Relocating

One of the great things about Mecosta County and the greater Big Rapids area is that we are centrally located to everything.  Mecosta County offers the well-known chain restaurants, franchise hotels and big box stores but we also still embrace friendly and personable downtowns where you are treated like friends as soon as you walk in the door.

Downtown Big Rapids is a great place to live, work, and a fun destination to explore. To see the community’s businesses and events please check out the Big Rapids Downtown Business Association website to see and experience what is happening downtown. 

The Band of Locals is a community minded program banding together to support locally owned businesses in the community.  Their Blue bands are a wonderful way for people to receive great savings and discounts plus, there is no expiration date. You can purchase your Blue Band at the Old Pioneer Store and Emporium for just $10.00 and start saving today.

You can take a short drive from nearly any direction and find yourself escaping the hustle and bustle to exploring all of the great, outdoor recreational opportunities that bring guests and visitors from afar.  Take that drive just a little further out and you find yourself within the large cities and night life knowing that you are again, just a short driving distance back home.  Make sure to check out an online map of Mecosta County to help guide your way while you are navigating through the area.

Explore endless trails for hiking, biking, snowmobiling or snowshoeing while taking in the wonder of wildlife.  From a leisurely stroll while taking in a scenic view or for more of a challenging adventure, we can point you in the right direction for the trail that is right for you.  To see the trails, we have in Mecosta County and more information, you can find it on our Trails page.

Enjoy over 100 lakes, streams and of course the mighty Muskegon River.  All are perfect for fishing, tubing, canoeing or kayaking, boating and water skiing.  Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy our over 14,000 acres of state land and private game ranches.  From lake finders and state maps to where you can purchase your licenses, our Fishing page has all the details you need.  Another great resource in our community is hunting.  The Mecosta County CVB is proud to partner with Hunting Works for Michigan.  Hunting Works for Michigan exists in order to promote the strong economic partnership between the hunting and shooting communities and the local economy of the state of Michigan.  To see areas in Mecosta County to hunt, along with other information with license, certificates etc. our Hunting page has the information you need. 

Experience award winning golf courses for the beginner and the more accomplished.  We also feature a number of Disc Golf courses here in Mecosta County if you are ready to experience a different swing on golf.  Mecosta County is home to five (5) courses including PGM and PGA rated courses.  You must get out and try this fun and exhilarating sport!  For more information about the courses in our county you can find that and more on the Golf page.

Excite your taste buds at one of our great dining venues, breweries and wineries.   From your favorite chain restaurants to unique local cuisine and outside dining.  All are sure to put a smile on your face.  To see the various restaurants that are in Mecosta County, you can find that in our Restaurants brochure. 

Events are also abundant throughout the county, no matter what the season.  From the month-long Festival of the Arts celebration to the annual Lights Parade, Farmers Markets, Free Music and annual Fireworks displays.  Our communities are filled with festivals, parades and celebrations all year long.  The Annual Events link has a full comprehensive list of all the annual events that take place throughout the year in Mecosta County. 

End your day of adventures at one of our great lodging facilities with beautiful accommodations.  Hotel amenities available include pools, hot tubs, exercise facilities, business resources and hot meals.  Mecosta County meets all your lodging needs.  From full-service accommodations at your favorite franchise hotel to the comforts of home at a locally owned property – come experience quality along with our hometown charm!  For your convenience, we have a complete list of area Hotels.

Entrepreneurs that are looking to start a new business adventure or pre-established businesses looking to expand or relocate to the area, we have resources available for you as well through the Mecosta County Economic Development Corporation.

Everything your family is looking for regarding local agency resources, community profile and area education can found with our convenient Community Links page.  If you are looking for information on local townships, area schools, and community organizations then we have the information you need. From starting a new business, relocating to the area, or planning a fun family vacation, the Mecosta County CVB is here to help. 

Everything you need to Create Your Own Adventure, either vacationing or relocating to the area, can found on our mobile friendly website at www.BigRapids.org or by stopping into the new Mecosta County Welcome Center at 127 S. State St. Big Rapids, MI 49307.

Ensure yourself of a great time away with family and friends by making time in the Big Rapids Region. You are sure to love it here!