Discover Kent County Jail’s Original Downtown Grand Rapids Site

Kent County Jail’s Current Home on Ball Avenue

For decades, drivers heading down I-196 through Grand Rapids have passed the massive, rounded structure at 703 Ball Avenue NE—the current Kent County Jail.

It's hard to miss from the highway: a hulking facility with a distinct curved layout, it’s been the county’s main jail since the 1950s. But before that? The jail was somewhere else entirely.

Kent County Sherrif's Office

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The Original Kent County Jail Was Downtown Grand Rapids

Did you know the Kent County Jail used to be right in the middle of downtown Grand Rapids? According to the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, the original jail stood at Campau Avenue and Pike Street, just off the Blue Bridge. Built way back in 1871–72, it wasn’t just a jail—it was also the sheriff’s home. The sheriff’s family lived there too, and his wife even cooked meals for inmates in their own kitchen.

A Look at the Jail’s Architecture and Layout

The building was a beautiful Italianate style, with a covered porch, fancy brickwork, and arched windows. The jail took up one side, and the sheriff’s living quarters were up front, with a public entrance at the base of a tower. The whole place was fenced in by Campau, Pike, and Louis streets, with the Grand River just a block away.

Kent County Sheriff's Office via Facebook.

👇BELOW: LOCALS SAY THESE ARE THE BEST BURGERS IN GRAND RAPIDS👇

HistoryGrandRapids.org points out that if you look closely at old photos, you can spot bars on the jail windows and the word “County” carved into the brickwork above some windows—small details that gave away its real purpose.

From Historic Landmark to Hotel District

That building served the county for over 85 years before it was torn down in 1958. The Kent County Sheriff’s Office says it was once considered one of the most attractive buildings in the city.

Today, that old jail spot is part of downtown’s busy hotel and convention area. The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s Glass Tower, along with places like DeVos Place now stand where the county lockup—and the sheriff’s family—once lived and worked.

The 20 Best Burgers in Grand Rapids, Ranked by Locals

Grand Rapids takes its burgers seriously, and locals have strong opinions about where to find the best ones in town. To settle the debate, we pulled together hundreds of recommendations from some of the city’s most popular foodie Facebook groups—Grand Rapids Informed and EatGR.

The result? A mouthwatering lineup of 20 local favorites. Each spot earned its place on the list thanks to enthusiastic endorsements from people who live, work, and eat right here in West Michigan.

We’re counting down from No. 20 all the way to the burger that claimed the top spot with more than 35 mentions. Whether your go-to joint made the cut or you discover a new place to try, this list is your ultimate Grand Rapids burger guide.

Gallery Credit: Janna