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WHAT'S INSIDE

Managing Editor | Josh Veal, josh@serendipity-media.com

Art Director | Courtney Van Hagen

Marketing Specialist | Kelsey Hewson

Distribution | Kelli Belanger

Contributing Writers | Allison Kay Bannister, John Kissane, Eric Mitts, Michaela Stock

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Media Sales Consultant | Anna Sullivan, anna@serendipity-media.com

PUBLISHED BIMONTHLY

Serendipity Media LLC

519 Ada Drive, Suite 201, Ada, MI 49301 (616) 458-6371 | www.serendipity-media.com

JOSH VEAL Managing Editor josh@serendipity-media.com

/// LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

After 11 years, I’m finally ready to say it: This is my favorite issue of the year. I never feel more connected to the community than when we’ve announced the final results of Best of the West, resulting in a tidal wave of winners and finalists thanking their loyal fans, the comments filling up with even more vocal support.

It’s really not even about Revue. Sure, we facilitate the voting, but we’re not the ones running small businesses, providing essential services to the community, or creating great art. Our role is the same as always: We’re connectors. Year-round, we aim to help you the readers find new people, places and events you’ll love in town, and that work is just kicked into hyperdrive with Best of the West.

For the totally unfamiliar, this is our annual readers poll, now in its 11th year. We ask the community to nominate and vote for their favorites in more than 130 categories, including everything from barber shops to breweries, Thai restaurants, art museums, musicians, vintage shops and much more.

Every year, thousands of people turn out to support their favorites. Sure, it only takes a few clicks and some typing, but that’s in a world of endless information and constant bids for attention. And what do they get out of it? Just the joy of helping shine a spotlight on the people and places they love. We don’t offer any voting incentives or giveaways or anything. So when you look through the pages ahead, you might not agree with every one of the results, but you can be assured hundreds of people (at minimum) consider these winners and finalists the cream of the local crop. We hope with that in mind, the winners feel truly honored, and that you the reader can take a few recommendations away and discover something new to love. Because that’s really what this is all about.

‘Til next time,

WHAT’S GOING ON

JULY/AUG ‘26

7/3

GRAND RAPIDS FOODIE FEST 2026

Calder Plaza

July 3-5

grandrapidsfoodiefest.com

The 5th Annual Grand Rapids Foodie Fest is a three-day event celebrating a diverse community of food vendors, retail merchants, a beer garden, and live entertainment throughout the 4th of July weekend. Come celebrate America’s 250th the best way possible: Eating delicious food.

7/7

FATHER JOHN MISTY

GLC Live at 20 Monroe

11 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

July 7, 7 p.m. glcliveat20monroe.com

With his lush songwriting, wry wit, and magnetic stage presence, Father John Misty delivers an experience both intimate and theatrical. Expect a set filled with indie-folk favorites, sharp lyricism, and the kind of charismatic performance that has made him one of the most distinctive voices in modern music.

7/9

RIVERWALK FESTIVAL

Downtown Lowell

July 9–11

discoverlowell.org/riverwalk_festival

Lowell’s signature summer celebration transforms the city’s historic downtown into a lively hub of music, food, art, and family fun. Stroll along the Flat River, browse artisan vendors, catch live entertainment, and enjoy the smalltown charm that has made this community festival a longtime West Michigan favorite.

7/11

BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL

Bronson Park, Kalamazoo

July 11, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. blackartskalamazoo.org

Celebrate creativity, culture, and community at the 40th annual Black Arts Festival. This familyfriendly event showcases live music

and performances, local artists, food vendors, cultural exhibits, youth activities, and Black-owned businesses, creating a vibrant day that honors Black artistry and heritage in Southwest Michigan.

7/13

LUCY DACUS WITH SMIDLEY

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids

July 13, 7 p.m. meijergardens.org

Few concert venues are as magical as the Meijer Gardens amphitheater on a summer evening. Acclaimed singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus brings her thoughtful lyrics and warm indie-rock sound to the stage, joined by Smidley for a night of introspective songs and memorable performances beneath the stars.

7/21

THE GREAT GATSBY

DeVos Performance Hall

303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

July 21–26 grandrapids.broadway.com

Step into the glamour, excess, and heartbreak of the Roaring Twenties when the Tony Awardwinning musical The Great Gatsby arrives in Grand Rapids. Featuring dazzling choreography, lavish sets, and a jazz-infused score, this Broadway spectacle brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic tale of ambition, love, and the American Dream to vibrant life on stage.

7/23

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY PRESENTS STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK Acrisure Amphitheater

201 Market Ave. SW, Grand Rapids July 23, 7:30 p.m. acrisureamphitheater.com

Experience one of cinema’s greatest sequels on the big screen while the Grand Rapids Symphony performs John Williams’ iconic score live.

From the Battle of Hoth to the unforgettable revelation between Luke and Vader, this immersive concert brings the beloved film to life in a whole new way.

7/24

WEST MICHIGAN ITALIAN FESTIVAL Tanger Outlets

350 84th St. SW, Byron Center July 24-25 westmichiganitalianfestival.com

Join us for a two - day celebration honoring Italian culture with delicious food, lively entertainment, and activities for all ages, including: Authentic Italian cuisine from onsite vendors, Italian beer and wine selections in a beer garden, artisan booths, live music, a kids area, and bocce ball courts with a tourney for players of all skill levels.

COAST GUARD FESTIVAL

Grand Haven July 24-Aug. 2 coastguardfest.org

One of Michigan’s most beloved summer traditions, the Coast Guard Festival honors the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard with more than a week of events along Grand Haven’s waterfront. Expect ship tours, parades, carnival rides, fireworks, community celebrations, and plenty of patriotic spirit as thousands gather to celebrate the city’s maritime heritage.

7/25

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER: A DISNEY CHANNEL THROWBACK PARTY

The Stache

133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave., Grand Rapids July 25, 9 p.m. sectionlive.com

Get ready to relive the golden age of Disney Channel with a dance party packed with hits from High School Musical, Camp Rock, Hannah Montana, The Cheetah Girls, and more. Whether you grew up memorizing the choreography or singing along in your bedroom, this nostalgic night promises plenty of throwback fun.

8/1

NATE BARGATZE:

BIG DUMB EYES TOUR

Van Andel Arena

130 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids Aug. 1 vanandelarena.com

One of the biggest names in standup comedy returns to Grand Rapids for an evening of sharp observations, relatable stories, and deadpan delivery. Known for his clean humor and everyman perspective, Nate Bargatze’s arena-filling tour has made him one of the most successful comedians in the world.

8/4

BIPOC NIGHT MARKET

Fulton Street Market

1145 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids Aug. 4, 6-9 p.m. fultonstreetmarket.org

Join us for the bi-annual BIPOC Night Market, celebrating the rich diversity of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color-owned businesses in our community. These vibrant evening events feature local artisans, makers and entrepreneurs, live entertainment, delicious eats and community connection.

8/13

THE DEAR HUNTER: THE ROAD TO SUNYA TOUR

The Pyramid Scheme 68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Aug. 13, 6:30 p.m. pyramidschemebar.com

Known for ambitious concept albums and genre-defying arrangements,

The Dear Hunter brings their cinematic sound to an intimate venue setting. Fans can expect soaring melodies and intricate storytelling that seamlessly blends progressive rock, orchestral influences, and emotional depth.

8/14

BREAKAWAY MICHIGAN

Belknap Park, Grand Rapids Aug. 14–15 breakawayfestival.com

Belknap Park becomes an openair dance party when Breakaway returns with two days of electronic music, immersive production, and festival energy. National touring DJs like Canabliss, Two Friends and Subtronics, along with interactive experiences and a vibrant crowd, make this one of the region’s premier EDM events—and a perfect way to keep summer going strong.

8/16

HILARY DUFF

Acrisure Amphitheater

201 Market Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Aug. 16, 7 p.m. acrisureamphitheater.com

Hilary Duff is bringing her first major tour in years to Grand Rapids. Fans can sing along to early-2000s favorites like “Come Clean” and “So Yesterday” while celebrating the return of one of pop culture’s most beloved stars. With special guests La Roux and Jade LeMac joining the bill, this will be a night packed with throwback energy and pop anthems.

8/29

BURNING FOOT BEER FESTIVAL

Heritage Landing, Muskegon Aug. 29, 2026 burningfoot.beer

Burning Foot Beer Festival is a celebration of art, music, and craft beers. The festival is now held each at Heritage Landing, with a beautiful view of Muskegon Lake. While the venue has changed, the spirit remains the same—a uniquely lakeside experience brought to life by the collaboration of the Lakeshore Brewers Guild’s breweries.

Find out what else is happening around West Michigan at www.RevueWM.com/calendar

Lucy Dacus, Hilary Duff, Breakaway Michigan. COURTESY PHOTOS

REVUE ROAD TRIP PLAYLIST 2026

the feeling of watching the sun rise over an open highway with endless possibilities ahead. Equal parts reflective and invigorating, it’s the perfect way to kick off a road trip, setting the tone for adventure before the journey has even begun.

JACK AUSTIN – “GET AWAY” | Fresh off a breakout run on NBC’s “The Voice,” where this Battle Creek native and WMU student earned a jaw-dropping three-chair turn, Jack Austin has quickly become a local rising star. His anthemic single “GET AWAY” pairs soaring vocals with dynamic guitars, easily amping up the open road energy. The track’s message of breaking free and moving forward helped earn Austin Rock Song of the Year honors at the Josie Music Awards in Nashville, adding even more momentum to his rapidly accelerating career.

PRIOR NOON – “ Gone ” | Blending polished pop-country appeal with heartfelt songwriting, Prior Noon’s “Gone” captures the bittersweet push and pull of leaving something behind while embracing what’s next. The Lowell-based group’s smalltown start has taken them all over, racking up over a million streams, and finding them opening for some of their lifelong heroes, live onstage. Released last year and quickly becoming their most popular track to date, “Gone” is the kind of song that hits differently as the miles roll by and the scenery changes outside your window.

SAGE CASTLEBERRY – “ Silverado Seat” | Few songs feel more road-trip ready than Sage Castleberry’s “Silverado Seat.” The Battle Creek artist blends modern country storytelling with a warm, easygoing charm, painting vivid images of long drives, home-town longing, and the freedom found beyond the city limits. With its laid-back groove and nostalgic heart, it captures the simple joy of chasing the horizon with nowhere particular to be and all day to get there.

| by Eric Mitts

very great road trip starts with the right soundtrack. Whether cruising the Lake Michigan shoreline or heading out in search of something new, this annual playlist celebrates the best of West Michigan music in 2026. Featuring a handpicked mix of local bands and artists from Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Holland, and beyond, these songs capture the diverse sounds driving the region’s music scene. From high-energy indie rock and infectious pop to laid-back Americana and open-road grooves, these homegrown tracks are the perfect companion for every mile of any summer adventure.

Listen to the playlist on Spotify at: bit.ly/revueroadtrip2026.

VINEYARD CHICKS – “Michigan Sands” | A love letter to the Great Lakes State, and our own local music scene itself, “Michigan Sands” showcases the signature harmonies and heartfelt songwriting of Southwest Michigan sister trio Vineyard Chicks. Blending country, folk, and Americana influences, the piano-led song evokes sun-soaked beaches, winding coastal roads, and cherished summertime memories along Lake Michigan. It’s the kind of simple song that makes you appreciate the beauty in your own backyard while inspiring you to keep exploring it.

THE REVEREND JESSE RAY – “ 96 & 131” | No one captures the spirit of West Michigan highways quite like one-man rock ‘n’ roll band The Reverend Jesse Ray. Already a fan-favorite in the Grand Rapids rockabilly firebrand’s catalog, “96 & 131” barrels forward with twang, grit, and a deep appreciation for life on the road. It’s a fitting inclusion on any Michigan road trip playlist, especially as Jesse Ray can’t be stopped, having just released a brand-new album in late June, proving there’s still plenty of fuel left in the tank.

WILSON AVE. – “grandma’s car” | Although describing their sound as “moldy basement indie rock,” Grand Rapids’ Wilson Ave. leans into warm nostalgia, turning a simple memory into a full-throttle sentimental drive on “Grandma’s Car.” Built on jangly guitars, easygoing rhythm, and a hint of youthful reverence, the track captures the feeling of piling into an old car and chasing nowhere in particular. It’s a perfect road trip moment, reminding listeners that the best journeys often start with something borrowed, familiar, and a little rundown.

SATURDAYS AT YOUR PLACE – “ I’d rather be in Michigan” | Few songs feel as instantly rooted in place as “i’d rather be in michigan” by saturdays at your place, the Kalamazoo emo band that has become a local touchstone. Now the namesake of the successful festival held at Bell’s Beer Garden this past May, the cut from the band’s latest album is built for winding West Michigan drives, while capturing the pride, and restless joy, of staying home while still chasing what’s outside.

Jack Austin, Prior Noon, saturdays at your place, Dan Rickabus, Kitten & The Tonics, Cal in Red COURTESY PHOTOS

KYLE JOE AND KYLEE PHILLIPS – “Take It Easy ” | The title track to the latest album by singer-songwriter Kyle Joe (who previously performed as Chain of Lakes) delivers an easygoing, sunlit groove. Now based in Alto, and joined by fellow Michigan singer-songwriter Kylee Phillips, the pair’s warm harmonies and soft, gentle acoustic accompaniment give the song a laid-back charm, encouraging listeners to relax and settle into the journey rather than rush toward the destination.

BRIE STONER – “ Sunshine” | Brie Stoner’s “Sunshine” blends airy vocals and steady grounding instrumentation, creating a track that glows without forcing its moment. It’s a welcome companion for long stretches of highway where the light pours in and the world feels briefly unhurried, perfectly capturing the simple, priceless joy of sun kissed warmth on your skin, and gentle, easy motion.

DAN RICKABUS – “ See The Sun ” | Radiating with optimism that perfectly reflects and refracts long stretches of West Michigan highway, “See The Sun” comes off Dan Rickabus’s newest solo album, “Ache In The Blooming,” released earliest this year. Also a member of The Crane Wives, Rickabus continues to expand his musical voice, with the gentle instrumentation and rising melodies here mirroring sunlight breaking through, making it a natural fit for any road trip centered on personal growth and reflection.

KITTEN & THE TONICS – “Sun Bleached ” | Kitten and the Tonics’ “Sun Bleached” shimmers with hazy surf rock vibes. Fresh off their fun, four-song EP, “Get Lost!” the layered guitars on this one create a drifting, retro feel, like memory dissolving in heatwaves on the beach. It’s the kind of instrumental track that settles into the rhythm of the road, turning open stretches of highway into something scenic and cinematic.

PABLO ESKOBEAR – “Getaway Ride” | Pablo Eskobear’s entire new album, “The Heat” could easily provide the chill-est backbeat for your whole summer, and “Getaway Ride,” in particular, pushes with pure rhythm. Bouncing with the best boombox kings, and turning the pavement into a place for dancing, it moves with a multicultural, multilingual, multigenerational groove that brings the world together in your speakers and keeps you moving in your sneakers.

HEADBAND HENNY, JHARRXSON – “Toyota Crunk ” | More of a smooth, late-night cruise, than a trunk-rattling bass blast, this collaboration from Kalamazoo’s Headband Henny and jharrxson turns up with unmistakable backseat energy. The track’s production and playful confidence make it feel like a joyride through the city with the windows down and the volume way up, taking the party vibe with you wherever you go.

WAVY AWAKENING – “Blue Skies” | Mixing emo rap vibes with trap energy, Kalamazoo band Wavy Awakening look for the silver lining in even the darkest relationship clouds. A song about love and loss, “Blue Skies” does what the best music can, uplift, leaving the past in the rearview mirror with your head up high, and a full throttle chorus that kicks in just when you need it the most.

CAL IN RED – “Smile, You’re Here” | Centered around the brotherly harmonies of Connor and Kendall Wright, Cal In Red blends punchy guitar work with earnest, hook-driven songwriting, turning fleeting moments into something worth holding onto. The track feels like a windswept reminder to stay present, even as life blows by you, making it a great fit here as any road trip eventually begins to wind down and exist only in memory.

SPENCER LAJOYE – “Resistance to a Move” | This beautiful track unfolds with intimate indie-folk vulnerability, tracing the quiet tension between staying rooted and stepping into the unknown. Spencer LaJoye pairs delicate acoustic textures with a voice that feels both searching and certain, turning personal hesitation into something universally resonant. It’s a reflective road trip moment, best heard when the miles blur and decisions feel both distant and immediate at once.

RIVEREYE – “The Longest Holiday ” | This song from rivereye, the new project from West Michigan musician Max Lockwood, embraces the dreamy uncertainty that makes travel so alluring. Equal parts wistful and expansive, it captures the feeling of escaping it all on the open road, making every mile feel like part of an adventure that you never want to end.

JULIE’S BONES - “Cigarettes and Souvenirs ” | Restless and road-worn, the gritty rock of Holland-based band Julie’s Bones encapsulates the inescapable ephemera that’s often all that’s left at the conclusion of even the best road trips. Growing their grunge nostalgia for a new generation, with their latest album “Guerilla,” released at the end of June, the group’s affinity for the forlorn gives this playlist the perfect denouement, ahead of one last finale.

NEVER ENOUGH – “ Sunset on the Midwest Side ” | All too fitting of their all-caps band name, Holland’s NEVER ENOUGH return to where we began, soaring into the sky, even as the sun dips below the horizon. A definitive rock anthem for our state and the road trip state of mind, “Sunset on the Midwest Side” serves as the perfect closing chapter. Reflective yet hopeful, it leaves listeners with one last look out the window before heading home. It’s a fittingly uplifting sendoff, especially as NEVER ENOUGH’s future continues to look bright following May’s high-profile release of “Ghost,” a collaboration with Aaron Gillespie of Underoath. ■

WILL WOOD Brings Beautiful Chaos of “SELF-iSH” to Grand Rapids

| by Eric Mitts

For an artist who has spent the better part of a decade dismantling categories and defying expectations, celebrating the 10th anniversary of a breakthrough album might seem like a somewhat conventional choice for a wildly avantgarde musician/comedian like Will Wood.

Yet on Aug. 16, he will bring his “SELF-iSH” 10th Anniversary Tour to The Big Room, with longtime collaborators The Tapeworms for a rare resurrection of the experimental project that helped make him an underground phenomenon.

First debuting with the 2015 album “Everything is a Lot,” and later launching even higher with 2016’s “SELF-iSH”, Will Wood and the Tapeworms became notorious for their cabaret-punk theatrics, chaotic live energy, and fiercely eccentric commitment to performance.

After nearly 10 years of going mostly dormant, the project has returned for a limited run celebrating a decade of “SELF-iSH” before “slithering back to the lab it leaked from.”

For Wood himself, however, the anniversary tour isn’t about looking back.

“Oh I’m not going anywhere near my younger self,” Wood said. “I’m so grateful to be solidly in my 30s. For me this is less a celebration of the last 10 years and more a celebration that they’re over.”

The album remains one of Wood’s most defining works in his growing catalog. But fans expecting a note-for-note recreation of the record during the anniversary tour may be surprised.

“The original Tapeworms albums each have their own lineup separate from the live lineups from that period, so that necessitates reimagining to a certain extent,” he said. “The way the players on the album interpreted and performed the songs continues to influence us, but we aren’t trying to match the albums.”

“If you don’t know that as a live performer I’m a theater guy, with a lot of the theater dedicated to comedy, you miss some of the essence of what I’m doing.”

Instead, the goal is to make the songs feel alive in the present.

“We’re most concerned with creating versions of these songs that our individual tastes and instincts can shine in and use those elements to provide the audience with something that you can’t get at home,” Wood said.

While many artists embrace anniversary tours as opportunities to revisit specific eras of their careers, Wood remains skeptical of viewing his creative life through that lens.

“I don’t know how I feel,” he said. “The persona I’ve worn at the Tapeworms shows isn’t one I consciously create and dismantle… I just instinctively get over-the-top and grandiose, and I lean into a faux-rockstar bit because that’s what feels right for the Tapeworms project.”

The result is a performer who often feels larger than life while simultaneously questioning the very idea of performance. That willingness to blur the line between authenticity and theatricality has helped Wood cultivate one of the most devoted fan communities in independent music.

Yet Wood doesn’t spend much time thinking about where he fits. “I don’t really think about that,” he said. “I just kind of write what I like and let things happen if they’re meant to.”

Equal parts concert, theatrical production, and communal emotional release, Wood’s shows often create a sense of belonging for people who don’t always feel at home elsewhere.

But when Wood takes the stage, he isn’t thinking about the loudest fans in the room.

He’s thinking about the quietest.

“I often perform with my mind set on one guy who maybe doesn’t feel like he’s part of the communal element,” he said. “Maybe he’s even resentful of it; seeing others feel like they belong when he can’t even seem to find his place amongst people who identify as outcasts.”

It’s an empathetic perspective from someone whose public image often leans toward absurdism and spectacle.

“I’ve seen some youngsters at Tapeworms shows let loose in ways where I could tell they don’t normally feel able to,” Wood said. “Getting everyone away from the self-consciousness of the phone panopticon and having written songs they connect with emotionally is something I’m very grateful to be a part of.”

Of course, discussing Will Wood inevitably means exploring the unusual relationship between music and comedy in his work.

“This tour isn’t a comedy tour, it’s just rock shows this time, so for those purposes I’m a musician first,” he said. “If you don’t know that as a live performer I’m a theater guy, with a lot of the theater dedicated to comedy, you miss some of the essence of what I’m doing.”

Then he added perhaps the most candid self-description of his entire career.

“I’m not a brooding tortured rockstar throwing TVs through hotel windows while my managers try to get me doped enough to sing ‘Comfortably Numb,’” he said. “I’m an aging goth who thinks farts are funny.”

There may not be a better summary of the Will Wood experience.

As for what’s next after the anniversary tour wraps up, Wood appeared less interested in discussing future artistic directions than developing increasingly elaborate theories about modern transportation.

“The reason why Tesla drivers are so bad isn’t BMW-style rich guy entitlement or the brain rot that leads someone to being an Elon fanboy,” he said. “It’s because they’re busy. They’re either using self-driving or they’re driving one-handed. I’m certain of it. I’m so certain of it I could write a whole album about it.”

Knowing Will Wood, that album might actually happen. ■

WILL WOOD & THE TAPEWORMS: THE “SELF-ISH” 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

The Big Room, 975 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids Aug. 16, 7 p.m., $50, 18 and older

Thebigroomgr.com, willwood.net

Hit the Highway and HOP ON THE WATER

| by Allison Kay Bannister

Inormally try to keep things close to home, but since we’re talking road trips in this issue (in addition to Best of the West!), let’s go on one.

Did you know you can kayak in Detroit? Not just on the Detroit River, but through the canals (yes, there are canals), into Canadian waters and around an island with a purported curse, and even over to Belle Isle.

I heard about the City’s “Little Venice,” located in the storied Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood a while back and immediately put it on the “must” list. Last year, on Detroit River Sports’ opening day, two friends and I packed up the car and headed east to take the Historic Canal Public Tour with them.

Expert guides led us by kayak through the waters around the area and told stories about the Purple Gang’s villainous escapades, the Fox Indian Massacre, and the canals’ role not only in industry, but also as an Underground Railroad route. We also learned about birds and other wildlife along the way. The tour ended with an exciting bout on the Detroit River itself. Depending on who you talk to, this was either 100% fun, or fun once the sheer terror had passed. It was a bit windy that day!

During that trip, the Peche Isle excursion came up a few

times, so we all decided to go back again this year to do that one. It was a good 15 degrees warmer that day and not quite so blustery, which boded well. My group ended up buying all the tickets for the Sunday morning public paddle, so we had a total takeover. We started out on the canals again, but quickly headed toward the river, only to have to wait a bit for a freighter to pass. Nobody wants to be in that wake!

We also shared the waters with speedboats, sailboats, fishermen, and jet skiers, which meant we had to stick together. This proved challenging for me and I often headed up the rear with a patient guide following behind to make sure I was going to live. (The Detroit River Sports staff are extremely careful and protective of their charges!)

I was relieved when we neared the shore and took a more leisurely course around the island. While Peche Isle is in Canada, since we didn’t disembark, we didn’t need an enhanced driver’s license or passport. We paused in a lagoon, though, and spotted turtles, swans, and bald eagles’ nests. I shook out my tired arms.

This spot was where we also learned about the curse put on the island by Rosalie Laforet, whose family was forced off the land to make way for whiskey baron Hiram Walker’s plans for a massive estate. True to her wishes,

there were many attempts to make something of the property, but over decades, all largely failed. Without any lasting development, the land is now mostly wilderness and home to hordes of native flora and fauna. Nice!

We continued to circle the perimeter until we were facing the US side and ready to head back. I found it to be similarly strenuous, but we remained as a close-knit group and arrived on the other side intact. There was much discussion around which part of our body would hurt the most the next day. But even more about how good we felt to have achieved this difficult feat. It was about four and a half miles in all. My mild struggles considered, I’d still do it again. I might bulk up my biceps a bit first though! But, next year, something different… The Belle Isle trip looks like a full-day adventure, but they also have a Sunset Canal Tour and Full Moon Paddle, both of which sound pretty appealing.

If you decide to go, definitely plan to dine before or after at Coriander Kitchen—a woman-owned restaurant that’s in the marina right next door to Detroit River Sports. The food is spectacular and the vibe is self-described as “drunk grandma”. I’d say that’s pretty accurate!

Get all the info at detroitriversports.com. ■

THE VOTES ARE IN FOR THE 11TH ANNUAL BEST OF THE WEST READERS POLL!

You, the readers, diligently took the time to write in your favs across 135 categories for the first round. We tallied all the submissions up and came out with the Top 3 finalists for each category, then voters picked among those to choose the true Best(s) of the West in the second round.

With so many categories, and so many candidates across West Michigan in each category, it says a lot that so many readers are still willing every year to sit down and go through the voting process to elevate local people and businesses. Especially when there are now quite a few similar polls/surveys around town also asking for your attention (pretty sure we did it first, but it’s fine. It’s fine! Whatever.)

Clearly, Revue readers are passionate about supporting their favorite establishments and the people behind them. When we find something we love, we want more people to know about it, both to share in the joy and, frankly, to make sure they stick around.

So thank you to the thousands of people who voted in both rounds, and congrats to all of our finalists and winners. Coming in Top 3 in any category is a fantastic endorsement when there’s such a wealth of options in West Michigan.

In the following pages, what you’ll find is a list of people and places that—even if they’re not your personal favorite—are considered the best of the best by hundreds of people. And of course, our readers have great taste, so you can trust them.

This year, you also might notice some new faces! We’re always trying to shake things up and stay relevant, so we added 20 new categories:

Best Comedy Club

Best Live Theatre Venue

Best Outdoor Art Show

Best Podcast

Best Visual Artist

Best Kids Activity or Attraction

Best Large-Scale Event Venue

Best Small-Scale Event Venue

Best Mocktails

Best Fine Dining Restaurant

Best Juice & Smoothie Bar

Best Late-Night Bite

Best Boutique Hotel

Best Veterinarian/DVM

Best Waxing

Best Children’s Boutique

Best Chocolate/Candy Shop

Best Jewelry Store

Best Shoe Store

Best Vintage Clothing Store

And we’re already considering new categories for next year! If you have any ideas for a field we should really add, that would have enough options to be viable (Best High Tea Service might be a bit too niche, for example) feel free to reach out.

In the meantime, enjoy reading the results, and consider keeping this issue around in the house for the next time you need a recommendation! We know for a fact all of the local people and places in the pages ahead would love to see you. ■

ArtPrize, The Unicorn Tavern, Long Road Distillers. COURTESY PHOTOS

Dining is a huge part of any place’s culture, and West Michigan is no exception.

While we may not have Kalamazoostyle pizza or Grand Rapids Dogs, we do have olive burgers, wet burritos and windmill cookies (not to mention some of the best Detroit-style pizza and Chicago dogs to be found outside of their hometowns).

Perhaps more importantly, what we have are passionate people working nonstop to up the food game in town. If you look at the list of best restaurants in each city, you’ll see innovative spots like Café Mamo turning whatever amazing seasonal ingredients local farms give them into the menu for the week. You’ll see Unicorn Tavern getting wacky with the aesthetic while making seriously good Belgian-inspired cuisine. You’ll see The Southerner doing a fairly simple menu of fried chicken and Southern specialties right, with deep Appalachian roots transplanted to Michigan soil.

And the scene keeps growing. The top new restaurant this year is Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ, a longtime local food truck that recently settled down with a brick and mortar location in Grandville. Come for the name, stay for the outrageously tender meat and generous sides.

Funnily enough, the two finalists following close behind the barbecue joint are both vegan spots. People love Go Vegan GR’s burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, sloppy joe’s and more, which let you enjoy all the flavor of your favorites without the meat or dairy. Its convenient location in the Downtown Market certainly doesn’t hurt.

BEST RESTAURANT IN GRAND HAVEN

The Unicorn Tavern theunicorntavern.com

Noto’s at the Bil-Mar Snug Harbor

BEST RESTAURANT IN GREATER GRAND RAPIDS

Butcher’s Union butchersuniongr.com

BBQ

Two Scotts Barbecue twoscottsbbq.com

Sweet Racks & Smokin Butts Too Tall’s Tasty Treats

BREAKFAST

Lucy’s lucysgr.com

DONUTS

Marge’s Donut Den margesdonutden.com

Olly’s Donuts

ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS ATTRACTIONS

Cafe Mamo Gin Gin’s

BEST RESTAURANT IN HOLLAND

Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant boatwerksrestaurant.com

Crazy Horse Steak House Hops at 84 East

BEST RESTAURANT IN KALAMAZOO/PORTAGE

Crow’s Nest crowsnestkalamazoo.com

Principle Food & Drink Rustica

BEST RESTAURANT IN MUSKEGON

The Deck thedeckmkg.com

Hearthstone Bistro

Mr. Scrib’s

BEST RESTAURANT IN SAUGATUCK/FENNVILLE

Anna’s House Wolfgang’s Restaurant

BRUNCH

Lucy’s lucysgr.com

Brunch House

The Unicorn Tavern

BURGERS

Black Napkin blacknapkingr.com

Sandy’s Donuts

FINE DINING

Gin Gin’s ginginsgr.com

Grove

Leo’s

FOOD TRUCK

Patty Matters pattymatteres.com

SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING SHOPPING

Stella’s One Stop Coney Shop

CHINESE CUISINE

First Wok firstwokgr.com

Gaslight Kitchen Asian Cuisine Red Bowl

COFFEE SHOP

Neko Taiyaki PizzaMI

FRIED CHICKEN

The Southerner thesouthernermi.com

Cousin’s Tasty Chicken Hancock

FRIES

HopCat hopcat.com

Black Napkin One Stop Coney Shop

HOT DOGS

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & ARTS & ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

The Southerner thesouthernermi.com

Then, FIKA is an ambitious effort from the folks behind Rise Authentic Baking: an entirely vegan AND glutenfree restaurant, market and coffee shop. Located in Creston, this spot has quickly become a neighborhood favorite thanks to breakfast and lunch food that feels and tastes fresh, alongside quality coffee in a bright and playful atmosphere.

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Lantern Coffee Bar lanterncoffee.com

Yesterdog yesterdoggrandrapids.com

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Salt of the Earth

Pennyroyal Café & Provisions

APPETIZERS

San Chez Bistro sanchezbistro.com

Gin Gin’s

The Unicorn Tavern

BAKERY

Nantucket Baking Co. nantucketbaking.com

Chartreuse Sisters Field & Fire

Chartreuse Sisters Scorpion Hearts Club

DESSERTS

Nantucket Baking Co. nantucketbaking.com

Chartreuse Sisters Mokaya

DINER

Matchbox Diner & Drinks

matchboxdiner.com 76 Diner Grand Coney

Blue Dog Tavern One Stop Coney Shop

ICE CREAM/FROZEN TREATS

Frosty Boy Grand Rapids frostyboygr.com

Furniture City Creamery

Love’s Ice Cream

INDIAN CUISINE

Pind Indian Cuisine pindindiancuisinegr.com

Palace of India

Pal’s Indian

Hot Dogs: Yesterdog

Here’s the thing about nostalgia: you can’t manufacture it. Either it happens or it doesn’t. For me, it happens every time my family walks into the place. Our orders vary—I like the cheddar dogs, while my wife is an ultra dog girl—but all of us love the place, the kids included. — John Kissane

Coffee Shop: Qawah House

I first learned about Qawah House when I was visiting the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn a few years ago. They’ve been expanding in Michigan and beyond for several years and made their Grand Rapids debut in 2025. Specializing in Yemeni coffee, beverages, and pastries… okay, they had me at pastries… they serve up flavors you can’t get anywhere else nearby. Give me a Sana’ani Coffee and a slice of sabaya and I will not be mad about anything for days. They’re off E. Beltline in Knapp’s Corner, FYI. — Allison Kay Bannister

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Amore Trattoria Italiana amoretrattoriaitaliana.com

Mangiamo’s Palio

JUICE & SMOOTHIE BAR

Good Judy’s drinkgoodjudys.com

Boochie Bar Fruition

LATE-NIGHT BITE

Yesterdog yesterdoggr.com

Grand Coney Stella’s Lounge

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

Sheshco Mediterranean Grill sheshcogrill.com

Le Kabob Zivio

MEXICAN CUISINE

SANDWICH/DELI

Two Beards Deli twobeardsdeligr.com

Boardwalk Subs Schnitz Deli

SEAFOOD

Leo’s leosrestaurant.com

Fish Lads of Grand Rapids Los Mariscos de Pancho

SOUP

Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop unclecheetahs.com

Horrocks Market Russ’

STEAK

Butcher’s Union butchersuniongr.com

Bowdie’s Chophouse Gin Gin’s

SUSHI

Ginza Sushi & Ramen Bar ginzasushiramen.com

Jaku Sushi & Grill

Maru Sushi

THAI CUISINE

Bangkok Taste Cuisine grbangkoktastecuisine.com

Lai Thai Rak Thai

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN MENU

Good Judy’s drinkgoodjudys.com

FIKA

Go Vegan GR

WINGS

Wing Doozy wingdoozy.com

Mike’s Wings

Wing Kingz

Taqueria Chilango taqueriachilangogr.com

Iker’s Tacos Los Pinches Tacos

MOST INNOVATIVE CUISINE

Grove groverestaurant.com

Mizizi The Unicorn Tavern

NEW RESTAURANT

Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ sweetrackssmokinbutts.com

FIKA Go Vegan GR

PIZZA

The Mitten Brewing Co. mittenbrewing.com

PizzaMI

Quarantino’s

Go Vegan GR, FIKA. COURTESY PHOTOS

People coming together to socialize over beverages—it’s a tale as old as time.

*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.

BEST BAR IN GRAND HAVEN

The Unicorn Tavern theunicorntavern.com

BEST BAR IN SAUGATUCK/FENNVILLE

The Dunes Resort dunesresort.com

CRAFT COCKTAILS

Eastern Kille Wealthy longroaddistillers.com

The Kirby House Tip-A-Few Tavern

BEST BAR IN GREATER GRAND RAPIDS

The Meanwhile meanwhilebar.com

Drip Drop Cocktail Room

The Derby

BEST BAR IN HOLLAND

New Holland Brewing Co. newhollandbrew.com

Phil’s Bar & Grille

Wally’s Bar and Grill

BEER BAR

Logan’s Alley logansalley.com

7 Monks Taproom

The Unicorn Tavern

&

BOURBON

Eastern Kille

Drip Drop Cocktail Room Long Road Distillers

While society is inching away from the necessity of alcohol as the lynchpin of every gathering, the fact remains that we love to come together and hang out while enjoying drinks. Bars are called watering holes for a reason. If we didn’t have this draw, mocktails wouldn’t be such a thing. The people yearn for tasty liquids. Okay, maybe we could have phrased that better, but the point is, bars aren’t going anywhere. There might be fewer people willing to camp out for hours to get a taste of KBS, but local breweries have remained steadfast as community strongholds.

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES EXPERIENCES ARTS

CRAFT LAGER

City Built Brewing Co. - Alemania citybuiltbrewing.com

Cedar Springs Brewing Co. - Küsterer Märzen

Third Nature Brewing Co.

- White Pine Pilsner

DISTILLERY

- Straight Bourbon easternkille.com

EXPERIENCES

Spots like City Built Brewing and Arvon aren’t just pouring great pints, they’re serving quality food and actively creating an exciting space for people to gather.

And besides, some of us are still passionate about craft beer, even if their allotted space on the shelves keeps shrinking. You can pry Beer City, USA from our cold, malty hands.

Of course, beer isn’t all West Michigan does well. We have worldclass distilleries here, served up at lounges staffed by enthusiastic people putting together innovative cocktail programs. We have incredible cider that truly lets the apples from local orchards shine. We have our own wine, made from hundreds of vineyards all along the shores of Lake Michigan. We even have one of the best sports bars in the country in the form of SpeakEZ Lounge.

Whatever you’re drinking, even if it’s just good ol’ H2O, remember that when you’re feeling isolated and seeking connection, every place on this list is a great place to start.

Itty Bitty Bar Hops at 84 East

BEST BAR IN KALAMAZOO/PORTAGE

Bell’s Eccentric Café bellsbeer.com

One Well Brewing Shakespeare’s Pub

BEST BAR IN MUSKEGON

The Deck thedeckmkg.com

Liquid Assets Cocktail & Wine Bar Unruly Brewing Co.

Long Road Distillers - Straight Bourbon Mammoth Distilling - Northern Bourbon

BREWERY

City Built Brewing Co. citybuiltbrewing.com

Arvon Brewing Co.

Founders Brewing Co.

CIDERY

Farmhaus Cider Co. farmhauscider.com

Pux Cider

The Peoples Cider Co.

Eastern Kille easternkille.com

Long Road Distillers

Mammoth Distilling

GAY BAR

The Apartment Lounge apartmentloungegr.com

Rumors Nightclub The Dunes Resort

GIN

Eastern Kille Distillery - Barrel Finished Gin easternkille.com

Long Road Distillers - MICHIGIN

Mammoth Distilling - Gin

Eastern Kille Distillery, Long Road Distillers, Sav Sav, Drip Drop Cocktail Room. COURTESY PHOTOS

STAFF PICKS

Craft Cocktails: Butcher’s Union

The vibes may be 70s inspired but the drinks here are decidedly modern. With a frequently changing menu, I can’t point you to just one cocktail, but I don’t need to—they’re all great, always. I like to sit at the bar and frequently end up chatting with fellow patrons and bartenders while nursing the most bitter drink on the menu, but there’s also plush seating all around and a lovely little patio. — Josh Veal

HAPPY HOUR

Butcher’s Union butchersuniongr.com

Terra The Unicorn Tavern

IPA

Bell’s - Two Hearted bellsbeer.com

Archival Brewing Co. - Fritz’s Folly

City Built Brewing Co. - Fifth Street Hooligans

MIXOLOGIST

Connor Everhart - Drip Drop Cocktail Room dripdropcocktailroom.com

Garry Boyd - The Unicorn Tavern

Josh Nicholson - Grove

MOCKTAILS

Chartreuse Sisters chartreusesisters.com

Drip Drop Cocktail Room Long Road Distillers

SOUR/WILD ALE

City Built Brewing Co.

- Peach Factory citybuiltbrewing.com

Archival Brewing Co. - Kettleena

Speciation Cellars - Incipient

SPORTS BAR

SpeakEZ Lounge speakezlounge.com

Bridge Street Bar The Score

STOUT

New Holland - Dragon’s Milk newhollandbrew.com

Archival Brewing - James’s Gate Third Nature Brewing Co. - Seoul Stout

VODKA

Eastern Kille Distillery - Utility Vodka easternkille.com

Long Road Distillers - Original Vodka

Mammoth Distilling - Vodka

WINE BAR

Chateau Grand Rapids chateaugrandrapids.com

Good Good Good

Sav Sav

WINERY

Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery robinettes.com

Modales Wines

St. Julian Winery

DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING DINING

*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.

Here’s where we put the fun, active stuff you’d go to do with friends and family— places where you get involved and hands-on.

Take bowling, for instance, where Clique Lanes has cleaned up for years thanks to good retro vibes, reliable tech and, perhaps most of all, affordable bowling. But the spacious Northfield and clean, vintage Wengers have been repeat finalists for good reason.

Then there’s the new category, Kids Activity, where John Ball Zoo took first place, which is no surprise considering their consistent additions and renovations bringing in new animals and experiences (and all the cute videos on Insta don’t hurt either). The finalists of course include the GR Children’s Museum, a family favorite for nearly 30 years, and the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden, which just expanded with nine new areas to explore and an ice cream stand.

ANNUAL EVENT/PARTY

ArtPrize artprize.org

Christkindl Markt World of Winter

BOWLING

Clique Lanes cliquelanes.com

Northfield Lanes Wengers Bowling Center

CASINO

Gun Lake Casino gunlakecasino.com

FireKeepers Casino Hotel Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort

FARMERS MARKET

GROUP ACTIVITY

Taste of GR Food Tours tasteofgr.net

Break Room Therapy Tours Around Michigan

KIDS ACTIVITY

John Ball Zoo jbzoo.org

SMALL-SCALE ATTRACTION

Happy Cat Café happycatgr.com

Frederik Meijer Gardens - Lena Meijer Children’s Garden Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

LARGE-SCALE ATTRACTION

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park meijergardens.org

Michigan’s Adventure John Ball Zoo

Break Room Therapy Grand Rapids Game Show

SMALL-SCALE EVENT VENUE

Archival Brewing archivalbrewing.com

2RST The Lit

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

LARGE-SCALE EVENT VENUE

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Fulton Street Market fultonstreetmarket.org

Creston Farmer’s Market

Muskegon Farmer’s Market

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park meijergardens.org

Goei Center St. Cecilia Music Center

And don’t forget the Small-Scale Attractions, including Happy Cat Café , which has become a full-service café (including mocktails), hosts events like Crochet & Play, and has helped nearly 1,000 rescue cats find homes.

Break Room Therapy is a local favorite, because everyone could use some extremely cathartic, stressrelieving smashing in their life— especially nowadays. You won’t realize how badly you needed it until the hammer is in your hands.

Then there’s Grand Rapids Game Show, which lets you experience the excitement of classic TV game shows with your friends and family. If you’ve ever thought “I could do better” while watching Price Is Right, Wheel of Fortune, Family Feud, etc. this is your chance to put that to the test.

STAFF PICKS

Annual Event: Winter Beer Festival

The Winter Beer Fest is such a unique and representative piece of our culture, I hope it never dies. Even if the craft beer craze is far from its peak, the fact remains our community is still anchored by breweries, and there’s nothing more West Michigan than getting together in the dead of winter, outside, no matter the weather, and tasting dozens of different brews while huddled around fire pits. It never gets old. — Josh Veal

Group Activity: Grand Rapids Film Society

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

The local film society has rapidly blossomed into a highlight of my life in GR, consistently offering a chance to see the best cult and classic movies on the big screen, along with themed events, community partnerships and movie trivia in a theater. Am I perhaps a bit biased because my team won the last round? Maybe so. Is that a humblebrag? Don’t worry about it. Everyone reading this should go check out the upcoming slate, because I can guarantee you’ll find a movie you’ve always wanted to see. — Josh Veal

Happy Cat Café, Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. COURTESY PHOTOS Grand Rapids Game Show. PHOTO BY BRYAN ESLER

*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.

Want to know a little secret?

You can shop local for selfish reasons—it doesn’t just have to be about supporting small businesses.

ANTIQUE STORE

Elevated Market elevatedgr.com

BUTCHER

Frank’s Market franksmarketgr.com

FLORIST

Century Antiques Warehouse One

ATHLETIC GOODS STORE

Louise Earl Sobie Meats

CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS

ARTS & EXPERIENCES & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Eastern Floral easternfloral.com

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Gazelle Sports gazellesports.com

ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Hopscotch hopscotchstore.com

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Above all, local is vastly more unique. Your risk of running into someone at a party wearing the exact same shirt as you drops drastically if you’re not shopping at Target. And you can find one-of-a-kind gifts that you know for a fact the recipient won’t have seen in targeted Instagram ads recently.

Then there’s the quality. Not only is it inherently more likely to be better from a local shop, but you can actually touch and feel the thing before committing to it. You might even be able to get the story behind the gift. Where did the materials come from? Who put hours of their life into making it exist? Why are they passionate about it?

You can get recommendations from a fellow human being instead of an AI-powered algorithm. You can get gourmet chocolate made by the person standing in front of you. You can get rare finds that only the shop owner seems to know about.

You can make real connections, embedding yourself into the fabric of the world around you.

And yes, on top of all that, you can put money back into the very same local economy that you’re a part of.

There’s a reason why new stores like Elevated Market, Summit Lane and the aptly named Bring Back Analog are quickly thriving. Go see for yourself.

Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus Striders

BICYCLE SHOP

Grand Rapids Bicycle Co. grandrapidsbicycles.com

Freewheeler

Switchback Gear Exchange

BOOK STORE

Schuler Books schulerbooks.com

Books & Mortar

Cellar Bird Books

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

Magnolia Bridal magnolia-bridal.com

Bridal Elegance

Renee Austin Wedding

Modish Moth Pink Lemonade

CHOCOLATE/CANDY SHOP

Mokaya mokayagr.com

Sticky Fingers Sweetland Candies

COMIC BOOK STORE

Vault of Midnight vaultofmidnight.com

Argos Book Shop Tardy’s Collector’s Corner

CONSIGNMENT STORE

Rock Paper Scissors rpsconsign.com

New 2 You Urban Exchange

Mitten Floral New Design Floral

GIFT SHOP

Rebel rebelgr.com

Black Cat Bodega Commune

GROCERY STORE

Horrocks Market horrocksmarket.com

Martha’s Vineyard Mediterranean Island International Foods

HEALTH FOOD STORE

Harvest Health Foods harvesthealthfoods.com

Health Hutt Nature’s Market

HIKING/OUTDOOR GEAR

Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus billandpauls.com

FERAL

Switchback Gear Exchange

Elevated Market, Black Cat Bodega, Summit Lane Boutique, Mokaya. COURTESY PHOTOS

STAFF PICKS

Vinyl Record Store: Vertigo Records

Vinyl’s immortal. There’s a ritual to it: you slide the record out of the sleeve, carefully set it onto the player, and lower the needle. That’s serious business—and Vertigo Records, church of vinyl, is a serious business, too. Pro tip: pick up Yo La Tengo’s And Then Nothing Turned Itself Inside-Out — John Kissane

Gift Shop: Alive Again

This is by no means your classic gift shop, but it is a great place for gifts nonetheless. Alive Again offers a cornucopia of horror and cult classic physical media, including literally thousands of VHS tapes and DVDs, collectible figurines, shirts, posters, toys, and more, all crammed densely into a little shop in Creston. It’s a treasure trove for lovers of everything spooky, whether that’s yourself or a loved one. — Josh Veal

JEWELRY STORE

DeVries Jewelers

devriesjewelers.com

Dime & Regal

Metal Art Studio

MEN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store fitzs.com

Everywear

New Yorker Menswear

NEW STORE/BUSINESS

Elevated Market elevatedgr.com

Bring Back Analog

Summit Lane Apparel & Gifts

PET STORE

Chow Hound chowhoundpetsupplies.com

Fido & Stitch

Your Pets Naturally

SHOE STORE

Mieras Family Shoes mierasfamilyshoes.com

Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store VanHoecks Footwear

SHOPPING DISTRICT/DESTINATION

Uptown Grand Rapids uptowngr.com

Breton Village Rockford

SPECIALTY BEVERAGE SHOP

Martha’s Vineyard mvwines.com

More or Less

Siciliano’s Market

VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE

Elevated Market elevatedgr.com

Rewind

Zabhaz

VINYL RECORD STORE

Vertigo Music vertigomusic.gr

Corner Record Shop Vinyl Alchemy

WOMEN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Leigh’s leighsfashions.com

Covet

Summit Lane Boutique

*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.

LDJ: Redd Marasigan

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS & ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

et’s be real: in West Michigan, we’re spoiled with arts and entertainment choices. Bliss out for days at Electric Forest , perennial home to EDM, jam bands, and body paint. It’s a commitment, but it’s also an unbeatable experience.

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre continues to stage funny, moving, and exciting theater. Their all-killerno-filler 100th season doesn’t start until September, but passes are available now. While you wait, why not see The Odyssey in airconditioned Celebration! Cinema North ?

Hilarious shows at The Comedy Project ; cover songs by Trixy Tang ; or a leisurely stroll through Grand Rapids Art Museum , where there’s always a new exhibition to see: whatever you’re in the mood for, West Michigan has it. Then we have artists like Rhythm Therapy Band , who also perform as an Alice In Chains tribute act. Their blend of rock, funk, blues, soul, and improvisational musicianship has earned them a devoted audience all throughout the region.

ART GALLERY

ArtRat Gallery

artratgallery.com

Cocoon Art Space Lafontsee Galleries

COMEDY CLUB

The Comedy Project thecomedyproject.com

Back Alley Comedy Club Dr. Grins

COVER BAND

Trixy Tang trixytang.com

Project 90 Onager

DJ Adrian Butler (AB) everythingab.com

DJ John E Keller Shaw

LIVE MUSIC VENUE

The Pyramid Scheme pyramidschemebar.com

GLC Live at 20 Monroe The Intersection

LIVE THEATRE VENUE

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre grct.org

DeVos Performance Hall Park Theatre

MOVIE THEATER

Celebration! Cinema North celebrationcinema.com

Sperry’s Moviehouse Studio Park

MUSEUM

Grand Rapids Public Museum grpm.org

Grand Rapids Art Museum

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Electric Forest electricforest.com

Breakaway

Upheaval

OUTDOOR ART SHOW

ArtPrize

artprize.org

Fallasburg Arts Festival World of Winter

ORIGINAL BAND

Rhythm Therapy Band facebook.com/rhythmtherapy21

Desmond Jones Phabies

PERFORMING ARTS GROUP

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre grct.org

Grand Rapids Ballet

Muskegon Civic Theatre

PODCAST

Bad Idea Social Club badideasocialclub.com

Buck$ & Brew$

Mitten Music

SOLO MUSICIAN

May Erlewine mayerlewine.com

Evelyine Gunnar Thorn

VISUAL ARTIST

Chapel of Ghouls Instagram.com/chapel0fghouls

Burn Out Bright Creative

Son Visual

Redd Marasigan, the namesake behind Adobo Boy GR – Filipino Food and the inspiration for the GR Asian-Pacific Festival, is a rising star who’s been in the spotlight for years. He’s been the DJ for Maranda Park Parties since he was nine and is entering his fourth season this summer. If you’re out and about at an event, there’s a good chance you’ll see him behind the turntable. Seriously, this kid is fire. — Allison Kay Bannister

Live Music Venue: Glow Hall

While bigger venues often grab the headlines, it’s the smaller rooms that truly shape a music scene, and few places embody that spirit better than Glow Hall in downtown Kalamazoo. The all-ages venue and creative space has quickly established itself as a home for live music, film, art, and community gatherings, while remaining firmly rooted in a DIY ethos. More than just a place to catch a show, Glow Hall serves as an incubator for emerging artists to find their voice and connect with audiences. — Eric Mitts

*Each category lists the winner with two finalists listed alphabetically below.

As much as we celebrate arts and entertainment here, none of it would be possible without the people who make the world go ‘round.

We mean the ones who know exactly how we like our hair, who work to make us feel relaxed and stress-free at the spa, who take care of our furry friends and help us find a home. Really, they’re the people who take care of us, and help us become our best selves.

These categories are about relationships. They’re the kinds of services that spread mainly by word of mouth, because we need to hear they can truly be trusted before we put our appearance/health/homes into their hands. To be chosen by so many Revue readers out of the many, many options across West Michigan is a truly impressive endorsement. They should be proud, and you should be interested.

BARBER SHOP

Essentials Barber Studio instagram.com/essentialsbarberstudio

King Kuts Barbershop Punch Up Barber Shop

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

CityFlatsHotel cityflatshotel.com

Ada Hotel Hotel Rose

CANNABIS RETAILER JARS

jarscannabis.com Lume

Pharmhouse Wellness

CATERING COMPANY

Martha’s Catering marthascatering.com

EVENT PLANNING

Meijer Gardens Culinary Arts & Events meijergardens.org

Luxe Events (Kelsey Brotherton) The Lit

FITNESS CLUB/GYM

MVP Sportsplex mvpsportsclubs.com

CKO Kickboxing Pure Barre

HAIR SALON

Lilith’s Lair lilthslairgr.com

Coiffeteria

Barber Shop: Foremost Barbershop

I almost hesitate to tell more people about this place, thus leading to appointments filling up faster, but I’ve decided to be selfless today. I head here once a month for my trim and not only have great conversations, but leave with a do that gets me compliments every time (and the music is always killer too). Plus, One Stop Coney Shop is next door, making for the perfect postcut lunch. —

Josh Veal

Kangaroo Kitchen & Catering Gilmore Catering

CBD RETAILER JARS

jarscannabis.com

CBD Store of Michigan Pharmhouse Wellness

CHEF

Amore Trattoria Italiana - Jenna Arcidiacono amoretrattoriaitaliana.com

Kyle Murray - One Eyed Pete’s Michael Goessman - Cafe Mamo

DAY SPA

The Sandbar Esthetics & Spa sandbarspraytan.com

Design 1

Eloquent Esthetics

TATTOO SHOP

Sovereign Arms Tattoo Co. sovereignarmstattoogr.com

Balm Tattooing Copper Coin

VET/ANIMAL CLINIC

ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & ARTS ARTS & ARTS & EXPERIENCES ARTS & EXPERIENCES

Palace Flophouse

INTERIOR DESIGN

Lynn Hollander Design lynnhollanderdesign.com

Kathryn Chaplow

Monarch Homes

LAW FIRM

Varnum LLP varnumlaw.com

SBBL Law

Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

PHOTOGRAPHER

Leigh Ann Cobb leighanncobb.com

Jake Orr Photography NissaJ Photography + Film

REALTOR

Garrett Senters garrettsenters.com

Dan Farkas

Pete Bruinsma

Family Friends Veterinary Hospital familyfriendsvet.com

Eastown Veterinary Clinic Plymouth Road Animal Clinic

VETERINARIAN/DVM

Dr. Leah Williams (Family Friends Veterinary Hospital) familyfriendsvet.com

Dr. Kelli Davis (Family Friends Veterinary Hospital)

Dr. Meghan Swayman (Eastown Veterinary Clinic)

WAXING

Sassafras Salon sassafrassalons.com

Eloquent Esthetics The Sandbar Esthetics & Spa

WELLNESS CENTER

Rooted in Wellness rootedinwellnessri.wixsite.com/ rootedinwellness

Freedom Functional Medicine The Sandbar Esthetics & Spa

YOGA STUDIO

Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse yogahothouse.com

Kula Yoga Yogi Union

BRYANNA MANNING:

Painting the Heart of Lake Michigan

| by John Kissane

Eaton Rapids, MI (population: 5200 or so), holds a unique place geographically: it’s further from any great lake than any other city in the state of Michigan.

So it wasn’t inevitable that Bryanna Manning, who was raised there, would grow up to paint Lake Michigan. Still, there were family camping trips to the lake, and that helped plant the seed. But it wasn’t until she attended Hope College, located near the lakeshore, that she fell head over heels for it. She scheduled her classes in the morning so she’d have time to hit the lake in the afternoon.

She was at Hope to study art; in time, though, she found herself getting disillusioned. “I didn’t think I’d ever sell my artwork,” she said. “I didn’t see a way to make my living selling art.” She put down her paintbrush and entered the adult world. She married. She had kids. And, 10 years or so after college, she found herself picking up her paintbrush again.

She decided not to overthink it. She’d paint what she loved, and if it sold, it sold; if not, not. Gratifyingly, the work did find its audience, and she began to make a name for herself. Now through September 4th, her exhibition Mother Lake can be seen at Saugatuck’s Center For The Arts.

Twenty-two paintings, all created within the past two years constitute the exhibition, tracing a journey to the lakeside. “I wanted it to feel like this journey. You’re walking through the woods down to the lake. Throughout, I’m drawing on childhood memories, an age when you’re still exploring, discovering, making core memories.” Having children of her own allowed her to view the lake both from her own vantage and that of her children.

The paintings have been compared to Monet’s haystacks. The comparison makes sense: there is an impressionistic quality to the paintings, a capturing of light and color quite distinct from what a photograph can do. And, as with Monet’s work, there’s an acknowledgment that time of day and of year impact how the lake is seen. Things look different at noon than they do at dusk, and different in February than they do in September.

“It’s always beautiful,” she said. “And it’s always a little different. I feel endlessly inspired to keep trying to capture these aspects.” In making these paintings, she often traveled to the lake, coming at different times, soaking up the experience. Often, she would work from photos she had taken, but being there to take them, and experiencing the lake in person, was a key element.

Part of the joy of her work is that they’re committedly paintings; there’s a texture to them, discernible online but better experienced in person. “I like seeing the work of actual hands in art,” she said. “I like the physicality of it. I include a lot of texture, very layered textured. Yes, these things we’re seeing are in nature, but there’s also the hand of an artist behind it. I think this is even more important now. There’s so much talk about art produced by AI, but AI can’t do this.”

The work evokes memory. And there’s a peaceful, even benevolent quality to the paintings. (One painting is titled “Peaceful Love,” a reference to Bon Iver’s song “Everything Is Peaceful Love”). The word viewers keep using with Manning is “warm.” “‘It feels really warm,’ they tell me. That was by design. We even painted the walls creamy white. There’s this hint of goodness.” She hopes that the work inspires a feeling of gratitude in the viewers for all that the lake provides.

Asked why people should bother seeing this work in person, she says, “To me, it’s the same question you could ask about anything. Why go and do anything in person? Why go outside? Why not just look at pictures of mountains on your computer? Because in person, you can actually experience something. You can actually engage with it.” When she looks at paintings in person, she’s thinking about the artist: how did they do it? How did they come to that decision? She’s reconstructing the journey of a mind as the canvas was filled.

Regardless of whether viewers of the exhibition takes the time to think about why Manning made the decisions she did, they’ll find themselves transported into a slower, more peaceful world, the dreamlike, beautiful world of Lake Michigan. ■

SC4A SUMMER EVENTS sc4a.org

June 19th-July 12th, Into The Woods

Master composer Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Awardwinning musical brings to life the fairy tales we all know and love: Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and more. Starring Broadway performers but choreographed, directed, and staged in West Michigan, this will be a must-see performance.

August 7th-30th, Once

A Dublin busker meets a Czech woman come together over a shared love of music in this Tony Award-winning musical based on a beloved 2017 film. As with Into The Woods , the production will feature professional actors and will be brought to life here in West Michigan.

Artist-Led Classes and Workshops

Bryanna Manning and Artist in Residence Jaer Medina will conduct upcoming classes and workshops at the center. Check them out at sc4a.org/ adult-programming.

Center (On)

On the fourth Friday of each month, SC4A hosts a breakfast centering on exhibitions, performances, markets, and more. The cost is $10 for nonmembers, free for members. Details can be found on the center’s website.

The Waves Rolln’, A Little Ditty, Peaceful Love, Dune View, Hideaway. ARTWORK BY BRYANNA MANNING

| by Revue Staff

JULY/AUGUST

AVENUE FOR THE ARTS

106 Gallery

106 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids avenueforthearts.co

FIRST FRIDAYS, July 3, Aug. 7

BARN THEATRE

13351 West M-96, Augusta barntheatreschool.org

1776, Through July 5

DISNEY’S FROZEN, July 9-19

RENT, July 23-Aug. 2

DRIVING MISS DAISY, Aug. 6-16

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, Aug. 20-30

BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS

122 Lyon St. NW, Grand Rapids grandrapids.broadway.com

THE GREAT GATSBY, July 21-26

CIRCLE THEATRE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

1703 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids circletheatre.org

NEWSIES, July 9-25

NANA’S NAUGHTY KNICKERS, Aug. 6-22

FARMERS ALLEY THEATRE KALAMAZOO

221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo farmersalleytheatre.com

DEAR EVAN HANSEN, July 9-26

FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS

1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids meijergardens.org

CHIHULY AT MEIJER GARDENS, Through Nov. 1

SUNDAY STRINGS, Through August

GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM

101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org

THURSDAYS ON THE TERRACE, Through Aug. 27

THE SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE:

ARTISTS’ REFLECTIONS ON FREEDOM, Through Aug. 2 THE MATTER OF AWE: LANDSCAPES IN ART, Through Aug. 16

DECADENT SPIRIT: FRENCH ART

AT TURN OF THE CENTURY, Through Sept. 6

GATHERING LIGHT: THE JACK H. MILLER

GLASS COLLECTION, Through Sept. 13

KAREL APPEL: START AGAIN LIKE A CHILD, Aug. 5-Nov. 1

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY

300 Ottawa Ave. NW Ste. 100, Grand Rapids grsymphony.org

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA, July 4

JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT, July 9

STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK IN CONCERT, July 23

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS 314 South Park St., Kalamazoo kiarts.org

WEST MICHIGAN AREA SHOW, Through Sep. 27

FROM COBALT TO INDIGO: THE POWER OF BLUE IN EAST ASIA, Through July 12 FOR THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE: AMERICA AT 250, Through Oct. 4

RESILIENCE-A SANSEI SENSE OF LEGACY, Aug. 8-Nov. 1

KALAMAZOO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 100, Kalamazoo kalamazoosymphony.com

PATRIOTIC POPS AT PORTAGE, July 1

PATRIOTIC POPS AT BRONSON PARK, July 2

IMPROV MEETS SYMPHONY, July 9-10

KSO BY CANDLELIGHT: 80S & MORE, July 15

LOWELLARTS

223 W. Main St., Lowell lowellartsmi.org

TRILOGY, Through July 11

SIZZLIN’ SUMMER CONCERT SERIES, Through Aug. 13

MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART

296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon muskegonartmuseum.org

LET’S PICNIC: THE KNOP COLLECTION OF HERMAN MILLER POSTERS, Through Sep. 13

MATERIAL WORLD: TEN WOMEN, Through Aug. 23

HERSTORY OF ANIMATION, Through Sep. 27

OX-BOW SCHOOL OF ART

3435 Rupprecht Way, Saugatuck ox-bow.org

OUT IN THE FIELD: OUT IN THE FIELD: THE EXPANDED PLEIN AIR, THROUGH Sept. 28

FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN STUDIOS, July 24, Aug. 7 & 21

SUNDAY SOJOURN, Aug. 9

CREATING (IN) COMMUNITY DAY, Aug. 15

SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

400 Culver St., Saugatuck sc4a.org

INTO THE WOODS, Through July 12

ONCE, Aug. 7-30

MOTHER LAKE, Through Sept. 4

AT THE EDGE OF THE MARKET, Through Sept. 11

AN EVENING OF SONG WITH LAURA BELL BUNDY, July 17-18

CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JEREMY VERWYS, July 23-24

ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER

24 Ransom Ave. NE, Grand Rapids scmc-online.org

BEER CITY WINDS, July 16

/// ATTRACTIONS & EXPERIENCES

CHOOSE YOUR OWN WEST MICHIGAN

S| by Josh Veal

ummer means adventure—getting out there and experiencing all the world has to offer.

Now that we’re all thoroughly thawed out from the long Michigan winters, we’re ready to leave the house and explore. That means zoos, go-karts, mini golf, museums, skydiving, escape rooms and so much more.

Whether you’re looking for a quick family outing or heading out with the whole friend group in tow, there’s something for you in West Michigan. Here are a few recommendations for your next adventure.

FAMILY FUN

JOHN BALL ZOO

1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids / jbzoo.org

A West Michigan favorite for generations, John Ball Zoo continues to give visitors plenty of reasons to come back. Along with seeing animals from around the world, guests can explore updated habitats, seasonal events, and special experiences like Twilight Tours and behind-the-scenes encounters.

For a more hands-on visit, the zoo also offers activities including camel rides, ziplining, a ropes course, pygmy hippo feedings, and sloth encounters.

MICHIGAN’S ADVENTURE

4750 Whitehall Rd., Muskegon / miadventure.com

Michigan’s Adventure combines two classic summer attractions in one location: an amusement park and a water park. Visitors can spend the day riding roller coasters, enjoying family rides, cooling off in the wave pool, or taking a break with food and drinks.

With more than 60 attractions, including seven roller coasters, the park offers options for thrill seekers and families alike. Guests can choose from day tickets, season passes, group pricing, and add-ons like cabana rentals and Fast Lane access.

NELIS’ DUTCH VILLAGE

12350 James St., Holland / dutchvillage.com

Nelis’ Dutch Village offers a family-friendly look at Dutch culture and traditions through rides, demonstrations, food, and activities. Visitors can ride the windmill Ferris wheel, visit farm animals, shop for wooden shoes, and try making traditional stroopwafel cookies. The village also features the new Tulip Tower, along with longtime favorites like the wooden shoe slide and golden angel street organ.

EDU-TAINMENT

AIR ZOO AEROSPACE & SCIENCE MUSEUM

6151 Portage Road, Portage / airzoo.org

The Air Zoo combines aviation history, science, and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. The museum features more than 100 air and space artifacts, historic aircraft, flight simulators, and hands-on learning experiences. Visitors can also experience indoor amusement rides, full-motion flight simulators, and unique programs like overnight adventures beneath an SR-71B Blackbird.

GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM

272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids / grpm.org

The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers a mix of local history, science, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore changing displays, see the iconic carousel, visit the current Backyard Adventures and Unseen Oceans exhibits, and take in a show at the planetarium. It’s a destination that works equally well for longtime residents looking for something new or visitors building a West Michigan itinerary.

FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK

1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids / meijergardens.org

At Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, art and nature come together across 158 acres of indoor and outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore gardens, sculptures, the tropical conservatory, and seasonal exhibits.

The Japanese Garden and Children’s Garden—which has been newly expanded with nine new areas and an ice cream stand—offer different ways to experience the property, making it a destination that appeals to both art lovers and families.

NATURE’S PLAYGROUND

CANNONSBURG SKI AREA

6800 Cannonsburg Rd. NE, Belmont / cannonsburg.com

Known for winter skiing and snowboarding, Cannonsburg offers plenty to do once the snow melts, too. Summer visitors can explore the trails by bike, walk, or run before stopping at The Sweet Spot for ice cream, Dole Whips, microbrews, and seasonal food events. It’s an easy way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the Grand Rapids area.

BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER

2715 Leonard St. NW, Grand Rapids / blandfordnaturecenter.org

Blandford Nature Center provides a quiet escape just minutes from the city. The 264-acre property includes eight miles of trails through forests, wetlands, and meadows, along with historic buildings, a working farm, and wildlife ambassadors including owls and turtles. Seasonal events, educational programs, and hands-on experiences make it a destination for visitors of all ages.

SAUGATUCK DUNE RIDES

6495 Blue Star Hwy., Saugatuck / saugatuckduneride.com

For a unique Lake Michigan experience, Saugatuck Dune Rides offers open-air tours through the area’s dunes. The 40-minute ride combines scenic views with plenty of twists, turns, and steep climbs. Along the way, guides share stories about the area’s history, landscape, and local folklore.

THREE HOURS OR LESS

TASTE OF GR FOOD

TOURS

tasteofgr.net

A food tour offers a different way to experience Grand Rapids, whether you’re new to the city or have lived here for years. Guests visit local restaurants, learn about the city’s food scene, and hear stories from the people behind the businesses. It’s a chance to explore neighborhoods, discover new favorites, and experience the city through its food.

BREAK ROOM THERAPY

7988 Clyde Park Ave. SW, Byron Center / breakroomtherapy.com

Break Room Therapy offers a different kind of stress relief: breaking things. The West Michigan rage room gives guests the opportunity to safely smash glass, electronics, and other objects with protective equipment provided. It’s an unusual group activity, whether you’re looking for a unique night out or simply want to try something different.

ABANDONED ACRES ESCAPE ROOMS

450 S. State St., Sparta / abandonedacresescaperooms.com

Located in Sparta, Abandoned Acres Escape Rooms offers immersive puzzle experiences for groups looking for a challenge. Originally known for its haunted attraction, the business has expanded into year-round escape rooms with detailed themes and storylines. With multiple rooms to choose from, including Jurassic Island, visitors have the chance to work together, solve puzzles, and beat the clock.

GETTING ACTIVE

TREERUNNER GRAND RAPIDS ADVENTURE PARK

2121 Celebration Dr. NE, Grand Rapids / treerunnerparks.com

TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park offers a challenge for visitors looking to get moving. The aerial adventure course features zip lines and obstacles spread across different trails, heights, and difficulty levels. Before starting, guests receive safety training and remain harnessed throughout the experience, making it accessible for beginners while still offering challenges for experienced climbers.

ALLEGAN EVENT

439 River St., Allegan / alleganevent.com

Allegan Event brings adventure activities indoors and outdoors with climbing, ziplining, and obstacle courses. Attractions include the Sky Trail ropes course, Sky Tour Zip Line, QUICKjump free-fall simulation, climbing walls, and an outdoor zip line over the Kalamazoo River. There’s also an arcade, making it an option for groups and families looking for a variety of activities.

MUSKEGON LUGE ADVENTURE SPORTS PARK

462 N. Scenic Dr., Muskegon / msports.org

The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park offers activities throughout the year, including summer options like ziplining, rock climbing, archery, and Trail Quest, a treasure hunt-style adventure game. Of course, the luge is the signature attraction, but visitors can easily spend several hours exploring everything the park has to offer. ■ Michigan’s Adventure, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. COURTESY PHOTOS

LAKESHORE TRAVEL GUIDE

| by Revue Staff

There’s something magical about a West Michigan summer, everyone flocks to the beaches and their nearby lake towns, each offering its own perfect getaway. From waterfront walks and sandy dunes to charming downtowns, local restaurants, breweries and outdoor adventures, the communities along the coast make it easy to plan a day trip—or a full weekend escape. Here are a few places to explore, starting in Grand Haven and heading north.

GRAND HAVEN

With its iconic pier, sandy beaches and postcard-perfect lighthouse, Grand Haven has long been one of West Michigan’s favorite summer destinations. The waterfront is the heart of the city, where visitors can stroll the boardwalk, watch boats cruise through the channel, and catch the nightly musical fountain show during the summer months.

Downtown Grand Haven is made for wandering, with boutique shops, galleries, cafés and plenty of places to grab a bite. History lovers can explore the Tri-Cities Historical Museum, while outdoor enthusiasts can hit the trails at Rosy Mound Natural Area or bike along the Lakeshore Trail.

When it’s time to eat and drink, check out local favorites like The Kirby House , Butch’s Beach Burritos and Morning Star Café . Or see for yourself why exactly there’s such a long line for Pronto Pop (it’s well worth the wait). For a local brew, stop by Grand Armory Brewing , Odd Side Ales or Burzurk Brewing . And, of course, no trip is complete without a walk along the pier to see the lighthouse glowing against a Lake Michigan sunset.

The summer is the perfect time to visit not just for the beach, but events like Walk the Beat , a free street music festival on Saturday, August 8, featuring 50 bands, food trucks, a raffle and more.

MUSKEGON

Just north of Grand Haven, Muskegon offers a little bit of everything: beaches, history, outdoor adventures and a growing food and arts scene. The city’s waterfront has transformed into one of the region’s most exciting destinations, with museums, parks and attractions all within easy reach.

Spend a day exploring the sandy shores of Pere Marquette Park , climb the dunes at Muskegon State Park , or learn about the area’s maritime history at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum . Families can also visit the Lakeshore Museum Center or enjoy a ride at the nearby Michigan’s Adventure , a full day of thrills with roller coasters and a water park. Downtown Muskegon is increasingly full of energy, with restaurants, breweries and entertainment venues like the Frauenthal Center, a historic theater hosting performances throughout the year. For drinks, check out Pigeon Hill Brewing , Unruly Brewing and Rake Beer Project . For dining, consider The Valkyrie , Walker’s and Hearthstone Bistro Or head out to the lakeshore for The Deck , a beachfront favorite.

WHITE LAKE

A short drive inland from the lakeshore, the White Lake area—home to Whitehall and Montague—offers a relaxed summer escape filled with small-town charm, scenic views and outdoor fun. The area sits along White Lake , a beautiful waterway connecting to Lake Michigan, making it perfect for boating, kayaking and fishing.

Take a walk across the historic White River Light Station , explore the shops and restaurants downtown, or spend an afternoon enjoying the trails and natural beauty of the area. The Hart-Montague Bicycle Trail State Park is nearby, offering a peaceful ride through forests and countryside.

For a dose of local flavor, visit the The Playhouse at White Lake , a historic performing arts venue, or stop by the charming stores and cafés scattered throughout the community. Grab a meal at places like The Book Nook & Java Shop or Pekadill’s , then unwind with a drink from local favorites like Fetch Brewing Company.

SILVER LAKE

Further north, Silver Lake is home to classic summer adventures. Known for its massive sand dunes and off-road excitement, this lakeshore destination brings a little more adrenaline to the beach getaway.

The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are the star attraction, where visitors can hike, climb, ride ORVs and take in sweeping views of Lake Michigan. Or you can stay in town with a visit to the original Craig’s Cruisers , a family fun center offering go karts, mini golf, an arcade and more. For a slower pace, enjoy a day at Silver Lake State Park, rent a kayak, or simply relax on the beach and watch the sunset.

The nearby towns of Hart and Mears offer easy stops for food, shopping and local treats. Pick up a sweet snack at Cherry Point Farm & Market , explore the famous herb garden and labyrinth, or cool down with ice cream after a day in the dunes. For a casual meal, check out spots like Golden Sands Bucket Bar & Grill or Michigan Base Camp ■

Rake Beer Project, Hearthstone Bistro, Craig’s Cruisers, The Deck, The Playhouse at White Lake.