When people think downtown Grand Rapids, one of their first thoughts is the zoo. John Ball Park Zoo highlights this area which offers a nice mix downtown and suburban living options. City parks and The Mines Golf course allow for outdoor living and socializing. The neighborhood (referred to as SWAN for “Southwest Action Network”) is not short of dining and entertainment either with its close proximity to downtown and GVSU’s downtown campus. Bridge Street, on SWAN’s north side, has exploded with new development, from the tasty dinners at Butcher’s Union to the drinks at the Jolly Pumpkin and others, there is no shortage of options! The Pop into the downtown YMCA for a quick workout. If you’re looking to learn, the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the Gerald R. Ford Museum are nearby. In addition, being on the westside makes for an easy 30 minute drive to the wonderful shores of Lake Michigan.