Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Grand Rapids, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Grand Rapids
- Important essentials for Grand Rapids
- Activities for Grand Rapids
- Grand Rapids in January: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in February: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in March: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in April: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in May: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in June: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in July: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in August: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in September: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in October: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in November: weather and what to pack
- Grand Rapids in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Grand Rapids, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
Important essentials for Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Grand Rapids, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
IMPORTANT COVID-19 ESSENTIALS
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can wear out. An unreadable card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection available.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination/negative test
Other health necessities
Don't forget these
Photography accessories
- cell phone photography gimbal
- camera drone for outdoor shots
- extra batteries
- extra memory cards
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
For families with young children
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be appropriate for most locations, but you should check with your hotel.
Airplane or car necessities
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Grand Rapids. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Activities for Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Grand Rapids.
If you go to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
If you see Grand Rapids Public Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Comfy walking shoes
We also recommend these top tours in and around Grand Rapids.
What to wear/what to pack for Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
In January, Grand Rapids is freezing, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) and occasionally jump into the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Grand Rapids, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Heavy sweaters
Lip balm
The best option: this one
Extreme cold weather gloves
Pajamas
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Fleece inner layer
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Grand Rapids, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Grand Rapids has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
February
In February, Grand Rapids can be extremely cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 10s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect extremely heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Grand Rapids, with several of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Scarf/neck warmer
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Fleece inner layer
Lip balm
The best option: this
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
-
Heavy sweaters
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Pajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Grand Rapids, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Grand Rapids has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
March
In March, Grand Rapids is brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Grand Rapids, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Warm pants or jeans
Sweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Gloves
Lip balm
Our pick is: this one
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Grand Rapids, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Grand Rapids has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
April
If you vacation in Grand Rapids during April, you are likely to notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Fleece
Extra socks
-
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
May
If you vacation in Grand Rapids during May, you are likely to find that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally around 50 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
June
June in this region is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
July
If you go to Grand Rapids in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
August
August in Grand Rapids is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
September
If you are traveling to Grand Rapids in September, you will notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
October
October in Grand Rapids is crisp and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
November
In November, Grand Rapids is brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) and regularly jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 30s F (single digits C). During your visit, you can expect several inches of snow. This is also a rainy time for Grand Rapids, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
-
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Grand Rapids, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Grand Rapids has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
December
If you go to Grand Rapids in December, you will notice that it is frosty, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Sweaters
Heavy jacket
Lip balm
Our pick: this
-
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Grand Rapids, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Grand Rapids has some great skiing If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
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