Tour the Grand Rapids Public Museum

Tour the Grand Rapids Public Museum

If you’re looking for something to do in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a tour of the Grand Rapids Public Museum should definitely be on your list. With exhibits and artifacts covering topics like natural history, culture, and science, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum:

Exhibits:

The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the history of the furniture industry in Grand Rapids to the culture and traditions of Native American tribes in Michigan. The exhibits are interactive and engaging, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration.

Some of the most popular exhibits at the Grand Rapids Public Museum include the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit, which recreates a city street from the early 20th century, complete with storefronts and period-appropriate vehicles; and the West Michigan Habitats exhibit, which features immersive dioramas of local ecosystems.

The museum also has a rotating series of special exhibits, so there’s always something new to see. Recent exhibits have focused on topics like dinosaurs, the history of toys, and the legacy of the Beatles.

Planetarium:

In addition to its exhibits, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is also home to a state-of-the-art planetarium. The planetarium offers a variety of shows and programs throughout the year, including family-friendly shows and special events for adults.

Some of the shows you can catch at the planetarium include “Incoming!,” which explores the history and science of comets and asteroids; “Faster Than Light,” which takes viewers on a journey through the universe at speeds faster than the speed of light; and “Dark Side: The Light Show,” which combines live music with stunning visuals for a unique and immersive experience.

Tours:

If you really want to get the most out of your visit to the Grand Rapids Public Museum, consider taking a guided tour. The museum offers a variety of tours tailored to different interests and age groups, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.

Some of the tour options include the Behind the Scenes Tour, which takes you into the museum’s archives and storage areas to see artifacts that aren’t on display; the Museum Expedition Tour, which gives you a chance to explore the museum with a trained guide and learn more about its exhibits and collections; and the Family Adventure Tour, which is designed for families with young children and includes hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences.

Events:

The Grand Rapids Public Museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from lectures and workshops to family-friendly festivals and holiday celebrations. Some of the most popular events include the annual Grand Rapids Maker Faire, which showcases the creativity and ingenuity of local makers and innovators; the Halloween Spooktacular, which features trick-or-treating, costumed characters, and spooky activities for all ages; and the Night at Your Museum sleepover, which gives families the chance to spend the night in the museum and explore its exhibits after hours.

Overall, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, science, or culture. With its engaging exhibits, state-of-the-art planetarium, and variety of tours and events, it’s the perfect place to spend a day (or more) exploring all that Grand Rapids has to offer.