The 13 Best Tours & Things To Do In Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids isn’t just about its craft beer scene or its beautiful parks; this city offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its unique character. Whether you’re into spooky stories, local brews, or fun challenges, Grand Rapids has something for you.

We especially love the Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour for its spine-tingling stories and the Holland Brew Pub Tour: History and Hops for those who want to combine their love of beer with local history. The city’s diverse options mean there’s a memorable experience waiting for every traveler.

For those considering what to do, this list covers a variety of guided tours, self-guided adventures, and interactive hunts, all designed to help you see the city from different angles. From ghost stories to brewery hops and scavenger challenges, here’s the full scoop on the best tours and things to do in Grand Rapids.

1. Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour

At number one, the Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour stands out for its chilling but fascinating look into the city’s haunted past. Guided by a local expert, the tour visits iconic sites like the Riverwalk Promenade and the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. You’ll hear tales of restless spirits and eerie encounters that have been reported in these historic locations.

The tour lasts about an hour and costs just $24 per person, making it an affordable way to combine history with a bit of spookiness.

Reviews praise the tour for the storyteller’s engaging style and the chance to discover parts of Grand Rapids you might overlook, even if you’ve lived here for years.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy ghost stories, local legends, or just a fun way to explore downtown after sunset. The stops are brief but packed with rich stories, and walking through haunted sites makes for a memorable evening. Bottom line: perfect for curious travelers who like history with a side of mystery.

2. Holland Brew Pub Tour: History and Hops

Number two on our list is the Holland Brew Pub Tour: History and Hops—a three-hour adventure that takes you through Holland, Michigan’s top breweries. For $39, you’ll visit Our Brewing Company and New Holland Brewing, discovering how these establishments became cornerstones of Holland’s beer scene.

The tour includes tasting local beers, learning about their history, and hearing stories about how Holland’s brewing industry developed.

Along the way, you’ll pass notable landmarks like The Warm Friend hotel and explore colorful artwork along the streets.

Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the chance to try different brews. One reviewer says, “This was a great experience and the price is unbeatable!” It’s perfect for beer aficionados and anyone curious about the local craft scene. The tour is relaxed, social, and offers a good balance between history and tasting. Bottom line: a lively, delicious way to spend an afternoon with friends.

3. Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt

Number three is the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt, a 2-hour activity that combines exploration with a bit of detective work. For $27 per person, you’ll follow clues and visit landmarks, all with the help of an interactive app.

The tour includes stops at various points of interest, with stories and trivia along the way. It’s a fun way to get to know downtown Grand Rapids while solving riddles and uncovering hidden details.

Reviews highlight how personalized and engaging the experience is, especially with a live host available for questions. It’s suited for groups that enjoy solving puzzles, family outings, or friendly competitions. The balance of walking and challenge makes this a great choice for active travelers wanting a hands-on experience. Bottom line: a playful, social way to discover the city’s secrets.

4. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Holly Jolly Hunt

Next up is the Holiday Scavenger Hunt, a festive activity perfect for the whole family. For just $20 per group (up to 10 people), you’ll use your smartphone to find traditional and non-traditional holiday items around the city.

It lasts about an hour, making it a quick but cheerful way to enjoy Grand Rapids during the holiday season. You’ll earn points for each item found, racing to top the leaderboard.

Reviewers note that it’s a fun activity for all ages and a great way to appreciate the city’s decorations. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, light-hearted activity that captures holiday spirit, this is it. It’s simple, interactive, and brings everyone together. Bottom line: ideal for holiday travelers or those wanting a joyful activity with minimal planning.

5. Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt by 3Quest Challenge

Number five features the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt by 3Quest Challenge, a private 2-hour challenge for just $10 per person. This hunt involves completing quests around the city, with a remote host on hand to help if needed. The focus is on learning about Grand Rapids in a fun, interactive way, making it well-suited for families or groups wanting a flexible adventure.

This tour is praised for its personalized approach and the opportunity to discover local sights at your own pace. One reviewer enjoyed “learning about the city and having fun with my boys.” The lower price point makes it accessible, and the remote host ensures you won’t get stuck. Bottom line: an affordable and adaptable option for curious explorers.

6. A Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Holland, Michigan

Number six is the Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Holland, perfect for independent travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace. For $5.99, you’ll visit the city’s picturesque downtown and learn about landmarks like Voorhees Hall and the President’s Home.

The tour lasts between 45 minutes to over an hour, and it’s ideal for those interested in local history and hidden details often missed by casual visitors.

Reviews mention that it’s a great way to see Holland’s quieter neighborhoods and enjoy some flowers, especially during Tulip Time. The tour doesn’t include entry to buildings, but it’s packed with contextual stories and scenic spots. Bottom line: a budget-friendly, flexible way to get to know Holland’s charm.

7. Self-Guided Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt: Round River City

At number seven, the Self-Guided Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt offers a 1.5-hour digital adventure for $12.31 per person. You’ll solve challenges and take photos along a route that highlights both well-known and secret spots. The app provides clues and a digital copy of your photos, making it easy to document your journey.

Reviewers appreciate the fun, interactive format and the chance to learn about the city in a relaxed manner. It’s ideal for small groups or families looking for a casual activity with a sense of discovery. The quick pace suits those with limited time but who want a memorable experience. Bottom line: a low-cost, engaging way to explore.

8. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Operation City Quest

Number eight offers the Fun City Scavenger Hunt, a two-hour private challenge for $10 per person. Similar to other scavenger hunts, it involves completing tasks and solving puzzles with remote guidance. The focus is on making exploring Grand Rapids interactive, exciting, and stress-free.

It’s perfect for casual groups or families, especially those who want to avoid large tour groups. The remote support means help is always just a message away. Reviews are mixed but generally highlight the fun aspect and the flexibility of participating at your own pace. Bottom line: a budget-friendly, straightforward challenge for curious explorers.

9. Gerald R. Ford Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids Round-Trip Transfer

Number nine isn’t a tour but a convenient transfer service. For $194.48, you get a private, door-to-door ride from Gerald R. Ford Airport to your Grand Rapids accommodation. The service is professional, tracked, and designed to eliminate the hassle of taxi lines.

If you’re arriving or departing and want a smooth start or finish to your trip, this service offers reliable, comfortable transportation. While not sightseeing, it’s a practical choice for reducing stress after a long flight. Bottom line: worth considering for hassle-free airport transfers.

10. Grand Rapids Michigan Scavenger Hunt Grand Hunt Round River City

Number ten is another app-led scavenger hunt, Grand Rapids Michigan Scavenger Hunt, costing $14.99 per person for 1.5 hours of fun. It emphasizes interactive challenges, completing puzzles, and taking photos, making it great for small groups or families.

Participants enjoy the mixture of exploration and problem-solving, with the added bonus of digital photos. It’s designed for those who want a quick, engaging activity while discovering the city’s key sites. Bottom line: a fun, affordable way to see Grand Rapids through a playful lens.

11. Holland Coffee Shop Brew Tour

Number eleven explores Holland’s coffee culture with a brew tour that visits local coffee shops like The 205 Coffee Bar and Lemonjello’s Coffee. For $32, the tour lasts about 2.5 hours and includes tasting freshly brewed coffee while uncovering Holland’s early settlers and community development.

Stops also include outdoor spots like Centennial Park, and visits to farms like Bowerman’s. It’s perfect for coffee lovers and those interested in local history combined with a caffeine fix. Reviews note the engaging guides and the chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant coffee scene. Bottom line: a flavorful way to explore Holland’s cultural roots.

12. Royalty Themed App Based Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids

Number twelve offers a royalty-themed scavenger hunt for $10 per person. This interactive, app-based game turns your walk into a team effort with rotating “royalty” roles. The challenge lasts about 2 hours, with a remote host ready to assist.

Guests enjoy the playful theme and the chance to be “king or queen” for a day, while exploring landmarks and solving puzzles. It suits travelers who want a quirky, competitive experience. Reviews are limited but promising for those looking for something light-hearted and memorable. Bottom line: a unique, fun activity combining role-play and city discovery.

13. Gerald R. Ford Intl. Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids – Arrival Private Transfer

Last but not least, the Gerald R. Ford Intl. Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids – Arrival Private Transfer offers a hassle-free way to get from the airport to your hotel. For $97.24, this private, scheduled service ensures a comfortable, direct ride with professional drivers.

It’s perfect for travelers arriving late or those who want to skip the taxi lines. While it isn’t a sightseeing tour, smooth transportation can set the tone for a relaxed visit. Booking early guarantees a stress-free start to your trip. Bottom line: a practical choice for stress-free airport logistics.

How to Choose the Best Tour or Activity in Grand Rapids

When deciding between these options, consider your interests and timeframe. Historical ghost tours like the Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour suit those intrigued by local legends and spooky stories, while the brew pub tour appeals to craft beer enthusiasts.

For families or groups wanting a playful discovery, the scavenger hunts—from 3Quest Challenge to Operation City Quest—offer interactive fun at affordable prices.

Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Self-Guided Holland tour, while those arriving at the airport should consider the private transfer services, which simplify logistics.

Think about how much time you have—quick activities like the holiday scavenger hunt are perfect for a short visit, whereas a longer brewery tour can fill an afternoon comfortably. Booking early, especially for popular tours, helps ensure you don’t miss out.

Final Thoughts

Grand Rapids offers a broad array of tours and activities that match practically any traveler’s interests. If you’re into ghost stories, the Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour is a highlight, blending local lore with a bit of spine-tingling fun.

Beer lovers will appreciate the Holland Brew Pub Tour, which combines tastings with history. And for a more interactive experience, scavenger hunts like the 3Quest Challenge keep things lively and engaging.

Whether you want a spooky night, a relaxing cultural stroll, or a competitive challenge, Grand Rapids has plenty of options to make your visit memorable. Be sure to book in advance for the best availability, and enjoy discovering this vibrant city in your own way.