Public Museum of Grand Rapids

The Public Museum of Grand Rapids is a history museum in downtown located along the Grand River, spanning three floors and housing over 250,000 historical artifacts and scientific specimens from West Michigan. The building sits directly by the water and provides a comprehensive look at the region's past and natural heritage.

Founded in 1854 as the Grand Rapids Lyceum of Natural History, the institution became the first museum in the region to earn accreditation from the American Association of Museums in 1971. This early recognition reflects its long importance in documenting the region's past.

The permanent exhibition 'Anishinabek: The People of This Place' shares the heritage and traditions of the region's Native American communities through objects and stories from their daily lives. Visitors can understand how these communities have long been connected to this area.

The museum is open Monday through Friday and also welcomes visitors on weekends, with a cafe and gift shop available inside. Plan your visit with comfortable shoes, as you will explore across multiple floors.

A working carousel built in 1928 by Spillman sits in a pavilion suspended over the Grand River, accompanied by a Wurlitzer Band Organ that plays 165 different music rolls. This vintage ride remains operational and offers a rare chance to experience an original amusement piece from that era.