McKay Tower
A historic Grand Rapids landmark offering elegant event spaces and prime downtown office locations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See unique art installations
McKay Tower
Best Time
See unique art installations
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Grand Rapids landmark offering elegant event spaces and prime downtown office locations.
"The beauty of this place is indescribable. We could not of asked for a better wedding day!"
🎯 Event Planning Assistance
Staff like Nicole and Mackenzie are praised for making events seamless and stress-free.
🍣 Sushi Yama Delight
Enjoy delicious sushi in a beautiful historic setting at Sushi Yama within McKay Tower.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Ballroom
McKay Tower Ballroom
Experience the grandeur of a beautifully preserved historic ballroom, perfect for unforgettable events.
ArtPrize Exhibitions
Various locations within McKay Tower
During ArtPrize, the tower often hosts art installations, showcasing local and international talent.
World of Winter Festival
McKay Tower exterior
See the tower transformed with vibrant murals and light installations during the annual World of Winter festival.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Event Space Early
Explore Downtown Grand Rapids
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Event Planning Assistance
Staff like Nicole and Mackenzie are praised for making events seamless and stress-free.
🍣 Sushi Yama Delight
Enjoy delicious sushi in a beautiful historic setting at Sushi Yama within McKay Tower.
☕ Cozy Workspace Vibes
Experience a peaceful work environment with rain views, perfect for a productive day.
🎨 ArtPrize Voting
If visiting during ArtPrize, remember your voting number for your favorite pieces!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Event Planning Assistance
Staff like Nicole and Mackenzie are praised for making events seamless and stress-free.
🍣 Sushi Yama Delight
Enjoy delicious sushi in a beautiful historic setting at Sushi Yama within McKay Tower.
☕ Cozy Workspace Vibes
Experience a peaceful work environment with rain views, perfect for a productive day.
🎨 ArtPrize Voting
If visiting during ArtPrize, remember your voting number for your favorite pieces!
🏢 Office Space Inquiries
Contact NAIWWM for available office suites and leasing information.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McKay Tower is overwhelmingly praised as a stunning venue for events, with staff receiving high marks for their exceptional service and dedication. Guests consistently highlight the ballroom's indescribable beauty and the seamless execution of events, making it a top choice for weddings and parties. While primarily an event space, its historic charm and central location add to its appeal.
"Wow, just wow. We worked with Nicole who is by far the best person to work with. She was so flexible and understood the stress we were going through but she made sure that we had the best day possible. She replied to emails at all times to make sure that I was comfortable, she really made sure that I understood all of the bar options and helped with the catering options. Not only is this venue perfect for anyone who is looking for an amazing deal and a beautiful venue to get married in, Plan a class reunion, plan a birthday party, plan an office party, anything. The beauty of this place is indescribable. We also have the opportunity to work with one of the coordinators Mackenzie who made sure that everything was done properly and efficiently and she was so great and she deserves to be recognized as well. They did such an amazing job making sure our guests got to where they need to go, made sure that the bathrooms were clean, that everything was stocked, and everything was perfect for our guests which was what we really wanted. I could not of asked for a better wedding day in my entire life. Thank you to everyone at McKay Tower for making our dreams come true. Hopefully will be able to renew our vows there in a few years because it’s just that amazing. Indescribable even."
Britnee Hojnacki
"Beautiful ballroom!"
Merry Mcnally
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McKay Tower is located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options are also available, with bus routes serving the downtown area.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of McKay Tower, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! McKay Tower is within walking distance of many popular Grand Rapids attractions, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
If coming from outside Grand Rapids, driving is a common option. Alternatively, you can check for regional bus services that connect to the downtown Grand Rapids transit center.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Grand Rapids and can drop you off directly at McKay Tower.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
McKay Tower primarily functions as a venue for events and office spaces. While general public entry might be limited outside of scheduled events or business hours, specific areas like Sushi Yama are open to the public.
For event bookings such as weddings, class reunions, or parties, it's recommended to contact McKay Tower directly. They offer various packages and work with clients to ensure a memorable experience.
Operating hours for Sushi Yama can vary. It's best to check their specific hours directly or through their website for the most up-to-date information.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with McKay Tower management, historic buildings often have accommodations in place. It's advisable to inquire about accessibility features when booking an event or planning a visit.
McKay Tower is not typically open for general public tours. However, its historic architecture and ballroom are often showcased during special events or festivals like ArtPrize.
🎫 🏢 Onsite Experience
McKay Tower is a versatile venue hosting a wide range of events, including weddings, class reunions, birthday parties, office parties, and more.
Sushi Yama, a popular sushi restaurant, is located within McKay Tower, offering a delightful dining experience.
Yes, McKay Tower offers office spaces for lease. Interested parties can contact NAIWWM for more information on available suites.
McKay Tower is known for its historic charm and classic elegance, offering a sophisticated ambiance. It's described as having a sense of old-time classiness combined with modern vibes.
During events like World of Winter, McKay Tower's exterior is often adorned with vibrant murals and light installations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic ballroom offers a stunning backdrop for event photos. The exterior of the building also provides a classic Grand Rapids cityscape for memorable shots.
Photography for personal use might be permitted in public areas like Sushi Yama, but for event spaces, it's best to confirm with management or event organizers.
Yes, the elegant ballroom and historic architecture make McKay Tower a highly desirable location for wedding photography.
Restrictions may apply, especially in private event spaces or leased office areas. It's always a good idea to inquire about photography policies beforehand.
During ArtPrize, various forms of art, including photography, are often exhibited within or around McKay Tower.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a visit or event, consider the timing to align with family-friendly festivals or ensure the event itself is suitable for children. The downtown location also means easy access to other family attractions in Grand Rapids, making it a potential stop on a larger family outing.
💍 Couples Planning a Wedding
The venue's event staff, like Nicole and Mackenzie, are highly praised for their professionalism, flexibility, and dedication to making wedding days perfect. They assist with everything from bar and catering options to ensuring seamless execution on the day itself, allowing couples to relax and enjoy their celebration.
🏢 Business Professionals
+1Its central location ensures easy access for employees and clients, with ample parking and proximity to public transport. The availability of office suites means businesses can find spaces that suit their operational needs, contributing to a productive and inspiring work atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of McKay Tower
This historic charm is not just aesthetic; it contributes to the overall experience of events held within its walls. Whether it's a wedding, a reunion, or a corporate gathering, the ambiance of McKay Tower adds a layer of sophistication and timelessness. Visitors often remark on the building's ability to blend its historical character with modern functionality, creating a truly special environment.
Beyond its event spaces, McKay Tower also houses businesses, including the popular Sushi Yama restaurant, which further enhances its role as a vibrant part of the downtown community. The building's presence contributes to the city's character and offers a glimpse into its past while serving present-day needs.
Hosting Unforgettable Events at McKay Tower
Clients have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences, emphasizing the flexibility, responsiveness, and attention to detail from the event coordinators. This commitment to client satisfaction means that whether planning a wedding, a class reunion, or a birthday party, guests can expect a personalized and stress-free planning process. The venue's ability to cater to various event types makes it a versatile choice for many occasions.
The venue's beauty is often described as 'indescribable,' with guests and hosts alike marveling at the elegant setting. From ensuring guest comfort to maintaining pristine facilities, the McKay Tower staff goes above and beyond to create a perfect atmosphere for celebrations. This dedication has led to many guests expressing a desire to return for future events.
McKay Tower as a Creative Hub
The World of Winter festival transforms the exterior of McKay Tower with vibrant murals and light displays, adding a festive and visually engaging element to downtown Grand Rapids. These installations not only beautify the building but also contribute to the city's winter ambiance, offering a cheerful experience during colder months.
Furthermore, McKay Tower is a dynamic workspace, with various businesses operating within its offices. The building's atmosphere is conducive to productivity, with some tenants enjoying peaceful workdays with scenic views, even during thunderstorms. This blend of artistic expression and professional activity underscores McKay Tower's multifaceted contribution to the urban landscape.
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Social
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