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Belknap Park

4.6
·783 reviews·Grand Rapids, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for pickleball & concerts

CrowdMedium
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Belknap Park - Image 1

Belknap Park

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for pickleball & concerts

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(783 reviews)

"One of the best venues for a festival I've attended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upheaval Festival

Upheaval Festival

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

Breakaway Music Festival

Breakaway Music Festival

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

Beer City Open Pickleball

Beer City Open Pickleball

Witness or play on world-class pickleball courts, hosting prestigious tournaments.

Belknap Lookout Stairs

Belknap Lookout Stairs

Climb these historic WPA-era stairs for scenic city views and a bit of local history.

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Planning Your Visit

Festival Season Savvy

Belknap Park hosts major music festivals like Upheaval and Breakaway. Book tickets and accommodation well in advance, as these events draw large crowds and can sell out quickly. Consider the weather; Michigan summers can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly.

Pickleball Paradise

Home to the Beer City Open, Belknap Park boasts excellent pickleball facilities. The courts are open late, making it ideal for evening play. If you're visiting for a tournament, expect a lively atmosphere and competitive matches.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect for pickleball & concerts
Crowd
Medium
When
Festival weekends
Why
Experience major music events
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter park access
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Beer City Open Pickleball Championships has returned to Grand Rapids for an eighth year at Belknap Park. Presented by title sponsor and official hotel partner AHC Hospitality, the tournament has grown into one of the most prestigious pickleball events in the world. (Isaac Ritchey | MLive.com)
@mlivenews
456 likes • 16.5K views

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:

Upheaval Festival 2023. Hopefully, I don't fry too bad. #music #hardrock #metal #upheaval #upheavalfestival #belknappark #michigan #grandrapid #conqeredthehill
@chadzilla05
57 likes • 3.7K views
Let’s show some extra love for our venue, Belknap Park! It’s an ultimate gem and we’re thrilled it’s home to the Beer City Open. 🍻
beercityopen
0 likes • 1.6K views

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:

Walk to Lucy’s Café, Belknap Park, Kent Country Club & more… this home has the location AND the dreamiest front porch for soaking up the sunshine! 🌞 This charming 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath 1920’s gem features original hardwoods, a fenced backyard, 2 stall garage, and ALL of the vintage character—plus modern updates where it counts! With space to grow, thoughtful improvements, and a neighborhood that c...
mckaylanguyen98
0 likes • 265 views

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

4.6
(783 reviews)

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

Great festival venue
Excellent pickleball courts
Clean and organized events

What People Dislike

Steep hill during festivals
Limited parking for events

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. Reddit Public transport options are generally convenient for reaching the park. TikTok

Yes, parking is available at Belknap Park, but it often sells out for large events like music festivals. Reddit Arriving early or utilizing the free DASH bus system is a smart strategy to ensure you get to your event on time. Reddit

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. Instagram

For concerts, especially large festivals, using the free DASH bus is often the easiest way to get to Belknap Park. Reddit This avoids the stress of finding sold-out parking and allows you to focus on the music. Reddit

While the park has paved areas, the significant hill, especially during festivals, can be challenging. Reddit It's advisable to check specific event accessibility information or contact the park directly for detailed guidance. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok+1 It's recommended to buy in advance, as popular events can sell out. Reddit

Yes, festivals at Belknap Park often offer various ticket tiers, including general admission and VIP packages, which provide different levels of access and amenities. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

For major festivals, it's unlikely that tickets will be available at the gate, as they often sell out in advance. Reddit It's best to secure your tickets online beforehand. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🏓 Pickleball & Sports

Yes, Belknap Park features public pickleball courts that are open during the season, often from daylight until 11:30 PM. Reddit They are known for being some of the best in the area. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

The pickleball courts at Belknap Park are well-regarded, featuring 21 courts with a great layout and high energy. Instagram They are also lit for evening play. Instagram

Absolutely! The pickleball courts at Belknap Park are lit and remain open until 11:30 PM, allowing for night sessions. Instagram

Belknap Park also features a lighted baseball field, indicating its capacity to host various sporting activities and events. TikTok

🎫 🎶 Music Festivals & Events

Belknap Park is a popular venue for major music festivals, notably the rock and metal-focused Upheaval Festival TikTok+1 and the EDM and hip-hop focused Breakaway Music Festival. TikTok+1

Upheaval Festival features a lineup of prominent rock and metal bands, with past performers including Falling In Reverse, Beartooth, Drowning Pool, and Rob Zombie. TikTok+6

Breakaway Music Festival at Belknap Park typically showcases electronic dance music (EDM) and hip-hop artists, drawing a vibrant crowd. TikTok+2

Yes, Belknap Park is considered a great venue for music events, with attendees praising its atmosphere and organization. Reddit The park's layout accommodates large crowds and stages effectively. Instagram

For festivals, bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a small bag. Check the specific event's prohibited items list. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography & Views

Yes, Belknap Park offers scenic views, especially from the Belknap Lookout stairs, which provide a great vantage point of the city. TikTok During festivals, the stages and crowds create dynamic photo opportunities. TikTok

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. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed at concerts, but professional photography equipment may require special permits. Always check the specific event's policy. TikTok

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos, especially from the lookout point. TikTok Festival evenings with stage lights also provide unique photographic moments. TikTok

The top of the Belknap Lookout stairs provides a panoramic view of Grand Rapids, making it an excellent spot for cityscapes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Belknap Park offers a mix of activities that can appeal to families. While major music festivals might be geared towards adults, the park's open spaces and the Belknap Lookout stairs can be an adventure for older children. TikTok The presence of a baseball field suggests potential for family-friendly sporting events or casual play. TikTok

For families attending events, consider the timing and nature of the event. If visiting during a festival, plan for crowds and potentially loud music. TikTok+1 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. Reddit

🎸 Music Festival Enthusiasts

Belknap Park is a dream destination for music lovers, especially those into rock, metal, EDM, and hip-hop. It's the prime location for the Upheaval Festival and Breakaway Music Festival, drawing top-tier artists and creating an unforgettable atmosphere. TikTok+1 Attendees consistently rave about the park as a venue, highlighting its excellent crowd management and overall positive vibe. Reddit

To make the most of your festival experience, secure tickets early, as they are known to sell out. TikTokReddit Be prepared for the park's terrain, particularly the challenging hill, by wearing comfortable shoes. Reddit Taking advantage of the free DASH bus service is a smart move to bypass parking issues and get straight to the music. Reddit Prepare for a full day or weekend of incredible performances and a vibrant community of fellow music fans. TikTok

🏓 Pickleball Players

For pickleball aficionados, Belknap Park is a must-visit. The park features high-quality courts, including those used for major tournaments like the Beer City Open. TikTokInstagram The courts are well-maintained and lit, allowing play well into the evening, up to 11:30 PM. Instagram

The welcoming environment makes it easy to find playing partners, even if you arrive solo. Reddit Whether you're a seasoned player looking for competitive matches or a beginner wanting to learn, Belknap Park offers a fantastic setting. Instagram If you're visiting during a tournament, it's a great opportunity to witness professional play and soak in the competitive spirit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Festival Hub: Upheaval & Breakaway

Belknap Park has cemented its reputation as a premier outdoor venue for large-scale music festivals. It's the annual host of the Upheaval Festival, a haven for rock and metal enthusiasts, and the Breakaway Music Festival, which electrifies the park with EDM and hip-hop acts. TikTok+1 These events draw thousands, transforming the park into a vibrant hub of music and energy. Attendees often praise the park's atmosphere and the organization of these festivals, noting it as one of the best venues they've experienced. Reddit

When attending these festivals, planning is key. Tickets, especially for popular acts, sell out quickly, so booking in advance is crucial. TikTokReddit The park's geography, particularly the steep hill, can be a challenge, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit For parking, utilizing the free Grand Rapids DASH bus system is highly recommended, as on-site parking can be limited and sell out. Reddit The experience is often described as electric, with attendees sharing memorable moments from performances and the overall festival vibe. TikTok+1

Beyond the music, the park's infrastructure supports these large events, with clear signage and staff presence contributing to a smooth experience. Instagram While the focus is on the music, the park itself becomes part of the experience, offering a unique backdrop for unforgettable summer concerts. TikTok

Pickleball Perfection at Belknap

Belknap Park is a standout destination for pickleball players, boasting impressive facilities that host significant events like the Beer City Open Pickleball Championships and the Edward Jones MLP Mid-Season Tournament. TikTokInstagram With 21 courts, a well-designed layout, and a lively atmosphere, it's a prime spot for both casual play and professional competition. Instagram The courts are known for their quality, making them a favorite among players. Reddit

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. Instagram This makes Belknap Park an ideal location for those who want to play after work or enjoy the cooler evening air. Instagram 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. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram 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. Instagram

Exploring the Belknap Lookout

For a dose of local history and stunning city views, a visit to the Belknap Lookout stairs is highly recommended. These historic concrete stairs were constructed in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) initiative, connecting Belknap Lookout Park with the North Monroe neighborhood below. TikTok Climbing these stairs offers a unique perspective on Grand Rapids and a chance to appreciate a piece of the city's past.

The ascent rewards visitors with panoramic vistas of the Grand Rapids skyline. TikTok 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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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