What to do with the Grandkids this Summer in Grand Rapids

It is officially the first day of summer! And most kids have been out of school for a few days now, and may be going a little stir crazy. 

If you are one of those grandparents who loves to use any excuse possible to get your grandkids for some quality time, summer is the perfect time. And in West Michigan there is plenty to do! 

Are you looking for where you can buy grandparent memberships, or other ideas for things to do this summer? 

Then you are in luck! Here are several ideas for grandparents and their grandkids in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. 

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Grandparent Memberships

If you find a place you love, then you want to return again and again. Memberships are great for that, and there are several Grand Rapids area attractions that have memberships designed especially for grandparents and their grandchildren. 

• Grand Rapids Public Museum. Members get not only free admission, but free planetarium shows, carousel rides, and special admission to events. An added bonus is that they have reciprocal memberships with several other area museums, meaning you get more than one membership for the price of one! 
• Frederick Meijer Gardens.  Frederick Meijer Gardens is a particularly great membership for summer. Not only are there lots of flowers and plants blooming, but children can play in the water in the scale model of the great lakes and other water features in the Children's Garden. Make sure you come prepared for getting wet! Additional membership benefits include 10% off in the gift shop, and discounts and early access to concerts and other fun events. No matter how many grandchildren you have, your grandparent membership includes all grandchildren ages 18 and under! 
• John Ball Zoo. Do your grandchildren love animals? Then you will want to check out this membership. It is also unique in that it covers all grandchildren up to 19 years of age, so even your older grandkids can enjoy a day out together. There are some parts of the zoo that are not wheelchair accessible, but you will be able to experience most of the exhibits without a problem. Whatever you do, don't end up like this grandma and watch out for the monkeys flinging stuff!
• Grand Rapids Children's Museum. If you don't want to totally leave your kids out of the fun, this grandparents membership is one of the most flexible. It allows you to bring one extra adult (even if that is not the other grandparent), and up to six grandchildren per visit. You can also add an extra adult to any membership for a small additional charge if you enjoy going with a family group. 

Parks and Outdoor Fun

Kent County Parks has a wide range of outdoor opportunities including: 

• Water parks like Millennium Park
• Disc golf
• Playgrounds
• Trails
• Picnic spots 
• And more! 

Visit their website and you will be able to search based on activity, location, or something else. You are sure to find a few new summer favorites, and many of the options are low cost or free! 

Summer Reading Programs

Don't forget about the rainy days! Books are a fun way to enjoy the summer when you have had enough of the sun and splashing. There are several great summer reading programs in West Michigan. Here are just a couple you can check out: 

• Grand Rapids Public Library Summer Reading Program
• Kent District Library Summer Reading Program
• Schuler Books Summer Reading Program
• Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program

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