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Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a modern, well-organized airport offering friendly service and efficient facilities for more than 3 million passengers per year. As the second-busiest airport in the state, GRR provides direct access to major cities across the U.S. through a growing list of airlines, all while maintaining a calm and easygoing atmosphere. The airport consists of a single main terminal with two passenger concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B.
🛫 Terminal Overview
The terminal at GRR is known for being incredibly easy to navigate, with short walking distances, smart signage, and open, well-lit spaces. Following a series of renovations under the Gateway Transformation Project, the terminal now features expanded TSA checkpoints, updated lighting, more seating, and accessible amenities for families, seniors, and travelers with disabilities.
All passengers enter through a centralized check-in area, proceed through TSA screening, and then follow a wide post-security hallway to either Concourse A or Concourse B. The entire design reflects West Michigan values — practical, friendly, and community-focused.
🚗 Getting to Gerald R. Ford International Airport
- By Car: The airport is located approximately 13 miles from downtown Grand Rapids and is easily accessible via I-96 and M-6. Most travelers can reach the terminal in under 25 minutes depending on traffic.
- Rideshare Options: Both Uber and Lyft serve GRR. Designated pick-up and drop-off zones are located just outside the arrivals area. The average fare to downtown is $25–35.
- Public Transit: Route 17 of The Rapid bus system connects the airport to downtown Grand Rapids and surrounding areas Monday through Saturday. The fare is affordable ($1.75), and the trip takes about 45 minutes. Buses depart every 30–60 minutes depending on the time of day.
- Rental Cars: The Rental Car Facility is located just across from the terminal and is connected by a weather-protected pedestrian bridge. Agencies include Enterprise, Avis, Alamo, Budget, National, and Hertz. Pre-booking is recommended, especially during summer and holiday seasons.
🅿️ Parking at GRR
- Short-Term Parking: Ideal for dropping off or picking up passengers. Rates begin at $2 per half hour, with a daily maximum of $24.
- Long-Term North Lot: Located within walking distance from the terminal. Daily rate is $17. Includes EV charging stations and accessible parking zones.
- Economy Lot: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Only $13 per day with free shuttle service running every 7–10 minutes. Covered shelters and digital departure boards available at shuttle stops.
All lots feature 24/7 security monitoring, smart sensors for space availability, and online reservation options.
Concourse A
Is the larger of the two concourses at GRR and serves most of the national full-service airlines including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. This area includes Gates A1 through A7 and is designed to handle a high volume of passengers during peak travel times.
🍽️ Food and Beverage Options
- MI Tap Room: A sit-down restaurant offering regional flavors like Great Lakes whitefish, Angus beef burgers, and locally brewed beers. Most entrees range from $13–$18, while craft beers are $6–$8. A favorite spot for travelers with longer layovers.
- Starbucks: Located near Gate A3, this full-service Starbucks serves everything from espresso drinks to breakfast sandwiches. It’s a quick stop for early morning travelers catching red-eye flights.
🛋️ Where to Relax
- Business-friendly seating: Workstations with outlets and USB ports are available throughout the gate area.
- Panoramic windows: Floor-to-ceiling glass offers views of the tarmac and incoming aircraft, making it a favorite for aviation enthusiasts.
- Quiet zones: Noise levels are kept low, even during busy hours, offering a calm place to unwind before departure.
Concourse B
Serves mostly low-cost and leisure carriers, with Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines operating out of this space. It includes Gates B1 through B5 and is especially popular among travelers heading to Florida, Las Vegas, and other sunny vacation spots.
🍴 Dining & Drinks
- Thornapple Essentials Café: A café-style food court offering grab-and-go options like wraps, salads, and breakfast sandwiches. Prices range from $6–$11. Perfect for quick bites before short flights.
- Self-Serve Kiosks: Vending machines and coffee stations are located throughout the concourse for added convenience.
🧘 Where to Rest
- Compact design: Easy to navigate, no long walks from security to gates.
- Family-friendly: Includes changing stations, water refill points, and stroller access at all gates.
- Clean, updated restrooms: Renovated in 2023 with touchless fixtures and increased capacity.
🛍️ Shops and Passenger Services
GRR offers a modest selection of retail stores and service stations, primarily located in the central terminal and along Concourse A.
- Hudson News: Magazines, travel accessories, tech gadgets, and healthy snacks.
- Local Art Displays: Rotating exhibits highlight the creativity of Michigan artists, adding culture and charm to the terminal.
- Free Wi-Fi: Fast and unlimited, available across the entire airport. No registration required.
🌟 Travel Tips for GRR Visitors
- Arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight, especially for morning and holiday travel periods.
- If parking long-term, consider pre-paying online to secure a discounted rate and guaranteed space.
- Mobile boarding passes are accepted at all gates and TSA checkpoints — save time and avoid printing.
- Don’t skip the MI Tap Room if you’re flying out of Concourse A — it’s considered one of the better airport dining experiences in the region.
✅ Final Thoughts
Gerald R. Ford International Airport blends regional convenience with modern infrastructure, offering a pleasant experience from curb to gate. With fast check-in, efficient security, friendly staff, and a focus on passenger comfort, GRR stands out among mid-sized U.S. airports. Whether you’re traveling for business in Chicago, vacationing in Orlando, or heading home to Michigan, GRR ensures your journey starts and ends on the right note.
From improved lounges to thoughtful amenities, this airport is designed to grow with its community — and make your trip smoother every step of the way.
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Brian Mitchell