GRAND RAPIDS
SUMMER 2021
VOL 13
FAMILY FUN GUIDE
5 LOCAL PARKS
Torch Lake
TO VISIT THIS SUMMER PAGE 11
Trip Planner page 28
BEST OF GR starting on page 24
Fruit Picking Spots
ON PAGE 29
GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
P U BLI C AT I ON
Want the next issue? Sign up your group at grkids.com/GRfunGuide
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ROOTS THERAPEUTIC SPECIALTY SERVICES DIANA OSIPSOV WAS VOTED #1 MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL BY GRKIDS READERS! Roots Therapeutic Speciality Services focuses on the core issue to cultivate lasting healing and change. Anxiety, anger issues, difficulties with sleep, impulsivity – these are all often symptoms of a deeper core issue. Roots works with you or your child to meet the underlying need. Symptoms naturally alleviate when the core issues are addressed and unmet needs are recognized and satisfied.
When a tree is provided a firm foundation with deeply planted roots, its leaves and flowers naturally blossom. Likewise, when a person is afforded a secure base from which to grow and develop, their potential flourishes.
- Specialized trauma treatment. - Specialization in early childhood intervention (6 and under) and infant mental health. - Holistic approach.
Diana has a gift with children that I have truly never seen or experienced before. As a mom, I knew my son needed support from a therapist. I wasn't sure what to expect, but with Diana I felt instantly reassured knowing she had his best interest in mind. Diana is patient, a wonderful listener, problem solver, and had such a genuine spirit. We formed a trusting and respectful bond with Diana. My son has since graduated from therapy and we are thrilled with the success we have seen in his behavior and his ability to have healthy relationships with others. -Sarah
10263 CHICAGO DR, ZEELAND | 616-377-2283 PLANTINGDEEPROOTS.COM
Summer is Here and Lake Michigan is calling
!
Time for lazy beach days, Blue Moon (or Superman!) ice cream and evenings around the campfire. We’ve got everything you need to get outside and enjoy the longer, warmer days of summer in West Michigan. - Lose yourself in a golden field of sunflowers - page 4 - Who's the best in Grand Rapids? Grandtastic Winners List - page 12 - Float down a river on a sunny afternoon on a river tube - page 18 - Explore summer camps for your kids - page 22 - Spend a night under the stars at one of our favorite family campgrounds - page 21 - Swim the crystal clear water of Torch Lake with our guide on the area - page 26 Cover features Ottawa Hills Park
Team GRKIDS Melody VanderWeide Publisher
April Hunt Content Editor
Leanne Hendrikse Content Manager
Christie Tidd Graphic Designer
FIND US ONLINE grkids.com Facebook.com/grkids Instagram.com/grkids grkids.com/daily
The Grand Rapids Family Fun Guide is published two times per year by Grand Rapids Kids in Grand Rapids, MI. ©2021 Grand Rapids Kids, All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher in accordance with our legal statement. GRKIDS.COM 3
SE SUPER
CRET
Summer Reading
Challenge May 31 – September 4, 2021
www.grpl.org/SummerReading
4
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
SO MUCH Good
Stuff PACKED IN HERE! Michigan Sunflower Fields | 6 Mitten State Summer Fun List | 8 5 Best West Michigan Parks | 11 Visiting the Midland Forest | 13 Best of GR Grandtastic Awards | 14 River Tubing in West Michigan | 20 Family Campgrounds | 23 Summer Camp Finder | 24 Torch Lake Trip Planner | 28 Where to go Fruit Picking | 29
GRKIDS.COM
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FIELD OF DREAMS
Sunflower F I EL DS Soak up fields of gold for miles at a Michigan sunflower farm. Late summer is sunflower season in most of the state. You can chase sunflowers in the Lower and Upper Peninsula beginning in July all the way through September. Cut blooms, take photos, and bring a few home to brighten up your table. Bremer Produce Sunflower Fields 5845 48th Ave, Hudsonville Timing: August Bremer Produce Sunflower Fields
Gorby Sunflowers 2426 30th St, Allegan Timing: August Take Instagram-worthy photos in the field and buy pre cut stems at their flower stand.
Blue House Farms 1966 N Benton Center Rd, Benton Harbor Timing: July - Mid-August Find u-pick sunflowers and lavender, and cold pressed sunflower oil. Visit the goats and chickens.
Choose your sunflowers in the u-pick field with an honors system cash box. String, clippers and water are provided.
Gull Meadows Farms 8544 Gull Rd, Richland Timing: End of July - August Bring your camera to snap photos in the field and at the prop stops. U-cut sunflowers available.
Corey Lake Orchards Sunflower Fields 12147 Corey Lake Rd, Three Rivers Timing: August Roam two sunflower fields and a market with sunflower-themed gifts and baked goods.
Please, follow farm rules and respect the crops these farmers work so hard on.
For our full list of sunflower farms, visit GRKIDS.COM/SUNFLOWER-FIELDS-IN-MICHIGAN 6
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
The tape that says it all.
You can Ride!
Legacy Stables
Custom printed poly-tape to display your message in a fun, colorful way!
TalkrTape talkrtape.com 231.488.2469 #talkrtape
vvandmkidsden�stry.com
www.KarinsHorses.com Caledonia, MI 616-570-1106
Board Certified Pediatric Dentists
At Valleau, VanDeven, and Massie Dentistry for Children, what sets our office apart is the kind, gentle, and compassionate care we provide all of our pa�ents. We understand that a child’s mind is constantly growing and developing and that all children cope with new situa�ons differently. Our wonderful staff takes pride in making all children feel comfortable, relaxed, and even making a dental visit fun!
Grand Rapids
(616) 455-1301
2000 43rd St S.E. - Grand Rapids, MI
Rockford
(616) 884-5812
170 Marcell Dr N.E. - Rockford, MI
GRKIDS.COM
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SUNNY FUN
Mitten State SUMMER FUN LIST Michigan summer means lots of options for excitement! Use this list to find sunny fun for your family this summer. Float Your Boat: Float the Thornapple River in a river tube. Or, try other nearby waterways. See page 20 for rental places & other launch spots. Have Zoo Fun: Ride the funicular and enjoy spectacular views of the Grand Rapids skyline at John Ball Zoo. (1300 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids) Starry-Eyed Cinema: Park under the stars and watch a drive-in movie at the Getty Drive-In. (920 E Summit Ave, Muskegon) U-Pick Mania: Fill a basket with your favorite summer fruit. See page 28 for a nearby u-pick farm. Dive In: Swim the endless waves of Lake Michigan at Holland State Park. (2398 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland)
VISIT GRKIDS.COM/THINGS-TO-DO-SUMMER
for a huge list of more West Michigan summer fun. 8
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
GRKIDS.COM
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#AD #AD
GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
TOP CARE PROVIDER 2021
HIGHER HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC CELEBRATES DR. ERIK KOWALKE WINNING #1 CHIROPRACTOR FOR 2021! HIGHER HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC Higher Health Chiropractic serves God by serving the families of our community and region through specific, scientific, chiropractic care. Their purpose is to help people reach their God-given health potential through chiropractic care, allowing them to live a healthy, happy, drug-free life.
“
We are driven by faith. Proven by results. Creating an extraordinary experience.
GetHigherHealth.com // 616-301-8300 1027 Gezon Parkway SW Wyoming
98 Douglas Ave Holland
Dr. Erik Kowalke Dr. Marc DeMeester Dr. Katie DeMeester Dr. John Deyo Dr. William Booker Dr. Andrew White Dr. Heather Speaks Dr. Blake Collins
Christina brought her infant daughter, Juliette, to HHC after 2 months of chronic colic and digestive issues. The symptoms continued while on medication. Christina admits she struggled to believe chiropractic care would help but within a few months of small consistent treatments Juliette made huge improvements. “I had a contented baby after about 1 month of treatment. She was comfortable after feedings, not waking up crying with tummy trouble, happy playing, and not needing to be held constantly.”
“
West Michigan’s BEST PA RKS What will you find at the top parks in West Michigan? Get excited about heading outside, exploring, and being active at the most popular parks around West Michigan.
MILLENNIUM PARK 1415 Maynard Ave SW, Walker - 18 Miles of Hiking Trails - Beach and Splash Pad *requires admission fee - Boat Rentals (kayak, paddleboard, canoe, rowboat, paddleboat) - Pavilions and grills - Large playground - Basketball and volleyball courts Pere Marquette Park
- Fishing areas
FALLASBURG PARK 1124 Fallasburg Road, Lowell
PERE MARQUETTE PARK 3510 Channel Dr, Muskegon
- Historic covered bridge - Fishing areas
- 200-foot handicap-accessible walkway on the beach
- Trails
- On Lake Michigan
- Disc Golf
- Snack bar, beach house & restrooms
- Playground
- Playground
- Flat River
- Picnic area
- Gorgeous pavilion for rentals
- Sand volleyball courts
OTTAWA HILLS PARK 2060 Oakfield Ave SE, Grand Rapids - Newly renovated in 2019 - Universally-accessible - Playground with tube slides, rope climbing structures & musical elements - Soft, rubber ground
*park featured on cover
VISIT GRKIDS.COM/KIDS-PARKWITH-PLAYGROUND for details on
over 50 parks in our area.
ADA TOWNSHIP PARK 1180 Buttrick Ave SE, Ada - 57-acre park - Playground for little toddlers and big kids with accessible equipment - Fishing pond (restricted to those under 12, senior citizens or physically challenged individuals) - Softball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts & basketball courts - Paved and unpaved trails - Grills and picnic tables in the two gazebos and pavilions GRKIDS.COM
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DR. STEPHANIE KLOOSTRA AND DR. KATIE SWANSON ARE BOTH TOP 10 DENTISTS AS VOTED BY GRKIDS READERS! As pediatric dental specialists, Dr. Katie and Dr. Stephanie are board certified with specialized training in child development and behavior enhancement. As moms, they strive to create a cozy, welcoming environment ensuring children see the dentist in a positive way by providing comprehensive and compassionate dental care.
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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
PEDIATRIC DENTAL SPECIALISTS OF WEST MICHIGAN Dr. Stephanie Kloostra and Dr. Katie Swanson 2155 East Paris Ave SE, Ste 120, Grand Rapids www.pdsofwestmi.com 616-608-8898 Preventative, restorative, laser and sedation services available Certified by the American Board of Laser Surgery Laser frenectomy treatment for lip and tongue ties Advanced education for treating children from birth, including those with special health care needs "Every detail has been carefully thought out to make this not just your average dentist. Truly a one of a kind practice! My daughter keeps asking when she can go back. So happy we found this place!”
MIDLAND DOW GARDENS
Whiting Forest
2203 Eastman Avenue, Midland Explore the nation’s longest elevated walk - 1,400 feet! - in nearby Midland. Immerse yourself in the trees at 40 feet above the ground in this canopy walk accessible to all ages and abilities. The Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens is a family attraction open year round and requires admission. Admission is for the canopy Midland
walk and the adjacent gardens. Explore the different nooks and crannies along the way – you’ll find egg-like structures to sit in, ropes to climb, and always a really spectacular view. A nature-inspired playground is just steps away from the canopy walk. In summer, water play is integrated into the play structure, so you might want to bring a change of clothes. Restrooms and a cafe sit right next to the playground. This place can get busy – consider a midweek visit early or late in the day. Check with the venue for ticketing and parking information before heading out. GRKIDS.COM
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GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
GRANDTASTIC AWARD 2021
Who knows our city better than you, the GRKIDS families that make up this amazing community? Thousands of you voted in our recent campaign and you have declared the best in West Michigan.
SHOPPING + SERVICES
FOOD + DRINK
See all 2021 winners at grkids.com/best-grand-rapids-for-families.
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Family Friendly Brewery // The Mitten Brewing Company Pizza // The Mitten Brewing Company Family Friendly Coffee Shop // Brody's Be Cafe Family Meal Take Out // Amore Trattoria Italiana Brunch // Anna's House Cupcakes // The Salted Cupcake Donuts // Marge's Donut Den Food Truck // Pizza Parliament Patio // Blue Water Grill Birthday Cakes // Nothing Bundt Cakes Cookies // Underground Cookie Club Family-Friendly Restaurant (Non-Franchise) // Russ' Restaurants Ice Cream // Frosty Boy Candy Store // Sweetland Candies Place for Dessert // Cheesecake Factory Daycare Center // Milestones Child Development Center Attorney Wills & Trusts // Jordan Bush (Alles Law) Children’s Clothing Store // River Babe Threads Musical Instrument Store // Meyer Music Toy Store // Aunt Candy’s Financial Planner // Pathway Financial Home Insurance Agent // Kevin Curtis (State Farm Insurance Agent) Summer Camp (Day Camp) // John Ball Zoo Tutoring/Academic Support // Sylvan Learning of Grand Rapids Residential Cleaning Service // Tie: Cascade Fresh Cleaning Services • Time to Shine Maid Service • Sparkle & Shine Cleaning Services Car Detailing Service // Breton Auto Wash Home Organizing Service // Moxie Life Organizing Sleep Away Camp // YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin Realtor // Emily Brougham (Keller Williams Grand Rapids East)
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
GRKIDS.COM
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GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
LESSONS
Dance Studio Lessons // Hearts in Motion Dance Project
GRANDTASTIC AWARD
Music Studio Lessons // Academy of Music (Grand Rapids)
2021
Swimming Lessons // Goldfish Swim School Youth Sports Training // Michigan Sports Academies Best Art Class/Studio for Kids // The Mud Room Gymnastics Lessons // For the Kidz Gymnastics Martial Arts Studio // Crusader Martial Arts
LOCAL VENUES
Museum // Grand Rapids Public Museum Movie Theater // Celebration! Cinema (Grand Rapids North & IMAX) Indoor Play Venue (Paid Admission) // Grand Rapids Children's Museum Outdoor Family Attraction (Paid Admission) // Deer Tracks Junction Outdoor Playground/Park (Free) // Deer Tracks Junction (Playground Section) Beach // Grand Haven State Park Library for Kids // East Grand Rapids Branch KDL Field Trip Location // Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park
GROCERY
Birthday Party Venue // John Ball Zoo Grocery Delivery // Shipt Curbside Pickup // Meijer Produce Department // Horrocks Market Deli // Horrocks Market
PHOTOS
Wine, Beer & Spirits Selection // Horrocks Market Maternity // Kara Hanes Photography Family Photos // Kara Hanes Photography Mini Sessions // Katie Cook Photography Senior Pictures // Kara Hanes Photography
BOUTIQUES
BANKS / CU
Child/Baby // Kara Hanes Photography
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Mortgage Lender // Lake Michigan Credit Union Banking Services // Lake Michigan Credit Union Kids Money Program // Lake Michigan Credit Union
Women’s Clothing // Onalee's Women’s Resale // Gild the Lily Children’s Resale // Tie: Kid to Kid • Once Upon a Child (Alpine/Walker) Florist // Stems Market
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
2978 28th St. SE GR, 49512
616-200-6956
grandrapids@catchairparty.com FB Catch Air Grand Rapids We are so excited to have opened a state of the art indoor play center for children 10 years of age and under!
- Fun, safe and clean environment - Tiny Town – for our 3.5 feet & under guests - A 3 story structure with 5 slides, a nerf ball shooting area, obstacle courses, 2-mini zip lines and more! - 2 bounce house style toys - Interactive dance floor! - Party rooms! - 2 Party Package Options!
Voted a top 10 realtor by GR Kids readers!
ROGERS NEIGHBORHOOD REALTY Offering you highly personalized service, extensive marketing plans, and FREE HOME VALUATIONS!
CALL TODAY! 616-644-0784 AmandaSellsMichigan.com
Serving Homemade Goodness to Families since 1934!
$3 Kid's Meals! 12 locations locally owned in West Michigan! russrestaurants.com
Thanks for voting us #1 family restaurant!
GRAND RAPIDS
DATE NIGHT
KIDS
Distillery // Long Road Distillers
GRANDTASTIC AWARD
Date Night Take out // Amore Trattoria Italiana
2021
West MI Romantic Night Stay // JW Marriott Grand Rapids Romantic Restaurant // Amore Trattoria Italiana Beer Selection (Restaurant or Brewery) // HopCat Wine Selection (Restaurant or Wine Bar) // Cooper's Hawk
BEAUT Y
Place for Cocktails // Donkey Taqueria Mommy and Me Pedicure // A Charmed Life Nail Salon (Rockford) Massage // Tie: Design 1 Salon Spa Grandville • The Woodhouse Day Spa Grand Rapids Ear Piercing for Kids // Kitten Flower Boutique Hair Cuts for Kids // Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids
PETS
HOME + GARDEN
Nail Salon // A Charmed Life Nail Salon Furniture Store // Talsma Furniture Home Decor Store // HomeGoods Garden Store/Nursery // Countryside Greenhouse Home Builder // Eastbrook Homes Local Hardware Store // Rylee's Ace Hardware Moving Company // Two Men and a Truck Swimming Pool Builder // Zagers Pool & Spa Dog Park // Grand Ravines Dog Park Pet Boarding // Camp Bow Wow Pet Groomer // Wash & Wags Pet Grooming Pet Store // Chowhound Pet Trainer/Obedience School // A Pleasant Dog Veterinarian // Dr. Ashley Womersley (Cedar Animal Hospital) 18
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
E m ily B ro u g h a m 616.293.3601 ebrougham@kw.com Passionate about finding families their new home! GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
GRANDTASTIC AWARD 2021
1555 Arboretum Dr SE
616.774.9160 | treadstonemortgage.com 214 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Treadstone Funding Propelled by Neighborhood Loans NMLS 222982
GRKIDS.COM
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RIVER TUBING
in West Michigan Slowly floating down a meandering river on a warm summer day is about as Pure Michigan as you can get. Tie your groups’ tubes together and spend a slow day on the water. Life jackets are recommended for adults & children participating in water sports.
Tips:
Many rental places accommodate walk-ins but making a reservation to save your spot can give you peace of mind. Expect to arrive early at your outfitter for safety lessons and to sign waivers. THORNAPPLE RIVER U Rent Em Canoe - 805 W. Apple St, Hastings Located in downtown Hastings and provides canoe, kayak and tube rentals. THORNAPPLE RIVER Indian Valley Campground and Canoe - 8200 108th SE, Middleville You can go river tubing, canoeing, rafting or kayaking here – you don’t have to be camping at the campground. They also rent paddle boats. BIG MANISTEE RIVER Wilderness Canoe Trips - 6052 Riverview Rd, Mesick This is a bigger, rapid-free river with sandy areas to stop and swim to at along the way. Canoes, tubes, kayaks and rafts are available. MUSKEGON RIVER Wisner Rents Canoes - 25 W. Water St, Newaygo If you’re looking for a river with opportunities to get out and splash, head to Newaygo and float the Muskegon River. They rent kayaks, tubes and rafts. FLAT RIVER Double R Ranch - 4424 Whites Bridge Rd, Belding Canoeing, kayaking and tubing trips are available. Non-guests are charged a daily fee for all persons using the Double R Ranch landing. ROGUE RIVER AAA Canoe Rentals - 525 Northland Dr NE, Rockford They offer canoe, kayak and tube float trips on the scenic Rogue River. WHITE RIVER Happy Mohawk Canoe Livery - 401 E. Fruitvale Rd, Montague This is a lovely spot to go with your family, especially if you have young kids because it’s not a very long trip and it’s pretty shallow. Kayaks, canoes, river tubes and rowboats available for rent. Visit GRKIDS.COM/CANOEING-KAYAKING-RIVER-TUBINGSUPS-WEST-MICHIGAN for our full list of places to river tube and rent equipment around West Michigan GRKIDS.COM
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GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
TOP CARE PROVIDER 2021
Exceptional care, state-of-the-art equipment, friendliness, and the best materials mean beautiful outcomes in shorter treatment times at Knapp Orthodontics. Dr. Kevin Knapp is an orthodontic dental specialist offering a full range of orthodontic services including phase 1 and early orthodontic treatment, metal and clear braces, and Invisalign® and 3M Clarity™ clear aligners. One doctor, one location, locally owned and operated with a focus on great patient-doctor relationships. Knapp Orthodontics offers offers industry-leading flexibility in financing with a goal to inspire confidence in all their patients. 22
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
KNAPP ORTHODONTICS @KnappOrthodontics @KnappOrthodontics
www.knapporthodontics.com 616-277-1938 "Staff is so authentically kind and answered all our questions with enthusiasm and accuracy. The entire experience was awesome! I love that we were educated by Dr. Knapp with the tools and technology he used to show us a detailed plan of how he would correct our children’s bite and each step of the process." - Olivia (patient's mom)
Schedule a free consultation at www.knapporthodontics.com
LOCAL FUN FAMILY
Campgrounds
Triponds Family Camp Resort
Get the family ready to unplug, make s’mores, and enjoy the great outdoors close to home! These are our readers’ favorite places to camp in our area.
TRIPONDS FAMILY CAMP RESORT
3687 Dumont Road, Allegan
Campground Highlights: Playground, Putt Putt, Hiking Trails, RV Sites “This is an absolute favorite of ours. Hiking trails, mini-golf, fishing ponds, spacious fields, large lots, friendly staff and clean facilities.”
LAKE SCH-NEPP-A-HO
390 E Tyler Road, Muskegon Campground Highlights: Beach, Playground, Paddle Rentals, Family Activities, Cabin Rentals, Clubhouse “This is an awesome, family owned, and very family friendly campground!”
WOODCHIP CAMPGROUND
7501 Burlingame Ave SW, Byron Center Campground Highlights: Pool, Playground, Camp Store, Family Activities, RV Sites, Bounce Pillow, Horseshoes “Just outside Grand Rapids, this campground provides the perfect low-stress getaway for families, with a wide variety of leisure activities and even free rootbeer floats!”
HUNGRY HORSE CAMPGROUND
2016 142nd Ave, Dorr
Campground Highlights: Pool, Splash Pad, Playground, Family Activities, Tent Sites, RV Sites, Cabin Rentals “Excellent family camping, close to Grand Rapids, and the kids LOVE it! With a mile-long list of things to do on-site, you don’t have to leave to find the fun.”
For our mega list of the best family camping spots in Michigan, visit GRKIDS.COM/CAMPING-CAMPGROUNDS-IN-MICHIGAN.
SUMMER CAMP FINDER ONLINE CAMP DIRECTORY:
GRKIDS.COM/GRAND-RAPIDSSUMMER-CAMP-GUIDE
2021 STEM SUMMER CAMP
EDUCATIONAL PLAY
For more details and to book online: AmpedRealityVR.com/buy-tickets/summer-camp
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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
SUMMER CAMP FINDER ONLINE CAMP DIRECTORY:
GRKIDS.COM/GRAND-RAPIDSSUMMER-CAMP-GUIDE
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SHERMAN LAKE YMCA
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SUMMER CAMP 2021 Register today! WWW.SHERMANLAKEYMCA.ORG
GRKIDS.COM
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These summer camps were planning sessions at the time of publication. Please check with individual camps for up-to-date info, as this is a fluid situation.
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GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
Compass College
WE SET OURSELVES APART BY HAVING THREE OF THE BEST PEDIATRIC DENTISTS TO SERVE YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN!
GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
TOP CARE PROVIDER 2021
Dr. Agata Lefere VOTED TOP DENTIST FOR KIDS 2021 by GRKIDS Readers in practice with Dr. Michael Demeter and Dr. Sally Kotani
3131 44th Street SW, Grandville, MI 49418
616-531-3430
grandvillepediatricdentistry.com GRKIDS.COM
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CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS
TORCH LAKE Trip
Planner
Torch Lake
Visit for a day or rent a cabin and stay for a week! Torch Lake is a Michigan summer hotspot famous for its crystal clear Caribbean blue waters and expansive sand bar. If you’re not up for the crowds at the sand bar, that’s okay. Spend time tubing the lake or cruising the connecting waterways of the Chain of Lakes instead. About Torch Lake
Torch Lake is long, narrow and deep.
- Michigan’s longest inland lake at 19 miles long, and second largest inland lake in size. - Averages 100 feet deep, with some parts as deep as 300 feet. - Located in the northwest part of Michigan’s lower peninsula. - About a 2 ½ hour drive from the Grand Rapids area.
The Sand Bar
A popular place to anchor and swim the day away with friends and family.
- Located at the southern end of the lake near where Torch Lake meets Torch River at the Torch River Bridge. - Best accessed by boat or kayak, as the sand bar is several hundred yards away from the shore.
Boating
Boating is the best way to experience Torch Lake, according to many.
- Multiple public access points around the lake or use the Chain of Lakes to access Torch Lake. - Gas is only available at a few locations. - Rentals book up far in advance, especially for popular times like Fourth of July. Lock in your rentals as far in advance as possible.
Rentals - Cabins, Vacation Rentals & Other Lodging Options - Book as early as possible to secure a summertime rental, especially waterfront property. - Another option is to find a lakefront property on one of the Chain of Lakes such as Elk Lake or Intermediate Lake and motor over to Torch Lake via the network of rivers and lakes.
For our everything you need to know about Torch Lake, visit GRKIDS.COM/TORCH-LAKE-MICHIGAN-GUIDE 28
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
GRKIDS.COM
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Fruit PICKING
Fresh fruit grown in West Michigan is unparalleled. Spend a summer morning or afternoon picking fruit from one of these local farms.
Before you go, call ahead and ask the following: - “How’s the picking today?” - “What type of payment do you accept?” and “What’s the price?” - “Is there a restroom?” - “How do we find you?” - “What do we need to bring?”
Chiropractic Care SAFE & GENTLE for Pregnancies and Kids
GRAND RAPIDS
KIDS
TOP CARE PROVIDER 2021
GetHigherHealth.com | 616-301-8300 Offices in Wyoming and Holland 30
GRKIDS Family Fun Guide | Summer 2021
Strawberries June Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm
3025 6 Mile, Grand Rapids // (616) 784-2820
krupp farms
8025 Krupp Ave, Comstock Park // (616) 887-8271
cherries July - August Klein’s Sweet Cherries
Fruit Ridge and 13 Mile, Sparta // (616) 262-0438
Goodfellow Orchards
2565 12 Mile Rd, Sparta // (616) 887-0825
raspberries July + September Dee’s Lakeshore Farm
1672 S. 70th St, Fennville // (269) 227-3287
delange’s redberry farm
5723 Port Sheldon St, Hudsonville // (616) 875-6026
blueberries mid-July to mid-September Gold Barn Blueberries
15985 Quincy St, Holland // (616) 399-6267
Heritage Blueberries
12151 Stebbins Ave, Sparta // (616) 887-1452
peaches mid-July to mid-September CRANE ORCHARDS
6054 124th Ave, Fennville // (269) 561-8651
DK Orchards
18203 8th Ave, Conklin // (616) 899-5400
For a full list of U-Pick Fruit in West Michigan, visit GRKIDS.COM/U-PICK-FRUIT-GUIDE GRKIDS.COM
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Jenna Kamps, CPNP
Emily Rusticus, CFNP
Jeffrey Mantia, MD
Abigail Lamar, CPNP
GRANDVILLE PEDIATRICS DR. JEFFREY MANTIA WAS VOTED #1 PEDIATRICIAN BY GRKIDS READERS!
Grandville Pediatrics is an independent, pro-vaccine office of 4 board-certified pediatric providers. Their longterm staff provides personalized care in a colorful environment.
We have been taking our three kids, ages 11, 8 and 3 to Grandville Pediatrics their whole lives. We have seen every practitioner on staff. They are all WONDERFUL. The staff is great and the office is beautiful and fun. The atmosphere puts a child at ease instantly. Debra at the front office is the absolute best, so friendly and accommodating. I would recommend this office to anyone! They also have an open clinic for established patients every morning from 8-9! How wonderful is that?!
Voted GRKIDS Top Pediatrician in 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021!
2845 44th St SW Suite 200, Grandville
616-538-2410
www.grandvillepediatrics.com
