There’s no better place to experience the majesty of air travel and enjoy a breathtaking sunset than at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Viewing Park. The closest spot in town to see planes take off and land, this is where the viewing gets good.
Tucked along Kraft Avenue, the Airport Viewing Park offers one of the closest vantage points to an active runway—making it a favorite for families, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique outdoor experience. The park is free and open on Tuesdays through Sundays from 7:30am to dusk and on Mondays from 9:30am to dusk. On any given day, hundreds of commercial passenger planes, cargo airships, and smaller private planes take off and land, providing a constantly changing backdrop of motion and sound. Check the flight schedule at grr.org to see the times of highest air traffic.
From June through August, the viewing experience turns into a tasting experience with the return of the airport’s popular Food Truck Series. On select Wednesdays, up to eight food trucks gather at the Viewing Park, serving up a rotating mix of tasty local fare. Visitors can expect everything from classic burgers to street tacos to sweet treats and refreshing drinks—making it easy to turn a quick visit into a full afternoon outing.
The Viewing Park itself is designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can take advantage of a covered pavilion, permanent restrooms, filtered drinking fountains, and plenty of picnic tables and seating. With over 100 parking spaces oriented toward the airfield, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy the show.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a casual lunch, or simply looking for a new way to spend a summer afternoon, the Viewing Park offers a one-of-a-kind blend of food, fun, and flight. Be sure to check the airport’s social channels for the latest food truck dates and times—and come hungry for both delicious eats and great views. And who knows—you might even run into Jerry the Jet, too!
