Following the Grand River north out of downtown, the Cheshire Village and Creston districts boast strong, stable residential areas, walkable commercial districts and the largest greenspace within the city of Grand Rapids. The communities here emphasize renovation rather than replacement, so historic touches abound even as more and more businesses invest in the area.
Where to eat in North Quarter
From generations-old eateries to an ever-expanding selection of new restaurants, North Quarter offers something for most every taste.
Head to Riverside Park to bike or hike along the river, fish, boat, play disc golf, watch baseball or soccer games, or just soak up nature. It’s the largest park within Grand Rapids city limits and it’s also home to Brewer’s Grove, a collection of trees planted by Grand Rapids breweries with funds raised from selling pints of tree-themed beers.
Take the kids to Aberdeen Park to burn off energy in the summer splash pad and KaBOOM! Playground. There are also tennis and basketball courts, and an urban orchard to explore.
Test your skills at Northfield Lanes, a family-oriented bowling center offering fun and entertainment for all ages
See music acts and art exhibits at Creston Brewery, a microbrewery and restaurant in an historic building.
See the bright-red brick Choo Cho Grill restaurant, which was built in 1924 as the yard office of the Shipman Coal Company.
See authentic Native American art, crafts, music, dance and food during the annual Three Fires Traditional Pow Wow in Riverside Park in June.
Local North Quarter Favorites
Kingma’s Market, an 80-year-old Grand Rapids institution, offers unique local grocery products and a huge selection of domestic and imported beers, wines and cheeses.
Quinn & Tuites Irish Pub, voted best neighborhood bar in Grand Rapids, is known for its live Irish music and broad selection of Irish beers, ciders and whiskeys.
North Quarter Hidden Gems
The Hideout Brewing Company is tucked away on an obscure road just off the main North Quarter thruway (Plainfield Avenue) – its handcrafted beers and live music are worth the detour!
Briggs Park is one of three city parks with a public outdoor pool for summer swimming.
