Grand Rapids is the second-most populous city in the state of Michigan, and it’s home to a unique blend of urban cityscapes, small-town charm, and riverside adventure. Voted Beer City USA, Grand Rapids is a hub of culture, good food, amazing drinks, and eclectic communities. It’s located right along the Grand River and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can paddleboard the river, enjoy the stunning beaches of nearby Lake Michigan, climb and explore the sand dunes, and lose yourself on one of the countless bike paths winding through the city and neighboring woods. All this to say: this city is a grand, if not unexpected, adventure. For more information about this great city, check out our Grand Rapids City Guide!
Another reason to visit Grand Rapids is the up-and-coming marijuana scene. Michigan has allowed medical marijuana since 2008 and recently legalized recreational marijuana in November 2018; however, many cities have been slow to act on this new law. There are quite a few medical dispensaries in Grand Rapids, and the city is close to opening its first recreational dispensaries. A new plan was approved in July 2020 to expedite the retail application and creation processes, and local sources are optimistic that recreational sales will be underway by the end of 2020. Grand Rapids adheres to the laws outlined by the state of Michigan and most of their medical dispensaries operate between the hours of 8 AM and 8 PM (hours vary by store). Additionally, please note that it is prohibited to use marijuana in public, both medical and recreational.