Tanger Outlets in Byron Center Opens On July 31: A List of Nearby Attractions

The much-anticipated Tanger Outlets center in Byron Center is set to open at the end of July, and extra work crews have been called in recently to help make sure that still happens. A list of stores that includes Adidas, American Eagle, Banana Republic, Christopher Banks, Fossil, Gap, H&M, Nike, Old Navy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Under Armour, Vera Bradley and more is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the area. With many visitors expected from outside the local area, we put together a helpful list of other nearby attractions that can enhance your visit – from options that will help entertain the kids for a few hours to food, lodging, and some options for adults-only trips as well.

Downtown Byron Center (3 miles west) – A short drive west on 84th St. leads to Byron Center, and a collection of family-owned and family-friendly stores: Byron Center Meats, Houseman’s Ice Cream, Holwerda Floral and Gifts, 84th St. Market, Impulse Affordable Gifts, Haan Jewelers and Byron Station Bar & Grill. You’ll also find a Family Fare Supermarket and two small strip malls with options for pizza, tanning and more.

84th Street Grill (directly north) – Located right across the street from the new outlet mall, 84th Street Grill will likely see a few more visitors than normal starting in August. With more than 100 menu items and 19 beers on tap, there’s sure to be something to please everyone who stops in for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner. There is also a sizeable patio for those who wish to enjoy the outdoors when weather permits. Check out the menu at http://www.84thstpub.com/menu/ and keep up to date on specials by checking out their Facebook page.

Cabela’s, 44th St. (8 miles northwest) – Grandville is home to one of only two Cabela’s locations in Michigan, and shoppers have continued to make the trek here for hunting, fishing and outdoor gear in the just over two years this location has been open. Visitors will find lifelike taxidermy, an aquarium filled with local fish, and an indoor archery test range.

Gun Lake Casino (13 miles south) – The 21 and older crowd will find plenty of fun down the road in Wayland, where the Gun Lake Casino features 1,500 slot machines and 33 table games. Dining options include the Sandhill Cafe, Johnny Rocket’s, Villa Pizza and Sweets & Treats. Stage 131 offers live entertainment some nights and most weekends, and a Passport Card rewards program offers a chance at specials like a $50,000 cash giveaway.

Brewer Park (1 miles east) – A short drive east leads to Earle Brewer Park, where visitors will find five soccer fields, a playground, picnic areas, a basketball court, tennis court, baseball diamond and an open shelter. One of the main draws to this beautiful park is its two disc golf courses.

Douglas Walker Park (<1 mile west) – A short drive to the west on 84th St. will take you to Douglas Walker Park, which is an access point for Kent Trails and offers two playgrounds and a lot of open space. Picnic areas, baseball diamonds, a soccer field and an enclosed shelterhouse are among the other draws to this great park.

Craig’s Cruisers (4.5 miles north) – If you have kids who need to burn off some energy after a day of shopping, head north to the place “where the fun never ends.” Craig’s Cruisers features indoor and outdoor go-karts, two 18-hole miniature golf courses, bumper boats, laser tag, and an arcade. They also offer a pizza and pasta buffet, and this location’s Wristband Wednesdays (10am-3pm or 4pm-9pm) offers unlimited rides and golf as well as the buffet for just $22. Find more details at https://www.craigscruisers.com/.

Tom + Chee, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Chipotle and more (8 miles northwest) – The strip mall area in front of Cabela’s and Target in Grandville is home to some of the area’s newest and most popular restaurants. Dining options include Tom + Chee, Chipotle, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Panda Express and Sweet Yo’s.

Founders Brewing Co. (11 miles north) – Find out why Grand Rapids is known as Beer City USA by visiting its most famous brewery, located downtown just a few blocks from Van Andel Arena. Try a Centennial IPA, All Day IPA, Porter, Rubaeus (seasonal) or a Nitro Oatmeal Stout, and possibly catch some live music depending on the night. Founders also features a pretty solid food menu, we recommend trying one of the french bread pizzas. We recently posted this list of 10 Grand Rapids Breweries You Should Check Out, so if Founders isn’t your thing, there are many other options close by.

Baymont Inn & Suites (directly north) – You won’t find a lodging option andy closer than the Baymont Inn & Suites located just across 84th St. from the new outlet mall. If you’ve made a long journey to get here, or are looking to enjoy the area for multiple days, consider a room at Baymont and enjoy free internet and free breakfast. Guests will also find a pool, hot tub, and a gym at this hotel that is right next to 84th St. Grill (see above).

John Ball Zoo (14 miles northwest) – Adults and children will enjoy seeing all the recent improvements to the John Ball Zoo, including Tigers of the Realm and the Idema Forest Realm. With more than 200 different species and 1100 total animals from North America, South America, Africa and Australia there’s sure to be something everyone will enjoy. Red’s Hobby Farm offers up-close animal encounters, while the Treasures of the Tropics and Van Andel Living Shores Aquarium take visitors inside to see penguins and other animals. Find out more at http://www.johnballzoosociety.org/index.php.

 

 

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