Looking for fun things to do in West Michigan this fall? From a groovy ’60s party at the Gilmore Car Museum and family-friendly Halloween festivities at Historic Charlton Park and Frederik Meijer Gardens to a Monster Bash murder mystery dinner at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House, a spooky paranormal tour at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, and a scenic fall color tour at LYNX Golf Course & Grill, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season! Plus, you can plan an autumn getaway to Ludington and take advantage of special lodging offers. Whether you’re looking for Halloween thrills, family fun, live music, or beautiful fall colors, these West Michigan events and seasonal experiences offer something for everyone!
Good Vibrations ’60s Party at Gilmore Car Museum – October 24, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Get ready for some Good Vibrations and rewind the clock at the Gilmore Car Museum on October 24! It’s going to be a groovy evening filled with music, nostalgia, and, best of all, classic fun in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Spend the evening surrounded by iconic automobiles while dancing to live music spanning everything from Motown to rock ’n’ roll. Heavy appetizers inspired by the ’60s are included, along with a cash bar and interactive games to keep the good vibes going all night long.
Be sure to dust off your tie-dye, leather jackets, bell-bottoms, and go-go boots! Come dressed as a hippie, a rock star, or even your favorite ’60s couple, and you could win some great prizes. It’s a fun way to celebrate the era of peace, love, and unforgettable music!
All Hallows Eve at Charlton Park in Hastings – October 24, 3:00–6:00 p.m.
Looking for a fun Halloween event for the whole family? Head to the Historic Village at Charlton Park in Hastings for a memorable afternoon of trick-or-treating through history!
Set within a beautiful 300-acre recreational park on Thornapple Lake, Charlton Park features preserved historic buildings that offer a charming glimpse into life at the turn of the century. It’s a lovely, nostalgic setting for celebrating All Hallows Eve on October 24, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
This family-friendly trick-or-treating event is a wonderful way for kids to enjoy Halloween while exploring the historic village. Admission is $5 per person, payable by cash or check, and children 12 and under get in free.
Don’t forget your trick-or-treat bags, and remember that the event takes place rain or shine!
Monster Bash Murder Mystery Dinner at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House – October 24, 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Ready for an evening of mystery, suspense, and a little Halloween mischief? The beautiful, historic W.K. Kellogg Manor House in Hickory Corners is hosting a murder mystery dinner party on October 24, and guests won’t just attend the event — they’ll become part of the story!
The Manor House provides the perfect setting for this unique experience, where the mystery begins the moment you arrive. Ordinary conversations turn into suspicious glances, dramatic accusations, and carefully crafted alibis as the story unfolds throughout the evening.
The theme is “Monster Bash,” a costume party benefiting a fictional orphanage. Enjoy a night of laughter and suspense as the plot unfolds between courses and everyone works together to uncover the truth.
A delicious themed dinner is included, featuring appetizers, salad, your choice of entrée, and dessert. A cash bar will also be available. If you love interactive entertainment, historic venues, and a good whodunit, this promises to be a memorable evening!
Ghosts of the Grand: Paranormal Indoor Walking Tour at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel – October 28 & 29
The ghosts are back! Get ready for a spine-tingling evening at Grand Rapids’ iconic Amway Grand Plaza Hotel with Ghosts of the Grand, the annual paranormal indoor walking tour taking place October 28 and 29.
Discover the hidden history, haunted halls, and ghostly legends of this historic hotel. You’ll explore eerie rooms and areas said to be home to more than just the typical hotel guest, with access to spaces that are normally off-limits to the public.
Before your tour, enjoy a welcome cocktail and small bites in the Sunburst Lounge. You’ll also have the opportunity to chat with a renowned paranormal author, a tarot card reader, and a medium who will be on hand for the event.
The spooky fun continues after the tour with a ticket to skip the line at IDC and $4 off a cocktail. And if you really want to make a night of it, why not book a room and request one with an extra-spooky reputation?
With six evening time slots available each day, this is a fun opportunity for anyone fascinated by haunted hotels, paranormal history, and Halloween adventures in downtown Grand Rapids. Tickets are available online through Eventbrite.
SHOUTOUT:
Autumn Weekends at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
There’s still time to enjoy the beautiful fall season at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park! Visit to see approximately 8,000 colorful mums on display and enjoy Hallowee-Ones, a family-friendly Halloween celebration filled with festive fun and autumn traditions.
On October 24, dress up the little ones and join the Hallowee-Ones parade at 11:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. Story time and additional family-friendly activities will take place throughout the day from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Halloween with the kids while taking in the gorgeous fall colors and seasonal displays at one of West Michigan’s favorite attractions.
Fall Color Tour at LYNX Golf Course & Grill in Otsego – October 23–31
Looking for a unique way to experience Michigan’s spectacular fall colors? LYNX Golf Course & Grill in Otsego is inviting visitors to enjoy a scenic fall color tour along the back nine, with opportunities to take in the vibrant autumn scenery this weekend and next.
Surrounded by the stunning fall colors of Southwest Michigan, the course offers beautiful views of the Kalamazoo River and a relaxing outdoor experience with plenty of seasonal treats along the way.
Admission is $35 and includes a $20 voucher toward a delicious meal at the Grill. Your fall color tour experience also features a cozy warming station, a fire pit, beer and wine tastings, and tasty food samples along the route.
And what could be a sweeter way to wrap up the experience than a caramel apple finale?
Reservations are available online, so plan ahead and enjoy a fun, flavorful way to take in the beauty of autumn in Southwest Michigan.
Plan a Fall Getaway to Ludington: Save 50% on Your Second Night
Looking for an excuse to head north and enjoy more of Michigan’s beautiful fall scenery? Be sure to check out the participating lodging properties in Ludington offering 50% off your second night’s stay for Sunday through Thursday stays, now through the end of the month.
It’s a great opportunity to plan a fall getaway, explore Ludington’s scenic shoreline, enjoy the changing leaves, and make the most of the season without stretching your travel budget.
Whether you’re planning a quick midweek escape or a relaxing autumn adventure, Ludington is a wonderful place to experience the beauty of Michigan in the fall. Check participating lodging properties for offer details and availability before booking.
