Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. — Attraction in Grand Rapids

I would like to give a huge shoutout to the Downtown Ambassadors with DGRI. About 11 years ago, I lived, worked, and went to school in downtown GR. I was brought back downtown in February 2022 when I began working with a local business, and WOW how the city has changed! Being down here on a regular basis, you truly get to see how hard our city works to beautify the downtown area. The "little" things (or what may go unnoticed by many) like new trash cans, consistently updated landscaping, and friendly Ambassadors who go above & beyond to assist those in need are the reason Grand Rapids is continuing to improve and flourish. I would like to thank one Downtown Ambassador in particular, Thibs, who only ever has a smile on his face! He frequently checks in with the business I work with, and it is obvious how much pride he takes in his role to improve our city. As an example, the other day he stopped by while on his route, and I had a question for him about our new trash cans along Monroe Center (were there now other designated areas to recycle cans). He was unsure of the answer, but he took the time to radio his team to find out. I also was asking him for advice on The Rapid bus system, because I would like to share with others how they can take advantage of alternative forms of transportation to make it downtown. He not only answered the questions I had, but he showed me a couple apps I could download to view the bus routes & offered his personal advice. Thank you Thibs, we...

I was not pleased when a ambassador interrupted my family dinner at Uccello’s to enter the roped off pet friendly patio area to “give my dog a treat” which I said yes to bc my dog heard the word at the point and was excited. Which he ended up being out of treats, then he followed with an apology and immediately started petting my dog without my permission.. only then did he notice his big red vest that says DO NOT PET. Which is also posted on his leash as well. I think this is a nice addition to downtown but maybe review with them on what is appropriate and not when it comes to interacting with the public. I was at dinner in a closed off area with a dog, and was approached by a man when we shouldn’t have been bothered at our dinner. It was weird, and it made all us uncomfortable,...

DGRI has done many amazing things for and to downtown Grand Rapids. One of the many great things they've done was bringing Block By Block Ambassadors to downtown. They offer hospitality services, and perform a wide variety of cleaning task. DGRI is also host to many great seasonal events, most of which are all family friendly. If you're thinking about starting a small business in downtown Grand Rapids, these are the people you want to reach out to. They will assist with getting your recognition for your opening, and will be sure to send downtown ambassadors your way to assist...