Local West Michigan Restaurants

2012

Uccellos – Italian, American

3940 Rivertown Parkway, Grandville, MI

616-249-9344

Monelli's Italian Grill – Italian, American

5675 Byron Center Ave SW, Wyoming, MI

616-530-9700

Grand Villa Restaurant/Dungeon – American, Mexican

3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, MI

616-534-8435

Florentine – Italian, American

3425 28th St SW, Grandville, MI

616-534-5419

One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom – American, Italian

136 E Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI

616-235-7669

Rockford Corner Bar – Hot/Dogs, American

31 North Main, Rockford, MI

616-866-9866

Main St. Pub – American, Mexican, Italian, Seafood

11240 University Parkway, Allendale, MI

616-895-1234

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants

Grand Rapids Fine Dining Restaurants

2012

Bistro Bella Vita – Italian

44 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI

Chop House – Steakhouse, Seafood, American

190 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI

Reds On The River – American

2 E Bridge St, Rockford, MI

Charley's Crab – Seafood

63 Market Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI

Cygnus 27 – International, American

187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI

Louis Benton Steak House – Steakhouse, Seafood, American

77 Monroe Center St NW Ste 100, Grand Rapids, MI

Six One Six – International, Breakfast/Brunch, American

235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants

Experience Grand Rapids’ ArtPrize at Prairieside

2012

Grand Rapids, Michigan is a city whose slogan sums it all up, "Cool City. Hot Food." Now nothing says "cool," quite like the large event known as ArtPrize. For those who are unaware of the event, here's a brief rundown. Artists can submit their project (art) to the event and their project is featured somewhere within the city. So over the course of a few weeks that the event occurs, city dwellers and tourists travel the town, in-and-out of bars, clubs, hotels, and each little cafe. All just to see the exhibits. The coolest part (for the artist) is that the people vote online or by texting and the winner receives a hefty cash prize of $200,000.

Now ArtPrize can already be an overwhelming event due to it's popularity, especially for those of you coming from out of town. Of course the city makes accommodations like changing bus routes, providing maps, and a plethora of online information. There is still one thing everyone from out of town needs though, and that's a "cool" place to stay. This is where PrairieSide Suites comes in. More specifically, this is where Cheri and Paul Antozak come into play. There's a reason PrairieSide Suites has received so many accolades, it all comes down to the owners and their amazing hospitality to all guests that step within their doors. Now what exactly makes this place "cool" though? Well that would be the suites. Every room is designed with a specific theme in mind. Just take a look at the New York Loft, or perhaps a Santa Barbara Beach House better suits your style. No matter what type of person you are, PrairieSide Suites is sure to be a great fit for you and your trip to ArtPrize.

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: art prize, ArtPrize, grand rapids b&b, Grand Rapids Bed and Breakfast, grandville b&b, Grandville Bed and Breakfast

Ice Skating at Rosa Park Circle in Grand Rapids

2011

Bring your hat & gloves when you stay at, Prairieside Suites a, Luxury, Grand Rapids bed and breakfast? Plus add a little spontaneity to your romantic get away by spending an evening ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle [December 3rd-March 6]. Located at the corner of Monroe Center St NW & Monroe Ave NW [only 10 minutes away] in downtown Grand Rapids. Admission is $1.00 and don't worry about finding your ice skates because they're free with ID [a drivers license is good]! Ice skating hours are: Mon-Tues: 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm, Wed-Thur-Sun: 12:00 noon – 9:30 pm, Fri-Sat: 12:00 noon – 10:00 pm, Closed on Christmas & New Year's Day.

Don't miss the opportunity to stop by the Biggby coffee house [next door to Rosa Park Circle] before you strap on your ice skates…just in case you want to hold onto something warm, besides your sweetheart! While you’re downtown, enjoy at least one of more than 90 privately-owned restaurants and night clubs, all within walking distance of each other and of Rosa Park Circle.

Also, if you stay at Prairieside Suites between Thanksgiving and New Years Day our home is beautifully decorated for the Holiday Season for you to enjoy. It might get you into the mood for Christmas shopping at Rivertown Crossings Mall, only 3 minutes away from our B&B. You just may leave with a few Christmas presents in the car OR "After" Christmas bargains.

One thing I know for sure, whether you decide to ice skate or shop…when you return we'll have the homemade hot cocoa and fresh baked cookies waiting. Plus you'll be returning to your gorgeous whirlpool and fireplace suite to thaw out by melting into a warm and inviting jacuzzi tub for two!

Come experience my world. Cheri Antozak is the designer and Innkeeper of Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B, Grandville, MI

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: Bed and Breakfast Grand Rapids, downtown Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Bed and Breakfast, Ice Skating, Prairieside suites, Romantic Get Away, Rosa Park Circle, whirlpool & fireplace suites

Grand Haven Light House

2011

A Perfect Spring through Fall Get Away…Imagine waking up in a king size bed at, the award winning, Prairieside Suites. A Luxury Michigan Bed and Breakfast. You roll over, cuddle and talk about how much you both enjoyed the romantic oversized jacuzzi bath before bed last night. You feel amazingly relaxed while you enjoy a wonderful candle light breakfast fit for royalty.

Now off for a day of lake shore fun in Grand Haven. Enjoy the magnificent beauty alongside Lake Michigan’s sandy beaches after a lovely 40 minute drive. Arrive at Grand Haven State Park and take a leisurely walk, on the pier, out to the story and a half “Pierhead light house” which was built in 1875 and moved after a pier extension in 1905.

The building has a concrete V-shaped front to withstand the fury of Lake Michigan storms which makes the light house look like a ship’s bow. In 1905 a second 51-foot tower was constructed and is referred to as the “inner light”. Both fire-engine red beacons, located at the end of South Harbor Drive, mark the entrance to the Grand River at Grand Haven, MI. It is common to see fishermen as your stroll down the concrete pier. These buildings [which are active navigation aids] have an elevated catwalk that connects the two lights. When the lights were manned by keepers, in bad weather, the catwalk was used to get from the shore. The lights, which are maintained by the Grand Haven Coast Guard, are not open to the public and the catwalk for public safety now stops short of running all the way to the beach.

Next you can relax and unwind while you experience some adventure while sailing the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan on a 63-foot double gaff-rigged schooner, the Wind Dancer, which departs daily from the Chinook pier. Let the crew tend to your needs while you and your sweetheart unwind with a glass of wine as you feel the warm summer breezes blowing through your hair. [Make sure to wear light colored soft soled shoes as any Black soled shoes, even athletic shoes can damage the classic decks].

After your romantic sailing excursion your senses will be refreshed and you’ll be ready to seek both land and food. The Kirby House, which was formerly a historic hotel, is a community favorite [located at 2 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417]. Featuring both excellent food and live entertainment it’s sure to please.

Come, experience my world!

Cheri Antozak is the owner, Innkeeper & Designer of Prairieside Suites Luxury Bed and Breakfast, Grandville, MI

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: Bed and Breakfast, Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, Grand Haven Light House, Grand Haven State Park, Grand Rapids Bed and Breakfast, Grand Rapids Lodging, light houses, Michigan bed and breakfast

Grand Lady Riverboat

2011

I can’t imagine a more relaxing way to spend an afternoon than a cruise down the Grand River on Grandville’s own “Grand Lady Riverboat“. Located only 3 minutes, from the award winning, Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B in Grandville. Imagine a romantic get away at our Michigan bed and breakfast featuring jacuzzi and fireplace rooms.

Our amazing spa rooms have king size beds with oversized two person whirlpool tubs with views of the all season fireplace, flat screen TV’s, heated towel bars, heated toilet seats and each room has it’s own beverage center complete with mini refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot and wine chiller! Start your day out right with a full candle light breakfast fit for royalty served in our beautiful dining room.

Picnic Cruise Sunday Afternoons

Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing 2 hr. afternoon cruise down the Grand River. Boarding starts at 12:30 pm at our Grandville Landing and departs at 1:00 pm. All beverages must be purchased at our full bar on board. Reservations are not required. Cost is $ 15.00

Happy Hour Cruise Every Thursday

Cash bar, food off the grill and live music. Enjoy a 2 hour cruise. Boarding starts at 6:00 pm at our Grandville Landing and departs at 7:00 pm. Must be 21 yrs. old with picture ID. Reservations are not required. Cost is $ 10.00

The Grand River offers a beautiful scenic adventure. I have personally seen turtles sunning themselves on fallen tree’s, was amazed to see blue heron take off in flight and gazed at four deer out for a Sunday afternoon stroll, all while I enjoyed live music with drinks and a sandwich. Definitely a memorable afternoon!

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: fireplace rooms, Grand Lady Riverboat, Grand River, Prairieside Suites luxury bed and breakfast, Romantic Get Away, scenic adventure, spa rooms

Antiquing in Grand Rapids is Pure Michigan

2011

There is something fun about Antiquing and staying at a romantic bed and breakfast, they go together. Perhaps it’s the thrill of the unknown? I think it’s part of our “Pure Michigan” experience because both are an adventure. Once I went looking for a creamer and came home with a cool vintage coat with a fur collar.

At “Prairieside Suites Luxury Bed and Breakfast” a Grand Rapids lodging, we have lots of guests who enjoy antiquing in Grandville and Grand Rapids. They love BOTH our whirlpool & fireplace suites and sharing their antique “FINDS” around the breakfast table in the morning. The conversation may start out with how they loved their luxury B&B suite, how well they slept in our king size bed, how wonderful our deep two person jacuzzi tubs are and then they talk about where they went the day before, what they did and how they enjoyed our city of Grandville and greater Grand Rapids area, rich with so many activities.

I know some folks know exactly what they’re hunting for when antiquing. But for many it’s about finding an unexpected treasure and coming home with something you never knew you wanted but are NOW tickled to own. It’s about memories, pretty things and sometimes you’re inspired to go home and dig out things you already own. Somehow when you blow the dust off and look closely, that little gem talks to you and nurtures your soul! Crazy I know, but many antique-rs have been mystified… and many husbands have muttered those famous words, “Where are you gonna put that”?

I can’t help but reminisce while I am Antiquing. You know…these are the glasses we drank out of when we were kids. Grandma had these and we sold them at a garage sale for a quarter and now they’re here for $10 a piece [don't tell mom]! We’ve all been there, you know what I mean.

Those of you who have seen my china cabinet know that I have been collecting cut crystal for years. Paul’s mother started me with a collection of Amber stone dishes that I have added to over the years. My adopted mom, Julie, has a collection of Candlewick and Orchid Glass. So I have had some fun hunting for “STUFF” that “WE” collect and while I’m shopping I can’t help but look at the vintage jewelry. I especially like unique old rings. Many of them are “one of a kind handmade gems” and I have a few that I wear often!

Here is a list my favorite haunts…come relax, unwind and take a stroll through our many antique stores. I have clustered them by the area of town they’re in.

Grandville: Changing Thymes @ 4165 Chicago Dr. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, Phone: (616) 534-7948

Sheri’s Antiques @ 3270 Chicago Drive Southwest, Grandville, MI 49418, Phone: (616) 249-8066

Downtown Grand Rapids:

Antiques at Victoria’s Warehouse @ 449 Century Ave. SW., Grand Rapids, MI 49503, Phone: (616) 235-9292

Century Antiques Shop @ 445 Century Avenue SW • Grand Rapids, MI 49503, (616)-233-4000

Eastown Antiques @ 1515 Lake Drive SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506, (616) 776-1076 Voted Grand Rapids “best antique store” three years in a row. Over 40 dealers

Phil’s Stuff Antiques & Collectibles @ 722 Wealthy SE. Grand Rapids, MI 40503, (616) 459-1940

City Antiques Resale Boutique @ 954 East Fulton Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, (616) 776-5500

East Fulton Art & Antiques Mall @ 959 East Fulton Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503,(616)-774-3320

Antiques Amaryllis @ 944 East Fulton Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, (616)-451-3019

Bluedoor Antiques & Design @ 946 East Fulton St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, Phone: (616) 456-7888

The Antique Gallery @ 442 Leonard Street NW • Grand Rapids, MI 49504, (616)-458-4218

Mary’s Used Furnishings, 730 Leonard Street NW • Grand Rapids, MI 49504, (616)-774-8792

Antiques by the Bridge @ 445 Bridge Street NW • Grand Rapids, MI 49504, (616)-451-3430

The Green Man Antiques @ 444 Bridge Street NW • Grand Rapids, MI 49504, (616)-454-5771

Antiques on Alpine @ 4671 Alpine Ave. NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321, (616) 785-5285

Come experience my world!

Cheri Antozak is the owner, Innkeeper & Designer of Prairieside Suites Luxury Bed and Breakfast, Grandville, MI

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: Antiquing in Grand Rapids, Bed and Breakfast Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Bed and Breakfast, Grand Rapids Lodging, romantic bed and breakfast, whirlpool & fireplace suites

Indoor Shopping Malls in Grand Rapids, MI

2011

Indoor Shopping Malls in Grand Rapids, MI

If it’s cold or rainy outside an indoor shopping mall can be a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. The controlled atmosphere is a joy for taking a stroll on a hot and humid day too. At Prairieside Suites Luxury bed and breakfast our guests often tell us what “GREAT” shopping we have in Grand Rapids, MI. We have guests who stay with us and shop for birthdays and Holidays. This made me think that I really do need to share this information with all of you because “Oh-boy-A“… do we have great shopping Malls!

First and foremost we have Rivertown Crossings premier shopping mall which is the largest regional mall in Michigan and located only 3 minutes away from our door! Anchored by Dick’s Sporting Goods which has a fun climbing wall, Kohl’s, JC Penney, Sears, Macy’s, Old Navy and Younkers, RiverTown also has Cinemark a 20 screen movie theater located by a wonderful food court. When I’m there I love to park by the Barnes & Noble’s book store. When I go in the coffee smells so good and I can’t resist looking at their beautiful books!

Traveling east along the 28th Street corridor you’ll find:

1. Rogers Plaza Town Center a neighborhood shopping center featuring GNC, MC Sports, Office Max, Old Country Buffet and more.

2. Woodland Mall which features Macy’s, JCPenney, and Sears as its anchor stores and also offers smaller specialty shops like Eddie Bauer, Ann Taylor, Foot Locker, American Eagle Outfitters, and Gap. If you need a rest after all that shopping, the Cinemark movie theater right in front of Woodland mall is a half price movies house and they offer real butter on their popcorn!

3. Centerpointe Mall, this mall features Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, Christopher & Banks, Steve & Barry’s University Sportswear and DSW Shoes.

4. Now taking 28^th Street West, turn right to go North on Breton Ave and after you cross Burton street you’ll see Breton Village Mall on the right or East corner]. This mall has more than 25 boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants, featuring stores such as Leigh’s, Talbots, Pooh’s Corner and Naked Plates.

Around each of these malls you will find lots of restaurants and many smaller outdoor strip malls with great destination stores. Happy shopping on your next romantic get away!

Come experience my world. Cheri Antozak is the designer and Innkeeper of Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B, Grandville, MI

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: Bed and Breakfast, Bed and Breakfast Grand Rapids, Breton Village Mall, Centerpoint Mall, Grand Rapids Bed and Breakfast, MI, Rivertown Crossings Mall, Romantic Get Away, Shopping in Grand Rapids, Shopping Malls in Grand Rapids, Woodland Mall

Chihuly art glass sculptures at Frederick Meijer Gardens

2011

There are two permanent Chihuly works of art that on display at Frederick Meijer Gardens. Dale Chihuly, the most sought-after artist in the world working primarily in glass created a dazzling ceiling sculpture in the Taste of the Gardens Café inside Frederick Meijer Gardens. This sculpture is apply named Lena’s Garden in honor of Lena Meijer, the sculpture, comprised of dozens of individual blown-glass pieces, spans the ceiling in a spectrum of colors from cool greens, cobalt blues and purples to brilliant oranges, yellows and reds that happily run along the cafeteria ceiling to delight all who enter. When you walk out of the cafe look up and to your right. A beautiful chihuly chandelier hangs from the ceiling where natural daylight dances through the glass. As I stood gazing at both of these magnificent pieces I imagined how hard and nerve wracking it would be to install one of these fragile works of art. Our guests who stay with us at Prairieside Suites often talk over breakfast about how much they enjoyed their afternoon over at Frederik Meijer Gardens. So on your next visit to Grand Rapids, MI discover the beauty and splendor of the botanic garden and internationally acclaimed sculpture park. Then when you feet are sore return back to our bed and breakfast for a relaxing soak in one of our over sized jacuzzi tubs for two!

Even if art and sculptures are not your thing, Grand Rapids still has plenty to offer- including lots of sporting events, night clubs, and excellent restaurants. While you are staying with us at Prairieside Suites, take a gander at the ongoing list of events that we print weekly located in our guest gift and communication area.

Now that you're intrigued and see what great things our nearby city has to offer, go to our website to see current specials, look at our beautiful spa rooms and plan your next romantic get away- you'll be glad you did! Keep in mind that Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B is a member of the Michigan lake to Lake Bed and Breakfast Association. We’re proud that our inn, along with just 130 others across the state, consistently meets the high levels of quality, safety, cleanliness, professionalism and comfort required to join the association and to stay a member.

Come, experience my world! Cheri Antozak, Designer & Innkeeper @ Prairieside Suites Luxury Bed & Breakfast

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: Bed and Breakfast, Bed and Breakfast Grand Rapids, Chihuly glass, Frederick Meijer Gardens, Lena's Garden, Michigan Lake to Lake bed and breakfast association, Romantic Get Away

Skiing at Cannonsburg, Just 30 Minutes North of Grand Rapids

2011

February is for lovers and we love Grand Rapids in the winter. There are many fun activities nearby and now that we finally have some snow, outdoor winter activities are top on the list of things to do. A classic winter activity is skiing and we have a great ski area, just a half hour north of Grand Rapids. At Cannonsburg Ski Area, skiing, snowboarding and tubing are available as well as a lodge and full ski shop. On Sundays after 5pm, lift tickets and equipment rental are just $20! That’s an awesome deal- for the seasoned skier or for someone who is just trying it for the first time! If you’re not much of a skier but would still love to play in the snow…

Then try tubing!

$10 per person for a 3 hour session

Monday – Friday 4P – 10P

Saturday & Sunday Noon-10p

After a busy day, return to Prairieside Suites Luxury Bed and Breakfast for a relaxing whirlpool bath with views of the fireplace. We can help set the stage for a perfect night to remember with our “Romantic” packages that includes room discounts when two or more consecutive nights are booked. Visit our website to view all our special packages and to make your reservation!

Romantic Get Away- Cozy up for timeless discounts-Stay two nights and get $75.00 off the third! This discount can’t be combined with other free or discounted offers but CAN be used with paid packages. Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B a 6 time National Award winning B&B offering Luxury Spa Rooms with Jacuzzi-Fireplace Suites, King beds, In-House Massage, Romantic Packages & Room Services. See our beautiful rooms/check availability and book this special online at www.prairieside.com or call 616.538.9442

Come experience my world. Cheri Antozak is the designer and Innkeeper of Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B, Grandville, MI

Filed Under: Grand Rapids' Venues & Restaurants Tagged With: Bed and Breakfast Grand Rapids, Cannonsburg Ski Area, Grandville Bed and Breakfast, Prairieside suites, west michigan bed and breakfast, West Michigan Skiing, whirlpool & fireplace suites