A vibrant and growing city known for its artsy vibe, craft beer culture, and rich Midwestern charm, Grand Rapids is nestled along the banks of the Grand River. It’s a city famed for its friendly faces, bustling downtown and exciting contemporary art and a place that is passionate about beer. Grand Rapids is no ordinary city – it’s where art, food, and craft beer collide with the warm hospitality of the Midwest. Upon arrival, your rental car gives you the freedom to dive into this wonderful mix. Start with the vibrant downtown, where local art and craft breweries set the tone. Grand Rapids earned the nickname "Beer City, USA," and it’s easy to see why. With more than 80 breweries in the area, you’ll find everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Stop by Founders Brewing Co., a local institution that brings in visitors from all over the world for its award-winning brews. Or, make your way to The Mitten Brewing Company, located in a repurposed firehouse, for a cozy vibe and amazing craft beers that pair perfectly with pizza. Grand Rapids is also a major hub for contemporary art in the State of Michigan. The Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park are must-see attractions. The Art Museum boasts an impressive collection of American and European works, while the Gardens & Sculpture Park – one of the largest in the U.S. – offers expansive outdoor art installations and beautiful botanical gardens. With its main gateway – Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) – conveniently located just a short drive from the heart of downtown, hiring a car from this modern airport is the best way to experience everything Grand Rapids has to offer. You can easily grab your car and head out to discover the city, its surroundings, or take a scenic drive to nearby cities like Kalamazoo or Lansing, or even venture further to the Windy City of Chicago or the Motor City of Detroit. Once you're done indulging your creative side, hop in your car and head to the Heritage Hill Historic District, one of the largest urban historic districts in the country. Stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the stunning 19th-century homes that date back to the Victorian era. For a more modern look at history, check out the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, which celebrates the life and legacy of the 38th President of the United States, a native of Grand Rapids.

With your hire car, you can easily escape the hustle and bustle of downtown to explore the city’s surrounding natural beauty. Head to the nearby Blandford Nature Center, a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of the city. Here, you can hike the trails, explore nature exhibits, or even spot some local wildlife. If you’re more into outdoor adventures, take a short drive out to the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park, a 92-mile trail that stretches through forests and farmland, perfect for cycling or a leisurely walk. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway to enjoy among nature’s beauty, Grand Rapids is the perfect place to drive, explore, and create lasting memories. For a scenic drive, hop on M-37 and take a beautiful 30-minute trip to the rolling hills of the Lake Michigan coastline. Grand Rapids is within easy reach of the Great Lakes, and a drive out to Holland, Michigan, will bring you to stunning beaches, charming downtown areas, and the renowned Windmill Island Gardens. If you're craving an urban buzz, a 45-minute drive takes you to Kalamazoo, where you can explore the Kalamazoo Valley Museum or take a stroll along the Kalamazoo River Trail. Food lovers will find plenty to explore in Grand Rapids, where the dining scene mixes traditional comfort food with modern twists. Drive over to The Downtown Market for a taste of the local flavour, with dozens of vendors offering everything from farm-fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and gourmet sweets. For a true local experience, grab a bite at The Chop House for a high-end dining experience, or try delicious local favourites like San Chez Bistro for tasty Spanish tapas or The Twisted Rooster for hearty Midwestern fare with a contemporary twist. The famous ‘Dutch Letters’ pastries from the DeBoer Bakkerij are a sweet and flaky reminder of the area’s Dutch heritage. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, stop by Love's Ice Cream – it’s a city favourite!