One thing about me is I have a great memory. Recently I was having this random flashback memory of driving through a cute town the week after college graduation at BGSU. I was in the car with my friend, Jennie, and we turned left onto a road which had a cute old mill and old stores at the intersection. While I was visiting my friend recently in Bowling Green, my college town, I told her about this. She said it sounds like I may have driven through Grand Rapids. I decided to take a trip there the next day because I needed to solve this strange mystery in my head. I never did find exactly what my brain told me I saw, but I did see an old water mill that you can tour and take boat rides from, so I think this is what I am remembering. Who knows. Regardless, I got to spend the day in a super cute town so it is really a win-win situation.
This town gave serious Hallmark movie vibes, it was so cute. They hold an Applebutter Festival in the historic downtown every fall. While walking through the garden area I noticed they even had jazz music playing from the flowers! Unreal.
Antique Shops:
The historic downtown of Grand Rapids is not short on antique shops! There were several really good ones, and I came home with several bags full of goodies. My favorite shop was Purple Door Collectibles. The previous owner sold it after her husband got a job at Campbell’s, and there were so many adorable vintage Campbell’s Soup items, I could not resist bringing several home with me! A highlight from another store was a Ronald McDonald pencil sharpener.
Food:
After a busy afternoon of antiquing, I was STARVED. I actually stopped into another cafe first but the vibe wasn’t right so I left. I am so glad the vibe was off, so I could stumble upon this mac n cheese from Knucklehead’s Kafe instead. This was incredible. They had several different kinds- I ordered the original and added chicken.
My friend and I came back to town that evening for ice cream from Rita’s Dairy Bar. I had an oreo sundae and Kim had the strawberry shortcake. The ice cream was great- we planned on getting dinner here too but we got there a little too late and their grills were off. Don’t go too late, as they close at 8:27 pm every night!
