People from all over the world are interested in visiting Van Andel Institute (VAI) in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. While VAI is closed to the general public, public tours and school group tours are available for those who would like to learn first-hand about the disease research and science education going on at the Institute.
To Schedule a Tour
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Review ALL of the information on this page
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Fill out the sign-up form
- A VAI representative will contact you to provide you with more information and either confirm or work out the details of your tour. It is important to review the information on this page and fill out the form before contacting VAI.
Tour Types
The Institute offers two types of tours: public tours and group tours. Tour types do not include meetings or events.
Public tours are available once a month; the date and time are pre-determined and if you are available during that time, you are encouraged to sign up for the tour. Upcoming public tour dates are listed on the tour sign-up form.
Group tours are available for groups of 10 - 30 people, including senior groups, school groups, and community groups. To schedule a group tour, please review all of the information on this page and fill out the sign-up form to express your interest. A VAI representative will contact you to provide you with more information and work out the details of your tour.
Group Tour Guidelines
- All group tours must be scheduled at least two (2) weeks in advance and must be approved by Van Andel Institute staff.
- Group tours are available during business hours only (8 – 5) and are not available on Saturdays, Sundays, major holidays, or days the facility is already in use.
- Group size must be at least 10 people and must not exceed 30 people (including chaperones)
Guidelines for All Tours
- Visitors must be at least 14 years of age to participate in a tour. All children 14 – 18 must be accompanied by an adult – please provide 1 adult per 10 children.
- All guest names, addresses, and e-mail addresses must be provided to confirm a tour.
- Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to your tour. If you or your group is 15 minutes late without notification, your tour will be subject to cancellation. If you are running late, please immediately call the receptionist desk at 616-234-5000 to notify them of your time of arrival.
- Parking is not validated. Please plan your parking before arriving at the Institute. You will receive parking information and directions after completing the sign-up form.
- Please allow at least an hour for your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- The facility is handicap accessible; however, the Institute does not have wheelchairs or walkers available.
