As group tourism and community engagement manager with Visit Grand Rapids, Amanda Templin’s job is to help support groups that travel to the area with a warm welcome. “I enjoy providing them with events and attractions to visit,” she says, “as well as fun outdoor activities to participate in while they are here.”
Templin recently shared with Group Tour a bit more about what makes Grand Rapids, Minnesota, such a desired destination, and what her team does to make every visit memorable.
Q. How would you describe Grand Rapids to someone who has never visited before?
A. Grand Rapids is the perfect place for small-to-medium-sized group events, meetings, conferences, etc. The splendor of the indoors is enhanced by the great outdoors nature scenery and recreation opportunities. Grand Rapids offers in-town group facilities where attendees can stay at multiple properties close to area shops, attractions, in-town trails, and in-town restaurants. If groups are looking for an off-the-beaten-path location with access to the entire facility that includes on-site amenities like a restaurant, bar, golf course, and a variety of lodging options, there are many opportunities to choose from for the small-to-medium group coordinator.
Q. What makes Grand Rapids a great place for group tours?
A. Grand Rapids is surrounded by the beautiful outdoors. There are trails and attractions to get into nature, offering opportunities to explore, relax, and recharge.
Q. How does Visit Grand Rapids help tour operators plan their group tours?
A. We offer several itineraries for various days of tours. As the group tourism manager, I am available to help facilitate and organize events and attractions for groups to visit and experience.
Q. Are there areas, themes, or activities you would like to promote to group tours?
A. Grand Rapids is home to the Judy Garland Museum, we offer the Forest History Center, and adventure can be found on several of our trails.
Q. What’s your long-term outlook for group tours to Grand Rapids?
A. Eventually, I would like to have multiple locations work to coordinate larger groups to town. Groups that come to visit, learn, or relax will feel welcomed and enjoy our area as a welcoming place to return to in the future.
Q. Is there anything new or upcoming in Grand Rapids that group tour planners should know about?
A. Grand Rapids has a love for the arts, with activities at the MacRostie Art Center as well as a lot of performances at our Reif Center.
Q. Is there anything else our audience of tour operators should know about Grand Rapids?
A. There are so many things to see and do while you visit, and many lodging options to fit your needs.
Visit Grand Rapids
612-940-9373
visitgrandrapids.com
Lead Image:
Timberlake Lodge
Photo courtesy of Visit Grand Rapids
