Dog-Friendly Vacationing in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids, Michigan, is the second largest city in the state, after Detroit. It is situated on the Grand River, not far from Lake Michigan. This city has a fair amount of culture going on, as well as a couple great dog parks in the area and some other outdoor attractions and activities.

Attractions

Grand River Sculpture and Fish Ladder

This sculpture was created by Joseph Kinnebrew to assist the fish in their struggle going upstream, and also providing the visual component of this situation to the public. Humans and leashed dogs are welcome to observe this interesting structure.

Parks

Pet Supplies Plus Off-Leash Dog Area

This off-leash dog area is located in greater Hillcrest Park. It is fenced in and divided into one area for small dogs and puppies, and another for big dogs. There are benches and trash cans in this park as well, and sometimes dog bowls for owners to bring their own water.

Shaggy Pines Dog Park

The Shaggy Pines Dog Park is located in Ada, Michigan. It is a private park that dog owners must pay to use. However, it has 20 fenced-in acres where dogs can roam off-leash in the rolling hills. This park is very nicely developed, as there is a one-mile trail through the grounds which is maintained during winter months. There are also two large dry areas for dogs when it gets muddy, water stations, a mountain for climbing and digging and a small dog swimming pond.

If your dog gets messy while having lots of fun at this park, they have a self-service dog wash!

Yankee Springs Recreation Area

The Yankee Springs Recreation Area is located in Middleville, Michigan. The park encompasses over 5,000 acres, with areas of lakes, streams, bogs and marshes. There is an existing 30-mile trail system in this park, as well as nine lakes and some interesting rock formations. Dogs are allowed in this park as long as they are on a leash of less than 6 feet.

Shopping Areas

Downtown Center

The Downtown Center is a tree-lined area that has old-fashioned brick buildings, along with little shops, cafes and restaurants. Leashed dogs are allowed to walk around outside the establishments, but you must ask their staff if they are allowed inside.

Restaurants

Noto’s Old World Italian Dining

This family restaurant is open for dinner, and has a menu that changes seasonally with fresh ingredients. Leashed dogs may sit at the outer tables.

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One thought on “Dog-Friendly Vacationing in Grand Rapids, Michigan

  1. I’m from Grand Rapids, and this is one of the great things about our community. There are so many dog friendly businesses and neighborhoods.