Name: An Evening with Sy Montgomery
Start: 2026-10-08
End: 2026-10-08

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 for An Evening with Sy Montgomery—naturalist, conservationist, bestselling author, and documentary scriptwriter—on October 8, 2026 @ 7pm in the Calvin University Chapel.  
  
Sy Montgomery’s adventures have taken her from swimming with pink dolphins and piranhas in the Amazon to befriending octopuses, encountering gorillas and tigers, and writing beloved books including The Soul of an Octopus and Of Time and Turtles. She’ll share stories from her remarkable life and work, followed by a short Q&A and book signing.  
  
This talk is free to attend, but we appreciate your RSVP for planning purposes.  
Learn more and register here: https://ccfw.calvin.edu/events/sy-montgomery

An Evening with Sy Montgomery

Discover the ultimate blend of affordability and convenience at Budgetel Inn & Suites Hotel, nestled in the vibrant heart of Grand Rapids, MI. Located at 35 28th St SW, our welcoming hotel promises guests an inviting, comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Whether you're in town for business or exploring the rich culture and entertainment options Grand Rapids has to offer, Budgetel Inn & Suites positions you perfectly to enjoy everything. Our rooms, designed with your comfort in mind, feature all the essential amenities, including free Wi-Fi, to ensure your stay is both productive and relaxing. With friendly staff committed to delivering exceptional service, Budgetel Inn & Suites Hotel stands as your home away from home, guaranteeing a memorable experience at an unbeatable value. Dive into the charming atmosphere of Grand Rapids with Budgetel Inn & Suites, where affordability meets quality for the savvy traveler. 

Budgetel Inn & Suites Hotel

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Quality Inn Grand Rapids Near Downtown, ideally located at 65 28th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, our hotel offers easy access to the bustling downtown area, renowned attractions, and top dining options. Our cozy, well-appointed rooms ensure a restful night's sleep, equipped with all the essentials, including free high-speed WiFi, to keep you connected. Start your day right with our complimentary hot breakfast, featuring a variety of choices to energize your morning. Stay on top of your fitness routine with access to our on-site gym or take a refreshing dip in our pristine pool. At Quality Inn Grand Rapids Near Downtown, our friendly staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring your stay is memorable and enjoyable. Experience the best of Grand Rapids with us, where comfort meets convenience. 

Quality Inn Grand Rapids Near Downtown

Welcome to the Best Western Executive Inn & Suites!

Looking for a hotel near downtown without the overpriced downtown rates? The Best Western Executive Inn & Suites is the closest hotel to Grand Rapids and all Downtown has to offer.

Need a hotel near Lake Michigan beaches? How about a hotel near Van Andel Arena? No matter what brings you to the area, our Grand Rapids-Wyoming MI hotel is centrally located next to all the top attractions. Business travelers can get to meetings quickly from our prime location, and vacationers have the best of the region at their doorstep. Our proximity to the downtown area makes us a favorite for all travelers.

If you need a hotel near DeVos Place Convention Center, count on our Grand Rapids-Wyoming MI hotel to make you feel right at home. We offer free Wi-Fi, free parking and free local and long distance phone calls to all guests. We have recently renovated bathrooms in all guest rooms with handcrafted marble tile. Van Andel Arena concerts are always a blast, and there’s nothing like a vacation in Beer City USA. From the Tulip Festival to the ArtPrize art festival, there’s something for everyone in this region.

Our Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI hotel is also close to the Amway Global Headquarters, Kellogg’s® Manufacturing, Spartan Stores headquarters and Sara Lee® manufacturing. Business travelers are just a short drive away from their destination when they stay at our Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI hotel. Commuting has never been easier, which means sleeping in or squeezing in a concert or festival is a breeze.

Michigan State University, the Secchia Center, Gerald R. Ford Museum, Van Andel Institute and Van Andel Museum are also near our Grand Rapids-Wyoming MI hotel. Visit Medical Mile, a popular destination for medical patients, or explore the great outdoors. Hiking, swimming, and sunbathing at the beach are all at your disposal.

Best Western Executive Inn & Suites

At Days Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown, you’ll be perfectly situated to explore all that this western Michigan city has to offer. Located off US-131 and just a few minutes from the downtown area, our hotel puts all of the city’s attractions within easy reach, including Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and multiple microbreweries. We’re also within driving distance of scenic Lake Michigan, which offers a variety of water activities. Plus, Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is just a short drive away. 

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Rapids Near Downtown

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at the Baymont by Wyndham Grand Rapids Near Downtown. Ideally situated at 255B 28th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548, our hotel offers easy access to the vibrant heart of Grand Rapids. From the moment you step into our welcoming lobby, you'll enjoy a range of amenities designed to make your stay exceptional. Our spacious, well-appointed rooms are your retreat for relaxation, featuring all the essentials for a restful night's sleep. Kickstart your day with our complimentary breakfast before exploring nearby attractions or attending business meetings. With free Wi-Fi, you can stay connected with what matters most. Whether you're visiting for leisure or business, Baymont by Wyndham Grand Rapids Near Downtown is the perfect base for your adventures in the city. Discover comfort, convenience, and friendly hospitality, all wrapped up in an affordable package. Welcome to your home away from home. 

Baymont by Wyndham Grand Rapids Near Downtown

Experience unparalleled comfort and service at Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown. Providing the perfect blend of modern design and classic amenities, our hotel offers an exquisite stay in the heart of the bustling city. Enjoy our cozy guestrooms, fully-equipped fitness center, refreshing indoor pool, and stunning views of the cityscape. Located just steps away from premier dining, shopping, and entertainment options, explore all that Grand Rapids has to offer. Experience exceptional value with complimentary Wi-Fi, daily hot breakfast, and warm, friendly service. We await your arrival for an unforgettable stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown. 

Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Rapids Downtown

Experience the vibrant urban vibe at Canopy by Hilton in Grand Rapids Downtown. Located in the heart of a buzzing city, our hotel offers a gateway to a world of culture, art, and cuisine. Our thoughtfully designed rooms with locally inspired interior and signature amenities ensure a comfortable stay. Unwind at our rooftop bar with excellent views or stay fit at our spacious fitness center. Explore, relax, and revive at Canopy by Hilton, your perfect downtown destination. 

Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown. Situated at the heart of the city, the hotel offers spacious, modern suites featuring fully equipped kitchens and separate living areas. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, fitness center, laundry service, and a complimentary breakfast each morning. Revel in the bustling downtown life with great restaurants, shopping centers, and attractions within walking distance. Make your stay memorable with the hospitality and quality services offered by Residence Inn at 40 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown

Nestled at the heart of Grand Rapids, CityFlatsHotel offers a unique blend of modern style and eco-friendly innovation, delivering an unparalleled guest experience. Situated at 83 Monroe Center St NW, this boutique hotel places you steps away from the vibrant city life, major dining venues, captivating museums, and bustling shops. Embrace the comfort of our thoughtfully designed rooms, each crafted with eco-conscious materials without compromising on luxury. From our signature CityFlatsHotel beds ensuring a restful sleep to the high-speed Wi-Fi keeping you connected, every detail is tailored to make your stay memorable. Indulge in our on-site dining featuring locally sourced ingredients, or unwind at our sophisticated bar with a creative cocktail in hand. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, CityFlatsHotel embodies the essence of Grand Rapids’ charm, making it the perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic and sustainable lodging experience. 

CityFlatsHotel

CityFlatsHotel - Grand Rapids in Grand Rapids, MI, immerses our guests in the heart of downtown in a historic building infused with everything a luxurious modern hotel can offer. Free WiFi 24 hours a day and fusion cuisine served with cocktails the CitySen Lounge allow our guests to host weddings, receptions and company events or explore the city full of world-class food and drink. Complement the delicious food with the vibrant local craft brewing scene we have a few top-notch breweries as our neighbors. Local culture is close by too within a mile you can find several museums of art or history, and the Devos Performance Hall. Sports lovers and concertgoers should visit the Van Andel Arena. After you return to your room, take in an ecologically responsible, locally-crafted room with a boutique suite or a city view. Luxury toiletries and custom tilework await in each bathroom, and the combination of custom elements ensures that no two rooms are alike. Every guest will have a unique experience. Daily housekeeping rounds out the stay to ensure the rooms remain pristine throughout your stay. Plus, you can earn rewards, including free nights and gift cards, with our Choice Privileges Rewards Program.

Experience unparalleled sophistication at Hyatt Place Grand Rapids/Downtown - centrally located in the bustling heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan. This oasis of comfort and style offers spacious guest rooms, world-class amenities, and a 24/7 dining option to cater to your cravings. Revel in the spectacular city views, stay connected with the free Wi-Fi service, and explore the charm of Grand Rapids, all just a sip of a morning coffee away. Make your city escape truly memorable with Hyatt Place! 

An Evening with Sy Montgomery

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