West Michigan

West Michigan

Peak Times for Fall Color Across Michigan

The beautiful orange, red, and yellow leaves of fall are almost here! Find out when you should plan your color tour to make the most of the autumn splendor.

Amazing Autumn scenery, forests with lake, Fall colors, Aerial view.
West Michigan

Dance Fitness Facilitator Gets People Grooving Outside 

Dance Fitness Facilitator Heather Winia believes dancing offers physical and mental health benefits not found in other activities.

Heather Winia leads a dance session in the park
West Michigan

Pandemic Creating Greater Accessibility for Some with Disabilities

From participating in civics to easier grocery shopping, Lucia Rios’ life has changed dramatically during the pandemic. She hopes the access continues.

African disabled woman sitting in wheelchair at the table and looking at computer monitor while talking on mobile phone and drinking coffee at home
West Michigan

Protect Our National Parks

As the National Parks System celebrates it’s centennial, it’s important for visitors to know a few rules when visiting them.

Dune grass at Sleeping Bear Dunes
West Michigan

Hiking in Michigan: Where to Go and How to Start 

Hiking in Michigan? This comprehensive guide includes tips on what to pack, how much food and drink you’ll need and how to stay safe on the trail.

family hiking on trail in the woods
West Michigan

Michigan Water and Boating: Summer Safety

Whether you’re on the water for a short period of time or the whole day, make sure you are practicing safe practices and are aware of your surroundings.

Man in action of pulling rope
West Michigan

Run for Your Dinner: Sign Up for Michigan Turkey Day Races

Make a dent in the caloric damage you’ll do on Thanksgiving with one of these fun community turkey runs.

Turkey Trots in Michigan
West Michigan

Tricks and Treats: Halloween Events for the Entire Family

Whether you are more of a trick or a treat person, these Halloween events across Michigan are certain to be fun for the entire family.

Michigan Halloween
West Michigan

August Blueberry Festivals in the Great Lakes State

Learn more about the blueberry festivals happening in Michigan this August.

blueberry on plant
West Michigan

Big Rapids’ Jim Crow Museum Fosters Important Conversations

Ferris State University’s Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia uses “objects of intolerance to teach tolerance and promote social justice.”

Students listening to Dr. Pilgrim.
West Michigan

8 Places to Ring in 2019 Across Michigan

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are eight fun ways to ring in 2019 across Michigan.

Smiling people holding 2019 sparklers
West Michigan

Q&A with Grand Rapids Griffins’ Hockey Star Matt Puempel

Catch up with Matt Puempel, a second-season Grand Rapids Griffin on hockey, life and why he loves giving back to the communities he plays in.

Image of Matt Puempel on the ice.
West Michigan

Hope College: Spotlight on Health

Hope College is a liberal arts school located just off the shore of Lake Michigan in Holland. There are plenty of healthy on-campus resources for students.

Hope College's Graves Hall
West Michigan

Grand Valley State University: Stay Healthy, Lakers

If you’re hoping to make your “Laker effect”, it’s important to stay healthy throughout your experience at Grand Valley State University. Here’s how.

image of star sculpture on GVSU's campus
West Michigan

Western Michigan University: Healthy Tips for Students

Here are some of the healthiest spots on campus for students attending Western Michigan University.

Western football
West Michigan

Bullet Journal Zen: Organize Your Life with Paper and Pen

Heard of bullet journaling? Find out how this low-tech organizational tool helped a Grand Rapids woman get it all together.

how to use a bullet journal
West Michigan

Urban Roots: Growing Community through Farming and Education

Urban Roots is a community farm and education center located in Grand Rapids. Learn more about their mission to empower access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Image of prepared veggies.
West Michigan

Tales from the Trail: Favorite Michigan Hikes

There is something about “unplugging” from busy day-to-day lives and then recharging in the Michigan backcountry.

Best hikes in Michigan
West Michigan

Pay-to-Play Sports: How One Michigan District Ensures Access for All  

At Grand Rapids Public Schools, everyone can participate in athletics, regardless of their ability to pay. Find out how they’re empowering kids through sports.

Grand Rapids Public Schools track athletes at the starting line of a race.
West Michigan

Inclusion at Play: Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Helps All Families Feel Welcome

As the recipient of the Autism Alliance of Michigan’s Autism Seal of Approval, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum strives to be a welcoming place for all.

West Michigan

Holland Tulip Time Festival to Feature Yoga in the Tulips

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is proud to partner with Tulip Time to bring the community a series of special yoga events this May.

purple and pink tulips in bloom
West Michigan

Butterflies are Blooming at GR’s Meijer Gardens

Find out how the more than 7,000 tropical butterflies that call Frederik Meijer Gardens home in March and April make the journey to West Michigan.

Image of a butterfly on a wall.
West Michigan

Worth the Trip: Muskegon Winter Sports Complex

This Michigan destination draws visitors from throughout the Midwest. Its luge track is one of only four in the U.S., plus there are winter activities for all.

West Michigan

Funny Fundraiser: Let Loose at GR’s LaughFest

LaughFest takes place March 8-18. The annual event is a fundraiser for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and features top comedic talent plus events for all ages.

West Michigan

Make a Splash at Michigan’s Indoor Water Parks

Michigan is beautiful, but beach season is short. If you’re craving warmth and water, you’re only a road trip away from one of these indoor water parks.

Two kids coming down a water slide
West Michigan

January #MIKidsCan Champion of the Month: Caebre Baty

Blue Cross' #MIKidsCan Champion of the Month is Caebre Baty. He's playing a young Martin Luther King Jr. in Opera Grand Rapids' production of I DREAM.

West Michigan

Jumanji Film Premiers to Benefit Michigan Children’s Hospice Programs

Simultaneous premiers of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 19 in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids. Money raised will benefit Hospice of Michigan and Arbor Hospice Pediatric Care.

Picture of Jumanji stars Nick Jonas, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Karen Gillan, Jack Black and Kevin Hart.
West Michigan

DIY Michigan Crafts to Decorate Your Home for Fall

Try these Michigan themed crafts to bring the beauty of the fall season into your home!

Front porch decorated for fall
West Michigan

Haunted Michigan: Make Supernatural Plans for a Memorable Halloween

Looking to up your Halloween game? Check out these real-life haunted destinations.

West Michigan

Beyond the Pumpkin Patch: Fall and Halloween Activities to Explore Across Michigan

Michigan offers many unique excursions during the fall and Halloween season. Try one of these suggestions!

night time scene with string lights and a red arrow with a sign attached to it.
West Michigan

Have Yourself a Happy, Healthy ArtPrize

Plan to incorporate healthy habits into your ArtPrize visit this year.

West Michigan

Best Places to Hike in West and Southwest Michigan

There are so many great places to hike in west and southwest Michigan. Start planning your adventure here with these ideas.

West Michigan

West Michigan Farm is Home to a Spectacular Lavender Labyrinth

Located just minutes from the shores of Lake Michigan in Shelby, a lavender labyrinth attracts visitors from all over the world.

lavender labyrinth cherry point farm
West Michigan

Michigan Man’s Mobile Museum Brings Black History to Life

The Black History 101 Mobile Museum boasts an award-winning collection of over 7,000 original artifacts dating from the slave trade era to hip-hop culture.

West Michigan

#MIKidsCan Experience Fitness at the 2017 GR Hispanic Festival

Bring your kids to the #MIKidsCan fitness area at this weekend’s Hispanic Festival in downtown Grand Rapids, where they can try out new fitness activities.

a closeup of a person in gray pants and blue shoes about to kick a soccer ball.
West Michigan

Eat Healthier at Food Trucks with These Choices

Eating fresh, local ingredients is important for a healthy diet. Find out how Michigan food trucks can be part of yours.

West Michigan

Muskegon is Just Beachy: 5 Ways to Spend the Day in this Lakeshore Town

Gorgeous beaches? Check. Adventure, history, good eats, art and more? Muskegon really has it all. Find out why you should visit this West Michigan beach town.

West Michigan

Free Griffins Tickets for Kids Who Pledge to Wear Bike Helmets

The Grand Rapids Griffins’ Put a Lid On It program stresses the importance of wearing a bike helmet. Kids who pledge to do so can earn free hockey tickets.

West Michigan

Want More Adventurous Friends? Try MiTribe

If the friends you keep aren’t always up for the adventure you crave, a new Michigan social community aims to connect members with adventure and each other.

West Michigan

GR Poet Laureate Fights Mental Health Stigma Through Spoken Word

Poetry helped Marcel Price process mental health diagnoses and trauma from his youth. As GR’s new poet laureate, he’s trying to help others find their voice.

West Michigan

What’s a Hammocraft?

Hammocks aren’t just for trees anymore. Enjoy hanging out in a new and improved way this summer.

Hammocraft on a lake.
West Michigan

GR Children’s Museum Underscores Importance of CPR Training, AEDs

Prepared staff at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum helped a West Michigan man survive a heart attack mere months after they’d been trained to do so.

West Michigan

Addiction Specialist Advocates Understanding for Patients Addicted to Opioids

A Grand Rapids doctor says patients affected by the opioid epidemic need understanding and evidence-backed treatment to become well.

West Michigan

2017 Movies in the Park Roundup

Check out one of these park locations for free outdoor movie screenings this summer.

crowd of people watching movie outside
West Michigan

#MIBigGreenGym: Michigan Outdoors Twitter Chat June 27

Do you love Michigan's great outdoors? Got questions about camping, hiking, biking or more? Join the #MIBigGreenGym Twitter chat June 27 at 11 a.m.

A man watches the sunset on a lake
West Michigan

Real Men Can Cook: Tropical Pork Picante with Whipped Cauliflower and Green Beans Amandine

Get the winning recipe from this year’s Real Men Cook and Eat Healthy cooking competition.

West Michigan

Why You Should Give Disc Golfing a Spin

Throw away some stress and get a low-impact workout in with a round of disc golf.

West Michigan

Tips on Raising Healthy Kids from the Dad Behind GR’s Malamiah Juice Bar

Tips on raising healthy, happy kids from Jermale Eddie, owner of Malamiah Juice Bar.

West Michigan

#MIKidsCan Cook Winning Recipe: Rosie’s Special Summer Salad

Meet this year’s #MIKidsCan cooking contest winner and make her recipe. The competition was held Monday, June 12 at Baxter Community Center in Grand Rapids.

West Michigan

Live to 100? The Secrets of Centenarians

Nine lifestyle changes to help you blow out the candles at your 100th birthday party.

West Michigan

Taking Steps to Improve Neighborhood Safety Can Be Good for Your Health

Making your home and neighborhood a safer place to be can yield positive health benefits.

West Michigan

Push-up World Record Holder Attempts New Goal at Whitecaps Game

Michigan's Brett Masserant will attempt a new world record during a West Michigan Whitecaps School Days game.

West Michigan

3 Points to Consider When Choosing the Right Therapist for You

Advice from a therapist on choosing the right therapist.

A girl outside who is giving a big smile
West Michigan

How to Support Foster Families in Your Community

Foster parents and children need support. Find out how you can help.

supporting foster families in your community
West Michigan

Best Summer Ever: Explore Michigan Art, History, Adventure and More

Experience more Michigan destinations this summer without spending a lot of money through the Michigan Activity Pass program.

Explore Michigan
West Michigan

Springtime in Holland: Toe Tapping Among the Tulips

Tulip Time in Holland is right around the corner. One of the traditional Dutch dancers shares what it’s like to be a part of the celebration.

Nicole Prins in front of Tulips in a Dutch outfit
West Michigan

Arcadia Ales Angler’s Ale Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Beer, Brussels sprouts and bacon: you’re going to want to make this flavorful side dish pronto.

Arcadia Ales Angler's Ale Roasted Brussels Sprouts
West Michigan

Founders All Day IPA Flank Steak Marinade

This marinade featuring Founders Brewing Company’s All Day IPA will take your steak to new heights.

Founders All Day IPA Flank Steak Marinade
West Michigan

Arcadia Ales Porter Rico Dark Chocolate Coconut Truffles

Dark chocolate, coconut, toasted nuts and Arcadia Ales’ Porter Rico beer combine for these can’t-eat-just-one truffles.

Arcadia Ales Porter Rico Dark Chocolate Coconut Truffles
West Michigan

Still I Run: Fighting Depression and Mental Health Stigma One Step at a Time

Running helped Sasha Wolff deal with her depression. She’s started a community called Still I Run to help others do the same.

running to fight depression
West Michigan

Zika in Michigan: Mosquito Infection Unlikely, But Precautions Still Necessary

Just because the mosquitos that carry Zika aren’t likely to infect you in Michigan, there are still precautions you need to take, especially if you’re pregnant.

zika in michigan
West Michigan

How LaughFest Comedian Found Humor in Life with Tourette Syndrome  

Laughing at his Tourette’s has helped Samuel Comroe bond with audiences and take back the condition from people who perpetuate negative stereotypes.

Samuel Comroe
West Michigan

Comedic Relief: Let Loose at GR’s LaughFest

Young or old, there’s something for everyone at LaughFest, which kicks off on Thursday, March 9.

grand rapids laughfest
West Michigan

Our Day as Human Hungry, Hungry Hippos

For the almost 150 people gathered at Grand Rapids’ Rosa Parks Circle for the second annual Human Hungry Hungry Hippos tournament, the hunger for fun was real.

human hungry hungry hippos
West Michigan

Southwest Michigan Seniors Don’t Have to Face Aging Alone

For seniors living in and around Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, CentraCare is helping them live independently. Find out about available services near you.

CentraCare
West Michigan

Cancel Your Reservations: Plan for Adventure this Valentine’s Day

Chocolates and flowers? Yawn. Be adventurous as you plan this year’s big date.

have a valentine's day adventure
West Michigan

Prepare Your Kids for Success in Sports

With a little preparation, you can make sure your kids fall in love with sports and feel good about themselves.

preparing your kids for success in sports
West Michigan

Soup’s On For All: Recipes from West Michigan Fundraiser

The Soup’s On For All event raises over $100,000 annually to benefit God’s Kitchen. Try two of the 2017 event recipes for yourself.

soup's on for all fundraiser
West Michigan

Tahquamenon and Beyond: Michigan’s Best Quiet Winter Recreation Spots

Want to get away from it all? Bundle up and find your new favorite quiet winter recreation spot in Michigan.

Michigan's best quiet winter recreation spots
West Michigan

Happy 180th Birthday, Michigan!

Ten reasons we love Michigan, in celebration of our state’s 180th birthday.

10 reasons we love michigan
West Michigan

Don’t Waste Your Time Off this Year

Take back your vacation time this year by planning a getaway closer to home. These tips will get you started.

Plan a Michigan vacation
West Michigan

Making Sport Social: Fun and Fitness Combine for Local Clubs

If you’re a social butterfly bored by the gym, sport and social clubs in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo might be just what you’re looking for.

GRSSC broomball
West Michigan

Hello, 2017! Ways to Celebrate the New Year in Michigan

From Marquette to Detroit, Michiganders have no shortage of festive community events to choose from as they ring in the New Year.

celebrate new years in michigan
West Michigan

Michigan Christmas Tree Farms Donate Trees for Troops

Michigan Christmas tree growers donated more than 1,000 trees this year as part of a national initiative called Trees for Troops.

Christmas trees donated to troops
West Michigan

Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Fire Officials Working to Install More in Michigan

There’s a 50 percent greater chance of someone dying in a house fire without a working smoke alarm. Fire officials are working to equip more Michigan homes.

installing more smoke alarms in michigan
West Michigan

Designed With Everyone in Mind: West Michigan YMCA Accessible for All

The Mary Free Bed YMCA near SE Grand Rapids is the first in the world to earn a global universal design certification, which recognizes its accessibility.

accessible ymca
West Michigan

A Grandparent’s Guide to Making Your Home Safe this Holiday Season

Hosting for the holidays? Make sure your home is a safe haven for young visitors.

make your home safe for the holidays
West Michigan

Cyclists Pushing to Make Michigan Roads Safer

Michigan cyclists are pushing for expanded laws to keep them safe on the road. Here’s what they’re doing and how you can help.

Michigan cyclists pushing for safer laws
West Michigan

#MIKidsCan Champion of the Month: Gavin DeVore

Instead of watching the floats make their way down Woodward Avenue, 11-year-old Gavin DeVore will get to ride one.

#MIKidsCan Turkey Day VIP
West Michigan

Get Your Holiday Spirit On, Grand Rapids!

Want to maximize your jolliness this holiday season? Grand Rapids is the place to be.

Holidays in Grand Rapids
West Michigan

Thank You, Michigan Veterans!

On Veterans Day, thank those who have served our country. Read on for some interesting facts about Michigan veterans.

Michigan veterans
West Michigan

Able to Travel: How a West Michigan Woman Helps Disabled Students Take Off

Juanita Lillie helps disabled students travel the world through Abroad with Disabilities, the non-profit organization she founded as a college student.

Traveling with disabilities
West Michigan

New Museum Aims to Tell ‘Lost’ Stories of Grand Rapids’ African-American Community

The new Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives is open for visitors. Organizers are working to raise money for a larger, permanent location.

Grand Rapids African American Museum
West Michigan

A Survival Guide for New Moms

Caring for an infant can be a hard adjustment to make. Read on for tips about how to take care of yourself and your mental health after baby’s arrival.

tips for new moms
West Michigan

Four Times Around the World: Walking Program Participants Log Serious Miles

A Step it Up walking program in Ottawa County has residents on the move–in fact, they’ve gone around the world four times.

step it up
West Michigan

Spotlight on Blandford Nature Center’s Farm

The farm at Blandford Nature Center is bringing agriculture to the community in new and exciting ways.

Blandford Nature Center
West Michigan

Celebrate Michigan With These Must-See Entries at ArtPrize Eight

Planning a visit to ArtPrize Eight? Make sure to look for these Michigan-inspired entries.

artprize 8
West Michigan

Art with Purpose: ArtPrize Artists Spotlight Social Issues in their Work

Many ArtPrize Eight artists are raising awareness for causes near and dear to them through their entries.

artprize 8 artists
West Michigan

Make the Most of Your ArtPrize Visit

ArtPrize Eight kicks off on Wednesday, Sept. 21. Find out what’s new and how you can fully take part in the Grand Rapids event.

artprize eight
West Michigan

Free to Ride: GR Dirt Dawgs Make Mountain Biking Fun for Kids

This West Michigan mountain biking group builds confidence and teaches kids about trail safety and stewardship.

Dirt Dawgs
West Michigan

Comfort Food: How Cancer Led to a Family Farm

There’s a surprising story behind how West Michigan’s Lubbers Family Farm came to be.

West Michigan's Lubbers Family Farm
West Michigan

Futsal, Music, Food and Family Fun Highlight GR Hispanic Festival

Find out what what’s in store at the 39th annual Grand Rapids Hispanic Festival, which returns to Calder Plaza Aug. 26-28, 2016.

Hispanic festival
West Michigan

Camping 101: What You Need to Know

Check out these tips and tricks so you’re not really “roughing it” before your first big camping trip.

How to camp
West Michigan

Happy 100th Birthday to the National Park Service!

Find out how you can celebrate the National Parks’ centennial right here in Michigan.

100th anniversary of national parks
West Michigan

Creative Space: How a GR Writing Center is Empowering Young Voices  

The Grand Rapids Creative Youth Center empowers young voices through creative expression. Find out how you can help them expand services to more kids.

Grand Rapids Creative Youth Center
West Michigan

Try New Grand Rapids Dining Spots During Restaurant Week

If you’ve been wanting to try some new Grand Rapids restaurants, Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity.

Grand Rapids restaurant week
West Michigan

Pastor Troy Evans Takes Top Spot in Grand Rapids Cooking Competition

Pastor Troy Evans served up honey herb salmon with sweet potato hash and green beans. Find the winning recipe here.

Honey herb salmon
West Michigan

Michigan August Bicycle Races You Need To Know About

Hundreds of bicycle races are taking place this summer, but ones in August look particularly interesting.

Michigan bike races
West Michigan

Group Seeks to Bring Title for Largest Swing Dance Back to Michigan

The Grand Rapids Original Swing Society needs your help to bring the title for World’s Largest Swing Dance back to Michigan.

Michigan swing dancers
West Michigan

Hangin’ in Hammocks: A Michigan Guide

The new millennial trend, hanging a hammock between two trees, is changing the way Michiganders relax, camp and sleep. Have you tried one yet?

Hammocks in Michigan

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