The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) comes alive this summer as more than just a backdrop for its headline summer exhibition, Sharks; it becomes a stage for community, discovery, and creativity. Here’s a look at the jam-packed summer schedule at the GRPM.
SHARKS, SCIENCE, AND SUMMER SATURDAYS
The centerpiece this summer is undeniably the immersive Sharks exhibition—a touring exhibit from the Australian Museum. Sharks features over 100 artifacts and specimens, including nine life-sized shark models, plus audiovisual experiences and cultural storytelling.
Kids are mesmerized by the life-size models, and immersive oceanarium—a place to truly feel one with the sharks.
Every Saturday through August 16, the GRPM offers Summer Saturdays, thematic programming ranging from watercolor art along the Grand River and first responder tributes, to Dinosaur Day, STEAM explorations, watershed ecology, and LEGO® Shark-building contests. These hands-on events are core to the Museum’s educational and community-building philosophy. And the cherry-on-top? They’re free with GRPM general admission. The season-ending Grand River Adventure, now in its third year, takes place on August 16 and brings in community partners and local artisans for a three-floor celebration of the river where the Museum so proudly stands.
NOSTALGIC FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLAY
The new Game Garden on the second floor of the Museum is a welcoming refuge for parents to let kids play hands-on, and for adults to feel like a kid again! It’s filled to max with oversized versions of classic games like Kerplunk, Operation, Lincoln Logs, chess, and more! The space has become a summer destination for laid-back, hands-on fun, and inspires families and friends to play together.
CAMP CURIOUS INSPIRES
GRPM’s Camp Curious summer camps turn the Museum into a learning lab for kids of all ages. Camps like Underwater Mysteries, River Explorers, World of Bugs, and Predator & Prey keep science central, while creativity comes to life in Young Wizards Academy, Play with Your Food, and Make Some Noise. No matter your favorite topic, all of the Camp Curious offerings are springboards into lifelong curiosity.
LOW-SENSORY EXPLORATION
Don’t miss regular offerings like Sensory Sundays, taking place the second Saturday of each month. Sensory Sundays are a year-round program where the sound and lighting is adjusted throughout the Museum in order to create a low-sensory experience for those with sensory needs. In addition, KultureCity sensory bags are available for checkout for those who may need headphones, fidgets, and more helpful tools. Community partners help make the space come alive even more through outreach, activities, and more! Sensory Sundays aims to make the GRPM a place where everyone is welcome, comfortable, and able to be themselves.
TELLING THE STORY OF SUMMER CURIOSITY
It’s a season of exploration. From shark specimens to immersive planetarium shows, and all types of summer extras, the GRPM helps create curious memories for all ages.
The halls are buzzing with excitement—and ready to welcome you to be a part of the story! Learn more by visiting the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Written by Kellie Rosekrans, Director of Marketing, Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Courtesy of Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Rapids Public Museum.
