Engine House 5 Fire Museum, Allendale

At Engine House No. 5 Fire Museum, visitors learn about the history of the area's first responders, as they explore a collection of vintage fire-fighting gear, some of which dates back to the late 1600s.

• The Building: In 1880, this brick building was built and stood in downtown Grand Rapids for 100 years. When a new firestation was planned in 1980, it was disassembled, brick by brick, and reassembled in Allendale to house this history museum.

• Eye Catcher: A fleet of vintage fire engines, including a 1936 hand-pumped engine

• Permanent Mainstay: A collection of leather buckets, which were the only way to supply water to the fire engines until the early 1800s—some of these buckets were crafted in the late 17th century

• Crown Jewel: One fully-restored Eureka hose cart, complete with a 24-karat-gold inlay

• From the Press: According to Fox17, "These fire trucks are truly something that would be seen at the Henry Ford Museum in Greenfield Village in pristine condition."

• While You're There: Browse Hammer & Thread, an on-site shop that specializes in handmade goods, such as jewelry, clothing, and soaps