Find Hotel Deals in Grand Rapids (GRR)

In Grand Rapids proper, the greatest concentration of hotels is located just north of the airport. A large shopping center, numerous restaurants and a few family attractions line 28th Street SE, along which most of the airport hotels are located. You can find remarkably cheap hotel deals in Grand Rapids by checking the accommodations in this area, but since it’s not centrally located, you should only stay here if you plan to have access to a car.

There are also several hotels in Downtown Grand Rapids, including the city’s most famous and luxurious properties. Downtown sits on a scenic waterfront where you can find the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Gerald Ford Museum, Calder Plaza and several of the city’s other top sites.
Many visitors to Grand Rapids plan to spend at least a portion of their time on the Lake Michigan beaches less than 20 miles to the west. If a beach resort is more to your liking, look into the broad range of accommodations between the lakefront cities of Muskegon, to Grand Rapids’ northwest, and Holland, to its southwest.

Any type of lodging experience is possible in Grand Rapids. Elegant, classic luxury suites and state-of-the-art five star lofts can be found Downtown, and comfortable family hotels at all price levels are located throughout the city. Clean, low-frills motels make this in-demand getaway destination accessible with even the most modest travel budget.

Grand Rapids also has a decent selection of resorts both within the city limits and in the surrounding area. The largest resorts have incredible amenities like indoor water parks and golf packages, but there are several smaller fishing resorts and family-run retreats that let you relax on the shores of Lake Michigan or Grand Rapids’ smaller lakes.

If you’d like more privacy than a hotel can offer, look into the area’s vast selection of rental homes, condos and cabins, many of which have professional resort management.

Grand Rapids’ crown jewel is the regal Amway Grand Plaza. The property opened in 1913 as The Pantlind, which became known as one of the nation’s finest hotels by the 20s. Extensive renovations to the historic structure plus the construction of the state-of-the-art Glass Tower addition ensures that the Amway Grand Plaza’s guests enjoy comfortable, modern accommodations as well as all the charm and allure of the original hotel. In addition to some of the city’s best rooms, a stay in this gem grants you access to a tranquil spa, a sleek fitness center and multiple fine dining options.
Another Downtown hotspot is the JW Marriott Grand Rapids, the first JW Marriott Hotel in the Midwest. Its distinctive curved tower is a focal point in the Grand Rapids skyline, and its interiors are just as visually appealing; each floor has a theme based on one of Grand Rapids’ sister cities, including destinations in Ghana, Italy, Japan, Mexico and Poland.

If you’re traveling with kids, they’re bound to stay entertained at the Grand Rapids Holiday Inn Express South. It’s the home of The Big Dip, a three-story indoor water park with a double figure-eight waterslide and a towering jungle gym packed with fountains and water cannons. Other amenities at this family-friendly hotel include a free daily breakfast buffet and complimentary wireless Internet access in the lobby.

Near the airport, the Country Inn & Suites Grand Rapids offers exceptionally spacious rooms, including a few whirlpool suites. Free shuttle rides to and from the airport, a large indoor swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness center are a few of its major perks.

The best way to explore Grand Rapids is by car, as driving and parking are generally easy and the city’s mass transit system is limited in scope. A handful of national car rental agencies operate from within Gerald R. Ford International Airport, making it easy to rent a car right after your flight to Grand Rapids.

If you’re staying in Downtown Grand Rapids, you may be more inclined to use the city’s bus system, called “The Rapid.” The Downtown terminal is the most convenient point of departure. Downtown is also very walkable, and pedicabs sometimes patrol the area during pleasant weekend evenings and festivals.
Taxis are available, but you should expect to have to call for one if you need a ride. Cabs rarely patrol for fares, except during major events and around closing time in the nightlife districts.