City of Grand Rapids in Michigan

Grand Rapids became a village in 1838 and a city in 1850. The city grew through successive waves of immigration, first from Europe and subsequently from around the world. After an international exhibition held in Philadelphia in 1876, Grand Rapids became reknowned worldwide as a leader in the production of fine furniture.

Grand Rapids is located between Chicago and Detroit in Western Michigan and it is today the State’s second-largest city with a population of about 200,000. Still today a world leader in the production of office furniture, Grand Rapids has a diversified economy as well as a vibrant downtown.

As manufacturing remains the heart of West Michigan’s economy, Grand Rapids has some of the nation's largest industry concentrations in metals, plastics, biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, production technology, automotive, office furniture, and food processing.

The weather is beautiful in the summer and not that very cold at all in the winter. There are several options for residents or tourists to enjoy either skiing, kayaking or other outdoor activities. Homes are not at all expensive and there are several nice and attractive parks for children.