Ada
Forest Hills Cascade
Ada Village/Forest Hills/Cascade are located on the east side of Grand Rapids approximately 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids.
ADA VILLAGE:
The newly designed and ever-expanding Ada Village offers an abundance of boutique shopping, restaurants, a farmer’s market and grocery store. Don’t forget to treat yourself at one of the many donut, ice cream or coffee shops, too!
Nestled between the Thornapple River and Grand River, boasting expansive parks and trails, enjoy country charm with the convenience of the city just miles away.
NEARBY PARKS:
1010 Grand River Drive NE, Ada, MI 49301
Roselle Park is a 240-acre plus nature preserve located at 1010 Grand River Drive NE. A paved trail leads from the parking lot to the Grand River. Along the trail, there is a river overlook and canoe landing as well as the Woodrick Memorial wetland observation deck, restored natural streams and waterways and native wetland and prairie vegetation.
8155 Conservation Rd, Ada, MI 49301
Seidman Park invites visitors to explore more than 400 acres of woods, fields and wetlands with it’s rolling hills & valley. Interconnected loops of natural-surfaced trails total nearly five miles in length, offering a variety of hiking experiences. Two parking lots with seasonal restrooms provide access to the north and south regions of the trail network. Additionally, visitors can reach Seidman via Ada Township’s paved multi-use trail which runs along the north and south borders of the park.
PLACES TO VISIT:
820 Forest Hill Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Voted Best of Grand Rapids numerous times, Funky Buddha offers a variety of hot yoga classes seven days a week, as well as focused workshops and fun special events. With four studios in the Greater Grand Rapids area and Holland, you can practice near home or on the go.
7144 Headley Street SE, Ada, MI 49301
Learn about the unique history of the Ada Village and community as preserved by the Ada Historical Society. Watch their website for various events throughout the year.
6797 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
The Original Football Bowling Pin Game can be played any day of the week! 21+ Monday-Friday and after 6 p.m. on weekends, Family Friendly 12-6 p.m. Saturday/Sunday. 2 fully stocked bars with non-alcoholic beverages as well, bring your own food/snacks! Enjoy some fun during open play or reserve lanes for your group.
1000 E Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Year-round indoor and outdoor exhibits for all ages featuring art, sculpture and nature from a variety of cultures throughout the year. Enjoy live music in the outdoor amphitheater or host your private event indoors or outdoors.
PLACES TO SHOP:
7430 River Street SE, Ada, MI 49301
Feel Ada Village history when you enter this old 1859 school house transformed into the village general store now selling ice cream, drinks, coffee, penny candy, donuts/snacks and local Michigan-made items.
2844 Thornapple River Drive SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Let Village Bike & Fitness help you with your equipment needs, fitting and service! Meet new friends while Riding with Village Bike & Fitness each week.
496 Ada Dr SE #106, Ada, MI 49301
With their wide array of greeting cards, bath and body goodies, stationary and home decor, Pursuit is a one-stop shop for all your unique gifting needs. They also offer multiple workshops and classes every month.
452 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301
Versatile athleisure clothing for your fitness and everyday casual-comfort needs. Flexible appointment options available for shopping before or after hours along with private party shopping events.
PLACES TO EAT:
584 and 591 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301
Nonna’s Pantry serves a variety of coffee/espresso drinks, teas, juices. sodas, pastries, desserts and soups. This is a cozy spot to catch up with friends while enjoying a light breakfast. Located across the street, Nonna’s Tratoria offers more hearty breakfast options, with light fare, full lunch and dinner menus available too. Stop in for brunch on the weekends! Food is prepared from scratch and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.
7437 River Street SE, Ada, MI 49301
Michigan’s only Turkish restaurant, Zeytin offers a spacious, modern dining area and large circular sports bar with an inviting atmosphere. An outdoor patio provides the perfect relaxation spot for a leisurely afternoon or evening and features views of the new Ada Village, Legacy Park and Grand River.
597 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301
Deli by day, grill by night. Lunch-time sandwiches, salads and sides served in large portions with order-at-the-counter service and casual seating. Evenings transform into a full-service grill with casual fine dining, appetizers, salads, entrees, pastas, burgers and sandwiches – a large variety sure to please everyone in your group.
452 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301
Microbrewery with a fun atmosphere for meeting friends, casual date night and family friendly with kids’ menu. Enjoy rotating brews, appetizers, salads and pizza and take advantage of deals included in being a Mug Club Member.
452 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301
Fulfill your sweet tooth cravings at this family-owned bakery offering a variety of donuts, cupcakes and muffins baked fresh daily!
4609 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Daily lunch and dinner spot with Sunday brunch menu. Happy hour, specials and rewards program. Serving a variety of shareables, salads, sandwiches/wraps, desserts, full bar and kids’ menu. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Cork Wine & Grill / Vintage Prime Seafood
5500 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Located within Watermark Country Club, enjoy golf course views along with their extensive wine list. Cork is open daily with patio seating in warmer months, while Vintage has limited hours and seating – scheduling reservations is recommended.
KATE’S THOUGHTS
The Ada, Cascade & Forest Hills communities are abundant with a variety of activities, shopping, restaurants, & natural parks for people of all ages to enjoy. There is a large range of housing options available from townhomes & condos to single family residences on several acres. These vibrant communities are a wonderful place to call home for people seeking an active lifestyle only a short distance from downtown Grand Rapids.
Events
Downtown Grand Rapids offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a casual lounge to grab a drink with friends or seeking family oriented festivities, the downtown neighborhood has no shortage of entertainments to keep you engaged. Check out a few of the many events coming to Downtown Grand Rapids soon.
ICE SKATING IN ROSA PARKS CIRCLE
November 23 3PM-February 24th
Every year, winter merry-makers flock to Rosa Parks Circle to take in the chill of the rink in a downtown setting.
LIGHT UP DOWNTOWN
Saturday, December 1st 5PM-7PM Gerald R. Ford Museum
The annual Christmas tree lighting is a true kickoff to the holiday season. Grab some hot chocolate and warm mittens for a fun night in the city center. Sled dogs and Santa’s reindeer will be eager for hands to pet them. Need I say more?
WINTER WEST
Saturday, December 22 10AM-2PM Richmond Park
If you’re looking for physical activity during the cold winter months, Richmond Park’s annual WinterWest will surely get you up and moving.