Grand Rapids Art Museum Tours

Grand Rapids Art Museum featuring art and interior views
Grand Rapids Art Museum which includes a city
Grand Rapids Art Museum featuring art and interior views
Grand Rapids Art Museum which includes art and interior views
Grand Rapids Art Museum which includes interior views and art


The sleek design of the modernist building reflects the gorgeous contemporary artworks within. Learn how to make art fun in the workshops and camps.

European and American works dating from the Renaissance period to the modern art era make up the collection in the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Explore the exhibits with a staff member on a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the context and meaning of key pieces. 

Admire the immense portico of the museum, with its narrow slabs holding a minimalist roof. The museum was first established in 1910, although this modern building opened in the 2000s. At night, dots of light generate a sophisticated glow around the modernist structure. 

Inside, visit the Welcome Center. Here, you can pick up a brochure and play with interactive machines.

Examine the impressive works held in the permanent collection by such artists as Richard Diebenkorn, Joan Snyder and Jennifer Bartlett. Wander through the temporary exhibits for the artistic treat of the day. Past displays have had such titles as Tony Mendoza: Cats and Dogs, and Alexis Rockman: The Great Lakes Cycle.

Bring your family to the GRAM Studio for a drop-in program or workshop. These allow visitors to get involved and make their own works of art, from paintings to sculptures. School programs and art camps are often available in the museum.

Peruse the selection of toys, accessories and art books in the Museum Store. Bring your own snacks and meals for a picnic on the outdoor dining terrace. 

Expect the museum to be open Tuesday through Sunday from late morning to late afternoon. Members and young kids enter for free, while adults, youth and seniors have differing fees.  

Grand Rapids Art Museum is on the eastern side of the Grand River in the downtown district of the town. It is sandwiched between Rosa Parks Circle and the Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives. Arrive at one of the nearby bus stops or get around the area on foot.

Reviews of Grand Rapids Art Museum

4.3
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
59
5 - Excellent 53%
4 - Good
34
4 - Good 30%
3 - Okay
18
3 - Okay 16%
2 - Disappointing
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2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 1%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Nice store ,  New photo exhibit is coming.Liked that it was free during Art prize after noon.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Walking distance from the Y.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Grand Rapids Art Museum

Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton

Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
187 Monroe Ave Nw, Grand Rapids, MI
Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton
Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront

Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront

3 out of 5
270 Ann Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG

3 out of 5
310 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown by IHG
Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown

Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown

3 out of 5
40 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI
Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown
Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown

Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown

3 out of 5
140 Ottawa Ave, Grand Rapids, MI
Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown

Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown

4 out of 5
131 Ionia Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI
Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
CityFlatsHotel - Grand Rapids, an Ascend Collection Hotel

CityFlatsHotel - Grand Rapids, an Ascend Collection Hotel

3 out of 5
83 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI
CityFlatsHotel - Grand Rapids, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

2.5 out of 5
433 Dudley Place NE, Grand Rapids, MI
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown
Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Grand Rapids

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Grand Rapids

3 out of 5
11 Monroe Ave Nw, Grand Rapids, MI
Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Grand Rapids
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Grand Rapids Art Museum

At the Grand Rapids Art Museum, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including live music, engaging art displays, and guided tours. The museum is surrounded by major attractions, art galleries, and shopping options, all within walking distance. This vibrant area offers ample entertainment, making it an ideal destination for art lovers and tourists looking to explore the local culture and creative scene.

Shopping

During your visit to the Grand Rapids Art Museum, explore the Downtown Market, just 1.3km away, offering a vibrant public market atmosphere. Woodland Mall, located 8.0km away, provides a family-friendly shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, RiverTown Crossings Mall is 11.3km away and features entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at LMCU Ballpark, where you can enjoy a game or participate in recreational sports. For a touch of luxury, unwind at Watermark Country Club with its serene surroundings. Alternatively, embrace adventure at Patterson Ice Center with ice skating for fun and fitness.

Adventure

Cannonsburg Ski Area offers thrilling skiing experiences with stunning views, located 16.1km from the museum. For adrenaline seekers, Grattan Raceway provides exciting motor racing activities, situated 27.4km away. The Canepa Tennis Center, just 6.4km away, is perfect for tennis enthusiasts looking for an adventurous match.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Grand Rapids Art Museum with a show at Broadway Grand Rapids, just 161m away. For more theatrical delights, visit the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and Spectrum Theatre, both 322m away, offering rich cultural experiences and entertainment vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Grand Rapids Art Museum

When visiting the Grand Rapids Art Museum, you can explore a variety of attractions nearby, including modern colleges and universities, urban parks, and scenic lakes. This vibrant area offers outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and cultural insights. Don't miss the Grand Rapids Public Museum and other local points of interest, which enhance your visit to the art museum and showcase the city's unique charm.

  • Van Andel Arena: Experience live entertainment in this vibrant arena, just 483m from the Grand Rapids Art Museum. With a family-friendly atmosphere, it hosts a variety of events, from concerts to sports, making it a perfect stop for fun and excitement.
  • Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park: Enjoy the stunning blend of nature and art at this 6.4km-away gem. Ideal for families, it features beautiful gardens and impressive sculptures, offering a serene outdoor experience that captivates all ages.
  • Gerald R. Ford Museum: Located 805m from the museum, this site is rich in American history and culture. Explore exhibits dedicated to the life and legacy of President Gerald Ford, providing deep insights into the nation’s past.

Best time to go to Grand Rapids Art Museum

The best time to visit Grand Rapids Art Museum can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Grand Rapids Art Museum falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Grand Rapids Art Museum falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January24.3°F (-4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February24.8°F (-4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December31.3°F (-0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Grand Rapids Art Museum

To save money on your visit to the Grand Rapids Art Museum, consider traveling during the cheaper months of March and December to January, with Monday being the least expensive day to book. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly hotels and eco-certified options, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights, hotel stays, and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to explore free activities around the museum, and utilize public transport, which can be a cost-effective way to navigate the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Grand Rapids Art Museum are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Grand Rapids Art Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Grand Rapids Art Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the lowest to the highest price, helping you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the option to filter by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Grand Rapids Art Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia