Grand Rapids, Michigan

Jerry had a Partners for Rural America meeting in Grand Rapids, so I tagged along to see the sights.  The Gerald R Ford Presidential  Museum was across the street from where we stayed.  The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park was very impressive with its large conservatory, many gardens, and variety of sculptures.

 

Skyline from the footbridge near the Ford Museum.

 

Skyline facing southwest.

Riverwalk near Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.

Front of Conservatory and Greenhouses.

Back of Conservatory, just outside the Children's Garden.

Seasonal Display Greenhouse

Michigan's Farm Garden

Fred and Lena Meijer sculpture along the path.

 

Amphitheater Gardens - Concerts are held here during Summer months.

Me standing next to the 24 foot tall American Horse.

Large sculpture near the Waterfall

One afternoon we visited Hastings, MI, which is a small town that has become a destination.  It wasn't very busy when we were there, but on weekends it becomes a hustling, bustling metropolis with its varied activities of shopping, theater, restaurants, and outdoor recreation.



Busy street in Hastings, MI

Mural on the old theater building.

Loft Suite at Alfresco Suites in Hastings, MI

Gerald R Ford Statue in front of Presidential Museum

Caelin drew this sketch and sent it to me.  I think she gets her artistic ability from her mother.