Grand Rapids MI Moving Companies

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Like the river it's named for, the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan is as vibrant as it is diverse. With over 60 restaurants and nightclubs in the downtown area, 28 public golf courses Grand Rapids, is one of the top cities in the country for a weekend getaway and a growing destination for people looking to relocate to the Midwest. In April 2004, the Partners for Livable Communities named the city one of “America's Most Livable Communities,” adding to the city’s popularity. As if that weren’t enough, Grand Rapids is conveniently located just three hours from Chicago and about 30 minutes from the beaches of Lake Michigan, providing extended entertained and employment opportunities to the city’s residents.

History:
In 1850, the budding community was incorporated as a city. Following an international exhibition in Philadelphia in 1876, Grand Rapids became recognized as a worldwide leader in the production of fine furniture, which continued well into the future. In 1916, the citizens of Grand Rapids voted to adopt a home rule charter that abolished the old aldermanic systems and replaced it with a commission-manager form of government, one of the nation’s first. In 1881, the country's first hydroelectric plant was built on the city's west side. Grand Rapids became a leader in innovation when in 1945 the city became the first in the United States to add fluoride to its drinking water. The City of Grand Rapids also boasts the first scheduled air service, and the first publicly funded art installation.

Economy:
The furniture industry has had a stronghold of the city’s economy since the late 1800s. Today the metropolitan area is home to five leading office furniture companies in Steelcase, Haworth, Herman Miller, American Seating and Knoll; and several firms producing residential furniture. Grand Rapids has always thrived due to its resolute, family owned businesses. Some of the national firms that began as family operations in Grand Rapids are Meijer, Bissell and Wolverine World Wide, makers of Hush Puppies. Automotive parts, industrial machinery, graphic arts, plastics and chemicals, and food processors comprise a considerable portion of the economic base. International businesses also play a significant role, with more than 50 foreign-owned firms operating in the city, and many metropolitan area firms involved in international trade. Tourism is an emerging industry, as the area becomes an increasingly popular vacation and convention destination.

Tourism:
On the leading edge of art, culture, dining and nightlife, Grand Rapids, Michigan is located just minutes from beautiful beaches on the vast Lake Michigan shores. From a trendy and welcoming downtown to a never-ending assortment of outdoor activities, Grand Rapids will surprise, excite and delight visitors and residents alike. Enjoy one of the City’s many homegrown eateries and brand-name franchises, sophisticated five-star cuisine and creative casual fare. Explore the city’s zoo and many museums, rolling terrains carved out by ancient glaciers and dozens of golf courses within a 30-minute drive. The downtown entertainment district will catapults you into the middle of a dazzling array of nighttime attractions such as live-music bars, brewpubs, sports bars, comedy clubs, theatres and more. Finally, travel to the nearby lakeshore for maritime history and experience a close-up view of amazing lighthouses seated on the shores of Lake Michigan. 

Colleges/Universities:

• Calvin College
• Davenport University
• Grand Rapids Community College

Interesting Facts:

• Known as "Furniture City," the major industry in Grand Rapids was once furniture production
• Each May, the 25K Fifth Third Riverbank Run attracts 10,000 participants from all over the globe
• In 1945, Grand Rapids was the first city in the U.S. to add fluoride to its drinking water