Toddler Activities in West Michigan & Grand Rapids
You may think you know of the things to do with kids in Grand Rapids, but when your toddler is on the move and ready to play, it’s time to go!
To help you when you’re searching online for the “best toddler activities near me,” we’ve put together a huge list of little kid play areas, local things to do with toddlers, and classes around Grand Rapids that toddlers will love to visit.
Whether you have an adventurous child who is looking to climb and explore or a reserved child who loves to sing songs and read books, there are options for everyone! And if you have a favorite spot you love to visit with your toddler, please share in the comments.
Table of Contents
Free Things to Do with Toddlers
Toddler Story Times and play areas at local libraries. Our favorites:
East Grand Rapids Public Library
Hudsonville Library
Wyoming Library
Main Grand Rapids Public Library
Best trails for walking with a stroller? Find stroller-friendly trails here!
Roselle Park
Reed’s Lake Trail
Pickerel Lake Loop
Huff Park Trail
More Free Toddler Play Places
In addition to the library play areas, these places don’t charge admission for toddlers. (See the toddler-friendly parks list below, too)
1446 W. 40th St. Holland, MI 49423 (entrance D) 🆓
INDOORS
Indoor Toddler play area for kids 6 months – 2 years. Bonus – there’s a coffee shop for parents to enjoy. FREE admission. Details
3195 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 🆓
INDOORS
Large climbing play structure located near the food court. Details
Adventure to Epic Toddler Play Places
Sometimes a change of scenery for both you and your toddler are just what you need.
Use this list of pint-sized places to find nearby indoor, active things to do with toddlers.
We’ve included destinations ripe for climbing, singing, dancing to get out of the house and have fun together!
Here’s our roundup of the best places to go with a toddler in West Michigan:
*Be sure to check the websites or call ahead to confirm your plans. Business hours, pricing, and availability change often.
2978 28th Street SE, Kentwood, MI 49512 ＄FEE
INDOORS
Non-walkers are free! Tiny Town is a toddler area designed especially for little ones. DETAILS
11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 ＄FEE
INDOORS
Wee Discover at GRCM is for children from birth to age three. There’s even a Tummy Time Playspace for not-yet-crawlers.
This special toddler area is fantastic: It’s mostly closed off from the rest of the floor so the littles are safely contained from the bigger kids.
Bonus – Children under 1 are free! Details
6886 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 ＄FEE
INDOORS
Coffee shop & Drop-in play area for a small fee. $4 per child, beginning at 1 year of age. Adults and children under 1 and over 7 years old are free!
The play area is geared towards babies, young toddlers, and preschool-aged children. Details
272 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 ＄FEE
INDOORS
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is a great place to play a giant “I Spy” Game!
Push your toddler in the stroller and let them take in all the sights. Stop every now and then to try out the hands-on experiences in the museum, too. And don’t forget to ride the carousel. Details
Meijer gardens – 1000 East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 ＄FEE
INDOORS
An inviting, colorful play space located on the lower level of Frederik Meijer Gardens. Explore ten different activity stations while there. Free with admission. Details
Best Parks for Toddlers
Heading to the park is one of the most timeless things to do with toddlers in West Michigan. If you are visiting a park for toddlers, you know that smaller play equipment, soft surfaces, stroller-friendly access, and playground fences are appreciated amenities.
If you’re looking for parks particularly suited to toddler activities, choose from this list:
1836 East Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525
OPen May 1 – October 31
BEST TODDLER PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
Grand Rapids Township Park (a hidden gem tucked away from the township fire department) has a large playground that is sectioned into age-appropriate play areas good for toddlers to older kids. It’s easy to see all of the different play areas at one time.
The play area is surfaced with woodchips and surrounded by flat, paved walking paths. There is a whole section of the park with toddler-sized play equipment. There’s also a lot of green space at the park for kids to run around and burn up some energy. Details
1 Y Drive, Grand Haven MI 49417
BEST TODDLER PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
The Imagination Station Grand Haven is located behind the Tri-Cities YMCA parking lot and is decked out with a lighthouse, anchors, familiar street signs, and a Coast Guard boat.
In addition to cool landmarks, the slides, rock walls, and rope structures are sure to be a hit, too.
It’s perfect for toddlers – it has toddler-sized play equipment and the entire playground is fenced in. The playground is handicap-accessible and the surface is soft and bouncy.
Details
2050 Metro Court SW, Wyoming MI 49519
BEST TODDLER PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
The best things about Frog Hollow Park? It’s fenced in, has just one entrance/exit, and is ADA accessible. Parents get peace of mind at this great playground!
While it’s perfect for kids of all ages and abilities, toddlers will enjoy the play equipment built specifically for little kids. Parents will enjoy the added safety that comes with the rubber topped playground.
Details
6676 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale MI 49401
BEST TODDLER PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
Allendale Community Park has TWO splash pads (the smaller splash pad is just the right size for toddlers) and a giant sandbox.
In addition to the large playground equipment, there is a smaller, mostly-shaded toddler-sized playground, too.
Details
2120 76th St SW, Byron Center MI 49315
BEST TODDLER PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
This stroller-friendly park features a pond surrounded by a Storywalk. Hop from placard to placard and read the story as you walk around the pond. You can also fish in the catch-and-release pond or play on the toddler-sized swings and slides.
Details
1899 Rosewood St, Jenison MI 49428
BEST TODDLER PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
Stroller-accessible Rosewood Park has two separate playground areas, both with recycled tires ground covering. There is a smaller play area for toddlers. The park also has a splash pad, covered seating, and modern restrooms.
Details
Want More Recommended Outdoor Destinations?
Visit Animals
Visiting animals is often on the list of favorite things to do with toddlers for good reason – toddlers are fascinated by animals and their antics.
The next time you’re on the prowl for fun toddler activities, consider visiting one of these animal-filled destinations:
1300 W Fulton St, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
ANIMAL TODDLER ACTIVITIES
Offering camel rides, a funicular, lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, and an animal farm-like petting zoo, there is something for everyone.
The Zoo is built on a hillside, so come prepared to walk. Although the recently renovated zoo is more stroller-friendly, some find it easier to use a child carrier.
Details
9275 Adams Street, Zeeland, MI 49464
ANIMAL TODDLER ACTIVITIES
Opportunities abound at Critter Barn to interact with rabbits, chickens, ducks, cats, hogs, cows, sheep, goats, donkeys, turkeys, pot-bellied pigs, geese, a pony and a horse!
From feeding and petting, to caring for the animals and learning all about them, Critter Barn has it all!
Details
7850 14 Mile Rd, Cedar Springs, MI 49319
ANIMAL TODDLER ACTIVITIES
As you might guess, there are dozens of deer to pet at Deer Tracks Junction. But there’s also yak, elk, and goats at this petting farm.
Visitors can take an air-conditioned stagecoach ride where the animals may come right up to you for a visit.
Feed cups are available to purchase for many of the animals and there’s also a giant play structure, making this a great animal farm for kids.
Details
8313 Pratt Lake SE, Alto, MI 49302
ANIMAL TODDLER ACTIVITIES
Located on 80 acres of land, Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park is a unique, hands-on experience for the entire family.
The park boasts a distinct collection of exotic animals and reptiles, and the variety and dynamic atmosphere make Boulder Ridge anything but your average zoo.
Details
6364 144th Ave, Holland, MI 49423
ANIMAL TODDLER ACTIVITIES
The farm is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing dynamic experiences for all ages and abilities.
At this petting zoo farm, guests can not only pet the animals, but they can also get right into the pens with miniature llamas and donkeys.
Details
Open Toddler Playtimes & Events
Searching for toddler activities near me? Or open toddler playtimes (aka toddler time) in Grand Rapids and Lakeshore area? Look no further!
This is a list of area places regularly offering toddler times. Scroll down a bit for the calendar of upcoming Toddler Times.
| Craigs Cruisers | Fridays |
| Rebounderz | Tuesdays & Thursdays |
| Holland Aquatic Center | |
| Zeeland Recreation | |
| For the Kids Gymnastics | |
| Altitude Trampoline Park | |
| Sky Zone | |
| Byron Township Toddler Rec | |
Use this list of events of area toddler activities happening today and in the near future:
Toddler Classes
The following locations offer baby, preschool, and toddler classes. Check websites for the latest scheduling details.
Zeeland Recreation Toddler Activities - Zeeland, MI
Splash, float and play with your child at the pool. Parent(s) or guardian(s) must be in the water with their child.
Life jackets, puddle jumpers, infant floats, slide, pool toys, and basketball hoop are all provided
Life jackets, puddle jumpers, infant floats, slide, pool toys, and basketball hoop are all provided
Renew Mama Studio Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Renew Mama Studio is offering on-location classes at various places around Grand Rapids.
Mommy and Me Yoga Classes, prenatal yoga, and more. Connect with them to see current offerings.
Mommy and Me Yoga Classes, prenatal yoga, and more. Connect with them to see current offerings.
KISD-Approved Locations Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Playgroups are facilitated by a Parent Educator and are offered in many different locations throughout Kent County. For parents and children together.
Little Feet Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Little Feet is a unique caregiver-child movement program for children. Children and caregivers explore different dance concepts each week and will be given additional information to help support their child's development outside of class.
Goldfish Swim School Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Goldfish Swim School offers swim lessons for children ages 4 – 35 months. Babies and toddlers learn basic swim and safety skills and are gently introduced to the water.
Lessons provide a great bonding experience for both parent and child.
Lessons provide a great bonding experience for both parent and child.
Kindermusik Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
In Kindermusik, children develop their music, cognitive and social skills through singing, moving, playing instruments, and listening to stories in a sensory-rich environment. Songs, rhymes, baby-safe instruments, and more.
Kids Unlimited Activity Center Toddler Activities - Jenison, MI
Kids Unlimited begins their gymnastics program with Kangazoo, a program developed using the USA Gymnastics team curriculum. In this preschool program, children develop their hand-eye coordination and flexibility while using the bars, vault, beam, floor and trampoline.
Joyful Sounds Music Studio Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Children from birth to age 4 participate at their own levels—singing, moving, listening, observing, and exploring musical instruments in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Grand Rapids Community College Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Parents and caregivers of a child can participate in weekly programs throughout Grand Rapids with Play and Learn GRCC. Programs are 90 minutes long and days, times and locations vary.
Play and Learn focuses on reading strategies, child development and discipline. Participants receive free a book!
Play and Learn focuses on reading strategies, child development and discipline. Participants receive free a book!
Gymco Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Parent and Tot classes at Gymco help kids take direction, learn basic gymnastic skills, build social and cognitive abilities, gain physical confidence and develop life skills that will prepare them for school and beyond.
Classes for walking toddlers along with parent or caregiver.
Classes for walking toddlers along with parent or caregiver.
Outdoor Discovery Center Network Toddler Activities - Holland, MI
ODC Network offers opportunities for parents and kids to learn together through outdoor exploration.
Parents and children learn about nature in the Nature for Tykes class. Topics change seasonally, but may include learning about seeds, senses, turtles, flowers, meadows and much more.
Knee High Naturalists Classes give kids many ways to learn, through crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old.
Parents and children learn about nature in the Nature for Tykes class. Topics change seasonally, but may include learning about seeds, senses, turtles, flowers, meadows and much more.
Knee High Naturalists Classes give kids many ways to learn, through crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old.
For The Kidz Gymnastics and Trampoline Toddler Activities - Wyoming, MI
You and Me Classes allows children, ages 18 months – 3 years, to improve coordination, agility and sensory integration all with some help from a parent or caregiver.
EAU Dance Toddler Activities - Grand Rapids, MI
Explore a family classes at EAU Dance, offered for young children with a caregiver.
Enroll in Broadway Babies, where you and your child, age 2-4, can sing, dance and act out parts from musicals. Relive the excitement of classics like "Annie", "Wizard of Oz", "Mary Poppins", "Sound of Music", "Cinderella", and more!
Parent-Child Move & Groove classes, for children ages 1-2, encourages the exploration of music and movement. You and your child will sing, practice yoga, do animal actions, and use fun musical props.
Enroll in Broadway Babies, where you and your child, age 2-4, can sing, dance and act out parts from musicals. Relive the excitement of classics like "Annie", "Wizard of Oz", "Mary Poppins", "Sound of Music", "Cinderella", and more!
Parent-Child Move & Groove classes, for children ages 1-2, encourages the exploration of music and movement. You and your child will sing, practice yoga, do animal actions, and use fun musical props.
Northstar Gymnastics Toddler Activities - Rockford, MI
Parent and Tot Gymnastics and Fitness program is for children 18 months to 3 1/2 years.
Children will learn gymnastics, fitness, and early childhood development skills. The class meets once a week for 45 minutes.
Children will learn gymnastics, fitness, and early childhood development skills. The class meets once a week for 45 minutes.
Champion Gymnastics Toddler Activities - Holland, MI
This Mommy and Me age-appropriate gymnastics class encourages children ages 18-months to 3-years to develop gross motor skills, cognitive skills, social skills, and spatial concepts.
Gonyon's Gymnastics Toddler Activities - Muskegon, MI
Gonyon's Parent/Tot Preschool Class teaches little ones tumbling, balance beam, bars, trampoline, and rings.
Toddlers on Track for School Toddler Activities - Lowell, MI
Classes are offered on Fridays. Options include developmental gymnastics, kids in the kitchen cooking class, and art class.
Playgroups are held on Tuesday or Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 am (subject to change). Toddlers and preschoolers play, have music and movement, do art, eat snacks and hear a short story. $1 per child.
Registration required.
Playgroups are held on Tuesday or Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 am (subject to change). Toddlers and preschoolers play, have music and movement, do art, eat snacks and hear a short story. $1 per child.
Registration required.
Sundays are also for @littleartparkgr. A fun free art playgroup for kids ages 2-5!
Hello I love GR Kids. You save me so much time and research. I used to have time go to websites to find fun, call places, google, print and put into a notebook and calendar, fun events. You’ve made it so easy. I just print or save to my phone. I’ve learned of sooooo many new places. Thank you . I did just click on Jesters Court and unfortunately they closed forever, due to Covid19.