April Adventures: Discover the Best Outdoor Activities in Grand Rapids
Spring in Grand Rapids is a season of renewal, fresh air, and outdoor exploration. After months of snow and gray skies, April brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and the perfect excuse to get outside. Whether you're looking to break a sweat, relax in nature, or enjoy a day out with family and friends, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had in and around Grand Rapids.
Here’s your guide to the best outdoor activities in Grand Rapids this April—no matter your pace or preference.
1. Explore the Trails at Millennium Park
Located just west of downtown, Millennium Park is a favorite for walkers, runners, cyclists, and nature lovers. The park boasts:
- Over 18 miles of trails that wind through woods, wetlands, and lakes
- Access to picnic areas and scenic overlooks
- Opportunities to spot wildlife like deer, cranes, and turtles
It’s the ideal spot to recharge after a long winter indoors.
2. Visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
April is the beginning of the growing season, and the Frederik Meijer Gardens come alive with early blooms. You can:
- Stroll through the outdoor gardens and sculpture exhibits
- Enjoy the annual “Butterflies Are Blooming” exhibit in the conservatory
- Take in spring landscapes from the comfort of walking paths
It’s a peaceful yet inspiring way to spend a spring afternoon.
3. Bike the White Pine Trail
Stretching more than 90 miles north from Grand Rapids, the White Pine Trail is a regional treasure. For an easy April ride:
- Start at Riverside Park and head north through Comstock Park
- Pack a picnic or grab coffee along the route
- Enjoy blooming trees and river views as you cruise
April temperatures are perfect for longer rides without the summer heat.
4. Try Paddling the Grand River
As ice melts and water levels rise, April is prime time for a kayaking or canoeing trip on the Grand River. Local rental companies begin opening for the season, offering:
- Calm water routes for beginners
- Urban and scenic paddling experiences
- Guided tours for those new to the sport
Just don’t forget your life jacket and a waterproof bag for your phone!
5. Take a Stroll Through Downtown Grand Rapids
Spring adds a new vibe to the city’s core. Explore the downtown area by:
- Visiting seasonal pop-up markets and outdoor art installations
- Enjoying lunch or coffee on a patio along Monroe Center or Bridge Street
- Catching a free outdoor event or performance as things start to ramp up for summer
April is a great time to reconnect with your city without the peak-season crowds.
6. Go Birdwatching at Blandford Nature Center
Blandford is a hidden gem in northwest Grand Rapids that’s especially vibrant in spring. In April, the center is:
- A hotspot for migratory birds returning to Michigan
- Home to quiet trails and educational exhibits
- Hosting seasonal programs for all ages
Bring your binoculars and spend a morning soaking in the sights and sounds of spring.
7. Visit a Local Farm or Greenhouse
April marks the beginning of planting season, and Grand Rapids has several farms and greenhouses that welcome visitors. Try:
- Picking up fresh herbs and starter plants for your garden
- Taking a tour at Trillium Haven or Robinettes
- Participating in Earth Day events or volunteer opportunities
Engaging with local agriculture is a meaningful way to welcome the season.
8. Join a Community Cleanup
April is Earth Month, and neighborhoods across Grand Rapids organize cleanup events to beautify shared spaces. You can:
- Join a park or trail cleanup through your neighborhood association
- Volunteer with groups like Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
- Host your own mini cleanup with family and friends
It’s a rewarding way to give back to the city while enjoying fresh air and exercise.
9. Visit John Ball Zoo on Opening Weekend
John Ball Zoo typically opens for the season in early April. It’s a family-friendly favorite offering:
- Close-up animal encounters and seasonal exhibits
- Walking paths set into a hilly, wooded landscape
- Educational programs and daily feedings
It’s an ideal way to entertain kids while getting everyone outside and moving.
10. Start Your Garden Prep
Even if planting won’t start in earnest until May, April is the time to prepare your garden beds. Spend a weekend:
- Cleaning up leaves and debris
- Turning soil and adding compost
- Planning out this year’s vegetables or flowers
Getting your hands in the dirt is therapeutic and rewarding—and a surefire sign that spring has truly arrived.







