Dig into Grand Rapids with us - from secret spots and new eats to offbeat date ideas. Whether you're hunting for your next neighborhood or just tonight's adventure, we've got the local scoop.
Useful GR tidbits with a fresh take on our city.
There’s something oddly satisfying about finding the best places to read. Maybe it’s a cozy coffee shop corner, a greenhouse bench, or a hidden spot where you can actually hear yourself think for once.
There are plenty of places around Grand Rapids that make you want to put your phone away, crack open a good book, and stay awhile. It’s one of my top things to do in Grand Rapids.
Whether you’re looking for a new study spot, a place to read, or just an excuse to slow down for an hour, these readings spots around GR are worth adding to your list.
Each sports a unique vibe that, depending on your mood and the kind of book you chose, we think you’ll enjoy.
Walk into The Sparrows Coffee & Tea & Newsstand shop with a plan to stay awhile.
The hardwood floors, big front windows, potted plants, and aroma of freshly brewed coffee will keep you smiling for hours. If you’re not in the mood for coffee, they offer several tea options as well.
They have soft chairs up front that are perfect for reading, or find a seat outside on their patio if you want to take in some urban sounds while you read.
Bring your own good reads, or buy one of the magazines or other periodicals they have for sale.
Honestly, almost any coffee shop is going to offer up fabulous reading places.
Want to explore a new read & brew spot? Use this list of coffee shops to get started.
A library seems way too obvious when looking for places to read, right?
But, if you haven’t ventured to this particular building (the main branch of the Grand Rapids Public Library) you’re missing out on a quaint fireplace in a very quiet space where you can kick back, or use a table, to get started on the latest novel.
And if you finish it, you can go upstairs to one of the many floors of books and choose another.
The librarians are a huge help if you’re looking for something specific. You’re welcome to bring a covered drink, but may want to plan lunch out if you’re going to be there a while.
Some people need quiet places to read while others like the hustle and bustle of life moving around them as they read their favorite thriller. The Downtown Market has several areas where you can take in a book.
The second floor offers a slightly quieter environment while the main floor provides a list of various fragrances to fill your senses. Grab a fancy French pastry from Gaby’s Gourmandise and a large cup of coffee from Sav Sav by Squibb before settling into your favorite paperback.
Happy Cat Cafe is a coffee shop as well as a cat adoption center.
Make a reservation for the cat lounge, grab one of their specialty cat-themed lattes, teas, or mocktails and try to concentrate on the plot while the cats around you try to become the main character.
The Ada Hotel is one of our favorite cozy places to read.
On the 1st and 2nd floors of the lobby, you’ll find comfy couches, well-lit window seats, and elevated charm that will make you want to hunker down and stay for hours.
While you’re there, grab a rooftop drink at RIX or lunch at The Post Tavern.
Imagine the sounds and sights of planes taking-off in the distance while you’re immersed in your novel?
We didn’t expect the GRR Airport Viewing Area to be a great park to read, but as it turns out, you might find a few other bookworms reading here too!
The park is free & open on Tues -Sun 7:30 AM – dusk and on Mondays from 9:30 AM – dusk.
currently closed for construction
Working on an adventure or mystery story you just can’t get out of your head?
Head to Ah-Nab-Awen Park. It’s a short walk from the Medical Mile, right in front of the Gerald R. Ford Museum.
The rolling hill (literally, kids love rolling down it!) is a nice place to throw down a blanket, bask in the sun, and park it for a nice lunch break read.
If you want even more grassy options, there are tons of Grand Rapids parks to read at to choose from.
The GRAM is stunning. And yes, it’s really on our list of places to read!
Not only can you view amazing art, but the Grand Rapids Art Museum has a periodical and study room where you can spend a much-needed quiet time away.
If you enjoy viewing and learning about art, be sure to reserve this space to read up on your favorite subject.
I love bookstore reading.
Why is it one of my favorite places to read? You can get a few great recommendations from the smart staff and read the first chapter before you commit to buying it.
How often have you thought you’d like a book only to put it down after a couple of pages?
Warning: you may be tempted to buy all the books. That’s okay. You can never own too many books!
1042 Michigan St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Orchard House Books and Cafe is such a great spot for reading, and the vibes can’t be beat. It’s bright and airy with big windows, but also comfy and cozy so you can settle in with your novel and a coffee from the cafe.
There’s some seating in an area that used to be a greenhouse, so even on rainy days you can feel like you’re outside. We love it.
966 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Self-described as “Grand Rapids’ Proudly Progressive, Consciously Curated, and Fiercely Independent Neighborhood Bookstore,” Books and Mortar is an open, inviting space in the Eastown neighborhood for everyone.
10 E Bridge St NE, Rockford, MI 49341
I’ll gladly support this independent, locally owned bookstore in downtown Rockford, MI. And hang out with Tommy the Bookstore Dog while I’m at it.
2660 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Schuler’s is a huge local bookseller with an onsite cafe, complete with a fireplace. This is a sure win if you’re looking for cozy places to read and have that bookstore/coffeehouse vibe.
95A Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
A local bookstore with a premier selection of graphic novels, comic books, games, and more, right in the heart of Downtown Grand Rapids.
Shop for a great graphic novel and then read it on the benches or seats outside along Monroe Center.
A break from the business of life is sometimes necessary.
The Japanese Gardens at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park offer tranquility in a simplistic way. It’s worth the fee to find such a beautiful and quiet place to read outside.
Booklovers would also appreciate the Peter M. Wege library inside, where you can peruse many reference books on art, horticulture, birds and more.
You’re welcome to stay as long as they’re open. If you get hungry, they offer The Taste of the Garden Café for fresh and tasty eats.
Of course the beach!
Reading on the beach is probably another obvious choice for places to read outside.
But did you know there is a park just north of Grand Rapids that features 231 acres of nature with over one mile of waterfront? It’s true – and it’s called Long Lake Park.
Lay your beach towel out on the sand and read the day away. If school’s in session, it’s likely you will have that beach all to yourself.
Looking for more beachy reading spots? Our beaches guide has a few more winners in it.
Grab your hammock, your book, and yourself, and pick one of these places where you can set up a hammock and chill. Maybe, even finish up that book you started before summer and haven’t quite had a chance to get through?
Whether you’re looking for a new place to read around town, or a quiet place to sit with a good book for awhile, Grand Rapids has plenty of cozy spots that might make you lose track of time reading “just one more chapter.”
Did your favorite spot make our list?
Amber Cox has spent hundreds of hours over the past 15 years researching, planning, and taking her family on outdoor adventures. She’s passionate about having fun, getting her three kids outside exploring their own backyard in Michigan, and encouraging other families to get outside, too. You can usually find her living life to the fullest in hiking boots on a trail somewhere. She loves capturing Michigan and sharing nature photos as @The.Fun.Finder on Instagram.
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