Best attractions and places to see around Forest Hills include a variety of natural and man-made features. This region offers lakes, rivers, and historical sites for exploration. Visitors can find opportunities for outdoor activities and discover local points of interest. The area provides diverse settings for those interested in natural landscapes and community hubs.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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The Paul Henry–Thornapple Rail Trail is a 42-mile multi-use path in Michigan, following the old Grand River Valley Railroad route. Named after U.S. Representative Paul B. Henry, the trail offers scenic views of the Thornapple River and surrounding landscapes. Key sections are paved, with ongoing efforts to connect gaps. Trailheads like Bowen Station Park and Caledonia Lakeside Park provide amenities like parking, restrooms, and water. This trail blends recreation with historical preservation, attracting cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers.
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Although the name gaslight has a negative connotation, this is not really the case here. Never fear: Gaslight Village is the vibrant heart of East Grand Rapids! This lively area of shops, restaurants and services meets all your needs.
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The Thornapple River, a tributary of Michigan's Grand River, spans 88 miles through Barry, Eaton, and Kent counties. Originating near Nashville, it meanders northwestward to join the Grand River near Ada. From this spot, you get great views over the water as you ride through the area.
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Pickerel Lake covers 80 acres and is a popular choice among fishermen and wildlife enthusiasts. There is a boardwalk crossing a portion of the lake, hiking and walking trails available for use during warmer months, and cross country ski trails for winter recreation.
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Nice shops and a great place to grab a bite or pick up a snack to eat on the ride. Great view of the lake.
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Although the name gaslight has a negative connotation, this is not really the case here. Never fear: Gaslight Village is the vibrant heart of East Grand Rapids! This lively area of shops, restaurants and services meets all your needs.
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Although the name gaslight has a negative connotation, this is not really the case here. Never fear: Gaslight Village is the vibrant heart of East Grand Rapids! This lively area of shops, restaurants and services meets all your needs.
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The Thornapple River is a tributary of Grande Rivière.
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Forest Hills is renowned for its distinctive architecture. You can explore the historic Ada Covered Bridge, a historic landmark. Additionally, the Forest Hills Gardens community features unique Tudor-style buildings and the brick-paved Station Square with its iconic clocktower, evoking an English village atmosphere. Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church, modeled after Durham Cathedral, is another architectural point of interest.
For natural escapes, Forest Park offers 544 acres with hiking trails and sports fields. You can also visit Pickerel Lake, which features a boardwalk and trails, or enjoy views along the Thornapple River. Reeds Lake is another freshwater lake where you can spot waterfowl and enjoy water activities.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Gaslight Village is a vibrant area with shops and restaurants. Natural spots like Pickerel Lake, the Thornapple River, and Reeds Lake all offer family-friendly trails and recreational opportunities. The historic Ada Covered Bridge also has a nearby park for breaks.
You'll find various hiking opportunities, particularly around the natural attractions. Pickerel Lake has dedicated hiking and walking trails. Forest Park also offers extensive hiking trails. For more detailed routes, you can explore options like the 'Northeast Park Loop' or 'Knapp Valley Forest Hiking Trail'. Find more hiking routes in the Hiking around Forest Hills guide.
Absolutely! The area around Forest Hills is great for cycling. You can find routes that pass by attractions like the Thornapple River and the Ada Covered Bridge. Reeds Lake also has a popular loop trail suitable for cycling. Discover more cycling routes in the Cycling around Forest Hills guide.
Yes, Gaslight Village is noted for being wheelchair accessible, offering a vibrant area of shops and services. Additionally, the Reeds Lake Loop around Reeds Lake is also described as handicap-accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.
Austin Street is the main commercial hub in Forest Hills, offering a variety of restaurants, chain stores, and boutiques. Gaslight Village is also a lively area with shops, restaurants, and cafes. For a unique local experience, visit Eddie's Sweet Shop, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor established in 1925.
Beyond the Ada Covered Bridge, a significant historic landmark, Forest Hills boasts several other historical points. The Forest Hills Gardens community itself is a historic planned development from the 1910s. The Forest Hills Branch of the Ridgewood Savings Bank is a designated New York City landmark, and the Midway Theater has been a local fixture since 1942.
Forest Hills Gardens is a unique planned community designed on the English garden city model. It's known for its distinctive Tudor-style architecture, lush greenery designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., and the charming Station Square, which serves as its gateway. It offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its well-preserved historic character.
The Forest Hills Stadium is a legendary outdoor concert venue that has hosted major musical acts for decades, including The Beatles. It continues to be a significant cultural landmark for live events. Forest Park also hosts free concerts at its amphitheater during the summer months.
For a beloved local treat, Eddie's Sweet Shop, established in 1925, is an old-fashioned ice cream parlor serving homemade ice cream in an unchanged historic setting. For shopping, Austin Street offers a mix of chain stores and boutiques, while Gaslight Village provides a vibrant selection of local shops and services.
The warmer months are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and walking on trails around Pickerel Lake and in Forest Park. Summer also brings free concerts to Forest Park's amphitheater. For winter recreation, Pickerel Lake offers cross-country ski trails.


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