Frequently Asked Questions
Back to Top of ListHow to Experience Grand Rapids Public Museum:
What can I see and do at GRPM?
GRPM contains three floors of exhibits focused on science, history and culture. Permanent exhibits tell the tale of local people, animals and environments, past and present, in fun, interactive ways. Traveling exhibitions offer a wide range of entertaining, immersive experiences. The Museum is also home to the Roger B Chaffee Planetarium, a café and gift shop.
Is GRPM good for kids?
The Museum is a wonderland for curious kids, with new things to see and touch and marvel at around every corner. Riding the 1928 Spillman Carousel (currently closed for renovation) is an iconic West Michigan activity. Enjoy 7 Fun Facts About the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Spillman Carousel.
When is GRPM open?
- 9am-5pm Monday-Friday
- 10am-5pm Saturday & Sunday
What is the admission price?
General admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (62+), $3 for students and $3 for children (13-17). Children 2 and under enter free. Kent County residents enjoy reduced general admission.
Admission to Roger B. Chafee Planetarium at the Museum is $5 (or $4 on top of general admission).
Select featured exhibits may require an additional entry fee. Visit the Museum website for information and ticket purchase.
Are there any discounts available?
Show your active or retired military ID, AAA card, GR convention badge or teacher’s ID for $1 off general admission. Admission is free for GRCC students & faculty and members of the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) and Association of Science and Technology (ASTC). ID/membership cards are required.
Through Labor Day – September 6, 2021 – GRPM offers free general admission to those currently serving in the U.S. Military and up to five family members as part of the Blue Star Museum program.
Visit GRPM and other local attractions for one low price when you purchase Culture Pass GR, a digital three-day savings pass delivered to your smartphone.
Save on Grand Rapids Attractions with Culture Pass GR
Can I purchase or reserve tickets online?
Yes, visit the Museum ticket page.
Is GRPM accessible for guests with special needs?
The Museum is accessible for all visitors. See Accessibility Info.
Where is GRPM located?
In the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, on the banks of the Grand River. It’s just steps away from hotels, restaurants and breweries, and it’s across the street from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
Where can I park?
Covered parking is available in a ramp just south of the Museum’s main entrance ($15 max fee). Handicap parking is available under the Museum’s overhang, with additional handicap parking in the ramp. Additional parking garages and lots are located within an easy walk.
Is food available?
The Museum Café offers a family-friendly selection of snacks, beverages, baked goods and pre-packaged lunch items. Seating overlooks the Grand River.
Is there a gift shop?
The Curiosity Shop is filled with items that celebrate curiosity and adventure, from Michigan artisan-made goods to toys and books.
Permanent Collections
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Adolescent Echo
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
“Adolescent Echo” is an interactive installation of wooden birdhouses by artist Craig Merchant. They are painted in vibrant colors, they light up at night, and some of the birdhouses will repeat short phrases that are spoken into them.
Anishinabek: The People of This Place
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
Many direct descendants of the original Ottawa, Potawatomi and Chippewa people of West Michigan still live in the region today. Here is the story of the Anishinabek – “the people” – in their own voices, with rare and fascinating…
Crank Zappa Jellyfish
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
Touch the sensors on the tentacles of this mammoth sculpture to light it up and get (hopefully useful) advice and guidance from a hot-tempered jellyfish. Crank Zappa Jellyfish is an interactive sculpture created from plastic waste. Lights…
Grand Fish, Grand River
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
Organized around Earth’s spectacular eco-zones Earth Explorers brings the unparalleled adventures of National Geographic to life. Learn about the daring men and women who venture into dangerous and remote parts of the world to discover new…
Mother Nature
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
A life-size, 5-foot-tall Statue of Mother Nature by artist Erica Alexander. The installation features elements that incorporate all four seasons.
Newcomers: The People of This Place
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
More than 45 ethnic groups now call West Michigan their home. Newcomers: The People of This Place includes more than 600 artifacts and images dating from the first French fur traders to the latest influx of refugees escaping wars and others…
POPnology at the Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
Celebrate and explore the greatest works of popular culture inspired technology innovation and imagination in history. Must purchase admission in addition to POPnology. Please add both to your cart before checkout. POPnology comes from the…
The Singing Tree
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Recurring daily
The Singing Tree is a lighting experience that transforms sound into interactive experiences. Interact with it in real-time by singing, clapping, or yelling to create an unforgettable and magical experience. The Singing Tree has been…
Accessibility Information
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- 272 Pearl St. NW
- (616) 929-1700
This museum offers world-class exhibits on history, nature, cultural heritage and more. Ride a 1928 carousel, catch a show in the planetarium or eat in the cafe overlooking the Grand River. General Admission charged.
Explore More Grand Rapids Attractions
Experience Grand Rapids, Michigan's diverse attractions including parks, the John Ball Zoo, museums, nature centers and sculpture gardens. Whether you're vacationing with the family or traveling for business, you'll want to take some time to enjoy these fun things to do in Grand Rapids.