Belknap Park
Grand Rapids park known for hosting major music festivals and premier pickleball tournaments, with scenic lookout stairs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for pickleball & concerts
Belknap Park
Best Time
Perfect for pickleball & concerts

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Grand Rapids park known for hosting major music festivals and premier pickleball tournaments, with scenic lookout stairs.
"One of the best venues for a festival I've attended!"
Festival Ticket Strategy
Book festival tickets early! VIP options often sell out fast. :ticket:
Pickleball Drop-in Fun
No partner needed! Just show up to meet new players on the courts. :pickleball:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upheaval Festival
Rock out at this premier metal and hard rock festival, featuring top bands and an electric atmosphere.

Breakaway Music Festival
Experience a vibrant EDM and hip-hop festival with a diverse lineup and energetic crowds.

Beer City Open Pickleball
Witness or play on world-class pickleball courts, hosting prestigious tournaments.

Belknap Lookout Stairs
Climb these historic WPA-era stairs for scenic city views and a bit of local history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Festival Season Savvy
Pickleball Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Festival Ticket Strategy
Book festival tickets early! VIP options often sell out fast. :ticket:
Pickleball Drop-in Fun
No partner needed! Just show up to meet new players on the courts. :pickleball:
Conquer the Hill
Be prepared for the steep hill at festivals; wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Utilize Free Transit
The DASH bus is a lifesaver for festival parking. :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
Festival Ticket Strategy
Book festival tickets early! VIP options often sell out fast. :ticket:
Pickleball Drop-in Fun
No partner needed! Just show up to meet new players on the courts. :pickleball:
Conquer the Hill
Be prepared for the steep hill at festivals; wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Utilize Free Transit
The DASH bus is a lifesaver for festival parking. :bus:
Check Event Schedules
Stay updated on concerts and tournaments to plan your visit. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Belknap Park is highly praised as a fantastic venue, particularly for music festivals and pickleball. Visitors love the energetic atmosphere, clean facilities, and well-organized events. Some find the park's hill challenging during festivals, and parking can be an issue for major events.
"Won vip tickets for upheaval festival 2025! The park was awesome! The crowd was amazing! The park was super clean and one of the best venues for a festival I've attended! Parking wasn't too bad to find and the grand rapids free DASH bus system was the best thing to take to the show since their parking passes were sold out by the time I found out I had won passes. Best festival experience by far!"
Jenn Peterson
"Our favorite festival place this side of Michigan. We attend UpHeaval every year here, the staff and security are AWESOME! Great job! Keep it up!🤘🏼💜"
Shauna Marie
"Great location for a music festival but that back hill is a killer to walk up!"
Cristina Ferro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Belknap Park is accessible by car, with parking available, though it can fill up during events. The Grand Rapids DASH bus system offers free rides, which is highly recommended for major festivals like Breakaway and Upheaval to avoid parking hassles.
Public transport options are generally convenient for reaching the park.Yes, parking is available at Belknap Park, but it often sells out for large events like music festivals.
Arriving early or utilizing the free DASH bus system is a smart strategy to ensure you get to your event on time.Biking to Belknap Park is a viable option, especially for locals. The park is integrated into the city's network, and you might find bike racks available, though specific facilities can vary.
For concerts, especially large festivals, using the free DASH bus is often the easiest way to get to Belknap Park.
This avoids the stress of finding sold-out parking and allows you to focus on the music.While the park has paved areas, the significant hill, especially during festivals, can be challenging.
It's advisable to check specific event accessibility information or contact the park directly for detailed guidance.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events like Upheaval Festival and Breakaway Music Festival are typically purchased online through the official festival websites or authorized ticket vendors.
It's recommended to buy in advance, as popular events can sell out.Yes, festivals at Belknap Park often offer various ticket tiers, including general admission and VIP packages, which provide different levels of access and amenities.
Park hours can vary, and specific event times will be listed on the event's official schedule. For pickleball, courts are often open from daylight until 11:30 PM during the season.
For major festivals, it's unlikely that tickets will be available at the gate, as they often sell out in advance.
It's best to secure your tickets online beforehand.Re-entry policies vary by event. Most music festivals at Belknap Park do not allow re-entry once you have left the venue. Always check the specific event's rules.
🎫 🏓 Pickleball & Sports
Yes, Belknap Park features public pickleball courts that are open during the season, often from daylight until 11:30 PM.
They are known for being some of the best in the area.While reservations might not always be mandatory, especially during off-peak times, it's a good idea to check if there's a booking system, particularly for prime hours or if you're planning to play during a tournament.
The pickleball courts at Belknap Park are well-regarded, featuring 21 courts with a great layout and high energy.
They are also lit for evening play.Absolutely! The pickleball courts at Belknap Park are lit and remain open until 11:30 PM, allowing for night sessions.
Belknap Park also features a lighted baseball field, indicating its capacity to host various sporting activities and events.
🎫 🎶 Music Festivals & Events
Belknap Park is a popular venue for major music festivals, notably the rock and metal-focused Upheaval Festival
and the EDM and hip-hop focused Breakaway Music Festival.Upheaval Festival features a lineup of prominent rock and metal bands, with past performers including Falling In Reverse, Beartooth, Drowning Pool, and Rob Zombie.
Breakaway Music Festival at Belknap Park typically showcases electronic dance music (EDM) and hip-hop artists, drawing a vibrant crowd.
Yes, Belknap Park is considered a great venue for music events, with attendees praising its atmosphere and organization.
The park's layout accommodates large crowds and stages effectively.For festivals, bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a small bag. Check the specific event's prohibited items list.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Yes, Belknap Park offers scenic views, especially from the Belknap Lookout stairs, which provide a great vantage point of the city.
During festivals, the stages and crowds create dynamic photo opportunities.The Belknap Lookout is a historic set of concrete stairs built in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration. They connect Belknap Lookout Park to the North Monroe neighborhood and offer scenic city views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed at concerts, but professional photography equipment may require special permits. Always check the specific event's policy.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos, especially from the lookout point.
Festival evenings with stage lights also provide unique photographic moments.The top of the Belknap Lookout stairs provides a panoramic view of Grand Rapids, making it an excellent spot for cityscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families attending events, consider the timing and nature of the event. If visiting during a festival, plan for crowds and potentially loud music. Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea. For pickleball, younger children might enjoy watching the games, but the competitive nature of tournaments might be less engaging for them.
🎸 Music Festival Enthusiasts
To make the most of your festival experience, secure tickets early, as they are known to sell out. Be prepared for the park's terrain, particularly the challenging hill, by wearing comfortable shoes. Taking advantage of the free DASH bus service is a smart move to bypass parking issues and get straight to the music. Prepare for a full day or weekend of incredible performances and a vibrant community of fellow music fans.
🏓 Pickleball Players
The welcoming environment makes it easy to find playing partners, even if you arrive solo. Whether you're a seasoned player looking for competitive matches or a beginner wanting to learn, Belknap Park offers a fantastic setting. If you're visiting during a tournament, it's a great opportunity to witness professional play and soak in the competitive spirit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Festival Hub: Upheaval & Breakaway
When attending these festivals, planning is key. Tickets, especially for popular acts, sell out quickly, so booking in advance is crucial. The park's geography, particularly the steep hill, can be a challenge, so comfortable footwear is a must. For parking, utilizing the free Grand Rapids DASH bus system is highly recommended, as on-site parking can be limited and sell out. The experience is often described as electric, with attendees sharing memorable moments from performances and the overall festival vibe.
Beyond the music, the park's infrastructure supports these large events, with clear signage and staff presence contributing to a smooth experience. While the focus is on the music, the park itself becomes part of the experience, offering a unique backdrop for unforgettable summer concerts.
Pickleball Perfection at Belknap
A major draw for pickleball enthusiasts is the extended operating hours; the courts are typically open from daylight until 11:30 PM, allowing for evening games under the lights. This makes Belknap Park an ideal location for those who want to play after work or enjoy the cooler evening air. The community aspect is also strong, with many visitors noting that you don't even need a partner to come to the courts, as it's easy to meet new people and form partnerships.
For those interested in tournaments, Belknap Park offers a professional setting. The Beer City Open, for instance, is recognized as one of the most prestigious pickleball events globally, attracting top talent and offering substantial prize money. The park's reputation as a top-tier pickleball venue continues to grow, making it a must-visit for any serious player or fan of the sport.
Exploring the Belknap Lookout
The ascent rewards visitors with panoramic vistas of the Grand Rapids skyline. It's a popular spot for a leisurely walk, a bit of exercise, and, of course, photography. The views are particularly striking during the golden hour, just before sunset, offering a beautiful backdrop for memorable pictures.
While the stairs themselves are a historical feature, the surrounding park area also provides green space for relaxation. It's a quieter alternative to the bustling festival grounds, offering a peaceful retreat and a different way to experience Belknap Park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit