Family-Friendly Spring Break in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Get a jump start on your spring break family travel plans. Consider a trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan, and experience fun for the whole family.

© Courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. The annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition is the largest temporary butterfly exhibit in the country. Thousands of tropical butterflies fly freely through the conservatory. Educational programming and butterfly-themed activities are also available. The exhibit runs March 1–April 30.

John Ball Zoo reopens for the season March 24. The zoo houses 2,000 animals, including tigers, wallabies, snow leopards, penguins and bears. Take part in activities and events ranging from a behind-the-scenes African safari tour to a RendeZoo after-hours party. Experience more of the great outdoors at Blandford Nature Center. This nature center boasts more than 140 acres of woods, streams and meadows, with 4 miles of trails. The nature center offers a series of events, including the tapping of maple trees for syrup. Open dawn to dusk daily.

© Experience Grand Rapids

If museums are more your speed, head to Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. This museum features hands-on exhibits, perfect for little ones. Visit now through May 14 to see the temporary exhibit, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure! Grand Rapids Public Museum focuses on science, history and culture, with exhibits and activities for the entire family. Ride a 1928 carousel, check out a show in the planetarium and grab a bite in the on-site café overlooking Grand River.