No visit to Grand Rapids would be complete without a stop at the iconic Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, as it offers something truly special no matter what time of year it is. Experience tropical ecosystems, vibrant orchid walls, and lively concerts in summer, or admire desert plants during winter in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. Explore masterworks from the 1800s to the present day in the sculpture park and Japanese garden, featuring four glimmering waterfalls, and a vast collection of bonsai trees.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is an iconic tourist destination in Grand Rapids and a source of pride for West Michiganders. With Spring comes the largest temporary butterfly exhibit in the nation, Butterflies are Blooming, featuring over 7,000 butterflies from around the world. The summer months bring even more excitement with the summer concert series at the amphitheater, showcasing local, national, and international musicians. But don’t let winter be overlooked as a time to witness the beauty of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park – it has something special to offer all year round.
Explore 500 Plant Species from Around the World.
Experience the warmth of the tropics year-round at Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. This remarkable, award-winning attraction boasts an incredible five-story structure filled with more than 500 plant species from around the world. Explore a vibrant orchid wall, cacao trees, and a Breadfruit tree while you wander down the stone path for a truly unique and memorable winter visit. Enjoy the soothing water features and exotic birds that make this conservatory one of a kind.
Sculpture Park and Japanese Garden
Visitors to the tropical conservatory can also enjoy a visit to the desert, which is less humid than the main conservatory but still warm and cozy. There, they will be able to admire the incredible adaptations of plants to survive in blistering temperatures, such as leaves with waxy coatings that act as sunscreen. The Sculpture Park and Japanese Garden provide an educational and entertaining family experience, with over 30 acres of masterworks by artists from the 1800s to the resent day, 4,000 boulders, a bonsai tree collection, an authentic Japanese teahouse, and four complementary waterfalls.
During the winter months, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park takes pride in maintaining clean and clear pathways and walkways after each snowfall, offering guests the opportunity to bundle up and experience the grounds on a peaceful, serene walk.
Views and Plants
Visitors to the Japanese Garden of Frederik Meijer Gardens will find a wonderful array of plants and sights.
Plants:
The garden boasts over 50 plants, none of which are labeled, so visitors should be sure to pick up a guidebook on their way out to identify them.
Views:
Moreover, they should take the time to visit the viewing hill, the highest point in the garden, for stunning panoramic views.
Holiday Displays:
Lastly, during wintertime, the garden hosts an array of holiday displays from around the world that make for a truly festive experience.
Visitors to the Japanese Garden of Frederik Meijer Gardens will find a wonderful array of plants and sights. The garden boasts over 50 plants, none of which are labeled, so visitors should be sure to pick up a guidebook on their way out to identify them. Moreover, they should take the time to visit the viewing hill, the highest point in the garden, for stunning panoramic views. Lastly, during wintertime, the garden hosts an array of holiday displays from around the world that make for a truly festive experience.
Explore a Railway Garden with Miniature Trains and Replicas of Area Landmarks
University of Michigan Health-West Christmas & Holiday Traditions is an amazing, festive event that celebrates the diversity of holiday traditions around the world. With over 300,000 colorful lights, strolling carolers, visits from Santa, rooftop reindeer, and dozens of international trees and displays, it’s a sight to behold. Guests can explore a Railway Garden with miniature trains and replicas of area landmarks made of natural materials. On select evenings, visitors can be immersed in a multimedia seasonal light experience at The DeVos Van Andel Piazza. This unique extravaganza runs from late November through early January each year.
Wintertime Walks at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park invites kids of all ages to join in on outdoor Wintertime Walks and experience the unique beauty of the cold-weather season. These fun, activity-filled tours of the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden will take place from January through April and are included with admission. The park’s stunning outdoor art is made even more beautiful with the compliments of sun and snow.
Group Tours
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park proudly offers a variety of classes and tours for both members and non-members. Self-guided and docent-led tours are available for groups of 10 or more, indoor tours are available year-round, and an outdoor narrated tram tour (for individuals or groups) runs seasonally from March to December. Group tours require a reservation, so be sure to contact the group tour office. Additionally, winter classes can range from mead-making and birdwatching to houseplant care and photography – a complete list of classes can be found on the website.
What’s more, Meijer Gardens is a great place to explore during the winter months with friends and family.
Grand Rapids: A Haven for Art & Culture
Grand Rapids is a city that has long been known for its vibrant art and culture scene. From world-renowned museums to bustling galleries, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an artist looking to share your work with the world or someone who just wants to appreciate the beauty of art, Grand Rapids has something to offer.
The Rich Art Scene in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is home to a wide variety of art galleries, museums, and cultural centers. The Grand Rapids Art Museum showcases works from renowned local and international artists, while the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA) offers rotating exhibits of both established and emerging talent. The Public Museum of Grand Rapids is also a must-visit for those interested in the area’s history and culture.
Events & Festivals Celebrating Art & Culture
In addition to offering numerous art galleries and museums, Grand Rapids is also home to several events and festivals dedicated to celebrating art and culture. The Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts
Grand Rapids is widely renowned for its rich art and culture scene, attracting both avid creators and appreciators of the arts from near and far.
The unique and often remarkable attractions at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park make it a must-visit destination no matter what time of the year. The grounds are impeccably maintained and offer something for everyone, from leisurely strolls along the Japanese garden path in the winter to catching regional, national, and international musicians in the summer amphitheater. Whether visitors come for serenity or educational experiences, a visit to this botanic wonderland is certain to leave an everlasting impression.
