Hastings has a close-knit, active community
About 40 miles southeast of Grand Rapids, Hastings is a city of 7,500. The seat of Barry County, the area takes pride in a level of autonomy not always seen in communities its size. “The town really stands on its own,” says Sarah Moyer-Cale, city manager for Hastings. “It’s not a bedroom community – everything you could want is right here.” Known for historic homes and a picturesque riverwalk, many homeowners are attracted to the area for its scenic surroundings and active local culture.
19th-century houses are in the south side of the city
Northern Hastings has turn-of-the-century bungalows and Craftsman homes, generally priced between the high $140,000s and the mid-$220,000s. Midcentury split-levels and ranch-style homes are also popular, ranging from the high $180,000s to the low $310,000s. Newer neo-traditional designs are available from the low $230,000s to the low $370,000s. Historic homes are most frequently found in southern Hastings, with 19th-century traditional styles between the low $40,000s and the low $270,000s, depending on condition and size.
Older students can attend Kellogg Community College
The Hastings Area School System serves the area with four elementary schools, one middle and one high school. The district has a B from Niche and has developed a reputation for athletics and the arts. “The sports teams do really well, and they have a unique performing arts center,” says Moyer-Cale. Kellogg Community College has a campus in Hastings that offers programs of study in applied technology and manufacturing.
The Walldorff Brew Pub is set up in a historic building
Locally owned retail and eateries are located around the city center. “We have a thriving downtown,” says Moyer-Cale. “We also have a social district, so people can meet up with friends for drinks.” With a history that goes back to 1866, the Warlldorff Brew Pub and Bistro has a selection of locally-crafted beers to go with their burgers, pizza and upscale tavern food. The Hastings Riverside Café offers all-day breakfast and lunch along the Thornapple River. Groceries are available at the Family Fare Supermarket.
Locals head to Bliss Riverfront Park for some scenic nature
Bliss Riverfront Park has dozens of acres of green space, including walking trails, river access points and views of mature oak and maple trees. The Legacy at Hastings is a public, 18-hole course that frequently hosts league play, tournaments and coaching for junior golfers. Fish Hatchery Park is a popular spot for local sports fans, with soccer fields, a basketball court and a disc golf course. The Hastings Performing Arts Center hosts musical groups like the Kingston Trio, John Berry and the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra.
Performers from all over Michigan attend the Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Fest
The Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Fest has hosted three days of free jazz performances every year since it was founded in 2003. “It’s really popular,” says Moyer-Cale. “High school bands from all over the state attend it and get to perform.” She also says that the Barry-Roubaix Gravel Race is one of the largest in the world, inviting bikers to test their mettle against thousands of other riders. “In 2025, we had about 5,400 racers,” she says.
Barry County Transit has a public bus service
Michigan Highway 43 is the main thoroughfare for the area, connecting to Interstates 96 and 94 in the north and south, respectively. Barry County Transit provides public bus services throughout the county.
