Big event downtown? The last thing you want to do is spend your evening circling for a parking spot! Let DASH get you where you need to go.
Get to Know DASH
The Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) is a free shuttle run by Mobile GR and the City of Grand Rapids. The pink buses loop continuously through downtown, connecting city parking ramps and lots to the neighborhoods and venues people are actually headed to. Unlike The Rapid's fixed-route buses, DASH serves the downtown core, making it the perfect option for getting to and from special events.
How DASH Works for Events
On event nights, DASH runs an extended event route connecting parking directly to the venue. For Acrisure Amphitheater events, for example, that route starts at 5 PM or two hours before showtime, whichever comes first, and runs until midnight.
DASH stops sit near most city-owned parking ramps and lots downtown, so wherever you park, a stop isn't far off.
Buses on the event route arrive roughly every 8 minutes.
Riding is free: no ticket, no Wave card, no exact change needed.
All DASH vehicles are wheelchair-accessible, making DASH one of the most reliable accessible options for reaching a venue. Riders can also arrange a ride through Go!Bus, The Rapid's ADA paratransit service, with advance reservation.
Event routes and stop details can vary by venue, so it's worth checking that venue's access guide for the exact DASH map before you go.
Reserve Your Parking Ahead of Time
For many events, you can reserve a spot at a City-operated ramp or lot in advance through ParkMobile, rather than hoping for the best when you arrive. City-operated ramps and lots typically run $25 or less for event parking. Check your venue's access guide for exact rates and reservation links, since pricing varies by location and event.
Practical Tips for Event Nights
Park once, then ride. Choose any ramp or lot along the DASH route instead of circling for street parking closer to the venue. Most downtown ramps put you within an easy walk of a DASH stop.
Use the Transit app or the myStop app to check real-time arrivals. You'll also find arrival info posted directly at each stop.
Confirm the last ride time for your specific route. Regular Rapid and DASH service can end earlier than an event route, so don't assume you can catch a ride home whenever you're ready to leave.
Expect the heaviest crowds right after a show lets out. Building in a few extra minutes or walking to a stop slightly farther from the exit crowd can mean a shorter wait.
Maps and More
Want to see it before you go? The Acrisure Amphitheater access guide has venue-specific parking, DASH, and rideshare details, and the downtown parking map shows ramps and lots across downtown. Each major venue has its own access guide with the same level of detail.
DASH Beyond Special Events
DASH isn't just for concert nights. Buses run every eight minutes, seven days a week, for anyone working, living, shopping, or spending time downtown:
Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to midnight
Saturday, 11 AM to 1 AM
Sunday, 11 AM to 7 PM