GETTING TO THE GRAND
Getting to the Grand River can seem confusing if you’re visiting for the first time. Check out all of the ways you can get to the river. Visit our Parks and Trails and Things to Do pages to get some ideas and start exploring.
Parking
Many of the river edge parks have parking lots. Some are free and others are not. Metered parking costs vary from $1 to $1.75 per hour. Most meters are checked from 8 am until 5 or 6 pm Monday through Friday.
The closest parking ramps to the Grand River are the Grand Rapids Public Museum, DeVos Place and Louis Campau ramps.
Most street parking downtown is metered or offers a pay station. Other street parking — such as near Riverside Park — is free. Metered parking costs vary from $1 to $1.75 per hour. Most meters are checked from 8 am until 5 or 6 pm Monday through Friday.
The Rapid
The City’s free Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) is a convenient way to enjoy the Grand River. DASH buses pass every stop every 8 minutes. There are stops near areas of interest along river, including Ah-Nab-Awen Park, Blue Bridge, Sixth Street Park, Canal Park and Coldbrook Edge.
Spin E-Scooters
How To Ride
- Download the Spin app onto a smartphone with Android or iOS
- Using the vendors apps, follow the screen prompts to setup your session
- Pay for your session on the Spin with a debit or credit card (see the Equity/Affordability Questions tab below for more options and possible discounts)
- Ride!
- After you ride, park the vehicle in a designated parking zone to avoid further charges
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Spin is one of the leading global micromobility companies and a subsidiary of the Ford Motor Company. Spin has been recognized for launching the first stationless mobility program in the United States and instrumental in crafting the first modern “cap-based” stationless mobility permit system that most cities use today. Spin consists of a diverse team of experienced professionals from government and private sectors, and the transportation advocacy world, all of whom are committed to fulfilling the company’s mission—giving people the freedom to move and bring people, communities, and their urban environment closer together.
Walking/Biking
The Grand Rapids Riverwalk on the west side of the Grand River and Grand River Edges Trail on the east side are both great ways to connect with the river on foot or by bike.
Many downtown streets have designated bike lanes to navigate safely to your destination. For tips on safe riding, visit the League of American Bicyclists guide on the Rules of the Road.
Parks and Trails
Check out all of the places you can explore along the Grand River.
Things to Do
You can enjoy the Grand River throughout the year. From kayaking and fishing to running and exercising, there’s something for everyone.
