Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park covers 158 acres in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where more than 200 sculptures stand among gardens, paths and water. Indoors, the five-story Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory holds tropical plants, and the Richard and Helen DeVos Japanese Garden spreads across eight acres. Bronze works by artists such as Auguste Rodin and Edgar Degas are part of the permanent collection, and Chihuly glass pieces appear indoors and outdoors during exhibitions. Plan at least a few hours, and come in spring to see the butterfly exhibit.
A park built on a family gift
The park opened in 1995. Local members of a horticulture club asked Frederik and Lena Meijer to establish a botanical garden in Grand Rapids. The couple donated the land along with Frederik's sculpture collection, and that collection is the core of today's permanent displays.
The grounds have grown into a mix of botanical gardens, indoor galleries and large outdoor installations. Visitors who come for only the sculptures or only the plants tend to find that the two parts are designed to be seen together.
Inside the conservatory
The Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory is a five-story glass building that holds tropical and rare plants, a rock garden and a waterfall. It is the largest tropical conservatory in Michigan. Beyond the tropical house, the indoor gardens include an arid garden, a carnivorous plant house, a seasonal display greenhouse and a Victorian garden parlor.
In spring, the butterfly exhibit fills the glasshouse with butterflies flying around visitors. In winter, the holiday displays feature Christmas trees decorated in traditional styles from different countries, so you can see ornaments from several cultures on one walk.
Sculpture and outdoor gardens
The sculpture park holds more than 200 works by artists including Auguste Rodin, Edgar Degas, Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Richard Serra, Roy Lichtenstein and Ai Weiwei. A 24-foot bronze horse stands on the grounds. It is a replica of a design Leonardo da Vinci drew, cast from the same mold as the statue in Milan. Nina Akamu's American Horse is another large piece on display.
The Japanese garden covers eight acres and is laid out for quiet walking. Other outdoor areas include the English perennial garden, a woodland shade garden and the Michigan Farm Garden, which grows heirloom vegetables. Trails lead through forest and across a wetlands boardwalk, so the walk can change from open lawn to shade within minutes.
Gardens for children
The Lena Meijer Children's Garden is one of the main draws for families. It includes a Great Lakes water table where children splash, a Storytelling Garden and the Great Lakes Garden. Inside, the David and Carol Van Andel Children's Gallery has ten interactive stations.
Because the water table gets children wet, families usually pack a change of clothes and water shoes. The play areas are mostly shaded, which helps on warm afternoons.
Concerts, food and seasonal events
An outdoor amphitheater hosts a summer concert series, and the park holds special temporary exhibits and annual events. The Butterflies Are Blooming show runs in March and April. Christmas and holiday traditions run from late November into early January.
The on-site cafe serves a full menu, including Reuben sandwiches. Snacks and drinks are also sold around the grounds, and in fall the park sells hot apple cider and donuts.
Getting around and access
The grounds are large, and walking the full site takes most of a day. A tram tour and guided walks are available if you want help covering distance. The site also has a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms and seating, an assistive hearing loop, changing tables and a gender-neutral restroom.
The main campus is in northeast Grand Rapids, about a short drive from East Grand Rapids and the Gaslight Village area.
FAQ
How long do you need at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park?
Most visitors plan at least two hours, and many spend three to four hours. The grounds are large enough that a full day is possible if you want to see every garden.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Buying tickets in advance is recommended. Admission is a general admission ticket, and a guided tram tour is also available.
Is the park good for children?
Yes. The children's garden has a Great Lakes water table, a storytelling garden and interactive stations in the children's gallery. Bring extra clothes or water shoes.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, restrooms, parking lot and seating are wheelchair accessible. The park also has an assistive hearing loop.
Are there membership discounts?
Yes, membership discounts are offered. A season pass is an option if you plan several visits.
