News
News & Updates from GR&
Stay informed about the rapidly evolving Grand Riverfront. This is your central hub for information, news, stories, and announcements about the exciting developments happening along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids and impacting the surrounding areas.
5 Riverfront Milestones That Show Grand Rapids is on the Rise
Discover how Canal Park, Gillett Bridge, Amway Stadium, and the Acrisure Amphitheater are reshaping the Grand Rapids riverfront.
Acrisure Amphitheater: What to Expect from Grand Rapids’ New Era of Music on the River
Acrisure Amphitheater opens in 2026, bringing a world-class outdoor music venue to Grand Rapids’ riverfront.
Beneath the Surface: Honoring the Craft of Carousel Upholstery
Grand Rapids Public Museum restores its 1928 Spillman Carousel with original horsehair upholstery, preserving history for future generations.
Making Room: The Rise of Adaptive Reuse in Grand Rapids Housing
Downtown Grand Rapids is undergoing a housing transformation, but not everything is being built from scratch. Instead, developers are adding new homes by converting old hotels, office buildings, and even factories into fresh, modern living spaces across the city’s core and along the Grand Riverfront.
Where City Life Meets the River: A Day in the Life Along the GR& Riverfront
Discover the best of downtown living in Grand Rapids—walkable streets, local cafes, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Enjoy city convenience, outdoor dining, and urban charm in the heart of West Michigan.
July 2025 Riverfront Construction Update: Where Dreams Take Shape
Explore the latest July 2025 updates on Canal Park, 111 Lyon, Amway Stadium, and more as Grand Rapids' riverfront transforms into a vibrant downtown destination.
From Sunrise to Sunset: Grand Rapids’ Best Riverfront Routes
Explore the best riverfront trails in Grand Rapids and West Michigan for walking, jogging, or unwinding—from sunrise at Butterworth Trail to sunset at Riverside Park.
10 Must-Snap Photo Spots Along the GR& Riverfront
Capture iconic views, vibrant murals, and scenic riverwalks. These top Grand Rapids photography locations are picture perfect.
Summer by the River: Festivals, Food, and Fun in Downtown Grand Rapids
From June through September, the city fills with festivals, concerts, and community events that bring people together all summer long.
Five Perfect Picnic Spots Along the Grand Riverfront
Explore five must-visit picnic spots along the Grand Riverfront in Grand Rapids—perfect for summer views, food, and fresh air.
Spring Construction Milestones: A Season of Progress Along the Grand Riverfront
Discover spring construction milestones along the Grand Rapids riverfront, from the Acrisure Amphitheater, Amway Stadium to Canal Park’s transformation and more.
Spring Forward: Warmer Weather Invigorates Activity on the Grand Riverfront
Spring brings vibrant energy to the Grand Rapids Riverfront, where outdoor dining, kayaking, and scenic riverwalks attract locals and visitors alike.
Connected Along the River: How Walkways, Bridges, and Transit Unite Grand Rapids
Bridging Grand Rapids: A connected future along the Grand Riverfront.
Halfway There: Beam Raising Marks a Major Milestone at Acrisure Amphitheater
The Acrisure Amphitheater has reached a major construction milestone with the completion of its massive steel canopy.
West Michigan Soccer: Kicking Off a New Era
West Michigan Soccer: What to expect as Grand Rapids prepares for its new professional team in 2027.
A Grand Revival: Restoring the Grand Rapids Public Museum Carousel
The restoration of the historic Spillman Carousel at the Grand Rapids Public Museum preserves its 1928 craftsmanship while adding accessibility features.
‘A Dream’: How Amway Stadium and Growing GR Soccer Scene Excite Locals, Boost Economy
Homegrown soccer player and coach Brad Dunwell calls Grand Rapids’ new stadium “a dream.” The multi-purpose venue will host soccer, lacrosse, and other community events, spurring regional economic growth.
Above the Streets: The Evolution of Grand Rapids’ Skywalk System
Grand Rapids' skywalk system has transformed downtown into a year-round, walkable space, connecting key locations like hotels and convention centers. With a new skybridge planned to link the YMCA, GVSU parking ramp, and Amway Stadium, the city is further enhancing connectivity and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.
How the Acrisure Amphitheater is Transforming Grand Rapids Through Inclusion and Community
Acrisure Amphitheater prioritizes community collaboration, transforming the riverfront with innovative funding and inclusive workforce development, setting a new standard for urban growth and connectivity.
The Future of Grand Rapids: Voices from the Community
Grand Rapids' future: Community voices on economic growth, vibrancy, and innovation.