Walking Food Tour Downtown Grand Rapids

About this activity

Discover the flavors of downtown Grand Rapids on this guided walking food tour! Sample a delightful mix of savory and sweet dishes from local hotspots while learning about the city’s rich history and culture. Perfect for food lovers, this tour features both hidden gems and popular favorites, making it a must for anyone seeking a unique culinary experience!

Note: The tour involves approximately 1 mile of light walking with frequent stops.

Itinerary

1. Stop 1 · 30 min

   Meet your guide inside Old World Olive Company to get signed in before enjoying a guided gourmet olive oil tasting and education. Learn how high-quality olive oils are made, how to taste them properly, and why they’re a staple of Mediterranean cuisine.

2. Stop 2 · 10 min

   Hear stories from your guide about the iconic abstract sculpture by Alexander Calder, installed in 1969. Located downtown in Vandenberg Plaza, its bold red steel curves symbolize motion, energy, and Grand Rapids’ identity as a city shaped by art, industry, and creativity.

3. Stop 3 · 30 min

   Roam by San Chez brings bold global street flavors to the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. On this stop, guests enjoy a tasting of Jian Bing—a beloved Chinese-style savory crepe, freshly prepared with layered textures and rich, comforting flavors. It’s a delicious introduction to Roam’s globally inspired approach and a fan-favorite moment on the tour.

4. Lyon Square · 15 min

   Pause at Lyon Square, a new riverfront observation area with views of the Grand River and insight into its role in shaping downtown Grand Rapids.

5. Stop 5 · 15 min

   Next we'll stop at Uccello’s Ristorante to enjoy a tasting of classic Detroit-style pizza, known for its thick, airy crust, crispy edges, and rich flavor. This stop highlights a Michigan favorite and a longtime downtown dining staple.

6. Stop 6 · 15 min

   Explore the Woman’s Way alley activation project, where vibrant murals by local artists transform under-the-radar alleyways into public art celebrating historic women leaders from Grand Rapids’ past. This creative stop highlights stories through bold imagery while showcasing downtown’s growing outdoor mural culture and inviting you to discover art in unexpected places.

7. Stop 7 · 30 min

   Stop for a delicious tasting of carne paella at San Chez Bistro, where saffron-infused rice is slow-cooked with chicken, local chorizo, and pork belly—showcasing the bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors this beloved downtown tapas spot is known for.

8. Max's South Seas Hideaway · 30 min

   Enjoy a stop at Max’s South Seas Hideaway, a tropical-themed tiki bar and restaurant in downtown Grand Rapids, where you’ll roast bonfire s’mores tableside over a cherrywood fire. This fun, interactive dessert adds a cozy and memorable finish to your tour experience.

Meeting point

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

End point: Tour end is 0.3 miles from our starting location

Good to know

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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