Grand Rapids Summers

I grew up 30 minutes west of Grand Rapids and once I had my driver’s license and that newfound freedom, I found my way to GR. It’s where I spent most of my free time and it’s evolved so much in the last 10-15 years. So many great restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques–each time I visit I have new places to check out along with my favorite standbys. Makes it hard to fit everything I want to do in a day trip. Summer in Grand Rapids is especially beautiful. So many outdoor seating options and cute neighborhoods to wander–it makes a great home away from home.

[floral print dress and ankle strap pumps c/o Lulus, vintage Chanel bag, Rayban round aviators, necklaces and rings by Katie Dean Jewelry]

There are way too many places I enjoy, but I’ll share a few favorite restaurants (and patios) for summer visits:

–Terra (a brunch favorite!)

–Reserve (pictured above. Great wine list, cheeses and private-feeling rooftop deck)

–Donkey Taqueria 

–Founders (don’t like beer, but like the food and patio! And everyone loves it there)

And I also love the Grand Rapids Downtown Market–something for everyone and lots of great outdoor space and natural light if you choose to stay indoors. I love love love the chorizo tacos from from Tacos El Cunado, smoothies from Malamiah Juice Bar, pretzels from Brezel and anything from Love’s Ice Cream. They have a super cute mini flower market and Michigan themed apparel at the Oddest Supply Co.

So many great coffee options too! A few favorites include:

–Rowster

–Lightfast (Just tried their iced nitro, plus this space is spacious and quiet, my kind of place)

–Lyon Street Cafe (the most delicious pastries!)

–Lantern

–Le Bon Macaron (macarons AND delicious iced vanilla lattes, plus a super cute Parisian theme and fresh flowers are always abundant!)

And my most favorite ice cream place is Furniture City Creamery. It’s across the street from Le Bon, so it’s not unusual for me to grab macarons, coffee and then grab dinner down the street and then end up at the ice cream shop.

Photos by Ashley Howard