Holland Michigan sits on the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan. You’ll find Dutch heritage, sandy beaches, and family-friendly events that welcome visitors year-round. Whether you love history, nature, or crave great food, this guide helps you plan your perfect trip. Table of Contents:

• Top Attractions in Holland Michigan
• Local Eats and Dutch Food Favorites
• Holland Michigan Parks and Outdoor Fun

Quick Snapshot of Holland Michigan

If you want a charming lakeside city, Holland Michigan offers a mix of Dutch traditions, sandy beaches, and friendly neighborhoods. Holland is famous for the annual Tulip Time Festival. Each May, the city blooms with millions of tulips. Stroll through Windmill Island Gardens or climb the 239 steps of Mt. Pisgah for sweeping views of Lake Michigan and Big Red Lighthouse. Downtown, you can browse shops, galleries, and local eateries along 8th Street. Why locals and visitors love Holland:

• Tulip Time Festival: Over 5 million tulips each spring
• Holland State Park: Wide beaches and sunset views
• Dutch Heritage: Watch wooden shoes crafted at De Klomp

Explore more on nearby trails or visit museums in Holland.

Top Things to Do in Holland Michigan

You’ll find Dutch culture, lakefront fun, and local traditions all around Holland. Visit Nelis’ Dutch Village on James Street. Ride mini roller coasters, watch cheese making, or meet friendly animals at the petting zoo. Try sweet stroopwafels and other Dutch treats as you explore. Head to Holland State Park for swimming or relaxing by Lake Michigan. Snap photos of Big Red Lighthouse and catch a sunset on the sand. In May, Tulip Time Festival fills the city with color and music. Other fun activities:

• Bike paved trails through scenic parks and along lakeshores
• Browse shops and restaurants on 8th Street
• Climb Mt. Pisgah for dune and lake views

Where to Stay in Holland Michigan

When you plan your visit, choosing where to stay in Holland Michigan gives you lots of options. Pick from boutique hotels downtown or cozy cabins by the water. Downtown Holland features spots like the Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, close to 8th Street’s shops and bakeries. Families can check out Hampton Inn Holland or Fairfield Inn & Suites, both with pools and breakfast. For a rustic stay, Holland State Park has cabins and RV sites near Lake Macatawa dunes. You’ll be steps from trails and the iconic “Big Red” lighthouse. Top options:

• Downtown hotels: Walk to events like Tulip Time Festival
• Beachfront lodging: Quick access to Lake Michigan’s sand and sunsets
• Family hotels: Pools and free breakfast

Best Restaurants & Cafés in Holland Michigan

Ready to taste the best restaurants & cafés in Holland Michigan? Downtown and the festival area offer plenty to try. Popular choices:

• Waverly Stone Gastropub on 8th Street serves burgers and local specials
• Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant offers lakeside views and fresh seafood
• Anna’s House, a retro diner at 12450 Felch Street, serves breakfast all day

At New Holland Brewing, you can savor artisan pizza and craft beer brewed right in town. Salt & Pepper Savory Grill dishes up classic American meals and draws a local crowd. Grab coffee at Lemonjello’s, a favorite for Hope College students just blocks away.

Weather by Season & Best Time to Visit Holland Michigan

Knowing the weather by season helps you plan the best time to visit Holland Michigan. Spring brings Tulip Time Festival in early May. Days feel mild, with highs around 55–65°F, and tulips brighten downtown streets. Summer offers warm weather—perfect for Holland State Park Beach or a stroll on Ottawa Beach Road. July tops out near 80°F with plenty of sun. Fall cools to the 50s and 60s. Leaves turn bright along trails like Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk. Winter is chilly, with highs in the low 30s and regular snow. The town feels cozy, with smaller crowds at coffee shops. Key tips:

• Best beach weather: July–August
• Festival season: Early May
• Lowest hotel rates: December–February

Getting Here & Getting Around Holland Michigan

You can reach Holland Michigan by car, train, or bus. The city sits about 30 minutes west of Grand Rapids. Drive I-196 West and take Exit #55 for an easy trip. Amtrak trains arrive at the Padnos Transportation Center downtown. Local taxis like OMW Taxi offer quick rides around town. Popular ways to get around:

• Ride Saugatuck Interurban buses to downtown on Tuesdays
• Use local taxi and limousine companies
• Walk downtown, especially near 8th Street and the Tulip Time Festival area

You can stroll from the train station to Windmill Island Gardens in about 15 minutes.

Plan Your Art-Coast Escape to Holland Michigan

Plan your trip to Holland Michigan and experience the Art Coast’s blend of art, culture, and outdoor adventure. Stroll 8th Street to browse galleries and spot murals by local artists. Must-try activities:

• Visit a summer art festival or gallery event
• Walk the Beeline Trail for city views
• Shop at Holland’s Saturday Farmers Market on West 8th Street

Meet artists, dine by the water, or climb a dune for a fresh perspective. Check out pop-up art shows and events downtown all year. Some shops even offer hands-on workshops like pottery or painting. Ask the Holland Area Arts Council about upcoming classes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Holland Michigan

Holland, Michigan hosts seasonal festivals, lakeshore attractions, Dutch culture, and historic landmarks. You’ll also find unique restaurants and easy ways to get into town.

What are the top attractions to visit in Holland, Michigan?

See Windmill Island Gardens, relax at Holland State Park beach, and snap photos at Big Red Lighthouse on Ottawa Beach Road. Downtown’s 8th Street bursts with boutique shops and art galleries. For nature, walk the Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk for scenic views.

• Windmill Island Gardens: working Dutch windmill
• Holland State Park: sandy beach with sunsets
• Big Red Lighthouse: iconic photo spot

[[link]] Explore sites and plan your visit ➜

When is the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan?

Tulip Time Festival blooms in Holland each May. Millions of tulips fill parks and line 12th Street. Enjoy parades, Dutch dancing, and food trucks.

Can you list some unique activities to do in Holland, Michigan?

Rent a kayak at Macatawa Lake, watch wooden shoe carving at Nelis’ Dutch Village, or explore the Holland Museum on Centennial Street. Bike trails connect parks and nature spots all around town.

• Kayak rentals at Macatawa Lake
• Wooden shoe carving demos
• Bike or hike dune trails

What are the best dining options in Holland, Michigan?

Downtown’s 8th Street features local favorites. Try Boatwerks on Lake Macatawa for waterfront dining or step into The Curragh Irish Pub for casual fare. New Holland Brewing serves up local beers and burgers.

• Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant
• The Curragh Irish Pub
• New Holland Brewing Company

How do you get to Holland, Michigan from the nearest major airport?

Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids sits about 35 miles from Holland. You can drive, rent a car, or use a shuttle and reach Holland in under an hour via I-196 West.

What historical sites can you explore in Holland, Michigan?

Step into the Cappon House on 9th Street. Holland’s first mayor built this charming home in 1874. Wander through the Holland Museum. Discover Dutch artifacts and stories that shaped the area. Admire Pillar Church, a lakeshore icon since 1856. Its classic architecture invites you to imagine Holland’s early days.

• Cappon House Museum (1874 mayor’s home)
• Holland Museum with Dutch treasures
• Pillar Church, built in 1856