Two Big Things Happening At The Grand Rapids Public Museum You Should Know About

The summer of 2026 is a big season for the city of Grand Rapids. The first of the major projects reshaping the city as we know it will be complete next month, with the Acrisure Amphitheater and the Grand Rapids Public Museum's multi-million-dollar Riverfront expansion nearing completion.

But that isn't the only thing happening at the museum. Here are the two big things happening at the public museum over the next few weeks.

Riverfront Opening Celebration Party

On Saturday, April 25th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the GRPM will host a grand opening of the new riverfront area, featuring live music, experts to answer questions about the ecology both in and out of the river, telescopes, food trucks, activities for the whole family, and showcase the new walking space that will be free to the public going forward. No registration required.

Read More: GRPM Spillman Carousel Reopens With Major Renovations

"The Streets Of Old Grand Rapids" Exhibit Expansion Date

On top of all the changes underway at the building and riverfront, the Museum also announced a surprise expansion of one of its oldest exhibits, the Old Streets of Grand Rapids.

On May 1st, a second floor featuring more artifacts and former businesses from the 1890s will open without an additional cost to guests. The main attraction here will be the Kent Scientific Institute, the original institution that later became the Grand Rapids Public Museum we know today.

It will feature some of the institute's original specimens. Details on a second business are still to come. On top of all this, the historic Spillman Carousel also reopened after multiple years of renovations and is now separated from the museum. It's an exciting time to go to the museum.