Over the past decade downtown Grand Rapids has been transforming into a “booming Metropolis:” for Grand Rapids that is. One of the turning points of the downtown revitalization was the addition of Van The Van Andel Arena opened on October 8, 1996. This 75 million dollar performance hall put Grand Rapids on the radar in the entertainment industry and has played an intricate roll in bringing people from all over Greater Grand Rapids and Michigan to downtown Grand Rapids. The Van Andel Arena fits over 12,000 people and within five years of its grand opening it had already hosted over 5 million patrons. Being home to the Grand Rapids Griffins and the Grand Rapids Rampage is not the only entertainment that the arena provides either. The arena has attracted a number of legendary performers including Elton John, AC/DC, Eric Clapton and more. In addition it has been a host a number of trade shows, exhibitions, seminars, conferences, and other sports events. The Van Andel Arena is an important part of the Grand Rapids community and will continue to serve as Grand Rapid’s staple entertainment venue for many years to come.
Written by: Rachael Veldkamp
November 11, 2008
Downtown