Name: An Evening with Thomas Jefferson
Start: 2026-11-16
End: 2026-11-16

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

Thomas Jefferson Comes to Life with Bill Barker  
  
Experience history in a remarkable new way as acclaimed historical actor Bill Barker brings Thomas Jefferson to life in a first-person presentation at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.  
  
Widely recognized as the nation's foremost interpreter of Jefferson, Barker combines decades of theatrical experience with rigorous historical scholarship to explore the life, ideas, and enduring legacy of one of America's most influential—and complex—Founding Fathers.   
  
Barker will be joined by Milt Nieuwsma, author of Miracle on Chestnut Street, who will moderate the conversation and reflect on Jefferson's enduring significance in American history.  
  
Join us for this unforgettable opportunity to encounter Thomas Jefferson as if you were meeting him in person and explore how his ideas continue to shape America today.

An Evening with Thomas Jefferson

Experience a fresh and vibrant stay at Tru by Hilton Comstock Park located at Grand Rapids. Nestled in the heart of Comstock Park, this modern hotel provides superb comfort with spacious rooms and free Wi-Fi. Find yourself just a quick drive away from local attractions, breweries and the picturesque Michigan coastline. Relax with our enjoyable amenities including a 24/7 Eat & Sip market, modern gym, and a spacious lobby for lounging. Book your stay and enjoy a True Home away from home. 

Tru by Hilton Comstock Park Grand Rapids

Welcome to the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grandville-Grand Rapids West, MI, which offers you an ideal location between downtown Grand Rapids and the beaches of Lake Michigan. Millennium Park and the RiverTown Crossings shopping complex are roughly three miles from our hotel. Here for a meeting at Meijer or a trade show at DeVos Place? You can hop on I-196 to reach both in about 15 minutes.

After a great day on the lake, keep the fun going with a swim in our heated indoor pool or enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot tub. Our fitness center helps you maintain your workout routine, and the business center and free WiFi make it easy to stay on top of work. If you’re traveling with your family, they’ll love the free, hot breakfast featuring our signature waffles as well as our on-site market stocked with snacks and drinks.

You can relax in our inviting rooms and suites thanks to free WiFi and a flat-screen TV with cable channels such as ESPN, TNT, and the Disney Channel. Each room includes a microwave and refrigerator so you can keep your favorite snacks and drinks on hand.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grandville-Grand Rapids West, MI

Experience a memorable stay in the heart of Michigan at the Hilton Garden Inn Grand Rapids East. Perfectly situated on E Beltline Ave SE, our hotel boasts well-appointed rooms, an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, you'll enjoy convenient access to local attractions and businesses. Whether you're here for an extended stay or a quick getaway, delight in our top-notch amenities, exceptional service, and warm Hilton hospitality. Book your stay today and explore the best of what Grand Rapids has to offer. 

Hilton Garden Inn Grand Rapids East

Discover comfort, convenience, and remarkable affordability at the Super 8 by Wyndham Grand Rapids/Wyoming, perfectly located at 727 44th St SW, Wyoming, MI 49509. Just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of Grand Rapids, this cozy hotel presents an ideal choice for travelers seeking to explore the vibrant city life while enjoying a peaceful retreat. Each guest room is thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind, offering free Wi-Fi to keep you connected, and a complimentary SuperStart breakfast to kick-start your day. Guests can also take advantage of our ample parking, including spaces for large vehicles, making it a breeze for those road-tripping through Michigan. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, Super 8 by Wyndham Grand Rapids/Wyoming promises a welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and exceptional value, ensuring a memorable stay in the Grand Rapids area. 

Super 8 by Wyndham Grand Rapids/Wyoming

Discover a comfortable and convenient stay at Affordable Suites of America in Grand Rapids, MI. Perfectly situated at 2701 E Beltline Ave SE, our hotel offers a prime location for both business and leisure travelers. Each suite is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring spacious layouts, fully-equipped kitchens, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring a homelike environment from the moment you step in.

Whether you're in town for a short visit or an extended stay, our suites provide the ease and flexibility you need, coupled with affordability that doesn't compromise on quality. Enjoy the convenience of being just minutes away from Grand Rapids' top attractions, dining, and shopping destinations. Our friendly staff is committed to making your stay as enjoyable as possible, offering personalized service that stands out.

At Affordable Suites of America Grand Rapids, we blend comfort, convenience, and affordability, making it the perfect choice for your next Grand Rapids visit. 

Affordable Suites of America Grand Rapids

Book your stay at our Knights Inn Grand Rapids East hotel when your travels bring you to Grand Rapids and western Michigan. Located off I-96, in the Kentwood business district, our hotel offers essential amenities and a convenient location to make your stay uncomplicated and comfortable. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is under 5 miles away.

Knights Inn Grand Rapids

Experience the comforts of home combined with unparalleled service at Homewood Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, our extended-stay hotel offers spacious suites, modern amenities, and easy access to the city's top attractions. Unwind in stylish comfort in your suite, enjoy our complimentary breakfast, savor an evening social, or stay productive with our business center. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, Homewood Suites is your perfect home away from home. 

Homewood Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids

Experience comfort and convenience at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Grand Rapids. Situated in the heart of Grand Rapids, our hotel offers easy access to local businesses, shopping districts, and a wealth of Michigan's top attractions. With modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast, we ensure all our guests feel at home. Whether you're in the area for business or leisure, choose Fairfield Inn & Suites for an enjoyable stay. 

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Grand Rapids

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Grand Rapids - Airport, an IHG Hotel. Expertly located in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, our property is just moments away from the airport and offers easy access to numerous attractions and business districts. Indulge in our spacious rooms fitted with modern amenities, savor delectable dining in our on-site restaurant, or host exemplary events in our flexible meeting spaces. Experience ultimate satisfaction and reliable service at Holiday Inn Grand Rapids - Airport. Here, your comfort is our utmost priority. 

Holiday Inn Grand Rapids - Airport, an IHG Hotel

Discover the epitome of comfort and convenience at Staybridge Suites Grand Rapids - Airport, an IHG Hotel, nestled in the vibrant heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Perfectly located at 3000 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, our hotel promises an unforgettable stay, whether you're visiting for business or pleasure. 

Featuring spacious, well-appointed suites with fully-equipped kitchens, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and separate living and sleeping areas, we ensure a home-away-from-home experience. Start your day with our delicious, complimentary breakfast, stay on track with your fitness routine at our 24-hour gym, and unwind in the evening at our social receptions. 

Just minutes away from Gerald R. Ford International Airport and close to top attractions like the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, our hotel is the perfect base to explore what Grand Rapids has to offer. Enjoy top-notch services, exceptional comfort, and genuine hospitality at Staybridge Suites Grand Rapids - Airport, your ideal choice for extended stays or a quick getaway. 

An Evening with Thomas Jefferson

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