For a long weekend getaway, my three sons and I checked into the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids — and from the moment we pulled up to the valet, it felt like a treat. The valet team was quick, kind, and helpful, which made it so easy to come and go as we explored Grand Rapids throughout our stay.
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A Room with a View in the Glass Tower
We stayed in the Glass Tower, and our room was a highlight all on its own. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered an incredible view of the Grand River. From our perch, we watched a wedding procession cross the Blue Bridge, kayakers paddle by, skateboarders weaving along the paths, and even a few ambitious fishermen trying their luck. Honestly, it was some of the best people-watching we’ve enjoyed in a long time — all without leaving the comfort of our room.
Family Fun at the Amway Grand Plaza
The amenities at this hotel really shine for families. My boys loved spending time in the indoor pool and hot tub, and they couldn’t resist testing their strength in the fitness center while I took a few quiet moments to read on the sunny outdoor deck.
One of the coolest features? The pickleball court on the rooftop. We laughed so hard trying “to stay out of the kitchen” — and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds to play pickleball while taking in views of the city.
But our favorite part of the hotel was, without question, Woodrows duckpin bowling. The alley is tucked inside the hotel, and we ended up playing for more than an hour. It was a blast — easy enough for everyone to have fun, but competitive enough that my boys were determined to beat me!
Service and Historic Charm in Grand Rapids
Customer service was top-notch throughout the weekend. From the front desk to the valets, housekeeping, and everyone in between, every staff member we encountered was welcoming, friendly, and genuinely helpful. It made the entire stay feel personal — the kind of hospitality that keeps families coming back.
The hotel itself is a fascinating blend of history and modern comfort. The Pantlind Wing dates back to 1913 and was once considered one of the 10 finest hotels in America. Beautiful historic touches remain, like the striking gold-leaf ceiling and chandeliers in the lobby, giving the whole space a warm and timeless character. Meanwhile, the Glass Tower offers modern luxury — think plush bedding, 50-inch flat screens, universal charging stations, and gorgeous bathrooms with top-tier bath products.
More Than a Place to Sleep
For anyone planning a stay, the Amway Grand Plaza makes it easy to feel pampered. From complimentary Wi-Fi, a full-service concierge, and luggage storage, to thoughtful touches like shoeshine service and in-room dining from The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, they truly go out of their way to ensure guests have a comfortable experience.
Grand Rapids itself is totally worth exploring, and the hotel staff were quick to offer suggestions on the best local spots for dining and sightseeing. It’s clear that Amway Grand Plaza is more than just a place to sleep — it’s part of the city’s downtown revival and continues to set a high bar for hospitality.
For our family, this weekend was all about slowing down and spending time together, and the Amway Grand Plaza made that easy and fun — from riverside views to rooftop pickleball and a round (or several) of duckpin bowling.
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