Grand Rapids, MI

“High energy. Low stress.” That’s how Grand Rapids describes living in this Michigan town of about 200,000 people—second in size only to Detroit.

Situated on the Grand River about 30 miles from sprawling Lake Michigan, Grand Rapids was a major lumbering town and furniture manufacturing center in the late 1800s, earning the nickname “Furniture City.” Today, Grand Rapids is still considered a world leader in the production of office furniture.

The city of Grand Rapids prides itself on its arts and culture and is home to several museums, festivals, concert venues and an Alexander Calder installation in the downtown civic center.

Surrounding Grand Rapids are Michigan’s famous fruit orchards and fields—apples, peaches, blueberries, strawberries, even grapes abound.

Living in Grand Rapids, it’s possible to spend the morning at the beach, swing by a farm for all-you-can-pick blueberries in the afternoon, and enjoy a symphony concert in the evening. High energy, low stress indeed.