Grand Rapids' appeal is its location, within a few hours' drive of Detroit. Combine that with its cultural institutions and its nightlife and restaurants, and it makes a nice getaway trip. As much as I love Detroit and what we have here in southeastern Michigan, I really enjoy visiting the sites in other cities and locales. Makes you feel like you are on vacation even if you have only a day or two to play!! In addition, you can head over to the western Michigan coast from Grand Rapids. There's more history and art and wineries and the natural coastline to enjoy.