Grand Rapids Airport Ranks No. 2 Among Best Small Airports

It has been a minute since I last booked a flight out of our very own backyard, but reading through the latest updates from Gerald R. Ford International Airport makes me realize I am overdue! Who doesn't love a vacation? But even beyond that, GRR has made tons of improvements recently and is once again getting national attention.

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The results are in for the USA Today 10Best Poll that asked "What's the Best Small Airport in the Nation?" A panel of experts picked 20 stellar small airports across the country, and then it was put up to a public vote...

Grand Rapids Airport Ranks No. 2 in the Nation

While Grand Rapids claimed the top spot in 2023 and 2025 (along with a high-ranking runner-up finish in 2024), GRR secured 2nd place this year. Not too shabby at all! The only airport to edge out GRR this time around was Long Island MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma, New York.

👇BELOW: SEE WHAT GRAND RAPIDS LOOKED LIKE 100 YEARS AGO👇

Inside GRR's $135 Million Terminal Upgrade

Even with a runner-up finish, there's a lot to be excited about for GRR, like the newly opened $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project. If you are flying American, United, or Frontier anytime soon, you are going to get the first look at the new setup. They have added self-service check-in kiosks and automated bag drops, plus a high-tech baggage system that uses smart totes to move luggage faster and track your bags every step of the way.

Local Food, Michigan Beer and a Self-Serve Wine Wall

Beyond the major construction, frequent flyers know it's the thoughtful, local details that really set GRR apart. Once you get past security, you can grab a cold regional pour at Prospect Hill, Aletitude, or Bell’s Brewery's Tap and Table, or hit the famous self-serve wine wall featuring Michigan wineries.

Travelers with young kids can kill time at the interactive plane-themed play areas, while military members have a comfortable dedicated Military Welcome Center to relax in. If you are looking for an upgraded pre-flight experience, you can check out The Club GRR VIP lounge, and keep an eye out for Jerry the Jet making his rounds to bring extra smiles to the concourse.

Add in all these amenities with the easier check-in process, and the whole experience feels less like airport stress and more like the actual start of your vacation.

What's Next at GRR?

Plus, the local dining scene at GRR might be getting another homegrown upgrade soon! Signs are pointing toward Rockford's popular health-food favorite, Boochie Bar, setting up shop at the airport to offer travelers on-tap kombucha, acai bowls, and fresh bites before take-off.