptown Cheapskate
Kick off your day with a stop at Uptown Cheapskate, a popular resale shop known for carrying gently used, on-trend clothing, shoes, and accessories.
This isn’t your typical thrift store – the selection is curated, organized, and focused on current styles, making it easy to find pieces that feel new without paying full price. It’s a great first stop if you want to ease into the day with some casual shopping.
- Website: https://www.uptowncheapskate.com/location/kentwood/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uptownkentwood/
Stop at Bridge Street Market for Drinks & Quick Bites
Next, head to Bridge Street Market, a modern urban grocery concept by Meijer that blends a traditional grocery store with prepared foods, specialty items, and quick-service options.
Inside, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and grab-and-go meals to a drink station that’s become especially popular for its “Dirty Pop” creations. These customizable soda drinks have been trending on social media, and they’re a fun, quick stop to break up your day. I got the Cherri Temple and it was incredible.
👉 Good to know for families: This is an easy, low-pressure stop if you have kids with you. There are plenty of snack options, drinks, and quick foods, so everyone can grab something they like without committing to a full sit-down meal.
Website: https://www.bridgestmarket.com
Instagram: Bridge Street Market Instagram
Explore the Downtown Market & Greenhouse
One of the most unique stops in Grand Rapids is the Downtown Market, a large indoor food hall that brings together a wide variety of local food vendors, restaurants, and specialty food shops all under one roof.
The space is designed to highlight local businesses, so you’ll find everything from baked goods and coffee to full meals and specialty items. It’s a great place to sample different flavors without having to choose just one restaurant. I grabbed a pastry from Field & Fire, a well-known local bakery, but there are plenty of options depending on what you’re in the mood for.
Connected to the market is a spacious greenhouse filled with natural light and greenery. It’s open to the public and offers a completely different experience from the food hall – calm, bright, and perfect for walking through after grabbing something to eat. They also host pop-up art exhibits/special events here often!
Website: https://downtownmarketgr.com
Instagram: Downtown Market Instagram
Check In at CityFlatsHotel
After a full afternoon, check in at CityFlatsHotel, a boutique-style hotel located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
The rooms are known for their modern design, high ceilings, and spacious layouts, which give them more of a condo-like feel than a traditional hotel room. Many rooms also feature large soaking tubs and views of the city skyline, making it a great place to unwind after a busy day exploring. It’s gorgeous, chic, and feels very lux.
It’s central location also makes it easy to walk or drive to nearby restaurants and attractions.
Website: https://www.cityflatshotel.com
Instagram: CityFlatsHotel Instagram
Dinner at Bistro Bella Vita
For dinner, Bistro Bella Vita is a standout option in downtown Grand Rapids, offering Italian-inspired dishes in an upscale but still approachable setting.
The menu features fresh pasta, seafood, and seasonal dishes, along with a well-rounded drink menu. It’s a great choice for a relaxed but elevated dinner to close out your day. Oh and pro-tip, don’t skip the espresso martini. It’s called the best in the city for a reason!
Website: Bistro Bella Vita Website
Instagram: Bistro Bella Vita Instagram
Wind Down at the Hotel
After dinner, head back to your hotel and take advantage of the space and amenities. Whether that means relaxing in a soaking tub, watching a show, or simply slowing down, this is the perfect way to end a full day in the city.
Morning Coffee at OTONO Café & Thrift
Start your morning at OTONO, a unique concept that combines a café and a thrift shop in one space.
You can grab a coffee while browsing curated secondhand items, making it a relaxed and slightly different start to your day compared to a typical coffee stop.
Website: https://otonocafe.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otonocafe
Breakfast at Social Misfits
Social Misfits is a go-to breakfast and brunch spot in downtown Grand Rapids, known for its creative twist on classic breakfast favorites. You’ll find everything from traditional dishes to more unique, elevated options, all in a relaxed, casual setting that makes it an easy stop to start your day.
Website: Social Misfits Website
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialmisfits
Want to see exactly how this trip looked in real life?
🎥 Watch our full 24 hours in Grand Rapids Reel here!
Looking for some more things to do this March? Here are our top faves!
Brittany is a proud mom to two fun loving kiddos, Grayson and Audrey. With a passion for health and fitness, she’s a certified personal trainer and nutritionist who enjoys helping others lead active, enjoyable lives. When she’s not coaching clients, you can find Brittany, her husband, and her kids exploring Michigan’s vibrant scene of indoor play centers, parks, eateries, and events. Whether they’re discovering new hiking trails, celebrating local restaurant openings, or spending the afternoon at the cider mill, they’re always on the lookout for their next adventure. Brittany is passionate about sharing her family’s experiences to help other parents create lasting memories in Metro Detroit. You can follow along with her and her crew here @brittmilesxo.