Grand Rapids

East Hills, Grand Rapids Neighborhood

East Hills offers a balanced neighborhood experience with a variety of housing options including single detached homes, duplexes, and small apartment buildings. Its well-spread green spaces provide serene outdoor opportunities and contribute to a peaceful atmosphere. The main streets feature a selection of bars and businesses that create a lively yet calm setting. Convenient access to several bus lines and nearby highways makes commuting straightforward, while ample parking enhances accessibility. Grocery shopping and pharmacy needs are easily met, and educational facilities are within easy reach. Cycling infrastructure supports convenient bike travel throughout the area, promoting flexible transportation choices for daily activities.

East Hills is a "jack-of-all-trades" when it comes to the feel of this area. Although the atmosphere is not the liveliest in this neighborhood, its main streets can still be quite lively, and with its a few nightlife venues, there are options for nighttime activities. East Hills is very quiet overall, as noise from streets and other parts of the city is rarely an issue. There are a few parks close by for residents to check out and they are especially well-located, which makes them easy to get to.

Highlights of East Hills

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🍴 Cherry Street District

Centered around Cherry Street SE, this walkable strip is packed with independent cafes, boutique shops, and standout restaurants, making it the beating heart of East Hills and a magnet for locals and visitors alike.

🌿 Cherry Park

This charming neighborhood park at the heart of East Hills features community gardens, open green space, a playground, and gathering spots, offering locals a serene urban oasis for relaxation and events.

🥐 Wealthy Street Bakery

A beloved local institution on Wealthy Street SE, this bakery and café serves up fresh-baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches, making it a favorite cozy hangout for residents and visitors in the neighborhood.

🎭 Wealthy Theatre

Located on Wealthy Street, this historic, community-run theatre hosts indie films, music events, and live performances, acting as a cultural hub for East Hills and fostering a creative atmosphere in the area.

🛍️ East Hills Retail Row

Stretching along Lake Drive and Wealthy Street, this cluster of quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and specialty stores highlights the distinct local flavor, making East Hills a shopping destination with one-of-a-kind finds.

East Hills

This April in East Hills

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

April 20, 2026

Book Club: "Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow"

Grand Rapids Public Library – Yankee Clipper Branch • 6:00 PM–7:00 PM

A book club session at the local Yankee Clipper Branch is a welcoming chance for East Hills residents to engage with neighbors over literature, especially meaningful since this branch is currently closed through June and this may be among the final virtual or alternate-location offerings.

April 25–26, 2026

Grand Rapids Public Library Book Sale

Grand Rapids Public Library – Main Library, Downtown • April 25: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; April 26: 1:00 PM–4:00 PM

A great opportunity for families and book lovers in East Hills to browse affordable, donated books and support their local library while grabbing a bargain downtown.

April 25, 2026

Grand Rapids Neighborhood Summit

GRPS University, 1400 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids • 8:00 AM–4:30 PM

This day‑long community summit invites East Hills residents to connect with neighborhood leaders, engage in interactive workshops, and help strengthen local community ties in an inclusive setting.

April 26, 2026

Vintage & Handmade Marketplace

Grand Rapids Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW • 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

East Hills families can enjoy browsing locally crafted vintage goods and handmade items, with live DJs and Market Hall food and drinks just a short drive away.

April 2026 (ongoing)

Fitness & Pickleball at MLK Community Center

MLK Community Center, 900 Fuller Ave SE, Grand Rapids • Weekdays: classes varying – see schedule

Regular fitness classes and drop‑in pickleball sessions offer East Hills adults a nearby way to stay active, socialize, and participate in free or low‑cost recreation during April.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in East Hills

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for East Hills

Neighborhood Characteristics

Full Guide →

Demographics

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