Several new businesses are set to open in Big Rapids throughout 2026, bringing expanded dining options, redevelopment projects and long-awaited returns to the community.
One of the most notable additions is a new Dunkin’ Donuts that is set to be constructed inside the Walmart located on 21400 Perry Ave. The Big Rapids store is one of 14 that are included within Walmart’s “Store of the Future” project.
The Dunkin’ location is expected to open at the end of May, with the store’s grand reopening. This new shop marks the return of Dunkin’ Donuts to Big Rapids, as a previous location operated downtown until 2008.
A hiring event for the remodeling process was held on Jan. 19 at the Walmart location.
Downtown Big Rapids will also see the addition of a Cottage Inn Pizza, which is set to open at 126 S. Michigan Ave.
The pub-style restaurant expects to open in late summer or early fall. Located just minutes from campus, the new pizza spot will offer students and residents another late-night dining option in the downtown area.
Another major development for the city is the upcoming Chipotle restaurant planned for 110 Perry Ave.
This multi-story building was the former site of the TCF Bank and Huntington Bank building, with demolition of the existing structure being delayed due to harsh weather conditions.
Once demolition of the current structure is complete, construction on the new location will begin.
The store will be a one-story building and will include a drive-thru. The restaurant is expected to open before the end of the year.
In addition to new dining options, entertainment is returning to the city with the renovation of the Big Rapids Theater.
The Big Rapids Theater will stay at its former location on 213 S. Michigan Ave., and will undergo major renovations.
Among the most notable upgrades, the theater will become only the second in the country to feature the newest luxury seating from Irwin Seating of Grand Rapids.
These developments reflect the ongoing growth and investment of the Big Rapids community, as it continues to expand.
Students are looking forward to visiting these additional businesses and the opportunity that they provide for the community.
Radiology freshman Josie Harrison mentioned how these places will bring more choices when it comes to employment options for students.
“I am definitely excited for the new food places coming up, both as job opportunities for college students and some quick bites,” Harrison said. I haven’t heard about the upcoming movie theater, but I’ve always wondered why we don’t have one. I am super excited for all these new amenities.”
A complaint from many students is that there are not enough choices when it comes to dining in Big Rapids.
Radiology freshman Luke Zinke shared this belief, mentioning how the additional options will prove to be positive contributions to the community.
“I think that sounds pretty cool,” Zinke said. We have a lot of restaurants already but nothing interesting sounding, so bringing in a Chipotle or Cottage Inn Pizza will be a great thing for Bug Rapids. Also, finally having a movie theater again would be great instead of watching movies in a dorm room or on campus.”
With some of the businesses set to open in late spring, students are eager to see these new implementations within the community and experience them with friends.
Mechanical engineering freshman Ryan Knechtges discussed how he doesn’t see enough people getting out in town, so having more options in the area will help improve that.
“It will be nice to have more variety in town and more things to do,” Knechtges said. “The new food places and the movie theater will give people more reasons to go out, try new things, and meet new people.”
As construction moves forward and a few of the openings are set for late spring, students see the projects as a sign of continued revitalization in Big Rapids.