A Family Adventure Awaits at Building Buddies!
Step into the vibrant world of Building Buddies, the latest exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Opening on Saturday, January 20, 2024, this exhibit is an invitation to hands-on fun. It’s designed for visitors of all ages, but especially for kids ages 2 – 8.
The Building Buddies experience is included with general admission. Kent County kids ages 17 and under get in free to the museum.
Help the Waltons Construct Their Home
The Building Buddies attraction centers around the made-up Walton family.
Visitors are tasked with helping this fictitious family set up their home within the museum.
Can you get the Walton’s settled into their new home by helping with various construction projects and related building activities?
Learning Through Play Along the Way
The exhibit offers a range of open-ended hands-on activities, from painting walls and tending gardens to fixing leaky pipes and crafting doghouses.
Beyond that, Building Buddies aligns seamlessly with STEAM curriculum objectives, making it an ideal field trip destination.
Museum Hours & Admission
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is open on weekends from 10 AM – 5 PM and weekdays from 9 AM – 5 PM.
| General | Kent County | |
| Adult | $12 | $10 |
| Senior | $10 | $8 |
| Student | $5 | $5 |
| Ages 3-17 | $5 | free |
| Ages 2 and under | free | free |
About the Grand Rapids Public Museum
Founded over 160 years ago, GRPM, is a treasure trove of local history, nature, and culture. Nestled on the banks of the Grand River, this three-story museum houses extensive exhibits that span from ancient artifacts to modern wonders.
It’s also home to the iconic, fully operational 1928 Spillman Carousel and Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.
Plan to spend at least two hours when you visit.
More Fun Things to Do
Best 7-Day Michigan Upper Peninsula Itinerary: Marquette, Pictured Rocks & More for 2026
Visiting the Upper Peninsula with your family will be an adventure filled with waterfalls, lakes, and natural wonders you’ll never find in lower Michigan. Let this Upper Peninsula Itinerary be your guide!
Nelis’ Dutch Village 2026: Amazing Fun With Rides Including NEW Tulip Tower, Petting Farm and Dutch Dancing!
How to Spend a Great Day at Nelis’ Dutch Village If you’re thinking about things to do in Holland, the first place to go to is Nelis’ Dutch Village. From toddler to teen (and even adults), everyone will find something to love. You’ll enjoy visiting Nelis’ Dutch Village just about as much as the kids…
Michigan Festivals 2026: 20+ Exciting Fairs in West Michigan, Carnivals & Cotton Candy Included!
2026’s Most Crowd-Pleasing Fairs, Festivals & Carnivals in Michigan Fairs, festivals, and carnivals are coming in hot in west Michigan! It’s no wonder that they’re one of the best things to do in the summer. Local carnivals are loaded with parades, festival food and of course, fireworks! Many will have markets boasting incredible handmade items…
Boulder Ridge Zoo 2026: Wild Animal Park & Safari Walkthrough
Boulder Ridge Zoo is a Wild Animal Park One of the coolest local places to get close to animals is Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Parkin Alto MI. This zoo is located 30 minutes southwest of downtown Grand Rapids and officially opens for the season on April 6, 2026. But, an added bonus this year –…
Best Family Fun: 60 Things To Do With Kids In West Michigan
Searching for family-friendly places and things to do with kids in West Michigan?
Search no more… Here’s your list of ultimate things to do in Grand Rapids and West Michigan with kids!
You’ll find details on hundreds of family-friendly events, activities and local attractions right here.
Use this list as a resource to visit and discover the many…
Grand Rapids Lantern Festival is Back at John Ball Zoo for 2026
John Ball Zoo Grand Rapids Lantern Festival
