here are some places to check out:

1) Frederik Meijer Gardens (http://www.meijergardens.org) – awesome place for pictures. they have a whole sculpture garden that you can walk around and snap some great photos.

2) Lakefront – Holland, Saugatuck, Grand Haven – all very interesting places with unique downtowns and beach access nearby. 30-45 min away. http://holland.org/sections/3-downtown-holland

3) Downtown GR – very walkable city and has some really neat architecture (good mix of old/new). always stuff going on. Check out www.grnow.org for latest info. for food or a drink check out hopcats, san chez or bull’s head.

4) heritage hill – great to drive through. very historic area with very cool houses. http://www.grnow.com/index.php?option=com_mtree&task=viewlink&link_id=2153&Itemid=0

5) east town – very hip area with great restaurants and shops. very unique and fun.

here’s a top ten list from grnow. should.

http://www.grnow.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=763&Itemid=81

You might want to check out the Blanford Nature Center (on W. Leonard, if my memory serves me correctly but I
would suggest asking or checking the phone book). Possibly a visit to the zoo (they have a brand new lion exhibit). There is also the Grand Rapids/Van Andel Public Museum with an Apollo space capsule outside and lots more inside. Also the Grand Rapids Art Museum if you are so inclined. Also, in October, the “fall colors” MAY be out on the trees, depending on the weather and what part of the month you are here.

I would second the Grand Rapids Art Museum, as it is a brand new building that has received national attention for the environmentally-friendly architecture. “The new GRAM will be the first and only art museum in the world whose entire facility is LEED certified.”

The other suggestions are also good, except I would add Muskegon to the list of lakeshore places to visit. Muskegon’s beaches (in my biased opinion) tend to be a little less tourist-y. Roger Johnson has some nice photos that capture the feel of the area.

If you want to get some fall color in your picture you might want to check out sites along the Thornapple River. Leslie Tassle Park (on Cascade road and Thornapple River Drive) has some good views for photography. All the suggestions above this are also really great! Congratulations on your wedding.