What a wonderful landmark Grand Rapids has to offe...

What a wonderful landmark Grand Rapids has to offer at the Meijer gardens. What is there not to love, maybe the omission of a mini theme park/animal sanctuary ...hmm on second thought better not. It would ruin the ambience, although I always hope to see more animals just there in the wild, in their element. Maybe if this was Australia or Africa lol.

The gardens are beautiful for a day visit, to take a relaxing walk, maybe somewhere to take a date or out of town guest for something to do. They have a little cafe with reasonably priced, good food ...I like the mac n cheese, they also serve beer and wine I believe. There's a cute gift shop by the entrance featuring a good variety of quality made items, great for a gift or souvenir to take home.

The grounds are well maintained all year round and they have different exhibits and themes for each season. They have different events and a summer concert series which is nice. Cool educational children's section also as well as throughout the park, like the Michigan barn. Some of their events I personally find boring, but maybe I just need something more interactive or entertaining like a fire dance off! Older folk and kids would love it though.

They have event space for weddings, corporate functions and such and always do a nice job with decor and catering, it might be on the pricey side, but as with all things you get what you pay for right.

The volunteers, usually older retired folk, are no joke they take their duties seriously and could lighten up, but are generally lovely and hey they're manning the forte for free!