Join us for the 8th Annual “Day of Play” Celebration on July 27, 2025. This community outreach initiative began with a proclamation by Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, and is designed to encourage children and families to celebrate PLAY! This year, we are closing the street to bring play outside on the Rainbow Road! A dedicated group of community partners will offer creative, interactive experiences for visitors, including yard games, crafts, and bubbles! Plus, the museum will be open for play with FREE admission.
This event is free and open to the public! Join us!
view photos from the event
Photography by Julie Balgavy Photography
Thank you to our Day of Play partners!
Organization | Activity |
|---|---|
ArtPrize | Giant coloring page (4ft x 6ft) |
Children's Advocacy Center of Kent County | Temporary Tattoos and Bracelet Making |
Drums for All with Josh | Drums and music |
Family Futures | Sensory bins |
GRCM | sensory play |
Grand Rapids Art Museum | Colorful & Creative Art Project |
Grand Rapids Art Museum | Colorful & Creative Art Project |
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre | Theatre Fun! |
Grand Rapids Public Library | to be determined |
Grand Rapids Public Museum | Artifacts and a hands on craft |
Grand Rapids Symphony | String Instrument Discovery and possibly DIY instrument-making |
Great Start Collaborative/Family Coalition | To Be Determined |
Head Start for Kent County | Beanbag toss |
John Ball Zoo | Matching Game & Coloring Pages |
Michigan Education Trust (MET) | Activity Book and Game |
Michigan Science Center | Rice Sensory Bin & Puppet supplies |
Olly's Donuts | Fresh Mini-donuts |
Samaritas | Coloring Page - Partnering with Art Prize |
Vibrant Futures | Create a Bookmark |
details for the perfect playdate
Will the museum be open for play during the Day of Play Celebration on July 28?
The museum will be open on Sunday, July 27 from 11am-4pm with FREE admission.
What happens if it rains?
This event will happen rain or shine! We'll have tents and plenty to do should mother nature bring a shower. In the event of severe weather such as thunderstorms, Day of Play will be cancelled. Check our website for the most up-to-date details.
Are food and drink available?
Food trucks will be parked next to the museum with food and drink for purchase. Numerous restaurants and vendors are also available within walking distance.
What types of activities are offered and for what ages?
We'll be updating this page weekly with partners and activities. This event is a chance for all families to get outside and celebrate play in our beautiful city. Activities will be most appropriate for preschool to elementary aged children.
How do I sign up to be a Day of Play sponsor?
If your business wishes to sponsor the event, please contact Natalie Hall at nhall@grcm.org
How do I sign up to be a Day of Play volunteer?
Day of Play could not happen without dedicated volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering please contact our Volunteer Department at volunteer@grcm.org
Where do I park?
There are several parking lots available within walking distance to the museum. View the Downtown Visitor Mobility and Parking Guide here.
Bus: We are within two blocks of the #1, #4, #6, #13, #14 and #15 buses. The closest bus stop is at the corner of Sheldon/Fulton and services the #4, #14, and #15. You can also park & ride the DASH to the museum! Here is more information about the DASH.
City parking: Here is a map of parking lots and ramps downtown:
Street parking is available on a first come, first served basis. There is a fee payable by meter, although parking is free on Sundays. The meters take quarters, nickels, and dimes. We have a change machine in our lobby if needed. You can also use the MOTU app. Here is a guide for MOTU.
Please be aware that there is construction taking place in the downtown area.
