Big Rapids is a city in western Michigan and the county seat of Mecosta County. Located in the central part of the Lower Peninsula, it sits along the Muskegon River and is about 55 miles north of Grand Rapids. The city is home to Ferris State University and is known for its riverfront, parks, trails, and outdoor recreation.
Location Map of Big Rapids, Mecosta County, Michigan
About Map: The map shows the location of Big Rapids in Mecosta County, in the U.S. state of Michigan.
Big Rapids Map, Michigan
About Big Rapids Map: The Google Map highlights the location of Big Rapids in Mecosta County, Michigan. Use the zoom, satellite, and street-view options to explore the city's neighborhoods, roads, and nearby places.
Where is Big Rapids Located?
Big Rapids is a city located in Mecosta County, Michigan, the United States. The city lies in the central part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula along the Muskegon River, about 55 miles (89 km) north of Grand Rapids, 65 miles (105 km) south of Traverse City, and 50 miles (80 km) east of Lake Michigan. Big Rapids is located at 43.6981° North latitude and 85.4837° West longitude. According to the 2020 United States Census, the city had a population of 7,727. Big Rapids covers approximately 4.58 square miles (11.86 sq km). Ferris State University is the city's most prominent institution, while the Muskegon River and nearby White Pine Trail provide popular places for fishing, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. The city also serves as the county seat of Mecosta County.
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Big Rapids City Facts
| City | Big Rapids |
| State | Michigan |
| County | Mecosta County |
| Country | United States |
| Region | Central Western Michigan |
| Incorporated | 1869 |
| Founded | 1854 |
| Total Area | 4.58 sq mi (11.86 sq km) |
| Land Area | 4.52 sq mi (11.71 sq km) |
| Water Area | 0.06 sq mi (0.16 sq km) |
| Elevation | 955 ft (291 m) |
| Population (2023 estimate) | Approximately 7,700 |
| Population (2020 Census) | 7,727 |
| Population Density | About 1,710 people per sq mi |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time (ET) (UTC−5/UTC−4) |
| ZIP Codes | 49307 |
| Area Code | 231 |
| Major Highways | U.S. Route 131, U.S. Business Route 131, Michigan Highway 20 |
| Public Transit | Mecosta County Area Transit |
| Major Attractions | Ferris State University, Muskegon River, White Pine Trail State Park, Card Wildlife Center, Big Rapids Riverwalk |
| Official Website | https://www.cityofbr.org/ |
Distance from Big Rapids, MI to Nearby Cities
- Reed City, MI – 17 miles (27 km)
- Newaygo, MI – 20 miles (32 km)
- Canadian Lakes, MI – 13 miles (21 km)
- Evart, MI – 22 miles (35 km)
- White Cloud, MI – 24 miles (39 km)
- Big Rapids Township, MI – 4 miles (6 km)
- Mount Pleasant, MI – 47 miles (76 km)
- Cadillac, MI – 45 miles (72 km)
- Muskegon, MI – 51 miles (82 km)
- Grand Rapids, MI – 55 miles (89 km)
- Alma, MI – 57 miles (92 km)
- Greenville, MI – 39 miles (63 km)
- Holland, MI – 77 miles (124 km)
- Lansing, MI – 81 miles (130 km)
- Traverse City, MI – 72 miles (116 km)
- Kalamazoo, MI – 91 miles (146 km)
- Battle Creek, MI – 88 miles (142 km)
- Ann Arbor, MI – 130 miles (209 km)
- Detroit, MI – 158 miles (254 km)
- Flint, MI – 117 miles (188 km)
Top Attractions in Big Rapids
- Ferris State University
- Big Rapids Riverwalk
- White Pine Trail State Park
- Muskegon River
- Card Wildlife Center
- Jim Wink Arena
- Ferris State University Bulldog Stadium
- Hemlock Park
- Robinson Park
- Paris Park
Airports Near Big Rapids
- Roben-Hood Airport (RQB) – 10 miles
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) – 62 miles
- Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) – 79 miles
- Muskegon County Airport (MKG) – 53 miles
- Capital Region International Airport (LAN) – 86 miles
Sources:
Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the Official City of Big Rapids Website.
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