Name: Sparta Scare on the Square
Start: 2026-10-24
End: 2026-10-24

Welcome to John Ball Zoo, a vibrant animal kingdom nestled in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Located at the scenic John Ball Park Ballroom, this enchanting zoo offers visitors an unforgettable journey into the world of wildlife, making it an essential stop for families and animal enthusiasts. Known for its diverse collection of animals, the zoo brings you face-to-face with over 1,000 creatures, ranging from majestic tigers to playful penguins, ensuring there's something captivating for everyone to see.

John Ball Zoo is renowned for its engaging experiences, including interactive exhibits and educational programs that are sure to delight and inform visitors of all ages. The zoo's dedication to wildlife conservation and education is evident in its thoughtfully curated habitats and knowledgeable staff, who are eager to share fascinating insights about the animal kingdom.

Ideal for families and group outings, the zoo offers a range of activities that make for a full day of fun and exploration. Youngsters will particularly enjoy the engaging experiences, including the opportunity to feed some of the animals and the thrilling zip-line adventure that offers a bird's-eye view of the zoo's beautiful landscape.

John Ball Zoo

Home to over 2000 animals, John Ball Zoo offers an awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.

Spread over 158 acres, the park features a diverse array of thoughtfully curated gardens and breathtaking outdoor sculptures. Visitors can stroll through various themed gardens, each designed to engage the senses and inspire curiosity. Noteworthy among them is the serene Japanese Garden, which offers a harmonious blend of traditional design and natural beauty.

For modern art aficionados, the sculpture park showcases an impressive collection of works by internationally acclaimed artists, seamlessly integrated into the landscape. The Lena Meijer Children’s Garden provides an engaging experience for younger visitors, making it a family-friendly destination.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is also acclaimed for its dynamic exhibitions and year-round events, ensuring there's always something new to explore. Whether you're a local looking for a serene day out or a tourist seeking a distinctive cultural experience, this park is a must-visit.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

There are many areas within Meijer Gardens to explore, including five indoor gardens: The Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, Victorian Garden Parlor, the nation’s largest Carnivorous Plant House, etc.

Whether you're a curious first-timer or a seasoned aficionado, the brewery's spacious taproom provides the perfect setting to savor each unique brew. The welcoming atmosphere attracts a varied crowd, making it an ideal spot for gatherings and socializing. Music lovers can revel in the regular live performances that add an exciting and lively dimension to any visit, enhancing the overall experience.

We have been lucky to evolve into one of the highest-recognized breweries in the United States. We’ve been ranked among the top breweries in the world by Ratebeer.com since 2006, and we have several beers listed in the top 100 beers of the world on Beeradvocate.com. We’re now among the top ten largest craft breweries in the country.

Founders Brewing Co

The unique offering of specialty beers and delicious deli options has helped to make our taproom a staple in the Grand Rapids community.

We make worthy treats for every body. Finding treats you can trust can be frustrating and lonely. Our intentionally-sourced ingredients, made from scratch ice cream, dairy-free gelato (vegan), low net carb gelato (also vegan) and an array of fine chocolate confections give everyone a seat at the table. Enjoy a relaxing time with friends or family in our 45-seat dining room.

Located inside the Downtown Market.

Love's Ice Cream & Chocolate

Craft ice cream maker and chocolatier. Meticulously made from scratch from intentionally sourced ingredients. Aside from classic creations we have dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan options.

Shop for fresh produce and baked goods, pick your own fruits and vegetables, browse the gift shop, listen to live music, attend a festival, meet farm animals and much more on this century-old farm. Located 10 minutes northwest of downtown Grand Rapids, Ed Dunneback & Girls isn’t just a farm market – it’s a glorious celebration of farm life. With year-round events and classes, an on-site restaurant, plenty of activities for kids and a [taproom serving adult beverages](https://www.experiencegr.com/listing/pink-barrel-cellars/12218/), it’s tremendous fun for all ages. Order the [Flights of Flavor](https://www.experiencegr.com/flights-of-flavor/) selection – a lineup of five mimosas – to earn points toward free merchandise.

Ed Dunneback & Girl's Farm Market

Enjoy a full selection of craft beer, wine, hard cider and seltzer, all made with fresh ingredients farmed right on site! Relax with a glass in the taproom or grab a bottle, growler or howler to go. Pink Barrel Cellars is the taproom inside [Ed Dunneback and Girls Farm Market](https://www.experiencegr.com/listing/ed-dunneback-%26-girls-farm-market/6248/), a century-old family fruit farm located 10 minutes northwest of downtown Grand Rapids. Order the [Flights of Flavor](https://www.experiencegr.com/flights-of-flavor/) selection – a lineup of cranberry, OJ, sunrise, peach and apple cider mimosas – to earn points toward free merchandise. In addition to the craft beverage operation, there’s an on-site restaurant and gift shop, a huge selection of fresh-picked and u-pick fruits and vegetables, and year-round events and classes, from harvest festivals to weekly concerts.

Pink Barrel Cellars

North on Alpine Avenue, adjacent to 6 Mile. Family style restaurant with a large variety of choices. Great quality at affordable prices. Spirits are available along with a large dessert menu.

Swan Inn Motel & Restaurant

We share a love for nature and good, quality craft beer. As a family of beer nerds, we like to push the envelope to brew creative, innovative, and unique beers. Join us as we pursue our dream of opening a brewery in charming Rockford, MI.

Third Nature Brewing Company

We are committed to providing you with amazing service, Italian food like you've never seen and an experience instead of just a meal.

Amore Trattoria Italiana

The Oasis Hot Tub Gardens present the calm, restorative effects of indulging in a hot tub combined with the visually soothing surroundings of a well-tended indoor or outdoor garden setting. What makes the Oasis such a luxury is the attention to detail, the cleanliness and the privacy. Each garden is a secluded place with its own entry and dressing room.

Oasis Hot Tub Gardens

We are an economic generator through sports tourism for Greater Grand Rapids and Kent County in the West Michigan area.

We own and operate an award winning baseball/softball complex; the Meijer Sports Complex [www.MeijerSportsComplex.com](https://www.MeijerSportsComplex.com) featuring eight fields, including a championship field that seats 1,000.

Our signature event, the Meijer State Games of Michigan (Olympic-style sporting event), draws 10,000 athletes through 60+ sports in its Winter and Summer Games.  We work with many of our local sports clubs and organizations to host various regional and national tournaments.

Why Grand Rapids? We have:
•	12,000 + hotel rooms (2,500 downtown)
•	234,000 square foot downtown convention center (fits 40 volleyball courts)
•	12,000 seat Van Andel Arena
•	5 facilities that feature 4+ courts and multiple grass or turf fields
•	Grant program for new events
•	and more!

West Michigan Sports Commission

Join us in Town Square for a fun morning of trick-or-treating and community!

Sparta Scare on the Square

Business Type

Has Promotions Available

Special Features