My dad and I celebrating Father's Day in Grand Rapids
Father’s Day 2025 falls on Sunday, June 15, which means it’s coming up quickly. If you’re in the West Michigan area, I’ve put together this list of the top Father’s Day activities in Grand Rapids. This list features a variety of Father’s Day ideas for every type of dad, with everything from local brunch and lunch spots to unique events and activities around town.
7 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day in Grand Rapids This Year
Wolfang’s - Best for Father’s Day Brunch in Grand Rapids Wolfgang’s is a well-known breakfast spot on Wealthy Street in Eastown GR, and it’s the kind of local, laid-back place that many dads would enjoy for a Father’s Day brunch. Additionally, it’s a more affordable option than some higher-end brunch spots. Wolfgang’s has a kids’ menu, where kids 12 and under can choose from three breakfast items for under $5. Wolfgang’s Sunday hours are 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like they take online reservations, so I suggest calling them at (616) 454-5776 to ask about reservations. In the event you can’t make a reservation, you can always call ahead to see how busy they are. Pros
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For more brunch ideas, take a look at this roundup of top brunch spots in Grand Rapids Gerald R. Ford Museum - Best Father’s Day Idea for History Buffs Located just off the U.S. 131 highway in downtown Grand Rapids, the Gerald R. Ford Museum is a great idea if your dad is into museums and history. This presidential library is dedicated to the nation’s 38th president, who grew up in Grand Rapids. On Sundays, the museum is open from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and ticket prices for adults are $13. Prices for seniors, military members, college students, and kids are cheaper. Kids 5 and under can go in for free. Pros
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Grand Haven - Best for a Beach Day I grew up visiting Grand Haven, and it’s one of the most popular beaches in West Michigan during summer. I chose this one because you also have the option to camp there, and there are numerous restaurants in the area to eat at. Granted, the weather in Michigan can be unpredictable, so you may need to plan for this one a little closer to the date. However, nothing beats a gorgeous day on Lake Michigan. If you’re really looking to splurge, you might also consider staying at one of the local hotels in the area to spend Father’s Day weekend there. Pros
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Grand Rapids Beer Tour - Best Unique Activity Grand Rapids is known for its exceptional local breweries. Heck, it was even named ‘Beer City USA’, so a beer tour around the city could be a unique way for dad to spend his Father’s Day. Great Lakes Pub Cruisers offers 2-6-person party bike tours around the city to top breweries. Unfortunately, they don’t have a beer tour on the actual Father’s Day Sunday, but you could book a tour on Saturday, June 14. In the event you’d rather save something for Sunday, consider visiting a new brewery you haven’t been to yet. Some of my top choices are New Holland, Cedar Springs Brewing Company, Founders, Brewery Vivant, and Perrin Brewing. Pros
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The Score - Best for Father’s Day Lunch The Score is one of the most unique establishments in West Michigan. Throughout most of the year, it’s a regular sports bar, but come summer, its backyard morphs into a tropical oasis in the heart of the Midwest. With live bands, sand, and even volleyball games all situated along the lake, The Score is a great spot if your dad could use a getaway this Father’s Day. As you might imagine, this place can get busy during the summer season, and unfortunately, they only take reservations for parties of 20 or more. So, if you do come here, just keep in mind that you may have to wait a bit for a table. Pros
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Grand Rapids Lantern Festival - Best Local Event Father’s Day 2025 also happens to fall on the last day of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo. According to the zoo’s official website, this evening festival features Asian lantern displays around the park and runs from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Tickets for non-members are $26 and $23 for members. This could also be a fun outing for those with younger kids. Pros
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Hike at Saugatuck Dunes - Best Outdoorsy Idea If your dad is anything like mine and loves outdoor activities, then a hike could be a great idea for a nice Father’s Day adventure. Like Grand Haven, this one will depend on the weather, so I recommend checking the forecast up to a few days before. There are lots of beautiful West Michigan hikes you can find, but one my dad personally recommended was the Saugatuck Dunes. After your hike, consider going out for lunch or to a brewery for some local craft beer. Pros
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Transparency Disclosure — The opinions on this website are independent and based on my own personal experiences. I may receive a referral fee for stays booked through the links on this site. Comments are closed.
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About the author
Jill Zwarensteyn is a writer and comedian who has been featured on Amazon, truTV, The New York Times, Matador Network, BUST Magazine, Sleep Advisor, Tiplr, ARTRPRNR Magazine, YourTango, Thought Catalog, GoMad Nomad, Mashable, The Daily Mail UK, the Cannes Film Festival, LaughFest, Women's Lifestyle Magazine, and the Funny Women Festival LA. Archives
May 2025
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