Grand Rapids stands out as a city that blends quirky charm, vibrant local culture, and surprising history, making it a fantastic place for engaging tours. Whether you’re into ghost stories, craft beer, or fun challenges, the city offers a variety of ways to explore its unique character. The Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour is a top pick for those intrigued by haunted sites and local legends, while craft beer lovers will find the Holland Brew Pub Tour a deliciously immersive experience. For a more active adventure, the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt injects fun and discovery into your sightseeing.
If you’re trying to decide which tour best fits your interests, consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer walking, interactive challenges, or relaxed tastings. We’ve rounded up the 13 best options, each with its own flavor and appeal. Read on for detailed descriptions to help you pick the perfect way to experience Grand Rapids.
1. Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour
At number 1, the Grand Rapids Ghosts Tour is a top-rated experience with a 4.5/5 rating from 57 reviews. For just $24 per person, you’ll explore the city’s haunted spots in about an hour, guided by a local expert. The tour visits iconic sites like the Riverwalk Promenade, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, and the Old Michigan Bell Building, sharing chilling stories of restless spirits and historic tragedies.
What makes this tour stand out is its storytelling and focus on real local legends, with stops that include the Grand Rapids Public Library and Division Avenue North. Tour guide Hal, who has a knack for detailed storytelling, gets rave reviews. The mix of scenic waterfront strolls and spooky legends makes it perfect for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike.
Bottom line: If ghost stories and local lore appeal to you, this tour offers a memorable, spine-tingling hour in the heart of Grand Rapids.
2. Holland Brew Pub Tour: History and Hops
At number 2, the Holland Brew Pub Tour is a full-bodied 3-hour walk through downtown Holland with a focus on beer, history, and local flavor. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 13 reviews, this tour costs $39 per person and covers under a mile, making it accessible even for casual walkers.
This tour visits standout breweries like Our Brewing Company, New Holland Brewing, and Big Lake Brewing, where you’ll learn about each brewery’s story and their influence on Holland’s reputation as a craft beer hub. Along the way, you’ll enjoy local donuts and outdoor patio tastings, regardless of weather. The guide’s insights into how New Holland put Holland on the craft beer map add depth to the experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for beer lovers eager to taste multiple brews while discovering Holland’s brewing legacy in a relaxed, social setting.
3. Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt
Number 3 on our list is the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt, rated 5.0/5 from 5 reviews. For $27 per person, this 2-hour adventure combines sightseeing with detective work, guided by a live remote host who helps you solve clues and uncover hidden parts of the city.
What makes this hunt different is its interactive, game-like approach, blending history, art, and local secrets into a fun challenge. Guests love that it’s immersive and encourages discovering sights they might otherwise overlook. The guide’s support helps make the experience accessible for all ages and interests.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or groups looking for a lively, interactive way to explore Grand Rapids while testing their puzzle-solving skills.
4. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Holly Jolly Hunt
At number 4, the Holly Jolly Hunt, rated 5.0/5 from just 1 review, offers a festive adventure for $20 per group. This hour-long holiday-themed scavenger hunt uses an app to find seasonal items around town, earning points and competing for top scores on the leaderboard.
It’s ideal for families or groups celebrating the season, as it combines holiday cheer with a fun exploration of the city’s decorations and traditions. Participants enjoy capturing festive items and learning about local holiday customs in a relaxed, family-friendly format.
Bottom line: Great as a quick, cheerful activity during the holiday season, especially for large groups or families with kids.
$20.00 per group (up to 10)
5. Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt by 3Quest Challenge
Number 5 is the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt by 3Quest Challenge. For $10 per person, this 2-hour private hunt emphasizes fun and education with a series of quests and challenges designed for small groups. Remote hosts are available to assist if needed.
This tour’s strength lies in its focus on learning about Grand Rapids through personalized challenges that keep the pace lively. It’s particularly good for travelers who like a mix of exploration and problem-solving, without large crowds or rigid schedules.
Bottom line: An economical, flexible option ideal for people who want a tailored, engaging way to see the city.
6. A Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Holland, Michigan
Number 6 offers a Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour, rated 4.0/5 from 2 reviews, priced at just $5.99. Covering about 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, this tour takes you through downtown Holland’s charming, lesser-known spots with historic insights and floral sights, perfect outside tulip season.
Highlights include passing by the Holland City Hall, the New Holland Brewing pub, and the Voorhees Hall, all with intriguing stories behind them. It’s a good choice for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, with the option to pause or revisit sections.
Bottom line: An affordable, flexible way to enjoy Holland’s peaceful scenery and interesting landmarks without a guide.
7. Self-Guided Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt: Round River City
Number 7 is the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt: Round River City, rated 3.5/5 from 3 reviews and costing $12.31. This 2-hour app-based hunt challenges you with tasks and trivia, with digital photo documentation and remote host support.
It’s ideal for groups wanting a challenge that combines sightseeing with fun tasks, making it perfect for families or friends who enjoy a bit of friendly competition. The game’s emphasis on discovering both well-known and hidden sights sets it apart.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, interactive way to explore Grand Rapids with a bit of a competitive edge.
8. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids by Operation City Quest
At number 8, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt costs $10 per person for about 2 hours. It’s a private, task-based hunt with a remote guide available to assist, making it accessible and engaging for small groups.
Guests enjoy solving location-based challenges while learning about the city’s landmarks and stories. The flexibility allows for a relaxed pace and personalized experience, especially for those who dislike large tours.
Bottom line: An inexpensive, casual way to explore and learn about Grand Rapids on your own terms.
$10.00 per person
9. Gerald R. Ford Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids Round-Trip Transfer
Number 9 offers a practical round-trip private transfer costing $194.48 per person. It’s a straightforward, hassle-free way to get from the airport to your accommodation and back, with clean cars, professional drivers, and flight tracking.
This service is perfect for travelers who want smooth, reliable transport without dealing with taxis or shuttles, especially if arriving or departing during off-hours.
Bottom line: Best suited for those prioritizing comfort and convenience upon arrival or departure.
$194.48 per person
10. Grand Rapids Michigan Scavenger Hunt Grand Hunt Round River City
Number 10 is Grand Rapids Michigan Scavenger Hunt, priced at $14.99 and lasting about 1.5 hours. This app-led adventure challenges participants with trivia, puzzles, and photo challenges, all designed to uncover the city’s secrets.
It’s aimed at diverse groups and offers flexibility with digital photo sharing and team competition. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with engaging puzzles.
Bottom line: An affordable, interactive activity for a quick-paced exploration suitable for families and friends alike.
$14.99 per person
11. Holland Coffee Shop Brew Tour
Number 11 presents the Holland Coffee Shop Brew Tour, at $32 for approximately 2.5 hours. This tour explores Holland’s coffee culture, visiting notable spots like The 205 Coffee Bar and Lemonjello’s Coffee, with stops at historic sites such as the Pillar Church and Voorhees Hall.
Participants enjoy tasting freshly brewed coffee and learning about Holland’s early settlers and development. The tour blends cultural insights with flavorful stops, ideal for coffee enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Bottom line: A relaxed, flavorful way to experience Holland’s history and coffee scene in one tour.
$32
12. Royalty Themed App Based Scavenger Hunt in Grand Rapids
Rated 0/5 from no reviews, the Royalty-Themed Hunt combines a playful royal twist with interactive challenges. For $10, it lasts about 2 hours and turns your group into royalty for the day, with a live remote host guiding the way.
This hunt’s charm lies in its turn-based gameplay and the chance to wear a crown while exploring. It’s great for groups who enjoy role-playing and lighthearted competition.
Bottom line: A whimsical, cheap option for a themed, fun-filled exploration of Grand Rapids.
$10.00 per person
13. Gerald R. Ford Intl. Airport (GRR) to Grand Rapids – Arrival Private Transfer
Number 13 provides a seamless arrival transfer for $97.24 per person, guaranteeing comfortable, door-to-door service from the airport to your hotel. It’s perfect for travelers who want to skip the hassle of taxis or shuttles, with professional drivers and flight tracking ensuring smooth arrivals.
Bottom line: Ideal for those prioritizing convenience, especially after a long flight.
$97.24 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Grand Rapids
When deciding between these options, think about your budget, available time, and interests. For a spooky evening with local legends, the Ghosts Tour offers a quick, atmospheric experience. Beer enthusiasts should consider the Holland Brew Pub Tour, which combines history with tastings.
If you prefer interactive adventures, the Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt or 3Quest Challenge provide engaging ways to explore while solving puzzles. For relaxed cultural outings, the Holland Coffee Shop Brew Tour offers a flavorful and scenic journey through Holland’s coffee scene. And for transportation, the airport transfer services ensure your trips to and from the airport are hassle-free.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours, and consider combining experiences if your schedule allows. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or just in search of fun, Grand Rapids has a tour tailored for you.
With such a variety of tours, from haunted walks to brewery explorations and interactive hunts, Grand Rapids offers something for every traveler. We hope this guide helps you pick the perfect way to experience the city’s local flavor and stories. Have fun planning your trip, and don’t forget to book your favorite adventures in advance!