Lyon Square Just Got a Gorgeous Makeover – See What’s New

Lyon Square is an iconic area along the Grand Rapids Riverwalk, connected to the Gillett Bridge and nestled between Devos Place and the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. It has long been a popular meeting spot, an ArtPrize venue, and an entrance to the Riverwalk. But it has always lacked a sense of flair, with its only recognizable feature being its circular stairs. Otherwise, it was just a long strip of concrete between buildings.

If you've been to Downtown Grand Rapids recently, you'll have noticed that Lyon Square has been closed to the public for quite some time, with the area partially open since last summer. The City of Grand Rapids had set out to revamp the area, making it a place people want to be, rather than pass through. Now, after two years, the remodel is complete and open to the public, and it is gorgeous.

Lyon Square's $12 Million Remodel

Led by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. and constructed by Pioner Construction & Rockford Construction, the previous Lyon Square has undergone a significant overhaul that now features a completely revamped Lyon St. that has a snow melt system (allowing for full-year use), greenery, brick walkways, benches to sit at, a shaded sitting area capable of being rented out, and a projector that will soon be installed.

Further improvements to Lyon Square include repaving Gillett Bridge. In terms of the riverfront/Grand River as a whole, the Public Museum’s riverfront expansion is nearing completion. Additionally, the Gerald R. Ford Museum’s new green space has reopened following the removal of the fountain. As for when the Grand River Trail will reopen, that is still unknown.

Overall, the Grand River is feeling like the central piece of the city, and it's exciting to be downtown. Take a look at the before and in-depth after images below.