Wyoming is a charming suburb located just southwest of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Known for its quaint neighborhoods, abundant parks and recreational spaces, and lively downtown, Wyoming offers visitors plenty of things to see and do.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Browse Artisans Market | Explore a market with over 100 vendors offering handmade goods, with live music and art demos. |
| Tour Downtown Wyoming | Discover historic buildings, unique shops, and local eateries in the quaint downtown area. |
| Hike in Lane Forest Parks | Enjoy nature trails through over 200 acres of forests, with wildlife and scenic views. |
| Learn at Meyer May House | Tour a Frank Lloyd Wright house, showcasing his Prairie style architecture. |
| Visit Boulder Ridge Animal Park | Encounter exotic animals in naturalistic habitats, offering hands-on experiences. |
| Golf at Egypt Valley Country Club | Play golf on a scenic championship course with challenging features. |
| Watch Baseball at Fifth Third Park | Experience a game at the ballpark, home to the West Michigan Whitecaps. |
| Explore the Fire Station Museum | Delve into the history of Wyoming’s fire department with vintage exhibits. |
| Play Mini Golf at Air Zoo | Enjoy a unique aeronautic-themed mini golf experience next to an aerospace museum. |
| Hike the Plaster Creek Trail | Traverse a multi-use trail connecting to natural and urban environments. |
| Observe the Purple Martin Roost | Witness thousands of migrating purple martins at this city-owned green space. |
| Attend a City-Hosted Event | Participate in community events throughout the year, celebrating local culture and community. |
From exploring the outdoors at one of the city’s many parks to learning about local history at a museum to dining at one of downtown’s delicious restaurants, Wyoming caters to a variety of interests. Read on for 12 of the top things to do when visiting Wyoming, Michigan.
1.Browse Artisans Market
Name and Location: Artisans Market, located in the heart of Downtown Wyoming, Michigan.
History and Significance: The Artisans Market has been a staple of the Wyoming community for over a decade, providing a platform for local artists and craftspeople to showcase and sell their unique, handmade creations.
What to Expect: Visitors to the Artisans Market can browse a wide variety of locally-made products, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, textiles, and more. The market features both indoor and outdoor spaces, with live music and food vendors often present.
Visitor Information: The Artisans Market is open every Saturday from May through October, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Admission is free, and parking is available in nearby lots and on the street. The market is located on the corner of 28th Street and Michael Avenue SW in Downtown Wyoming.
The Wyoming Artisans Market is a must-visit destination for those who love supporting local businesses and artists. Open on Saturdays from May through October, the outdoor market features over 100 vendors selling handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, garden art, baked goods and more.
Enjoy live music as you browse the booths, stopping to watch artists give live glass blowing, painting, and pottery wheel demonstrations. The vibrant, community-focused venue is a great place to pick up unique, locally made souvenirs and gifts.
2.Tour Downtown Wyoming
Name and Location: Downtown Wyoming, located in the center of Wyoming, Michigan.
History and Significance: Downtown Wyoming has been the commercial and cultural heart of the city since its incorporation in 1959. The area features a mix of historic buildings and modern developments, reflecting the city’s growth and evolution over time.
What to Expect: A tour of Downtown Wyoming offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s unique architecture, local businesses, and public art installations. Highlights include the historic Wyoming Public Library, the Wyoming Village Shopping Center, and the 28 West mixed-use development.
Visitor Information: Downtown Wyoming is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available in public lots and on the street. The area is also served by the Wyoming/Kentwood Area Transit (WKAT) bus system. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour using maps available at the Wyoming Public Library or join a guided tour offered by the Wyoming Historical Commission.
Charming downtown Wyoming features quaint, historic buildings housing an array of shops, restaurants, and businesses. Pop into boutiques like Bleu Door Boutique for stylish women’s clothing or Blue Dog Paint & Decorating to peruse the extraordinary selection of Benjamin Moore paint colors.
Grab a scoop of creamy gelato at voltages Gelato Bar or a made-to-order sandwich stuffed with quality ingredients at Groskopf’s Deli. Many of the buildings in downtown date back to the early 20th century, retaining the small-town feel Wyoming is known for.
3.Hike in Lane Forest Parks
Name and Location: Lane Forest Parks, located throughout Wyoming, Michigan.
History and Significance: The Lane Forest Parks system was established in the 1970s to preserve and protect natural areas within the city of Wyoming. The parks offer residents and visitors a chance to enjoy outdoor recreation and connect with nature in an urban setting.
What to Expect: Hikers in the Lane Forest Parks can explore a variety of trails ranging from easy, paved paths to more challenging, rugged terrain. The parks feature diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and prairies, and are home to a wide range of plant and animal species.
Visitor Information: The Lane Forest Parks are open daily from dawn to dusk, with no admission fee. Parking is available at trailheads and designated areas within the parks. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and bring water and insect repellent. Maps and trail guides are available at the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department office.
Boasting over 200 acres of wooded trails, the Lane Forest Parks offer the perfect spot to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city. Lace up your hiking boots and choose between two parks–Lane Forest West and Lane Forest East–connected by a trail running beneath Byron Center Ave.
Wind your way over hills thick with towering oaks and maples, catching glimpses of streams, marshes, and ponds along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, foxes, and songbirds as you explore.
4.Learn About Frank Lloyd Wright at Meyer May House
Name and Location: Meyer May House, located at 450 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
History and Significance: The Meyer May House is a historic home designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908. The house is considered one of the finest examples of Wright’s Prairie School style and has been carefully restored to its original condition.
What to Expect: Visitors to the Meyer May House can take a guided tour of the home, learning about its unique architectural features and the story of its restoration. The house features original furnishings and art glass, as well as a beautiful outdoor garden space.
Visitor Information: The Meyer May House is open for tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and on Sundays from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Parking is available on the street near the house. Visitors should note that the house is not fully accessible, with stairs required to enter and tour the home.
Fans of architecture won’t want to miss touring the Meyer May house, an impressive example of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie style homes. The spacious yet intimate Arts and Crafts-style house was constructed in 1908 for local clothier Meyer S. May.
Guided and audio tours provide interesting background on May and his family while pointing out the home’s many signature Wright elements like built-in furniture, art glass windows, and open floor plan. Check the website for tour availability before visiting as the home may be closed on select days when not rented out for events.
5.See Exotic Species at Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park
Name and Location: Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park, located at 8313 Pratt Lake Ave SE, Alto, MI 49302.
History and Significance: Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park was founded in 1991 as a sanctuary for exotic animals in need of a permanent home. The park has since grown to house over 200 animals from around the world, including many rare and endangered species.
What to Expect: Visitors to Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park can see a wide variety of exotic animals, including tigers, bears, primates, and reptiles. The park offers guided tours and educational programs, as well as opportunities to feed and interact with certain animals under staff supervision.
Visitor Information: Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (last admission at 5:00 pm). Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and children ages 3-12, and free for children under 3. Parking is available on site. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as much of the park is outdoors.
For animal lovers, an afternoon spent at Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park promises encounters with some incredible exotic creatures. Get up close views of over 100 animals like lemurs, camels, wallabies, chimpanzees and more in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.
Sign up for one of the park’s hands-on experiences like feeding the giraffes or playing with the baby kangaroos for memories that will last a lifetime. Knowledgeable staff provide insightful commentary at every habitat.
6.Play a Round at Egypt Valley Country Club
Name and Location: Egypt Valley Country Club, located at 7333 Knapp St NE, Ada, MI 49301.
History and Significance: Egypt Valley Country Club was founded in 1929 and has been a premier destination for golf and social activities in the Grand Rapids area for nearly a century. The club features two 18-hole championship golf courses designed by renowned architects.
What to Expect: Golfers at Egypt Valley Country Club can enjoy two challenging and beautifully maintained courses, the Valley Course and the Ridge Course. The club also offers practice facilities, golf instruction, and a fully-stocked pro shop. Non-golfers can enjoy dining at the clubhouse restaurant or participating in social events.
Visitor Information: Egypt Valley Country Club is a private club, with golf and social memberships available. Visitors may be able to play the courses as guests of members or through special events and promotions. Tee times and dining reservations can be made by contacting the club directly. Dress code and other policies may apply.
Boasting a championship 18-hole course sprawling across pine tree-dotted hills, Egypt Valley Country Club offers a scenic spot for golfing. The par-72 course features undulating fairways, challenging bunkers, and large contoured greens that put players’ short games to the test.
Practice your swing at the driving range or putting green, or sign up for private and group lessons perfect for everyone from beginners to advanced players. The lush course conditions and spectacular Michigan landscape views make a round at Egypt Valley a treat.
7.Catch a Baseball Game at Fifth Third Ballpark
Name and Location: Fifth Third Ballpark, located at 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321.
History and Significance: Fifth Third Ballpark opened in 1994 and is the home of the West Michigan Whitecaps, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Detroit Tigers. The ballpark has a seating capacity of over 9,000 and features a variety of amenities and attractions.
What to Expect: Baseball fans can catch a Whitecaps game at Fifth Third Ballpark and enjoy the exciting atmosphere of minor league baseball. The ballpark features concessions, merchandise shops, and special promotions and theme nights throughout the season. Fireworks displays and other entertainment often follow games.
Visitor Information: Fifth Third Ballpark is open during Whitecaps home games, which typically run from April through September. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the ballpark box office. Prices vary depending on seating area and promotions. Parking is available on site for a fee. Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but concessions are available for purchase.
Enjoy America’s favorite pastime in a state-of-the-art venue at Fifth Third Ballpark, home of the West Michigan Whitecaps minor league baseball team. Watch future major league all-stars take the field as the Detroit Tigers Class A affiliate faces off against other Midwest League opponents.
Arrive early to allow time to explore the park, stopping to play carnival-style games on the Pepsi Fan Deck, pose with Whitecaps mascot Crash, or grab something tasty from concession stands slinging classic ballpark fare. Fireworks and themed promotions add to the excitement on select nights.
8.Tour the Fire Station Museum
Name and Location: Fire Station Museum, located at 73 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
History and Significance: The Fire Station Museum is housed in a historic firehouse that served the City of Grand Rapids from 1893 to 1971. The museum preserves and interprets the history of firefighting in the Grand Rapids area, with a collection of antique fire trucks and equipment.
What to Expect: Visitors to the Fire Station Museum can tour the restored firehouse, climbing aboard vintage fire trucks and learning about the evolution of firefighting technology and techniques. The museum also features interactive exhibits and educational programs for children and adults.
Visitor Information: The Fire Station Museum is open on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and on Tuesdays by appointment. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Parking is available on the street near the museum. The museum is wheelchair accessible. Guided tours and group visits can be arranged by contacting the museum in advance.
This free museum located inside Wyoming’s former Fire Station Number One provides an interesting look into the history of the city’s fire department. Visitors can check out a collection of vintage fire engines, uniforms, equipment and photos documenting major fires in Wyoming over the past century.
Be sure to view the original watch room and firemen’s sleeping quarters preserved upstairs before heading back down to the old truck room housing numerous antique fire trucks. Friendly volunteer docents are available to answer questions and provide commentary.
9.Play Mini Golf at Air Zoo
Name and Location: Air Zoo, located at 6151 Portage Rd, Portage, MI 49002.
History and Significance: The Air Zoo is an aviation museum and indoor amusement park that opened in 1979. The museum features a collection of over 100 aircraft and spacecraft, as well as interactive exhibits and rides that celebrate the history and science of flight.
What to Expect: Visitors to the Air Zoo can play a round of mini golf on the 18-hole course, which features aviation-themed obstacles and décor. The course is suitable for all ages and skill levels and offers a fun and challenging experience for families and friends.
Visitor Information: The Air Zoo is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Admission to the museum includes access to the mini golf course. Prices are $16.50 for adults, $15.50 for seniors (60+), and $13.50 for children (5-18). Children 4 and under are free. Parking is available on site. The mini golf course may close in inclement weather.
Aviation and mini golf combine for a one-of-a-kind experience at Air Zoo’s Aeronautic-themed Cosmic Golf. Located adjacent to the Air Zoo aerospace and science museum at the Kalamazoo airport, Cosmic Golf features two challenging 18-hole courses suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Navigate around aviation icons like the Apollo Lunar Module and 1903 Wright Flyer or through an actual Boeing C-97 fuselage. Time your game to coincide with one of the courses’ nightly “cosmic light shows” where special effects totally transform the playing field.
10.Hike the Plaster Creek Trail
Name and Location: Plaster Creek Trail, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
History and Significance: The Plaster Creek Trail is a 5-mile multi-use trail that follows the course of Plaster Creek through the city of Grand Rapids. The trail was developed in the 1990s as part of a broader effort to improve water quality and recreational access along the creek.
What to Expect: Hikers on the Plaster Creek Trail can enjoy a scenic route through a variety of natural and urban landscapes, including parks, neighborhoods, and industrial areas. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for users of all abilities. It also connects to other trail systems in the area, offering opportunities for longer hikes.
Visitor Information: The Plaster Creek Trail is open year-round, with no admission fee. Parking is available at several points along the trail, including Ken-O-Sha Park and Plaster Creek Family Park. Visitors should follow posted rules and regulations, including staying on designated trails and picking up after pets. The trail is not lit, so users should plan accordingly and bring appropriate gear.
Stretching nearly 20 miles from Grand Rapids through Wyoming and into Grandville, the Plaster Creek Trail provides an easily accessible place to walk, run or bike while appreciating nature. Paved and wide enough for side-by-side travel, the multi-purpose trail crosses wetlands and wooded areas while passing by parks, shops, schools, and other points of interest. Interpretive signage posted along the route highlights area wildlife, trees and wildflowers. Benches interspersed at intervals allow places to stop and relax or enjoy a picnic lunch.
11.Explore the Purple Martin Roost
Name and Location: Purple Martin Roost, located near the intersection of Wallace Avenue and Franklin Street SE in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
History and Significance: The Purple Martin Roost is a unique natural phenomenon that occurs each summer in Grand Rapids, when thousands of purple martins gather to roost in a small area of the city. The birds are attracted to the site by specially designed birdhouses and the presence of other martins.
What to Expect: Visitors to the Purple Martin Roost can witness the spectacular sight of thousands of birds swirling and diving in the sky before settling into their roosts for the night. The best time to view the birds is in the evening, about an hour before sunset, from late July through early September.
Visitor Information: The Purple Martin Roost is located in a residential area, so visitors should be respectful of private property and park only in designated areas. The best viewing spots are along Wallace Avenue and Franklin Street, where the birdhouses are located. Visitors should bring binoculars or a camera for a closer look at the birds. Insect repellent may also be helpful, as the birds attract mosquitoes.
Each summer, thousands of purple martins flock to Wyoming’s Purple Martin Roost to feast, rest and socialize before continuing migration. Located along the Grand River just south of Kimball Park, this City-owned green space provides the ideal habitat for the birds with its combination of slow moving water, open grassy areas and hollow gourds erected for nesting.
Free to visit, the Roost features informational kiosks detailing purple martins’ unique behaviors and annual 4,000-mile migration patterns. It’s best viewed in evenings when crowds of martins fill the sky before descending into the roost for the night.
12.Attend a City-Hosted Event
Name and Location: Wyoming City Events, held at various locations throughout Wyoming, Michigan.
History and Significance: The City of Wyoming hosts a variety of events throughout the year to celebrate the community’s history, diversity, and spirit. These events bring residents and visitors together for fun, food, and entertainment, and showcase the best of what Wyoming has to offer.
What to Expect: Attendees at Wyoming City Events can enjoy a range of activities, depending on the specific event. Popular annual events include the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce Street Fair, the Wyoming Spring Carnival, the 4th of July Celebration, and the Wyoming Tree Lighting Ceremony. These events feature live music, food vendors, carnival rides, parades, fireworks, and more.
Visitor Information: Information about upcoming Wyoming City Events can be found on the city’s website or social media pages, or by contacting the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department. Most events are free to attend, although some may have nominal fees for certain activities or concessions. Parking and shuttle services may be available for larger events. Visitors should check event details for specific information on dates, times, locations, and activities.
Wyoming hosts a fun roster of family-friendly community events throughout the year like free summer concert series Rhythm and Roots, bi-annual Fine Arts Expo showcasing works by over 100 juried artists, popular fall Harvest Festival, and quirky mid-winter tradition Tip Up Town held on a frozen lake.
Food, games, live entertainment and activities make these recurring celebrations great ways to experience Wyoming’s strong sense of community. Check the city’s event calendar before visiting to catch one during your trip.
Conclusion
With its welcoming small-town vibe paired with an abundance of things to do, Wyoming offers the perfect mid-sized city getaway. Outdoor lovers can lace up their hiking boots and hit the trails winding through Lane Forest Parks or pedal along the extensive Plaster Creek Trail, while history buffs will appreciate learning about Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at the Meyer May House.
Sports fans can catch America’s favorite pastime watching the West Michigan Whitecaps play at the state-of-the-art Fifth Third Ballpark while animal enthusiasts will love hand feeding treats to creatures at the unique Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park.
Those visiting mid-summer can catch one of Wyoming’s popular community festivals or, come evening, head to the Purple Martin Roost to witness an extraordinary natural phenomenon as thousands of migrating songbirds descend on the city. With this list in hand highlighting the top things to experience, visitors are sure to have plenty to see, do, and explore during a trip to charming Wyoming, Michigan.