In a state full of holiday light displays, something extraordinary is happening in Grand Rapids this winter. The team behind Chicago’s famous ILLUMINATION at Morton Arboretum has brought their magic to Michigan, and it’s transformed Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park into an experience that might just make that winter drive west totally worth it.
What are we talking about? ENLIGHTEN – a groundbreaking holiday light show that combines cutting-edge technology with one of Michigan’s most beautiful cultural destinations. Starting November 27, visitors will step into a mile-long artistic journey that’s part light show, part interactive experience, and pure holiday magic.
Here’s the really cool part – this isn’t your typical “walk past some pretty lights” experience. They’re letting visitors play with the lights themselves through interactive installations. Plus, those incredible outdoor sculptures Meijer Gardens is famous for (like the massive “American Horse”) are getting a dramatic glow-up that will make you see them in a completely new… well, light.
At least two laser light shows are part of the experience, too.
The entire journey morphs the gardens into a winter wonderland that would make National Lampoons swoon. Multiple spots along the path offer warm drinks and seasonal treats, and inside, the conservatories and Garden Pavilion are decked out is their holiday finest.
Your ENLIGHTEN ticket pulls double duty – it also includes access to the annual University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition. We’re talking more than 40 trees, the beloved railway garden, and displays celebrating holiday customs from around the world.
For Metro Detroit folks, Lansing locals, or anyone in between, this makes the trip even more worthwhile.
Running select nights from November 27, 2024 – January 4, 2025, ENLIGHTEN requires a bit of planning. Here’s what you need to know:
Plan for 1½ to 2 hours to walk the path, but honestly, you might need 3 just if you hang out at the waterfall laser light show for an hour like I did. And yes, it’s fully accessible for strollers and wheelchair users.
Ticket prices vary based on when you visit:
Pro tip: Members get the best deals ($10-$20), and if you’re planning multiple visits to Grand Rapids, a membership might be worth considering.
Address: 1000 East Beltline Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
If you’re making the trip from elsewhere in Michigan, here are three great hotel options that work perfectly for your ENLIGHTEN visit:
Perfect for families or those who want extra space, this all-suite hotel offers free made-to-order breakfast and an evening reception with complimentary drinks. The Michigan-shaped indoor pool and indoor/outdoor whirlpool spa make it a fun choice if you’re bringing kids. Some Embassy Suites – Grand Rapids Downtown rooms feature balconies overlooking downtown, giving you another light show – the city skyline – after your garden adventure.
Located near I-96 and just minutes from both Meijer Gardens and downtown, Drury Inn is ideal for travelers who appreciate package deals and don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Each stay includes both breakfast and dinner buffets (plus three free drinks per adult during dinner hours – yay!), making it easy to fuel up before or after your light show experience.
The indoor/outdoor pool and hot tub offer a great way to warm up after your winter walk through the gardens.
This hotel is just a short, easy drive from Meijer Gardens. Both are situated on East Beltline, making it one of the most convenient options for ENLIGHTEN visitors. With its on-site restaurant, indoor pool, and indoor/outdoor hot tub, it provides the comforts you want while keeping you perfectly positioned for your garden adventure.
This location also puts you close to shopping at Woodland Mall if you want to combine your light show visit with some holiday shopping. Check Hilton Garden Inn – Grand Rapids East availability.
Pro Tip: During peak ENLIGHTEN dates (especially holiday weekends), hotels can fill up quickly. Consider booking your accommodations when you purchase your show tickets to ensure you get a spot at your top pick place.
ENLIGHTEN isn’t just another holiday light show being added to Michigan’s winter calendar. Meijer Gardens has brought something completely new to our state’s holiday scene. The combination of world-class art, interactive technology, and holiday magic makes this worth bundling up for.
So pack some snacks, load up that road trip playlist, and grab your tickets before they sell out. From November 27 to January 4, Grand Rapids’ Meijer Gardens has landed as one of Michigan’s must-see holiday destinations.
See you there, Michigan!
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INFJ. Mom of 3. Idea chaser-People believer-Inspiration seeker. Together we make GR amazing – Let’s go!
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