Local Kids Birthday Party Places, Entertainment & Rental Options
Celebrating birthdays is one of the most fun things to do with kids in Grand Rapids! But, planning a kids birthday party can be a big task.
Busy parents know that booking a local venue for your next birthday party can make all of the difference in the party planning process.
In addition to providing the entertainment for the birthday, these local venues have everything needed to pull off a fun birthday party for your child.
Add in our local experience gift ideas, and wrapping up your kid’s birthday could be a slam dunk.
These local birthday venues, entertainers, and suppliers will take the stress out of birthday party planning this year.
Birthday Party Places Menu
Featured Kids Birthday Party Places
These birthday spots offer unforgettable experiences
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Birthday Party Place in Kentwood
Birthday Parties at Amped Virtual Reality
2923 28th St SE,Kentwood, MI 49512
AMPED VIRTUAL REALITY has 4.9 STARS ON GOOGLE!! Offering UNIQUE, stress-free parties - Virtual Reality Parties for ages 6-18 & ROBOT Building & Decorating Parties for ages 5-8.
EASY - All you have to do is play & eat (or you can bring a cake). Decorated party room includes plates & cups & we provide the pizza & drinks & clean-up! We’re flexible!
SOCIAL - Many incredible multiplayer options to be in virtual worlds with friends and family!
SMALL & CLEAN - You have almost ½ of this spotless building
EVERYONE enjoys Virtual Reality - over 40 experiences: be inside MINECRAFT, swing like Spiderman, play Beat Saber, Superhot, Angry Birds, Fruit Ninja or Baby Hands, complete spy missions (like a virtual escape room), be in a DISNEY movie, Create 3-D art, swim with dolphins, or travel the world!
ROBOT BUILDING - Younger children will play some robot games, build their own robots, decorate them, play with them, and then TAKE THEM HOME!
EASY - All you have to do is play & eat (or you can bring a cake). Decorated party room includes plates & cups & we provide the pizza & drinks & clean-up! We’re flexible!
SOCIAL - Many incredible multiplayer options to be in virtual worlds with friends and family!
SMALL & CLEAN - You have almost ½ of this spotless building
EVERYONE enjoys Virtual Reality - over 40 experiences: be inside MINECRAFT, swing like Spiderman, play Beat Saber, Superhot, Angry Birds, Fruit Ninja or Baby Hands, complete spy missions (like a virtual escape room), be in a DISNEY movie, Create 3-D art, swim with dolphins, or travel the world!
ROBOT BUILDING - Younger children will play some robot games, build their own robots, decorate them, play with them, and then TAKE THEM HOME!
"What a great place to have a birthday party! Our children had a blast - such a variety of games. The staff was amazing and extremely helpful." -Heidi on Google
Birthday Party Place in Caledonia
Birthday Parties at Legacy Stables & Karin's Horse Connection
8001 Patterson Ave,Caledonia, MI 49316
Plan your next Birthday Party at our Horse Stable!
Enjoy 2 hours of FUN from start to finish for ages 2+:
* 90 minutes of horse/pony time - brushing, learning, playing games, horseback riding and partying with our qualified staff and well trained horses & ponies.
* 30 minutes spent eating, laughing and opening presents.
You just bring the kids, cake, refreshments and presents!
Beautiful indoor riding arena and a heated viewing room for celebrating - rain, snow, or shine, the party is on! Optional party themes available: Unicorn, Wild West, Paint-a-Horse!
Give your child a Birthday Party they’ll never forget!
Enjoy 2 hours of FUN from start to finish for ages 2+:
* 90 minutes of horse/pony time - brushing, learning, playing games, horseback riding and partying with our qualified staff and well trained horses & ponies.
* 30 minutes spent eating, laughing and opening presents.
You just bring the kids, cake, refreshments and presents!
Beautiful indoor riding arena and a heated viewing room for celebrating - rain, snow, or shine, the party is on! Optional party themes available: Unicorn, Wild West, Paint-a-Horse!
Give your child a Birthday Party they’ll never forget!
“Staff 100% attentive, made children comfortable. Helmets sanitized and carefully chosen. Ponies were sweet, saddles good for children. Rode inside and on the trail… Kids/family were happy!” – Marie N.
Birthday Party Place in Rockford
Birthday Parties at Pour-d
39 Courtland St,Rockford, MI 49341
We love to create!
From baby showers to parties, our versatile studio space is waiting for you.
Our custom kids art parties are tailored to your child's individual theme, talk to one of our artists to plan your event today!
From baby showers to parties, our versatile studio space is waiting for you.
Our custom kids art parties are tailored to your child's individual theme, talk to one of our artists to plan your event today!
Birthday Party Place in Comstock Park
Birthday Parties at BattleGR
284 Dodge NE Suite 100,Comstock Park, MI 49321
Looking for a stress-free birthday party that is fun, affordable, & memorable?
At BattleGR we have lots of options to fit your needs & birthday kids age: Nerf, Laser Tag, Archery Tag, Sports, Video Games, Foam, Axe Throwing, PC Gaming, Gel Blasters & combination parties.
What’s Included:
Our stress-free birthday parties provide all the food (pizza, pop, cupcakes), paper products, private party room, and party host to serve the food & write a birthday gift list.
We can also bring the entertainment to you & set up at your location. Our goal is for you to enjoy the memories instead of scrambling around.
At BattleGR we have lots of options to fit your needs & birthday kids age: Nerf, Laser Tag, Archery Tag, Sports, Video Games, Foam, Axe Throwing, PC Gaming, Gel Blasters & combination parties.
What’s Included:
Our stress-free birthday parties provide all the food (pizza, pop, cupcakes), paper products, private party room, and party host to serve the food & write a birthday gift list.
We can also bring the entertainment to you & set up at your location. Our goal is for you to enjoy the memories instead of scrambling around.
“BattleGR hosted my son and 10 of his buddies for his birthday and it was great! They took care of all of the party details so it was a breeze"
Birthday Party Place in Grand Rapids
Birthday Parties at John Ball Zoo
1300 W. Fulton St.,Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Calling all party animals!
Looking for a great location to host your little critter’s birthday? Go wild at John Ball Zoo, where you’ll have a roarin’ good time!
Customizable party packages allow for an adventurous experience.
Plus, the package features a visit from one of the Zoo’s ambassador animals!
Looking for a great location to host your little critter’s birthday? Go wild at John Ball Zoo, where you’ll have a roarin’ good time!
Customizable party packages allow for an adventurous experience.
Plus, the package features a visit from one of the Zoo’s ambassador animals!
Birthday Party Place in Grandville
Birthday Parties at Tarry Hall Roller Rink
3330 Fairlanes Ave SW,Grandville, MI 49418
You bring the cake, we'll supply the skates!
Let us host your next birthday party and take the hassle out of entertaining your group.
Choose from having your own dedicated section of our snack bar during a public skating session or rent the whole rink for a private party!
Free song request & birthday shout out during our public session birthday parties.
Feel free to bring your own playlist or tell our DJ your favorite music selections for your private parties.
We provide the DJ & sound system, light shows, rollerblades & roller skate rental, full snack bar, arcade, and 17,000 square feet of indoor entertainment to let your kids play & skate so you can relax and enjoy the party! Let us handle the clean-up 🙂
Let us host your next birthday party and take the hassle out of entertaining your group.
Choose from having your own dedicated section of our snack bar during a public skating session or rent the whole rink for a private party!
Free song request & birthday shout out during our public session birthday parties.
Feel free to bring your own playlist or tell our DJ your favorite music selections for your private parties.
We provide the DJ & sound system, light shows, rollerblades & roller skate rental, full snack bar, arcade, and 17,000 square feet of indoor entertainment to let your kids play & skate so you can relax and enjoy the party! Let us handle the clean-up 🙂
"Our kids LOVE to have their birthday parties at Tarry Hall! Everyone has a blast and it's so easy to host here! Everything is taken care of, even clean up!!"
Birthday Party Place in
Birthday Parties at Olivia Grace & Company
Specializing in character events and meet-and-greets, we are dedicated to creating the highest quality character experiences.
"The highest quality entertainment in the nation!"
Birthday Party Place in Holland
Birthday Parties at Holland Aquatic Center
550 Maple Ave,Holland, MI 49423
Plan a party at Holland Aquatic Center and soak up the fun!
Our new Splash Zone features a zero-entry wading pool, three-story water slide, lazy river, and water play features for all ages!
Party packages are available during our Family Splash hours and include:
Admission for the birthday child
Admission for up to 15 guests per room
One hour in a private party room
Unlimited swimming during Family Splash Time
Book a party room by going to https://hollandaquatic.org/aquatics/rental/.
Our new Splash Zone features a zero-entry wading pool, three-story water slide, lazy river, and water play features for all ages!
Party packages are available during our Family Splash hours and include:
Admission for the birthday child
Admission for up to 15 guests per room
One hour in a private party room
Unlimited swimming during Family Splash Time
Book a party room by going to https://hollandaquatic.org/aquatics/rental/.
"We had a great time at the Holland Aquatic Center for a birthday party, and subsequent time in the Splash Zone, swimming pools and slide. The staff was super professional and helpful, and the new area was fantastic." - Google review
Birthday Party Place in Holland
Birthday Parties at GQT Movies
500 S. Waverly Rd.,Holland, MI 49423
2175 West Main Street, Lowell, MI 49423
GQT Movies - 4 locations throughout Grand Rapids to accommodate your next Birthday or group outing!
3 Birthday Packages to choose from, or customize your own experience with a Private Auditorium.
All parties include an Hour Party Space, and a movie viewing of your choice.
Our Most Popular Party Package:
Star Power - $150 ($175 value)
10 admissions
10 small drinks
10 small popcorns
10 cupcakes
Birthday button and gift for birthday child
Let GQT Movies help you Celebrate with the gift of
Movies - Munchies - Memories
3 Birthday Packages to choose from, or customize your own experience with a Private Auditorium.
All parties include an Hour Party Space, and a movie viewing of your choice.
Our Most Popular Party Package:
Star Power - $150 ($175 value)
10 admissions
10 small drinks
10 small popcorns
10 cupcakes
Birthday button and gift for birthday child
Let GQT Movies help you Celebrate with the gift of
Movies - Munchies - Memories
"We've celebrated both my kids birthday's at GQT Holland 7, the past 2 years! Friendly staff, clean theater, and so much fun!" - Katie P. - Holland, MI
Birthday Party Place in Rockford
Birthday Parties at Pinball Land
114 Courtland St,Rockford, MI 49341
Pinball Land arcade birthday parties are perfect for all ages!
With tons of classic video games and a lineup of awesome pinball machines, there's something for everyone. The best part: no quarters, no tokens, no cards - the games are free!
We do the work, you have a ball!
With tons of classic video games and a lineup of awesome pinball machines, there's something for everyone. The best part: no quarters, no tokens, no cards - the games are free!
We do the work, you have a ball!
Birthday Party Place in Walker
Birthday Parties at Altitude Grand Rapids
3495 Alpine Ave NW,Walker, MI 49544
Planning a birthday party for your child can be challenging, especially in colder weather! Let Altitude take the stress off of planning so you can focus on what really matters!
Our 23,000 square-foot climate-controlled trampoline park is the perfect place to host your child’s next birthday party, plus our friendly staff will make sure you and your kiddo are taken care of on their special day.
Our 23,000 square-foot climate-controlled trampoline park is the perfect place to host your child’s next birthday party, plus our friendly staff will make sure you and your kiddo are taken care of on their special day.
"Our kid had a great time at their birthday party! The staff was very helpful and accommodating!"
Birthday Party Place in Auburn Hills
Birthday Parties at Peppa Pig World of Play Michigan
4362 Baldwin Road,Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Celebrate a birthday with a party full of snorts, giggles and jumping in muddy puddles at Peppa Pig World of Play Michigan!
Enjoy exploring (and playing in!) more than a dozen free-roaming play areas, all lovingly inspired by the cherished TV series.
You'll discover Peppa's Treehouse, Rebecca Rabbit's Underground Adventure, George's Fort, Granddad Dog's Garage, Madame Gazelle's School Bus, and more!
This indoor attraction is designed for children ages 1-8 years old.
Enjoy exploring (and playing in!) more than a dozen free-roaming play areas, all lovingly inspired by the cherished TV series.
You'll discover Peppa's Treehouse, Rebecca Rabbit's Underground Adventure, George's Fort, Granddad Dog's Garage, Madame Gazelle's School Bus, and more!
This indoor attraction is designed for children ages 1-8 years old.
"My 3yr old STILL talks about this place 3 weeks later! So much to do here, so much fun." -Rachel M. (Google Reviews)
Birthday Party Place in Grand Rapids
Birthday Parties at Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids
2927 Breton Road SE,Grand Rapids, MI 49512
LEGO® Brickday Parties are for any age and any occasion, from birthdays to milestones or just because.
Parties include LEGO® free building, race car building & racing, minifig builds for every participant, and more!
You can choose from a hosted party where our employees will guide the fun, or you can choose an unhosted party where the parents or guardians guide the fun (we provide all activities, schedule and supplies).
We look forward to hosting your next special occasion at Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids!
Parties include LEGO® free building, race car building & racing, minifig builds for every participant, and more!
You can choose from a hosted party where our employees will guide the fun, or you can choose an unhosted party where the parents or guardians guide the fun (we provide all activities, schedule and supplies).
We look forward to hosting your next special occasion at Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids!
Birthday Party Place in Hudsonville
Birthday Parties at Action Wake Park
3320 Hudson Trails Dr.,Hudsonville, MI 49426
Aqua Park Party – Up to 10 people - $199 - 2 Hour Party
Includes:
• Up to 10 people
• Ages 6+
• Party host dedicated to your party needs
• Reserved Party Picnic Tables with shade
• 1 Action T-shirt
Add On’s
• Pizza and soda per person - $6
• Snack Bar – Open a tab or pre pay for your guests to get ice cream, snacks and drinks.
• Additional guest $20
Weekday Party Start Times 11:30AM, 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM *Reservations required
Order of the Party: Check-in (30 min) – Aqua Park (45 min) - Celebrate (45 min)
Includes:
• Up to 10 people
• Ages 6+
• Party host dedicated to your party needs
• Reserved Party Picnic Tables with shade
• 1 Action T-shirt
Add On’s
• Pizza and soda per person - $6
• Snack Bar – Open a tab or pre pay for your guests to get ice cream, snacks and drinks.
• Additional guest $20
Weekday Party Start Times 11:30AM, 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM *Reservations required
Order of the Party: Check-in (30 min) – Aqua Park (45 min) - Celebrate (45 min)
"The staff is Amazing! Our son participated in a birthday party and had the best time ever!
Clean facility and great help from the staff made for a great party!"
Clean facility and great help from the staff made for a great party!"
Birthday Party Place in Wyoming
Birthday Parties at Craig's Cruisers in Wyoming
5730 Clyde Park Ave SW,Wyoming, MI 49509
Epic parties start "where the fun never ends!"
Craig's Cruisers offers birthday packages that include both food and fun!
Guests will enjoy 3-hour access to our buffet. Choose from our full salad bar, pasta, breadsticks, pizza (gluten and dairy free pizza available upon request), roasted chicken, macaroni and cheese, cookies, ice cream, Pepsi products and more!
Celebrate rain or shine with over 120,000 square feet of indoor recreation.
Indoor Offerings:
• Go-Karts
• Laser Tag
• Coaster Cruiser
• Virtual Reality
• Arcade
Outdoor Offerings:
• Go-Karts
• Mini-Golf
• Zip Line
• The 360
• Bumper Boats
Book your epic event online or give us a call!
Craig's Cruisers offers birthday packages that include both food and fun!
Guests will enjoy 3-hour access to our buffet. Choose from our full salad bar, pasta, breadsticks, pizza (gluten and dairy free pizza available upon request), roasted chicken, macaroni and cheese, cookies, ice cream, Pepsi products and more!
Celebrate rain or shine with over 120,000 square feet of indoor recreation.
Indoor Offerings:
• Go-Karts
• Laser Tag
• Coaster Cruiser
• Virtual Reality
• Arcade
Outdoor Offerings:
• Go-Karts
• Mini-Golf
• Zip Line
• The 360
• Bumper Boats
Book your epic event online or give us a call!
Birthday Party Place in Grand Rapids
Birthday Parties at THE MUD ROOM @ KNAPP'S CORNER
1971 E Beltline Ave NE STE 103,Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Plan a party with The Mud Room and you'll see why this studio is a favorite place to celebrate!
Their 25+ years of experience will ensure an experience that is FUN for the kids and EASY for you.
Simple and affordable Party Packages are designed for busy families and include Pottery Painting, Potter's Wheel, Wood Signs, and more!
Parties are perfect for birthdays, scout troops, and just for fun!
Take-home options are also available so you can party at YOUR place.
Voted the BEST for multiple Grandtastic Awards, The Mud Room’s friendly staff will help anyone feel like an artist.
Their 25+ years of experience will ensure an experience that is FUN for the kids and EASY for you.
Simple and affordable Party Packages are designed for busy families and include Pottery Painting, Potter's Wheel, Wood Signs, and more!
Parties are perfect for birthdays, scout troops, and just for fun!
Take-home options are also available so you can party at YOUR place.
Voted the BEST for multiple Grandtastic Awards, The Mud Room’s friendly staff will help anyone feel like an artist.
Birthday Party Place in Grand Rapids
Birthday Parties at Grand Rapids Gymnastics
1601 Galbraith Ave, STE 301,Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Walk into our gymnastics center with only your food and drink and everything else is done for you. A parent’s birthday dream!
At GRG we run one party at a time.
PARTY TIME includes table setting with paper products, balloon bouquets, medal for birthday child and party favor for each guest.
GYM TIME includes trampolines, obstacle courses, foam pits, climbing ropes, parachute, games, gymnastics and more!
NINJA space available with warped wall, rock climbing wall, running steps, and more.
At GRG we run one party at a time.
PARTY TIME includes table setting with paper products, balloon bouquets, medal for birthday child and party favor for each guest.
GYM TIME includes trampolines, obstacle courses, foam pits, climbing ropes, parachute, games, gymnastics and more!
NINJA space available with warped wall, rock climbing wall, running steps, and more.
Birthday Party Place in Rockford
Birthday Parties at Accidental Art
355 Northland Drive NE,Rockford, MI 49341
Pottery painting parties are unique, affordable and fun for all ages!
Your guests will love creating memories and masterpieces that will last a lifetime.
Three party options available to suite most needs:
*Party packages available for up to 12 people during open studio hours.
*Rent out our whole studio for groups of up to 30 people.
*Take home kits so you can bring the pottery painting fun to your own home or venue!
Your guests will love creating memories and masterpieces that will last a lifetime.
Three party options available to suite most needs:
*Party packages available for up to 12 people during open studio hours.
*Rent out our whole studio for groups of up to 30 people.
*Take home kits so you can bring the pottery painting fun to your own home or venue!
Birthday Party Place in GRAND RAPIDS
Birthday Parties at I'm An Artist Community Studio
2166 WEALTHY ST SE,GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49428
Ask any kid (or adult) Art Parties are the best!
Each party starts $225 and includes up to 8 kids, additional children are $15 each.
Your child has their choice of making a mixed-medium project, hanging hoop, treasure chest or painting a masterpiece of their choice!
Parties are two hours long. This includes about an hour of guided paint or creation time of your choice & an hour of gift opening and refreshment time.
Each party starts $225 and includes up to 8 kids, additional children are $15 each.
Your child has their choice of making a mixed-medium project, hanging hoop, treasure chest or painting a masterpiece of their choice!
Parties are two hours long. This includes about an hour of guided paint or creation time of your choice & an hour of gift opening and refreshment time.
Birthday Party Place in Allegan
Birthday Parties at Allegan Event
439 River Street,Allegan, MI 49010
Looking for a fun and unique idea for your next celebration?
Allegan Event features Michigan’s largest indoor ropes course and offers endless adventurous activities for guests of all ages to connect, get active, and make lasting memories.
With two size appropriate courses, Allegan Event has options for the whole family!
Allegan Event features Michigan’s largest indoor ropes course and offers endless adventurous activities for guests of all ages to connect, get active, and make lasting memories.
With two size appropriate courses, Allegan Event has options for the whole family!
Birthday Party Place in
Birthday Parties at Little Dreamers Sleepovers and Events
West Michigan,, MI
Ready to plan your Instagram-worthy party?
Little Dreamers specializes in themed sleepovers, glamping, luxury picnics, spa, and tea parties.
Our packages cater to both girls/boys with a variety of themes to choose from.
We deliver, setup, and pickup from your home or venue, taking the stress out of the party.
Little Dreamers specializes in themed sleepovers, glamping, luxury picnics, spa, and tea parties.
Our packages cater to both girls/boys with a variety of themes to choose from.
We deliver, setup, and pickup from your home or venue, taking the stress out of the party.
Birthday Party Place in Grand Rapids
Birthday Parties at Lionardo Art Studio
1134 Leonard ST NW,Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Let's party, art style!
Painting, building, crafting, and more art packages, perfect for your creative child.
Simply choose from one of our creative themes or customize your own.
Meet at our studio or we come to you.
All materials included. B.Y.O cake. Each guest creates a one-of-a-kind art piece!
Painting, building, crafting, and more art packages, perfect for your creative child.
Simply choose from one of our creative themes or customize your own.
Meet at our studio or we come to you.
All materials included. B.Y.O cake. Each guest creates a one-of-a-kind art piece!
Award Winning Birthday Party Places
Families voted on the top kids birthday party places in our annual Grandtastic Awards. These venues are aces at the kids birthday party game.
Best Birthday Party Venues
Winner: Craig’s Cruisers
1. Craig’s Cruisers
2. John Ball Zoo
3. BattleGR Tactical Games
4. Accidental Art
5. The Mud Room @ Knapp’s Corner
5. Pour-d
7. Rebounderz (Jenison)
8. Bricks & Minifigs
9. I’m An Artist Community Studio
10. Tarry Hall Roller Skating Rink
10. Allegan Event
Full List of Birthday Party Place Ideas
From active to artistic, here are your full options for a great birthday experience in Grand Rapids.
Amped Virtual Reality
Accidental Art
Action Wake Park
Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum
AJ's Family Fun Center
Allegan Event
Altitude Grand Rapids
AMF Eastbrook Lanes
BAM! Entertainment Center
BattleGR
Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids
Byron Township Community Center
Chuck E. Cheese
Chuck E. Cheese
Clique Lanes
Craig's Cruisers in Wyoming
Critter Barn
Dave & Buster's
For The Kidz Gymnastics and Trampoline
Fowling Warehouse Grand Rapids
Fun Stuff Productions
Goldfish Swim School
GQT Movies
GR Skate and Event Center
GR Skate and Event Center
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Grand Rapids Children's Museum
Grand Rapids Gymnastics
Great Lakes Glow Golf
Griff’s IceHouse
Gymco
Holland Aquatic Center
Hudsonville Lanes
I'm An Artist Community Studio
John Ball Zoo
Jumpin' Jupiter Skate and Fun Center
Koetsier's
Legacy Stables & Karin's Horse Connection
Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo
Lionardo Art Studio
Little Dreamers Sleepovers and Events
NorthStar Gymnastics
Olivia Grace & Company
Paint a Pot
Peppa Pig World of Play Michigan
Pinball Land
Pour-d
R-Athletics
Rebounderz Adventure Park
Regent Arcade
Kids Birthday Party Entertainers & Characters
Want to bring the party to you? Or maybe you want to add an element to party at your favorite venue. Here’s the entertainers kids love in West Michigan.
Magicians, Balloon Artists, Face Painting, Clowns
★ Al Munro, Magician (616-241-5091 • Kentwood, MI 49512)
★ Brad Lancaster Entertainment (616-243-5771 • Grand Rapids, MI)
★ Dave Storms – Stormy the Magician (616-558-8611 • Hastings, MI 49058)
★ Fun Stuff Productions – Balloon Artist, Clowns (616-874-6844 • Rockford, MI 49341)
★ La-La Land Facepainting (231-760-3114)
★ Magic Bob & SuZie (616-975-9988)
★ Mary’s Country Critters (269-792-2929)
★ PJ Weber Magic (616-243-7469)
★ Tom Plunkard Magic (586-558-0108)
★ Vander Wal Magic Shows (616-204-0302)
Live Character Rentals – Princesses, Superheroes, Etc.
★ Fairytale Entertainment – Live Character Rentals (616-278-0411 • Headquarters in Auburn Hills, MI 48326)
★ Golden Rule Events – Live Character Rentals (616-965-1954 • Grand Rapids, MI)
★ Olivia Grace & Company – Live Character Rentals (Holland, MI)
★ EGR Princess Party – Princes & Princesses available for parties, fundraising (East Grand Rapids, MI)
★ 501st Star Wars Characters – Accept charitable donations for appearances, run by volunteers (Grand Rapids, MI)
Birthday Gift Ideas for Kids
When people ask me for gift ideas for my kids, I tell them, “Take them somewhere and make a memory!”
I am thrilled to see this happening. My parents took my kids to a show at DeVos and my in-laws took them to a hotel with a water park. The kids still talk about these adventures and ask when they can do it again.
Last month I took my niece out to Detroit Cookie Co for her choice of whatever wild cookies caught her eye.
When I dropped her at home after the adventure, her sister asked me very sweetly, “Auntie, could I get a certificate for fun with you for my birthday?”
Spending time with special adults means everything to kids.
Here are our favorite Grand Rapids gift experience ideas for kids.
1 – Take Them on an Outing With You
Chances are that special kid in your life would enjoy a day out with you. And the fun part? You can pick something that you would both enjoy together!
Entertainment kids would dig concert tickets or a show at GQT Movies.
If your child likes glam, treat your kid to pedicures together.
Love the theatre? CARE ballet is a great stage idea, as these shows are specially geared toward little kids. Musicals are great fun at The Civic Theatre.
Try a throwback experience with bowling, rollerskating or arcade fun. Kids and adults both love Pinball Land in Rockford.
2 – Give a Museum or Activity Center Membership
I love our memberships! It’s so nice to be able to take the kids to different places around town without having to pay admission.
This is also perfect for families with toddlers or preschoolers who may only last an hour or two before they need to eat or sleep.
If a family membership isn’t in your budget, simply getting a one-day pass for the birthday kid and his family would be fun.
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a magnet for little kids as well as the Children’s Garden at Frederik Meijer Gardens.
Kids love the Grand Rapids Public Museum where they can ride the carousel after walking around in the “Old World Grand Rapids” exhibit.
No matter their age, there is always something fun to do at John Ball Zoo. Whether it’s exploring outdoor play areas, watching a favorite animal or tackling their ropes course, it’s sure to be a hit.
Let your kids loose with your camera at the Grand Rapids Art Museum! Talk about the things they saw and what it reminded them of and what kind of art THEY would like to make.
3 – Give them a Class Experience
If your kid aspires to be the next Master Chef (Junior or otherwise), check out one of these cooking and baking classes.
Artist kids would love a kid’s art class at Pour-D or pottery fun at The Mud Room.
Swim Classes. Learn the name of their favorite swim facility and give them money toward a class. Or opt for a day trip to an indoor pool like Holland Aquatic Center.
Gymnastics (or Ninja Skills) is a healthy class that wears kids out. It’s easy, you don’t have to buy a lot of equipment or uniforms for it, and anyone can do it. Try one of these local gymnastics centers.
Your dramatic dancer, musician or artist may benefit from a music, theatre or dance program.
4 – Sign them Up for an Activity Center or Sport
Kids who love to watch a good game would enjoy tickets to see the West Michigan Whitecaps in action. The Grand Rapids Griffins and Grand Rapids Drive are also great adventures. Be sure to give them vouchers for snacks, too!
Would your kid rather be part of the action? Sign them up for their favorite sport! In addition to common sports, there are lots of unique sports for kids and even lessons like horseback riding.
A great one-time “athletic” idea is a trip to Altitude Trampoline Park or Craig’s Cruisers.
Would you AND your kid rather be part of the action? Sign up for laser tag at Battle GR or virtual reality adventures at Amped Virtual Reality.
5 – Find an Interesting Summer Camp or Day Camp
This is a gift that will have Mom and Dad thanking you, too. (Or if you’re Mom or Dad, here’s your top gift idea!)
Camps are great ways for kids to explore their interests without making a big commitment. Many of the birthday experiences already mentioned offer day camps.
Our Summer Camps Guide lists dozens of camps around West Michigan.
(Tip: Check with Mom or Dad first before booking a camp.)
Feel free to pin this image!
Absolutely, right! Kids will surely like to celebrate their birthday in such venues and have full enjoyment with their family and friends. Also, celebrating a birthday in these party venues will not be memorable for only your kid, but for family, friends, and guests too.
Found some out of the box ideas and I actually like them. I think my daughter is going to love her next birthday party.
Nice suggestions!!
I want to recommend a wonderful entertainment company, Fairytale Entertainment, that does the very best character visits I’ve ever seen!! The entertainers are all so talented and they are background checked to be safe around children! Fairytale Entertainment comes to your party location and takes over! Their characters are so professional, on time and bring so much happiness to the children they perform for! Check it out!
Very nice and amazing content of the blog. This is really very appreciative. Keep sharing more information like this.
Hello I’m looking for a good place for my sons 8th bday that doesn’t brake the bank he wanted to go one place but it’s partly price was too high for my budget.they are a very active bunch if anyone knows of coupons too that would also be a great help!
I am trying to plan my daughters 5th birthday which is memorial day weekend. I understand the weather can be unpredictable, but hoping to find a fun park to have the party at. Any super fun parks in the Caledonia area to have a party at?
Hello Everyone,
I am one of the Owners of Once Upon a Tide Mermaid Entertainment. We provide mermaid entertainment for children’s birthday parties, events, book readings, corporate events and more in the West Michigan area!
Check out our website for party prices, pictures and more!
Does anyone know a magician or party entertainer for toddler’s/children’s party?
Dave and Busters are the ones for me have been going there since the past two years for my daughter’s 2nd and 3rd birthday. Am not too much into experimenting but your list has tempted me to experiment this year.
Joanne Fabrics have birthday parties too. $125 up to 8 kids. You come in some day before the party and pick out one craft for them all to do. You can also bring in cupcakes without icing and they provide frosting and cupcake decorations.
Hey nice ideas. I am looking for birthday party ides for having my daughter’s birthday party in 2nd week of Jan. These ideas are really helpful, thanks for sharing.
Really need some suggestions for my son who will be 3 on Christmas. Im on disability with lil family. Dont need much just something fun w a cake. Somewhere around 28th st and the mall.
I hired the Princess Ballerina person for my daughter’s birthday party and she was a no show. PLEASE be warned. It was awful!!! Luckily I did get my money back, but so not worth it for a highly disappointed 6 year old. 🙁
Perfect timing!! My sons first birthday is at the end of December – thank you for ideas!!
I am just loving this website more and more! This first time mama and her 9 month old thank all those who work to make it happen!