Grand Rapids Gets Its First Test With Four Big Concerts On Amphitheater Debut Night

This Friday is the debut concert at the $184 million Acrisure Amphitheater, the newest venue in Grand Rapids, which is expected to be the first of many new projects that could transform the city as we know it. But first, the city is going to have to adjust to the large influx of people who go downtown each show, on top of everything else already happening.

Get our free mobile app

That is going to be put to the test right away, because Friday has multiple events all happening around the same time as the Acrisure debut. Here's everything happening on Friday that will put the city's parking concerns to the test.

For comparison, the Acrisure Amphitheater has a capacity of ~12,000, and the opening acts for Lionel Richie are scheduled to take the stage at 7:30, with doors opening 90 minutes prior.

READ MORE: Why Grand Rapids Amphitheater Shows Start So Early

Van Andel Arena - SOLD OUT Phil Wickham Show

The Van Andel Arena is hosting Phil Wickham for a sold-out show, set to start around 7:00. A sold-out show at the Van Andel Arena, which also has a capacity of 12,000+, already puts a strain on the city. Now, half a mile away is a capacity of the same size that is also nearly sold out.

GLC Live @ 20 Monroe - Nate Smith

Nate Smith is playing at GLC Live @ 20 Monroe as part of his Long Live Country Rock and Roll Tour. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 7:15. This show, which is directly across the street from the Van Andel and shares a parking garage, will surely be packed.

The Intersection - Plain White T's

Then, right across the street from the amphitheater, the Intersection is hosting the Plain White T's at The Stache. While it's a show on the second-smallest stage, it's still something that will bring traffic to an already busy street. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

There is also a concert happening at the Pyramid Scheme. Based solely on venue capacities, potential onlookers, and other foot traffic in downtown Grand Rapids, the city could see ~28,000 people for concerts alone. 

If you're looking to secure a parking spot before you arrive, you can reserve one through the City of Grand Rapids' new parking reservation system. But it's going to be interesting to see how things unfold Friday night as the city adjusts to a new reality.