2016 saw many expansions to great Michigan destinations. Bay Harbor’s highly anticipated Great Lakes Center for the Arts opened in July, Port Huron’s Mariner Theater and Sperry’s Movie House re-opened after extensive renovations, and the Detroit Zoo opened the world’s largest penguinarium, the Polk Penguin Conservation Center. And those are just a few of the great locations that your attendees will enjoy in Michigan. |
If you are looking for something a little different, Toy suggests checking out Think Space near the Greater Lansing CVB office. “It’s a brainstorming venue with drums to beat on, cozy couches to brainstorm upon, and has a trendy boardroom upstairs. If you need a place to think strategic for your Board or small group, this is the place where dreams begin!” Toy touts, “Lansing is a “little, big city” with friendly hospitality. Even if you’re not coming to town for a conference, spend a weekend enjoying our Makers & Shakers distillery and brewery trail or walking amongst the fall colors on campus. It’s a great place to live, work, and visit!” And those are just a few reasons that keep groups coming back to Lansing.
According to Stephanie Kotschevar of Experience Grand Rapids, “Grand Rapids is a clean, safe, affordable, and emerging destination that continues to grow and add more attractions and events. Visitors continue to come back to explore the expanding beer scene, growing art scene, and for large events such as ArtPrize and LaughFest. Grand Rapids has also been applauded as a hospitable and friendly destination by previously hosted groups.”
Kotschevar expounded on some great locations in Grand Rapids, “Visitors are drawn to our unique cultural attractions such as the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park which was named one of the ‘30 Must See’ museums by Delta Sky Magazine. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is also popular and has very recently gone through a remodeling and expansion in order to be more interactive and provide a classroom type experience for groups. The Downtown Market is also popular because it is a unique market hall that offers a variety of food and drink options.” For event space that is a little different, a growing trend in the area is the utilization of bridges that cross over the Grand River as event spaces (such as the Blue Bridge).
No matter the destination you choose, Michigan is a well-spring of great group experiences. From serene to exciting, you will find just the right fit for your attendees.