21 BEST Issues To Do In Holland (Michigan)

Whether or not it’s frolicking across the well-known tulips, having fun with a little bit of Dutch tradition, or participating in some procuring on eighth Avenue, there are loads of issues to do in Holland for all guests.

Forbes has named Holland, Michigan one in every of America’s prettiest cities, and we will’t say we disagree. Visiting right here is among the best things to do in Michigan! With windmills within the distance and Lake Michigan solely steps away, it’s a spot that may keep in your recollections endlessly.

The place is Holland, Michigan?

Earlier than we dig into the very best issues to do in Holland, let’s focus on location. Holland is a metropolis in Southwestern Michigan close to the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. It’s an excellent standard vacationer vacation spot and makes one of the vital romantic places to visit in Michigan in the summertime.

Holland is simply half-hour drive from Grand Rapids. 2.5 hours from Detroit and one hour from Lansing, that means many Michiganders flock right here for the seashores and tulips.

All About Holland, Michigan

Sort in “Holland” to Google, and also you’ll probably get loads of details about Holland, The Netherlands in Europe. Nonetheless, this little slice of Europe is in Michigan. Its title originates from the Dutch Individuals that based the town in 1847.

The Dutch colony settled on the land which Ottawa Indians initially populated. Ultimately, the colony bought the land close to the Black River, which led to Lake Michigan.

In consequence, Holland is well-known for its Dutch Heritage, which you’ll be able to see virtually in every single place. It’s a part of the cultural identification and constructed strongly into the tourism of Holland. There are nonetheless loads of Dutch Individuals residing in Holland right this moment. Over 28% of the inhabitants identifies as being of Dutch descent.

Holland can be recognized for being the “Metropolis of Churchs,” with over 170 church buildings within the metropolis. It even is residence to the church that began the “What Would Jesus Do?” bracelets within the late 80s.

Finest Issues to Do in Holland, Michigan

1. Marvel on the Veldheer Tulip Gardens

Consistent with Holland’s Dutch theme, the Veldheer Tulip Gardens is a prime metropolis attraction and top-of-the-line issues to do in Holland, MI. What began as a interest in 1950 is right this moment an enormous enterprise with a riot of shade.

The one tulip backyard in Holland, it’s residence to a number of million tulips of all completely different shades. You may as well see Dutch lilies, hyacinths, daffodils, and different sorts of flora. Crops are sourced from across the globe to make the backyard as lovely as it’s.

Stroll alongside the fantastic pathways as you take in the views and get a lot of Insta-worthy snaps. Name into the on-site store to buy fresh-cut flowers and bulbs.

2. Study Native Historical past at Holland Museum

Since 1915, the Holland Museum has taken guests on a journey again to when Dutch settlers first arrived in Holland. Journey by means of the town’s historical past and uncover important occasions as you recognize the developments and modifications Holland has seen over time.

There are quite a few reveals and shows overlaying native historical past and Dutch tradition from throughout the globe. Objects embody toys, artwork, garments, books, furnishings, and extra.

3. Enter the World of Oz

The Fantastic Wizard of Oz has been a well-liked youngsters’ guide (later film) for a few years. Virtually everybody is aware of a minimum of the fundamentals of the story, that includes Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and others. The writer – L. Frank Baum – cherished to spend his holidays in Holland. It was right here, in Holland, that he obtained the inspiration to write down the basic story.

The Holland Oz Project remembers the writer and pays homage to the well-known guide by means of giant bronze statues of characters from the story set alongside a fascinating yellow brick highway. You’ll discover this free exhibition in downtown Holland. In Centennial Park, flowers bloom to create a big storybook (in season).

4. Splash round at Holland Aquatic Middle

Holland Aquatic Center is the right place for watery enjoyable. Swim laps or loosen up within the 50-meter pool, watch as youngsters squeal with delight on the slides and toys within the splash zone, unwind within the remedy pool, and deal with your self to a spa therapy. The middle additionally gives water-based keep-fit courses and swimming classes.

5. Store ‘Until You Drop in Downtown

In the event you’re in search of some nice retail remedy in Holland, look no additional than 8^th Avenue in Downtown Holland. On the coronary heart of downtown, that is the town’s primary procuring hub, and heading right here is among the greatest issues to do in Holland. There are greater than 100 shops and eateries inside the charming Victorian-style buildings.

Most retailers stay open till late within the night, and there’s an enormous choice of items to tempt you. Even higher – the streets are heated with subterranean water pipes for a comfortable winter expertise!

6. Stroll round Van Bragt Park

Van Bragt Park could also be pretty small, but it surely’s value a fast go to to see the lovable windmill. A reproduction of a windmill from the property of W.Okay. Kellogg (an enormous title related to breakfast cereals), the construction may be very photogenic. Stroll alongside the walkways (canines are allowed, too), relaxation on one of many benches, and go fishing on this nice metropolis park.

5. Uncover Dutch Tradition at The Nelis Dutch Village

Providing heaps of enjoyable and discoveries for folks of all ages, the Nelis Dutch Village is a must-visit for anybody who needs to know extra about Dutch traditions and heritage. As soon as a tulip farm, right this moment’s guests will discover examples of typical Dutch structure, a restaurant that serves basic Dutch fare, canals, and a retailer that sells Dutch-themed souvenirs.

Journey seekers can have a go on the zip line and swings, whereas youngsters are certain to be happy with assembly the animals within the petting zoo. See the village from above with a trip on the windmill-inspired Ferris wheel.

There are various workshops and demonstrations, together with dance performances, cheese making, waffle making, and clog making. Take selfies as you costume in Dutch apparel and slip on a pair of sturdy wood clogs.

6. Admire Numerous Works in Kruizenga Artwork Museum

Situated inside Hope School, Kruizenga Art Museum is a instructing museum with varied works from completely different ages, cultures, and genres. Open to the general public on chosen days of the week, the artwork museum’s assortment has items from worldwide.

Interpret the tales as you admire the items and be impressed by the artistic endeavors. Many items search to problem perceptions and viewpoints whereas providing other ways of fascinated by the world.

7. Immerse Your self in Nature at De Graaf Nature Middle

Masking 18 acres, the landscapes of De Graaf Nature Center are made up of woods, ponds, and marshes, with a number of trails working by means of the wildlife-rich protect. Pop into the guests’ heart to study extra in regards to the natural world that thrive within the space earlier than getting down to spot numerous nature.

8. See the Historic Outdated Wing Mission

Among the best issues to do in Holland is go to the Historic Outdated Wing Mission. The Old Wing Mission dates again to the mid-1800s and is the oldest remaining home in Holland. It’s listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations. Right here, a Christian preacher launched the religion to native indigenous teams.

The Greek Revival property has been developed and altered palms a number of occasions. Though you can’t go inside, you may nonetheless see the property and take in just a little little bit of native historical past.

9. Spend Time at Windmill Island

One of many prime locations to go to when in Holland, Windmill Island is a lovely 36-acre synthetic island surrounded by man-made canals and the Macatawa River. Crossing the slim stretch of water appears to move you additional away – it’s like stepping foot within the Netherlands!

Lined in gorgeous gardens, a spotlight of the island is the genuine De Zwaan windmill that was transported to the USA from the Netherlands. The historic windmill is greater than two and a half centuries previous and nonetheless works right this moment, producing flour on the market.

In the summertime months, tulips burst into bloom, overlaying the island in multi-colored hues. There’s a pleasant classic carousel typically standard with youngsters, a road organ from Amsterdam, and well-marked strolling trails. Within the hotter months, it’s typically doable to see folks performing in conventional Dutch costumes.

10. Sunbathe in Holland State Park

Holland State Park doesn’t have only one seashore – it has two! Select between stress-free on the seashore alongside the shores of Lake Michigan or chilling out on the seashore on the sting of Lake Macatawa – or hop between them each!

Stroll alongside the sands and take in the views, catch some rays and prime up your suntan, or take a dip within the refreshingly cool lake waters. You may strive numerous water actions, seashore volleyball, or fishing when you’re feeling lively. Mountaineering trails wind by means of the park, and you’ll discover the sand dunes too.

In the event you keep till the night, you may watch a picturesque sundown over the majestic Lake Michigan and if you wish to keep even longer, the park has two well-equipped campgrounds.

11. Go to Graafschap Church

Established in 1862, Graafschap Church was on the coronary heart of the Dutch immigrant group. The quaint log constructing homes the Graafschap Heritage Middle right this moment, the place you may study extra about immigration to the world. The middle particulars causes for immigration, how folks traveled abroad to begin a brand new life, how early pioneers constructed log properties, and the way migrants handled challenges and hardships.

Close by, the lively Graafschap Church is a lovely piece of structure that also retains a robust place on the coronary heart of the native Christian group. You may pay your respects to early settlers on the grounds, and a easy stone with a plaque marks their burial website.

12. Climb Up Mount Pisgah Dune

Mount Pisgah is a excessive dune that towers 157 ft within the air. Near Holland State Park, you may observe the boardwalk or climb up the steps to achieve the highest of the dune. The height gives large views over Lakes Michigan and Macatawa, Holland’s marinas, the seashores, the woodlands, and the Massive Crimson Lighthouse.

13. Unwind in Kollen Park

Located on the sting of Lake Macatawa, Kollen Park is a good place for leisure. There’s an extended boardwalk over the lake – the Heinz Waterfront Boardwalk – donated by the close by giant Heinz manufacturing facility. Fishing is feasible proper from the boardwalk, and the 24-acre park additionally has grassy expanses, picnic areas, and a youngsters’ playground.

Discover the park’s two important landmarks – a fountain and a statue. The Queretaro Fountain was gifted to Holland by its Mexican sister metropolis, and the Immigrants Statue was given to the town by the Dutch metropolis of Denthe.

14. Keep Indoors at BAM! Leisure Middle

Among the best issues to do in Holland on wet days or to flee sizzling or chilly climate, BAM! is a superb indoor leisure heart for all family members. Intention for a strike with a fast-paced bowling recreation; attempt to beat the escape rooms; sing your coronary heart out at karaoke; or shoot some pool.

Laser tag, Atomic Rush, a excessive ropes course, and arcade video games are only a few extra enjoyable actions within the heart. No worries if all the thrill burns your power – there’s an excellent on-site restaurant too.

15. Cruise on the Holland Princess

Board the Holland Princess for a soothing tour on the waters of Lakes Michigan and Macatawa. Spot wildlife, benefit from the views and see native landmarks as you leisurely drift throughout the lakes. With its Victorian model, the paddlewheel boat has a way of nostalgia, and varied actions can be found onboard.

16. Catch a Efficiency on the Knickerbocker Theater

Operated by Hope College for the reason that late Nineteen Eighties, the theater has a for much longer historical past. Constructed within the early 1900s, it has hosted an enormous number of exhibits, performances, and talks – Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the viewers from the stage when he was Secretary of the Navy.

Right now, the venue is a significant cultural institution, with performs, live shows, artwork movies, and fascinating lectures among the many numerous schedule.

17. Distinction Life within the Previous on the Cappon Home and Settlers Home

the Cappon House — picture courtesy of The Cappon Home

Situated only a few doorways from one another, Cappon House and Settlers House are two previous properties from occasions passed by. Though inhabited at across the similar time frame, they’re starkly completely different. It’s simple to see the socio-economic divide from yesteryear.

The elegant Cappon Home, constructed in 1874, has been rigorously restored to point out what it could have been like in its heyday. The Italianate Victorian dwelling was the house of Isaac Cappon – the primary mayor of Holland and an prosperous tannery proprietor.

The smaller Settlers Home is a a lot less complicated constructing, occupied prior to now by working-class households. Constructed-in the 1860s, it has been restored to point out how it could have been within the 1870s.

18. Watch the Solar Go Down at Tunnel Park

If you’re nonetheless questioning what to do in Holland, MI head to Tunnel Park! Dwelling to a number of sand dunes, Tunnel Park, is known as due to the tunnel that cuts proper by means of one of many dunes. There’s a dune climb and a dune stroll that afford nice vistas, and the park has a play space for youthful guests, picnicking spots, and volleyball courts.

In addition to being a terrific place for swimming, stress-free, sunbathing, and taking part in, it’s also a prime location to observe a lovely sundown. Stick round till the late afternoon to observe the solar dipping over the shimmering lake, casting colourful reflections on the water.

19. Snap a Image of Holland Harbor Lighthouse

One of many metropolis’s most iconic landmarks, the Holland Harbor Lighthouse, can be typically known as the Massive Crimson Lighthouse. Near Holland State Park, the lighthouse was constructed within the 1870s. Though it’s not possible to go contained in the historic construction, it’s nonetheless an incredible place to take superior images.

20. Attend the Tulip Time Competition

Held in Holland every Could, the full of life Tulip Town Festival brings the town every week of gaiety and revelry. Celebrating Holland’s Dutch heritage, the family-friendly competition options meals, dancing, music, video games, and parades.

See folks dressed up in Dutch apparel (full with clogs), watch live shows by huge names, really enter the spirit of Dutch-ness, and make many magical recollections at top-of-the-line small-town festivals within the USA.

21. Day Journey to Saugatuck

Not precisely a Holland, Michigan factor to do, however an incredible day journey! Saugatuck is a kind of Michigan lakeside cities you may’t assist however fall in love with. It’s lower than a 20-minute drive away from Holland and makes for an incredible day journey to the seashore with some wine.

It’s an artsy city with loads of boutique retailers, great Michigan breweries, and locations to do a wine tasting. I really like heading right here for a enjoyable seashore time out and having fun with the many things to do in Saugatuck.

The place to Eat in Holland?

Among the best issues to do in Holland is to take pleasure in all of the fabulous eating places there are. From waterside eating to hip breweries, Holland has all of it. Listed here are a number of of our favorites.

The place to Keep in Holland?

Staybridge Suites: One of many nicest locations to remain in Holland. This has wonderful opinions, and it’s only one,650 ft from Nelis’ Dutch Village.
CityFlatsHotel: Tremendous fashionable lodge situated within the coronary heart of Downtown Holland.
Holiday Inn Express: Mid-range lodge with true Vacation Inn splendid consolation. Only a brief drive from Lake Michigan seashores.

21 BEST Issues To Do In Holland (Michigan)

The place is Holland, Michigan?

All About Holland, Michigan