GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Many people shop downtown Grand Rapids. But some say certain areas need more people visiting, specifically on the south side of the city.
Business owners in the South Division, or SoDiv, area are welcoming people to a free shop and stroll Thursday.
Tours Around Michigan is starting its tour at ArtRat Gallery at 5:30 and is offering discounts and special offers at 10 businesses in SoDiv.
Celebrate Life Home Goods is one of the businesses on the tour. Co-owners Michelle and Troy Allen hope that the event shows some treasures in the area.
“I believe that some people are a little apprehensive about coming down here to see what's down here,” Michelle Allen said. “And I really feel like there are a ton of treasures down here in the Division area, including our own business.”
Celebrate Life sells art in the Dutch pour painting method. The couple wants to grow their business, which recently moved a few blocks north on Division, so they can donate money to help the homeless population in SoDiv.
“That's one of the reasons why we moved down here, is to give back into our community,” Michelle Allen said.
Another shop on the tour is Otono, which specializes in second hand and vintage items. Co-owner Alana Sewicki wants people to recognize that SoDiv is just as walkable, and close, as the rest of the city.
“It's basically downtown Grand Rapids,” Sewicki said. “So why not like shop and then go get a drink and go to a restaurant with your friends or family?”
Candice Smith is running Thursday’s tours with Tours Around Michigan and the Heartside Business Association. The shop and stroll on SoDiv event is part of Grand Rapids third Thursdays, which highlights small, local businesses.
“People are really excited, because the business owners here, they chose sodiv for a reason,” Smith said. “They chose it because of the vibe it has here.”
The free Tour Shop & Stroll SoDiv event starts tomorrow at ArtRat Gallery at 5:30 p.m., and goes until 8 p.m. You can RSVP on their Eventbrite page, or also show up when the tour starts.
