Located in a northwestern suburb of Grand Rapids, Comstock Park is known best as the home of the West Michigan Whitecaps baseball team and Fifth Third Ballpark. Comstock Park has a population of around 10,000 and features pristine hiking trails along the Grand River. Each year, the community holds the annual Christmas Lite Show that features over 2 miles of stunning holiday lights and decorations! There are also two golf courses in town that offer 45 holes of golf and fun for the whole family.
Grand Rapids Charter Township is located in Kent County and is bordered by Grand Rapids, East Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Ada Township, and Plainfield Charter Township. With an estimated population of around 16,000 people, the town was first organized in 1834 and became designated by The State of Michigan in 1842. The area is filled with coffee shops and parks, including 58 acres filled with tennis courts and nature trails. For those cold winter days, you can visit the indoor pools at the Forest Hills Aquatic Center.
East Grand Rapids is a city in Kent County, Michigan that has a population of around 11,800 residents. The city is situated on Reeds Lake in the Grand Rapids metropolitan area and features 10 different city parks with trails, playgrounds, and wooded areas. Some of the city’s most popular attractions include the sculpture parks, the floating boardwalk at Waterfront Park, and the Jersey Junction ice cream parlor. Reeds Lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing, as it provides over 280 acres to enjoy.
4. Ada
Located near the Thornapple River, Ada is a small town filled with beautiful nature, a charming downtown, and exquisite restaurants. Founded in 1821, the downtown area is filled with small businesses, a farmers market, and countless community activities throughout the year. There are many parks to enjoy throughout the town, including the 400-acre Seidman Park and the E.E Locke Arboretum located in Ada Township Park. Ada is also home to one of the last remaining covered bridges in the state, the historic 125 foot Ada Covered Bridge!
5. Forest Hills
Forest Hills has a population of around 25,000 residents and is the perfect area for those who love nature and spending time outdoors! The ample parks are one of the biggest attractions in Forest Hills, including Reeds Lake, Cascade Peace Park, and Crahen Valley Park. The area is located in Kent County and covers all of the Ada Township, excluding the north and northeast corner of Cascade Township. Be sure to check out Cascade Museum and The Large Family Museum, which features rotating exhibits.
6. Kentwood
Kentwood is a mid-sized city that is perfect for college students, young families, professionals, and more! With a population of around 52,000, this city continues to grow, adapt, and progress with each passing year. No matter your interests, Kentwood has attractions to fit your needs. The city offers many parks to get out and enjoy nature, craft beer breweries and tours, and a skating rink where private and open skate times are available. Located in the southeast area of Grand Rapids, this city is conveniently located close to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
7. Cutlerville
With a population of 14,370, Cutlerville is a centrally-located community in Kent County, Michigan. The area is conveniently close to the bustling retail sections, the business district, as well as the beautiful nature parks and recreations. The Byron Lakes is a great area for picnics and enjoying the sunshine, while winter days can be enjoyed at the closeby Grand Rapids Public Museum. Locals recommend checking out the Sweet Rewards Ice Cream Shop and Umi Sushi & Grill.
8. Wyoming
Wyoming is a bustling city in Kent County, with a population of 72,125. The area has a bustling art district and features many nature parks and hiking trails. It’s conveniently located close to Grand Rapids and the surrounding communities, making all the amenities and attractions easy to visit. The John Ball Zoo and the Blandford Nature Center are great spots for both children and adults to enjoy. Playworld and Jesters Court are great ways to get the whole family moving on those chilly winter days.
9. Grandville
With a population of around 15,000 people, Grandville is a small, centrally-located city close to Grand Rapids. It sits on the shores of the Grand River just ten minutes away from downtown Grand Rapids. The city is known for its extensive shopping and dining options and is home to the large RiverTown Crossing shopping mall. Other popular attractions include the 6,000-gallon aquarium at the Cabela’s store and the picnic cruises on the Grand Lady Riverboat.
10. Georgetown Twp
Georgetown Township is a large charter town located in Ottawa County, Michigan. The area has a population of nearly 46,000 people and overs 33 square miles of land. The community has excellent shopping options at the Georgetown Plaza, as well as the Jenison Artisan Market. The Grandville Marketplace is also a popular shopping mall that has food, retail, and premium dining options. The Rustic Corner and Center Town Mall are must-see spots for those who like shopping and handmade goods.
11. Hudsonville
Hudsonville is a small town located in Ottawa County, Michigan. The city is close to Jenison, Grandville, Wyoming, and Grand Rapids, making its location extremely convenient. It is the hometown of professional soccer player Bethany Balcer and popular actor Taylor Lautner. The strong-knit community is known for its well-kept neighborhoods, family values, and friendly community members. Just eight miles west of Wyoming, Hudsonville offers the modern amenities of a city with the serenity of suburban neighborhoods.
12. Walker
Located in Kent County, Walker is a large suburb of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Originally called Walker Township and consisted only of the land north of the Grand River. The city consists of 25.48 square miles and features many retail manufacturers, furniture manufacturers, lumber yards, and plaster mines. The community has local woodworking, ceramics, and gardening groups, as well as 8 beautiful parks for residents to enjoy. The city is best known for the exceptional school system, beautifully maintained neighborhoods and ample shopping centers.
Westside Connection is a neighborhood located in Grand Rapids, Michigan that has an estimated population of 13,700. The town has a suburban feel and consists of many nature parks and a few sports bars. The neighborhood is close to the Edison Plaza shopping center and the local favorite, Family Fare Supermarket. Popular tourist spots include Charlie’s Party Store, Westside Social, and the Generations Outlet and Resale store. Be sure to check out Siciliano’s Market or Biggby Coffee for great treats and baked goods.