East Hills: The Heartbeat of Grand Rapids' Cultural Scene

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no probluhm]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dn me/my bad]
• How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yuh doin]
• Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [gud. how bout yuh]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yuh speek ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan I chek out the menu]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, thanks
  [I'll pay now, thanks]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [Get a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
• How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [That's too much]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [Can you do better?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [Tomorrah]
• 1One
  [Wun]
• 2Two
  [Too]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

East Hills, a vibrant neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Michigan, began its development in the late 19th century. Initially, the area was primarily agricultural and residential, attracting families looking for a suburban lifestyle while being close to the growing industrial city. The establishment of the East Hills Historic District, recognized for its architectural significance, showcases homes built in various styles, including Craftsman and Colonial Revival, reflecting the period's diverse influences.

In the mid-20th century, East Hills experienced a cultural renaissance as artists and creatives began to flock to the area. The neighborhood became known for its eclectic art galleries, studios, and performance spaces. The annual ArtPrize competition, which started in 2009, has further solidified East Hills' reputation as a cultural hub within Grand Rapids, drawing artists and visitors from across the globe.

By the late 20th century, East Hills faced challenges typical of urban neighborhoods, including economic decline and population loss. However, community leaders and residents initiated revitalization efforts in the 1990s, focusing on preserving the historical character of the area while promoting local businesses. This grassroots movement has led to the successful transformation of East Hills into a desirable locale, blending historic charm with modern amenities.

East Hills is home to several important local institutions that contribute to its cultural fabric. The Grand Rapids Public Library's East Branch, established to serve the growing population, has become a vital community resource. Additionally, the area's proximity to institutions like the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts has fostered a collaborative environment for artistic expression and education.

Today, East Hills is characterized by its diverse community, thriving local businesses, and a strong emphasis on sustainability. The neighborhood hosts various events throughout the year, including farmers' markets and art fairs, which celebrate local culture and foster community engagement. The blend of historic architecture and modern development continues to make East Hills a unique and appealing neighborhood within the Grand Rapids metropolitan area.

East Hills is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Grand Rapids. If you're coming from downtown, you can take a short drive via Wealthy Street SE or use public transportation. The Rapid bus service provides routes that connect downtown to East Hills, with stops along Wealthy Street. If you are arriving from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, taking a taxi or rideshare service is the most convenient option, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

East Hills is a walkable neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. For public transport, The Rapid bus system services the area with multiple routes. Biking is also a popular option, with bike lanes available along major roads. Bike rentals are available at various local shops. For those who prefer driving, street parking is available but may be limited during busy times.

East Hills is generally safe for tourists; however, standard safety precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in less populated areas. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to stay vigilant around the Wealthy Street corridor, especially after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospitals, such as Spectrum Health, are equipped to handle emergencies. For non-emergency health issues, local urgent care clinics are available. It's advisable to have travel insurance to cover any potential medical needs.

Fashion: Do wear casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking; don't wear overly revealing clothes, especially when visiting local churches or community events. Religion: Do respect the local customs; don't interrupt religious services or take photos without permission. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly or those in need; don't play loud music or be disruptive. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly hello; don't be overly familiar until you know someone better. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine at eateries; don't waste food or be disrespectful to local dining customs.

To experience East Hills like a local, visit the local shops and cafes on Wealthy Street, particularly the artisanal bakeries and coffee shops. Attend community events that are often held in local parks, where you can meet residents and learn about the neighborhood's culture. Explore the East Hills neighborhood during the Grand Rapids Art Prize for a vibrant display of local creativity. Don't miss the local farmer's market, where fresh produce and handmade goods are available.