Discover the best ways to savor the last days of summer in Grand Rapids—from outdoor concerts to local eats—all within easy reach of The BlueJay.
As the last golden weeks of summer roll through Michigan, Grand Rapids is alive with activity. From sunset festivals to lake day escapes, August offers one final burst of warm-weather fun before the crisp bite of fall. And there’s no better place to soak it all in than The BlueJay—your stylish, centrally located stay in the heart of the city.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a midweek recharge, here’s how to make the most of late summer in Grand Rapids.
1. Catch Outdoor Music Before the Season Ends
Live music is everywhere in Grand Rapids during the summer, and August is packed with outdoor shows, open-air stages, and patio performances.
- Frederik Meijer Gardens Summer Concert Series – These intimate, open-air concerts wrap up in August and feature national acts in a beautiful botanical setting. View the schedule here.
- Listening Lawn at Studio Park – Hosted by Listening Room GR, this outdoor concert series brings local and regional artists downtown, steps from The BlueJay.
- Local patios & rooftops – Don’t miss live music at Founders Brewing beer garden.
Tip: Pack a blanket or folding chair for lawn-style events, and book tickets early—shows tend to sell out quickly.
2. Sip Your Way Through the Last of Patio Season
Grand Rapids has earned its nickname Beer City USA, and late summer is patio season at its best.
- Brewery hop through top spots like Brewery Vivant (a former funeral chapel turned Belgian-style brewpub), The Mitten Brewing Co. (located in a historic firehouse), and Grand Rapids Brewing Co.—all within easy reach of The BlueJay.
- Not into beer? Enjoy cocktail hour at MeXo, which features Oaxacan spirits and modern Mexican fare.
- Markets & more – The Downtown Market patio is perfect for sampling local eats, sipping craft cocktails, and listening to live music on weekends.
3. Cool Off with a Day Trip to Lake Michigan
One of the best parts of staying in Grand Rapids is that you’re only about 35–45 minutes from some of Lake Michigan’s best beaches.
- Grand Haven is a go-to for families, with a boardwalk, lighthouse, and walkable downtown.
- Holland State Park offers wide sandy beaches and sunset views.
- Saugatuck Dunes is a great pick for those seeking a quieter, more natural beach day.
Pack your towel and sunscreen, and ask The BlueJay team for beach chair or cooler recommendations.
4. Stroll the Parks, Gardens, and Trails
Not up for a full beach day? Grand Rapids still has plenty of green space for enjoying the weather.
- Riverside Park is one of the city’s largest parks, with walking trails, picnic areas, and kayak rentals.
- Ah-Nab-Awen Park downtown offers skyline views and riverfront walking paths.
- The Blue Bridge, just a 5-minute walk from The BlueJay, is perfect for golden-hour photos.
For more adventure, consider a bike rental through The Spoke Folks or Lime Scooters to zip around the city with ease.
5. Check Out August-Only Events
There are several limited-time events that make August in GR something special:
- GR Pride Festival (Aug 10, 2025): Live performances, local vendors, and community celebration downtown. Learn more.
- Local First Street Party (usually mid-August): A lively outdoor celebration with music, food trucks, and local brews. Check schedule.
- Movies in the Park – Watch classic films under the stars in Ah-Nab-Awen Park, just a short stroll from The BlueJay. See event info.
6. Book a Weeknight Stay for Lower Rates
Summer weekends tend to book fast, but late summer also brings lower rates for midweek travelers. If your schedule is flexible, consider a Monday–Thursday stay and enjoy:
- Lower pricing
- Fewer crowds at restaurants and attractions
- Easier access to parking and bike rentals
Need a workspace between adventures? The BlueJay’s stylish rooms are laptop-friendly and walkable to local coffee shops like Lyon Street Café and Madcap Coffee.
7. Book Direct and Save
Here’s a tip for last-minute August planners: Booking directly through The BlueJay’s website often unlocks lower rates than third-party sites. You’ll also get:
- Early check-in when available
- Priority access to special offers
- Direct communication with our local team
One Last Toast to Summer
The BlueJay is more than just a place to crash—it’s your home base for exploring the best of Grand Rapids. Whether you’re catching a rooftop show, brewery hopping with friends, or watching the sun dip over Lake Michigan, this is the time to make summer memories that last.
Book your late-summer escape now, and toast the season’s end in style.
