Grand Rapids Public Museum

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids' Midwest contributor, Kate Basi. Situated alongside the Grand River directly across (and linked by pedestrian bridges) from the heart of downtown, the Grand Rapids Public Museum houses an eclectic collection of historic, scientific, and cultural exhibits related to western Michigan. This imposing building, with its three-story wall of windows … [Read more...]

Where to stay in Grand Rapids: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel review

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids' Midwest contributor, Kate Basi. Situated on the banks of the Grand River in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is one of the landmarks of the city’s skyline. It consists of two distinct sections—the historic Pantlind Hotel, built in 1913, along with a modern glass high rise tower that offers stunning views of the … [Read more...]

Grand Rapids with kids: John Ball Zoo review

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids’ Midwest contributor, Kate Basi. Going to the zoo is a classic family outing in every part of the world. Grand Rapids, Michigan’s John Ball Zoo  is not large, but the unique opportunities it offers guarantees it a place in kids' memory. The first thing to watch for upon arrival is "Nessie," the water sculpture in the lake beside the … [Read more...]

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids’ Midwest contributor, Kate Basi. There are two kinds of children’s museums—those that focus on science and hands-on learning, and those that focus on play. The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum falls in the latter category. In a northern climate, where winters last a long time, this museum is a place that will keep kids occupied for … [Read more...]

Exploring Holland Michigan with kids

The following post is written by Pit Stops for Kids' Midwest contributor, Kate Basi. The town of Holland, Michigan was settled by Dutch immigrants in the mid-19th century, and has made a name for itself as a go-to destination for experiencing Dutch culture. Situated near Lake Michigan, three hours from both Chicago and Detroit and 35 minutes from Grand Rapids, Holland boasts two stand-out … [Read more...]

Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

The following pit stop is submitted by Jessie Voigts of WanderingEducators.com. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a world-class treasure. It boasts outdoor sculptures from over 30 renowned sculptors, including the DaVinci Horse, by Nina Akamu, glass works by Chihuly, and works by Goldsworthy, Degas, Rodin, Lichtenstein, Segal, di Suvero, and my … [Read more...]

Krupka’s Blueberry Plantation

The following pit stop is submitted by Jessie Voigts of WanderingEducators.com. Krupka's Blueberries is located in the resort lakeside town of Saugatuck, Michigan, and makes for a nice day trip if staying in the area or a pit stop if driving through. Our family finds them to be the best blueberries in the whole state (which is quite a fruit belt)! You can buy pre-picked if you’re in a hurry, or … [Read more...]

Pier Cove Beach, Fennville Michigan

The following pit stop submitted by Jessie Voigts of WanderingEducators.com. A small, beautiful beach, Fennville's Pier Cove Beach features a small creek that lets out into Lake Michigan, which is often warmer than the big lake. It's perfect for small kids to splash in! Families can also find rocks and logs and make sculptures! In the big lake, kids (and adults!) will swim to their hearts' … [Read more...]

Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan

The following pit stop submitted by Jessie Voigts of WanderingEducators.com. Saugatuck's Oval Beach is a popular pit stop along the coast of Lake Michigan for a reason: ranked by Conde Naste traveler as one of the 25th best beaches in the world, it boasts wonderful dunes (including Mount Baldhead), family amenities such as a playground and concession stand, and picnic areas complete with grills … [Read more...]