Visit Eastown
Visit Eastown, Your New Neighborhood
Aquinas College is located in the vibrant Eastown neighborhood, one of
Grand Rapids’ most beloved districts, which is known for its welcoming, walkable streets, rich history, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants,
and community events. Originally a streetcar suburb, Eastown has grown into a lively and inclusive community
with over 130 local businesses and a strong sense of neighborhood pride.
Eastown is part of Uptown Grand Rapids, along with adjacent neighborhoods East Fulton, East Hills, and Wealthy Street.
Explore Eastown
- Yesterdog - Opened in 1976, this vintage-themed eatery offers six hot dog varieties, including a veggie option.
- Asada - A twist on Tex-Mex brunch vibes with a menu ranging from handcrafted tacos and quesadillas to breakfast and lunch sandwiches.
- El Cerrito Cocina Mexicana - Delivers a modern take on traditional Mexican family recipes, along with an extensive drink menu featuring authentic handcrafted margaritas and more.
- Fruition Acai & Juice Bar - Offers fresh, fast food, including acai and avocado bowls, fresh smoothies, juices, toasts, and bagels.
- Matchbox Diner & Drinks - Offers all-day breakfast, mile-high deli sandwiches, juicy burgers, comfort-food dishes, and a full bar.
- Pita House - Eastown’s go-to spot for hawarma, kafta, and falafel sandwiches, gyros, and more, all available with a variety of authentic sauces and toppings.
- Terra Bagels - Bakes fresh bagels daily, so you can enjoy them plain, with a schmear, or in a sandwich.
- Wolfgang's - Serving Grand Rapids since 1977, it is one of the city's most cherished breakfast spots.
& so much more!
- Eastown Bizarre Bazaar
- Eastown Streetfair
- Uptown Shop Hop
Find more events like these here: Eastown Events
What to see in Eastown
Love Pizza?
There are 8+ spots in Eastown to grab a slice!
Choose from many Eastown options, including partner BC Pizza, famous chains like Cottage Inn and Hungry Howie's, and more authentic styles at Gino's Pizza. Choose wisely! BC Pizza
Feel the History
Eastown began as a streetcar suburb linking downtown Grand Rapids to the Reeds Lake amusement park. It has since evolved into a progressive, quirky neighborhood known as the "Greenwich Village of Grand Rapids." (Left: Photo of Sr. Aquinas in Eastown)
Wilcox Park
One of Eastown's parks, located just off the Aquinas campus, features modern amenities, including playground equipment, a ball diamond, basketball court, soccer field, tennis courts, picnic tables, an enclosed shelter, and a splash pad open during the summer season. So much to offer!
Find something unique
Grand Rapids Pride Center
Eastown is home to over 130 businesses and the Grand Rapids Pride Center, the guiding force behind the Grand Rapids Pride Festival, an annual June festival that has become one of the city’s largest single-day events.
Fulton Street Farmers Market
Within easy walking distance of campus, the Fulton Street Farmers Market has been offering fresh food and hand-made goods for more than a century. Bring a bag -- you'll load it up with freshness!
