Settled along the Grand River, the city of Grand Rapids is the second-largest in the state. Known for being one of the nation's furniture-making capitals, Grand Rapids is often called "Furniture City." Besides its contribution to that industry, Grand Rapids is President Gerald Ford's childhood home. It's also developed a growing craft beer sector that's earning respect nationwide.

Indulge in a few pints along the Beer City Ale Trail, which features more than 80 breweries. Favorites include Atwater Brewery, which focuses on making German-style lagers and Founders Brewing Co., which is swiftly becoming popular across the country. New Holland Brewing Company has more than beer, serving up bourbon, gin, rum, and other spirits.

Pair your mug with a meal at one of the city's fantastic eateries. There's Hancock, serving up hot Nashville-style chicken daily and Graydon's Crossing, which brings global pub fare home to Grand Rapids. Stella's Lounge is an '80s-themed bar offering stuffed burgers and beer-battered avocados. Don't miss The Electric Cheetah revered for its comfort food and 40-plus root beer varieties.

On the sports scene, Grand Rapids is home to the West Michigan Whitecaps, a Minor League Baseball team. You can also cheer on the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins and the North American Basketball League's Grand Rapids Danger team.

Take advantage Grand Rapids' museums. Visit the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum to learn more about our nation's 38th leader. Celebrate and explore the Black experience at the Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives. Kids love the Grand Rapids Children's Museum, and you'll discover various periods of art at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.

For those who love spending time outdoors, no matter the season, you can ice skate at Rosa Parks Circle every winter. The nearby Cannonsburg Ski Area is the perfect place to schuss downhill. When warmer weather arrives, hit up Belknap Park to play on its lighted baseball field and pickleball courts. Hike miles of trails, watch the birds, and kayak the waters of Riverside Park. If you're up for something more adventurous, take on obstacle courses and zip lines at TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park.

Ready to get out and explore the city but can't because you have to deal with the hassle of a downed or diseased tree? LawnStarter has the solution. We make tree care easy.

Go online or download the app on your phone. Once you're there, put in your ZIP code and make a free account to get a list of tree care companies in Grand Rapids. Next, select the business that works best for you and schedule your service date. Experienced pros trim and prune trees, take down hazardous ones, and provide health care to the plants on your property. Once you've added LawnStarter to your team, you'll be free to enjoy all that Grand Rapids has to offer.