Need a break from studying? Looking for a fun and entertaining way to pass the time with some friends? Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan’s second largest city has plenty of attractions, events and activities to offer this spring. 

For those ready to take advantage of the warming weather, make sure to check out Blandford Nature Center, Ken-O-Sha Park or Riverside Park for hiking trails. And nature lovers should also plan a visit to the nation’s largest temporary butterfly exhibit at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park’s Tropical Conservatory. The exhibit runs until April 30. 

Maybe you can’t go home for spring break this year, but you could still go to the Gerald R. Ford Airport and spend a sunny afternoon at its Viewing Park. If you pack a picnic lunch, you can eat while watching planes take off and land. The park has a pavilion with clean bathrooms, a few picnic tables,and water fountains. 

To get a break from dining hall meals, consider stopping by the Downtown Market. The Market is hosting Flight Fridays every Friday this month from 11 a.m.to 7 p.m.. This event gives you the chance to taste wines and foods.

For art aficionados, there is no shortage of stuff to do. The St. Cecilia Music Center is offering free virtual concerts with acclaimed musicians. Upcoming concerts include jazz singer-pianist Robin Connell on Mar. 11 and Schumann-Shostakovich featuring Paul Neubauer on viola on Mar. 18. Circle Theatre is also presenting its Spoon River Anthology, a collection of monologues based on poetry by Edgar Masters, on Mondays until Apr. 12. 

Last but not least, Gilda’s Laughfest comedy festival, is back for its 11th year in Grand Rapids with a bunch of virtual events, social media content, and contests from Mar. 11-14. This event will tackle the good, the bad, and the ugly of the past year. Tickets are by donation. Don’t miss “Navigating Life’s Tough Stuff During Tough Times” on March 14 at 1:00 p.m. and “Roast of 2020” at 7 p.m. on the same day.

Visit https://www.experiencegr.com/things-to-do/spring/ to discover a variety of other options.