Grand Rapids, Michigan is a city renowned for many things. It was once the furniture capital of the world, the city where the popular children’s book Polar Express was based and written, not to mention its rich history. Among its many attractions, the city’s historic districts stand out as a living archive that showcases the evolution of our society, economy, and design qualities.

Heritage Hill Isn’t the Only One

When people mention Grand Rapids historic districts, Heritage Hill might be the most common name you hear but what most people don’t know is that Grand Rapids is host to a few other amazing districts as well. These districts include the Wealthy Theater District, Cherry Hill, Fairmount Square, and Heartside, each with a unique character and story. It’s true, that Heritage Hill is one of the largest urban districts in the country, and the most well-known but for the history buffs out there, you may be surprised to know that we foster other notable districts as well.

Cherry Hill

Located just east of downtown, the Cherry Hill district is a vibrant neighborhood, known for its Victorian and early-20th-century homes. Once home to middle-class families and small businesses, the area has transformed into a trendy area of town with an eclectic mix of boutiques, breweries, restaurants, and coffee shops. The Cherry Hill district is a testament to the successful integration of historic preservation and modern urban living. It is known as a walkable neighborhood with beautifully restored homes, which makes it a popular choice for anyone looking for that urban look and feel.

Fairmount Square

We really like Fairmount Square specifically due to its location. While it’s one of the lesser-known districts, it’s a smaller but equally charming historic district located just east of Cherry Hill. Its development in the late 19th century reflects the growing prosperity of Grand Rapids during that period. You’ll find many craftsman-style and colonial-type revival architecture, showcasing the city’s transition into the 20th century. The district has undergone significant revitalization, with many homes restored to its former glory. Its location to the Wealthy Street business corridor and Midtown makes it perfect for weekend trips to Fulton Street farmer’s market, and hitting up the nightlife of everything going on in the Wealthy Street, including Brewery Vivant.

The historic districts of Grand Rapids are more than just neighborhoods here, they are enduring symbols of the city’s history, culture, and resilience. Not many cities offer this type of historical significance, and it’s not one to be taken for granted. Grand Rapids will continue its ongoing preservation efforts to ensure that these areas remain vital parts of its urban fabric, offering lessons from the past while inspiring future generations. 

I hope you found this little history lesson helpful, and of course, if you are considering making a trip to Grand Rapids and buying a home, we’d love to help you find your next home. I’m Ross Bacon, thank you so much for watching, we’ll see you on the next episode.