Rapid Network

If you're looking for an ideal destination to combine a history travel, great restaurants, and little shopping, consider Grand Rapids, Michigan. Home of the Gerald Ford Presidential Library and Museum, Grand Rapids has a surprising array of specialty shops and inviting independent restaurants. Here's an overview...

Grand Rapids: History, Shopping, And Family Fun

Situated in the western side of Michigan, about 30 minutes from Lake Michigan, Grand Rapids is a thriving small city with a surprising number of attractions. If you enjoy American history, one of the best presidential museums in America is located here, the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum and Library. You'll find the museum campus just north of downtown, less than five minutes from the historic downtown.

Grand Rapids downtown shopping district is filled with specialty shops from home accessories to fashion to unique stores and boutiques you won't find anywhere else. There's the Ferris Coffee and Nut Company, offering countless varieties of gourmet coffee and nuts since 1924. You'll also find the Green Life Market, for eco friendly gifts, apparel, and home accessories.

Downtown is also the center for dining and entertainment. We like The Bull's Head Tavern, a great local place for appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers, and Bar Divani, and intimate and cozy wine bar. Just a short distance away is the Grand Rapids Brewing Company, with hand crafted beer and a lively scene.

Visiting The Ford Presidential Center

America's 38th president, Gerald Ford, spent many years in Grand Rapids and called the area home. Located adjacent to downtown, the library and museum spotlight Ford's extensive public service career, as well as his family life. Historians will appreciate the many exhibits depicting specific time periods in America, including life in the 1970's when Ford was president.

The museum campus is also a center for educational lectures, public gatherings, and presentations. One interesting presentation features White House photographers for recent presidents, discussing their access to presidential events and sharing rare and candid photographs.

One of the permanent exhibits gives and up close and personal look at the White House. There is a multi media presentation about a day in the Oval Office, and replicas of presidential meeting rooms where the commander in chief meets with his cabinet members. You will also see exhibits from Ford's travels around the world as president, and many of the gifts he received on behalf of the American people from foreign heads of state.

Nearby on the campus is Ford's memorial, where he was interred after his death in 2006 at age 93. The museum and grounds are open daily from 9 a.n. to 5 p.m.

Summary

The Ford Presidential Museum is an ideal part of any Grand Rapids itinerary. It is conveniently located adjacent to downtown, within five minutes from an impressive array of specialty shopping districts and dining and entertainment options.