WinterOff season ~32°F highs

Things to do in Grand Rapids in December

December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Grand Rapids, with average highs around 32°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.

Plan a December weekend Where else in December

Best picks for December

What's famous here, weighted toward what shines in December.

1Indoor escape

USS Silversides

Credited with sinking 23 major Japanese ships (the third highest total for any U.S. Navy Submarine) for an approximate tonnage of 90,080. Silversides received the Presidential Unit Citation and 12 Battle Stars for her wartime service.

2Indoor escape

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

presidential museum and library for U.S. President Gerald Ford in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Holidays in December 2026

Christmas Day · Fri, Dec 25

Expect busier roads and pricier stays around these dates. See long weekends.

What’s on in Grand Rapids in December

Concerts, games and shows in the next few weeks. Tickets open on Ticketmaster.

Tue, Dec 1 · 7:00 PMMannheim Steamroller ChristmasDeVos Performance Hall Plan a weekend around it

Wed, Dec 2 · 7:30 PM

Grand Rapids in December: quick answers

Is December a good time to visit Grand Rapids?

December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit Grand Rapids, with average highs around 32°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.

What is the weather like in Grand Rapids in December?

Average daytime highs are around 32°F, compared with 84°F in the warmest month. Check the forecast a week out; our planner favors indoor stops on rainy days.

What are the best things to do in Grand Rapids in December?

Top picks for December: USS Silversides, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, U.S. National Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame, Grand Rapids Art Museum, Big Sable Point Lighthouse.