MI
"Revitalizing Grand Rapids: River Restoration, Literacy Success, Inclusive Wine Bar, Historic Mansion, Lottery Winner & More!"
|Subscribe·Archives·Current Issue
"Revitalizing Grand Rapids: River Restoration, Literacy Success, Inclusive Wine Bar, Historic Mansion, Lottery Winner & More!"
Discover the latest in Grand Rapids: River restoration, literacy success, diverse wine bar, historic mansion recognition, lottery win! Plus, don't miss our upcoming events! 🎉
Gerry T

Gerry T

Jun 3, 2026

The B.O.B. (an acronym for Big Old Building) is located in downtown Grand Rapids. The 70,000-square-foot, four-story, red brick building was constructed in 1903 as Judson's grocery warehouse. Its casual appeal, large size and historic charm have given The B.O.B. destination status in downtown Grand Rapids. Ambitious, expansive, and versatile, The B.O.B. is a big old building of fun, offering a multitude of choices for each guest who walks through the door.

Click here to visit The BOB
The city of Grand Rapids in Michigan has started a new project to restore its namesake rapids in the Grand River.

Instead of using shovels, the project involves using large stones to create natural riffles that will restore the rapids' historical flow.

Conservationists and engineers are working together to return the river to its original state, creating a healthier habitat for fish and wildlife.

The project is part of a larger effort to revitalize the downtown area and attract more visitors to the rapids.
Read More...
The article discusses a program that uses storytelling as a tool to improve literacy in young children.

By incorporating personal stories and family narratives into literacy instruction, students are able to make connections between their own experiences and the texts they are reading.

This approach has been successful in engaging students and fostering a love for reading.

Through this program, students are encouraged to use storytelling as a way to build stronger literacy skills and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
Read More...
A new wine bar called A Place for Everybody has opened in Grand Rapids' Midtown neighborhood.

The bar aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive space for all customers, regardless of their background or identity.

The owners have created a diverse wine list and menu to cater to a wide range of tastes.

The bar offers a relaxed atmosphere for patrons to enjoy wine, cocktails, and small plates in a comfortable setting.

A Place for Everybody is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the community through its welcoming and accepting environment.
Read More...
A historic mansion in Grand Rapids has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The 7,344-square-foot home, known as the Morse Mansion, was built in 1902 and has been meticulously preserved over the years.

The mansion features elaborate architectural details and is a prime example of the Georgian Revival style.

Its inclusion on the National Register recognizes its historical significance and contribution to the architectural heritage of Grand Rapids.
Read More...
A man from Kent County, Michigan won $2 million on a scratch-off lottery ticket.

The man, who chose to remain anonymous, purchased the winning ticket at a gas station in Grand Rapids.

He plans to use the money to pay off debts and secure his family's future.

The man was in disbelief after scratching off the winning ticket and hopes to invest the money wisely.

The Michigan Lottery encourages responsible play and provides resources for those struggling with gambling addiction.
Read More...

Upcoming Events

1. 🏮 Grand Rapids Lantern Festival

 

📅 Date: June 2–8, 2026
🕒 Time: 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM (Tuesday–Sunday)
📍 Location: John Ball Zoo
🎟️ Admission: Timed tickets required
📄 Details: The final weeks of the 2026 Lantern Festival feature hundreds of handcrafted illuminated lanterns, interactive displays, and themed cultural exhibits throughout the zoo.

🔗 More Info: John Ball Zoo Lantern Festival

 

2. 🌺 CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens

 

📅 Date: Ongoing throughout the week
🕒 Time: During garden operating hours
📍 Location: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
🎟️ Admission: Included with garden admission
📄 Details: The major CHIHULY exhibition showcases large-scale glass sculptures throughout the gardens and indoor galleries. Visitors can also enjoy the sculpture park, Japanese Garden, and seasonal blooms.

🔗 More Info: Meijer Gardens Calendar


 

3. 🎨 Grand Rapids Art Museum Summer Exhibitions

 

📅 Date: June 2–8, 2026
🕒 Time: Museum hours
📍 Location: Grand Rapids Art Museum
🎟️ Admission: Museum admission applies
📄 Details: Several major exhibitions are running simultaneously, including landscape, glass art, and French art collections.

🔗 More Info: Grand Rapids Art Museum Exhibitions


 

4. 🏛️ Opening the Vault: The Northwest Ordinance

 

📅 Date: Opens June 3, 2026
🕒 Time: Museum hours
📍 Location: Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
🎟️ Admission: Included with museum admission
📄 Details: This new exhibit explores the Northwest Ordinance and its impact on the growth and development of the Midwest.

🔗 More Info: Ford Presidential Museum Events

 


5. 🥕 Fulton Street Farmers Market

 

📅 Date: June 3, 5 & 6, 2026
🕒 Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Location: Fulton Street Farmers Market
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Shop fresh local produce, flowers, baked goods, artisan foods, meats, cheeses, and handcrafted products from vendors across West Michigan.

🔗 More Info: Fulton Street Farmers Market


 

6. 🧒 Backyard Adventures Exhibit

 

📅 Date: Throughout the week
🕒 Time: Museum hours
📍 Location: Grand Rapids Public Museum
🎟️ Admission: Included with museum admission
📄 Details: A family-focused interactive exhibit encouraging exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning for children.

🔗 More Info: Grand Rapids Public Museum Exhibits

 


7. ✈️ AIM HIGH: American Dreams of Flight

 

📅 Date: Throughout the week
🕒 Time: Museum hours
📍 Location: Grand Rapids Children's Museum
🎟️ Admission: Museum admission required
📄 Details: A hands-on aviation-themed exhibit allowing children to explore the science, engineering, and imagination behind flight.

🔗 More Info: Grand Rapids Children's Museum


 

8. 🎨 Catlin Worthington: New Works Opening Reception

 

📅 Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
🕒 Time: Evening reception
📍 Location: ArtRat Gallery
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Meet the artist and view a new collection of contemporary works during this gallery opening reception in downtown Grand Rapids.

🔗 More Info: Experience Grand Rapids Events Calendar

The Grand Rapids Vibe

© 2026 The Grand Rapids Vibe.

The Grand Rapids Vibe is your ultimate guide to everything happening in Grand Rapids, Michigan. From local news, upcoming events, and business updates to cultural happenings and community stories, we bring you the latest buzz from this dynamic city. Stay in the loop with The Grand Rapids Vibe, your go-to source for all things GR.

© 2026 The Grand Rapids Vibe.