The world is in excited anticipation of the upcoming nuptials of Britain's Prince William and his college sweetheart Kate Middleton. According to NBC News and News Service, the couple sealed their engagement by Prince William presenting Ms. Middleton with an engagement ring that was formerly owned and worn by his mother Princess Diana.
About the Exhibit
This long-awaited engagement stirs up many memories and thoughts of Prince William's beloved mother. Although you may not be able to get a close look at that engagement ring, you can view a number of Princess Diana's treasures at an exhibit in West Michigan entitled "Diana - - A Celebration". Held at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the exhibit will feature various clothing items, jewelry and childhood memories. Some of the most recognized items in the collection include Princess Diana's wedding gown, tiaras, engagement photographs, letters and notes of condolences.
The Princess Diana exhibit will run through the holidays, and conclude on Wednesday, February 16, 2011. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Star Tickets, or at the museum door. The cost of admission is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $15 for youth. Children under 5 are admitted for free. The "Diana--A Celebration" event is underwritten by the Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation.
About the Grand Rapids Art Museum
Additionally, the Grand Rapids Art Museum offers Sunday classical concerts and Friday night art and cultural discussions. The museum is also celebrating it's 100th birthday with an exhibit called "100 Years - 100 Works of Art".
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is open Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon- 5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Downtown Grand Rapids
Throughout the time of the Princess Diana exhibit, various hotels in the downtown and surrounding areas will offer museum packages with overnight stays and VIP passes to the museum. This includes the luxurious Amway Grand, JW Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott and the Holiday Inn Express Southwest. Other nearby hotels are the Radisson Inn and SpringHill Suites, both just less than four miles away.
While visiting the downtown area, dine at some of Grand Rapids' most popular eateries. Consider the B.O.B. (or Big Old Building) which houses a number of fine restaurants, the 1913 Room (a AAA Five Diamond Restaurant), or the Cottage Bar (known for their gourmet burgers).
Grand Rapids is just a short drive from a number of major US cities including Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland and Indianapolis.
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