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As the BBC Is the hyper of America, you know it should be good!
They recently had a surprising midwest city as a top destination that does not even get the recognition it deserves.
Detroit is located in the middle of an epic comeback and Mackinac Island has just been called the American best summer destination 3 years in a row.
It is clear that Michigan now has a lot for it, and even more overlooks gems come to light.

Despite the everyday nickname of “Furniture City”, we dare say Grand Rapids at the top of them all like the dust from Michigan, at least according to BBC.
This lively city on the water (yes, with a deep-rooted background in the production of furniture) is perhaps the biggest surprise of the midwest for a summer escape, with large hotels (with a hint of controversy), outdoor voltage and a flourishing food and art scene.
Waterfront Wonders: Riverside Delights & Lake Michigan beaches


Lake Michigan is the ultimate Maas in the law for lively blue water beaches. It is not necessary to fight for space with pensioners in Florida or to pay too much for almost everything in California when there are beautiful beaches in the middle of the country.
Grand Rapids doesn’t hug the lush lake completely, but it is close enough to be considered a more destination in Lake Michigan.
It is even a great basis to spend numerous beach days here. Wake up and grab breakfast at the favorite of the locals Littlebird and only drive for 35 minutes to the beautiful coasts of Lake Michigan, such as Buchanan Beach And OliveWhere a recent beach visitor said: “Olive Shores is a beautifully hidden gem along the coastline of Lake Michigan. If you are looking for a quiet, picturesque place to relax or walk, this is a must visit”.


Domests, lies the Grand River who splits the center of Grand Rapids, where you can enjoy countless picturesque parks that can be located along the water and miles of multi-use paths, perfect for walking, cycling or even fishing.
In fact, GR (as the locals call it) was just to see by Sports illustrated as one undervalued fly fishing Ridicule, but the better question is who is still reading Sports illustrated?
Visitors to GR will not find a shortage of ways to spend time outside, another reason why this enormously under-hyped city made the list on the BBC list for its beautiful spring-like weather in the summer.
Of course there is no better way to spend time outside in my eyes than on a picturesque terrace with a freshly cooked meal and an ice cold beer, which Gr’s secondary nickname happens to be: “Beer City, USA”
Trendy restaurants, dynamic art and never ending breweries


‘Beer City’ has a better ring than ‘Furniture City, especially if there is not even Ikea here.
Beyond the waterways and factories, the traditional beer scene of Grand Rapids is the claim on fame.
Just as Kentucky has the ‘Bourbon Trail’, the same applies to Grand Rapids with their own display – Beer City Ale Trail as well as the Beer City Brewsader PassportNot to mention countless festivals with beer theme, such as the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer and Food Festival held in November.
Until then you can take a pint at countless popular breweries, but in particular Founders Brewing Co., the Mitten Brewing Company and Vivant Brewery.


I doubt that you will notice that someone says that the food does not match (or even surpasses) the beer scene. Mexo was named “Restaurant of Year” in 2024, but many locals would probably throw Søvengård In the mix.
As for GR’s lively art, you can’t help it, but notice the lively murals spread over facades of the center and Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is an absolute must visit.
If you are an artist yourself, view it ArtprizeAn open art competition that transforms the entire city into a huge, interactive gallery for weeks in September.
Where to stay: Grand Rapids’ Grand Hotels
You may not consider Grand Rapids as a luxury destination, and it could easily not have been if it was not for a controversial Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) company that saves the day from a historic hotel that is ready to meet its fall.


Sensation wrote a fascinating piece about the steep history of the hotel and the spotless transformation.
Now the Amway Grand PlazaThe former Poverlind Hotel has been restored to perfection and anchores the center as an indispensable city brush. For a summer residence you can hook a room for less than $ 200 – simply lock your wallet safely in your room so that you do not fall for pyramid schemes!
Beyond the amway there is also the JW Marriott Grand Rapids And Luifel by Hilton Grand Rapids To complete a luxury stay, but there are also numerous budget chains below $ 100 if you are willing to stay near the airport.


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This article originally appeared on Traveloffpath.com
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