Sixth Street Park
A vibrant downtown park along the Grand River, known for its scenic views and captivating public art installations, especially during festivals.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience vibrant art festivals
Sixth Street Park
Best Time
Experience vibrant art festivals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown park along the Grand River, known for its scenic views and captivating public art installations, especially during festivals.
"Great park for walking and enjoying the view of the river and the city, also a place for good fishing."
🎯 Check Art Event Schedules
Plan your visit around ArtPrize or World of Winter for the most impressive art displays!
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The Grand River is cleaner and offers good fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Installations
Throughout the park
Discover captivating large-scale art pieces, especially during ArtPrize and World of Winter festivals.

Grand River Views
Along the riverfront
Enjoy picturesque vistas of the Grand River and the downtown Grand Rapids skyline.

Fishing Opportunities
Near the dam
Cast a line and try your luck catching smallmouth bass and catfish in the cleaner Grand River.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & River Views
Timing is Key for Art Lovers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Art Event Schedules
Plan your visit around ArtPrize or World of Winter for the most impressive art displays!
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The Grand River is cleaner and offers good fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish.
🚶♀️ Stroll the River Paths
Enjoy scenic walks along the Grand River with beautiful city views.
📸 Capture Drone Footage
The park offers great vantage points for drone photography of the river and city.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Art Event Schedules
Plan your visit around ArtPrize or World of Winter for the most impressive art displays!
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The Grand River is cleaner and offers good fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish.
🚶♀️ Stroll the River Paths
Enjoy scenic walks along the Grand River with beautiful city views.
📸 Capture Drone Footage
The park offers great vantage points for drone photography of the river and city.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A pleasant place to walk your dog with shady spots and picnic tables.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sixth Street Park for its scenic riverfront views, enjoyable walking paths, and the vibrant art installations that frequently grace the space, especially during festivals. It's seen as a clean and pleasant spot for fishing and relaxing. Some reviews mention occasional encampments, which can detract from the family-friendly atmosphere in specific areas.
"Haven't fish the Grand River in over 30yrs because of pollution.
Took my youngest boy to see what we could catch. 4 little Smallmouth Bass.
The river looks A Lot cleaner than it used to be, back in the 80s.
The walking paths are a Great way to see downtown Grand Rapids."
Charles Genereaux
"Great park for walking and enjoying the view of the river and the city, also a place for good fishing👍"
Serik Suieu
"Nice place to take a stroll with your loved ones!"
Ryan Dehuff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sixth Street Park is conveniently located in downtown Grand Rapids, easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot. Many visitors find it a great starting point for exploring the city.
While street parking might be available, it's often easier to find parking in nearby downtown garages. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Grand Rapids' public bus system serves the downtown area, making it accessible via public transit. Check the local transit authority for routes and schedules.
Absolutely! The park is centrally located and a pleasant walk from many downtown hotels, restaurants, and other attractions like the Blue Bridge and Calder Plaza.
If you're new to the city, using a GPS or navigation app is recommended. Many visitors find the park easily navigable once they are in the downtown core.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sixth Street Park is a public park and does not have an admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As a public park, Sixth Street Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific event hours may vary.
The art installations themselves are typically free to view as part of public events like ArtPrize and World of Winter. Check event-specific details for any associated festival costs.
Yes, the park frequently hosts major events like ArtPrize and World of Winter, featuring numerous art installations. It also hosts festivals like Return to the River.
Generally, no reservations are needed for the park itself. For specific festival events, check their official websites for any ticketing or reservation information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, fishing, picnicking, and admiring public art installations. It's a great spot for a relaxing afternoon by the river.
Restrooms are typically available, though their condition and accessibility can vary. It's always a good idea to check recent visitor feedback if this is a priority.
Yes, it's a nice place for families to stroll, enjoy the river, and view art. Keep an eye on children near the water.
Yes, the park is dog-friendly, making it a pleasant spot for dog walkers.
The park often features large-scale, temporary art installations, especially during ArtPrize and World of Winter, ranging from sculptures to interactive pieces.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Grand River, the downtown skyline, and the diverse art installations. Drone photography is also popular here.
Yes, the open space and river views make it a popular spot for drone enthusiasts to capture aerial shots of Grand Rapids.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting for both the river and the city skyline. Event times during festivals provide dynamic subjects.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits, so check local regulations if unsure.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide river views and detailed art pieces. A wide-angle lens is great for cityscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities can be limited. Fishing can be an engaging activity for older kids interested in nature, and the cleaner river offers a more positive experience than in past decades. Keep a close eye on children near the riverbanks for safety.
🎣 Anglers & Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond fishing, the park's riverfront paths are ideal for nature walks, bird watching, and simply enjoying the natural scenery within the city. The presence of driftwood dragons and other artistic elements adds a unique touch to the natural environment, blending art with the outdoors.
🎨 Art Aficionados
Beyond the major festivals, the park frequently features public art, making it a year-round destination for appreciating creative works. The unique sculptures and installations, set against the backdrop of the Grand River and downtown skyline, offer fantastic photographic opportunities and a chance to engage with contemporary art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Art Installations & Festivals
These events draw significant crowds, offering a vibrant atmosphere but also requiring strategic planning to navigate. Beyond these major festivals, the park may host other temporary art exhibits or community events throughout the year. Checking the official event calendars for ArtPrize, World of Winter, and local Grand Rapids event listings is crucial for experiencing the park at its most artistically engaging.
Visitors often rave about the scale and creativity of the art, with many pieces being interactive or thought-provoking. The park's location along the Grand River provides a stunning backdrop, enhancing the visual impact of the artwork and making it a prime spot for photography and exploration.
The Grand River Experience
Historically, the Grand River faced significant pollution issues. However, recent decades have seen substantial improvements in water quality, making it a more inviting environment for recreation. This revitalization is evident in the return of fish species, with many visitors reporting successful fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish near the park's dam.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a spot to enjoy a picnic, or a chance to try your hand at fishing, the Grand River at Sixth Street Park offers a revitalized and enjoyable experience. The presence of picnic tables and shady areas further enhances its appeal for a relaxing day outdoors.
Social
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