Beer, art & nature: Must-see destinations along West Michigan’s trails
With nature centers, restaurants and even art installations, West Michigan's trails are becoming diverse pathways with unique destinations around every corner.
By Lauren Fay Carlson's Latest Articles
Hidden gems: The coolest trails you’ve never heard of in West Michigan
From a historic rail line transformed into recreational space to breathtaking views of the Grand River, these are trails you don't want to miss.
Fighting for the feast: Food truck owners & city leaders aim for culinary change in Grand Rapids
From Los Angeles to New York, food trucks have begun to play a starring role in our country's culinary scene. Now, local truck owners and political leaders are hoping these small, mobile businesses will have the chance to become an integral part of Grand Rapids' food fabric.
Bikes, brews & beaches: The Michigander’s 25th ride to be hosted in West Michigan
Named one of the top rides in the country, The Michigander brings bicyclists of all ages on a tour of West Michigan's scenic trails, Great Lakes beaches, lighthouses, rivers, brewpubs, and more.
Al Capone, hauntings & drinks on the sly: Exploring metro Grand Rapids’ oldest bars
With the cement still drying on so many fresh bars and breweries, we thought Grand Rapidians deserved a look back at a few of the oldest watering holes in metro Grand Rapids —some that have kept their doors open for more than 100 years—for a seasoned perspective on the ambitious business owners that laid the foundation for today's entrepreneurs.
More than a box of books: Little Free Libraries provide a big dose of literacy and community
They may be small, but the Little Free Libraries that are increasingly popping up throughout Grand Rapids are doing big things when it comes to building literacy and community.
Doing good on the trails: How cyclists can raise money and awareness with a ride
From supporting women cyclists to raising money for Habitat for Humanity, West Michiganders can have fun on the trails this spring - and contribute to a good cause while they're at it.
Inside the mind of a hacker: An honest Q&A with a former cyber punk
Our series on cyber security for small businesses has explored credit card systems, industry trends and the problems inherent in small business networks. Now, editor Lauren Fay Carlson talks to a hacker for some insight on how and why small businesses might be attacked online.
21 reasons why this just may be the best Grand Rapids spring ever
Drinking and dining in the sun, outdoor concerts, spring runs, so much art, and more. This is shaping up to be the best spring in Grand Rapids yet.
West Michigan trails under construction: Two projects break ground, change communities
Trail enthusiasts look forward to two long-awaited projects on the Fred Meijer Standale Trail that are facilitating convenient pedestrian traffic and making connections between communities.
