If you're a Grand Rapids mover, it's okay to leave some of your old furniture behind; after all, you'll be living in the Furniture City. Grand Rapids, the county seat of Kent County, is the second largest city in the state. It is located in the southwestern part of Michigan. Grand Rapids is noted for its furniture production, among several other manufacturing industries.
Economy:
Grand Rapids is an economic center of distribution and manufacturing. The largest manufactured products in the city include farm products, electronics, automotives, aerospace, and paper. Other products of Grand Rapids include fruit, dairy, and gravel. The city still remains a large furniture producer. Additionally, bio-tech firms have increasingly been coming to the city.
Tourism:
Grand Rapids is serviced by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, which is located twelve miles from the city. The most popular destinations in Grand Rapids include the Gerald R. Ford Museum, a botanical garden, and symphony orchestra. Additional attractions include John Ball Park, Van Andel Arena, and Belknap Hill.
History:
Louis Campau officially founded the area in 1826 with other traders who were able to live alongside the Ottawa Indians. Grand Rapids was incorporated in 1850. During the late 19th century, the city became a center of lumber and furniture. The first hydro-electric facility in the country was opened in Grand Rapids in 1881. Many different ethnic groups have immigrated to Grand Rapids over its history. Large groups today include the Dutch, Polish and African-Americans.