Spring has arrived and the West Michigan lakeshore is abuzz with fun activities and things to do — just look at what’s going on in Holland, Michigan alone! This place offers a great mix of downtown shops and restaurants along with trails, beaches, parks, and more. Whatever your family likes to do, you can be sure to check all the boxes when you head to Holland for a visit. In fact, here’s a whole bunch of fun to check out (then check off the list!):
Known for their famous Tulip Time Festival, Holland, Michigan is the epitome of “April showers bring May flowers”! Visit during the first week of May, and you’ll find the entire city in bloom. Festival events and activities take place throughout the town, which is bursting with color everywhere you look.
From a festive carnival to tall ship tours to artisan markets, walking and yoga in the tulips, raffles, hands-on activities, and more, Tulip Time is the perfect time for a family visit. Of all the things to do in Holland this spring, this one tops the list!
Just east of Holland State Park you’ll find Mt. Pisgah, a 157-foot high dune towering over Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. The cool thing is you don’t have to just look at it from the bottom and think, “Wow!” You can actually climb to the top by way of a boardwalk and stair system. You want to talk about wow? As you can imagine, from the top of the dune, there’s an absolutely breathtaking view you won’t want to miss!
A list of things to do in Holland, Michigan would not be complete without mentioning Tunnel Park! Whether you want to hit the beach, enjoy a picnic, play some volleyball in the sand, or take in some scenic views, this 22-acre park is a must-visit.
Let’s face it, it may not exactly be beach weather come spring in West Michigan! No worries, though. If you want to go for a swim, you have options other than the big lake. The Holland Community Aquatic Center not only offers a lap pool and fitness center, but also a whole lot of fun, wet, and wild play structures the whole family can enjoy! From water slides to obstacle courses, a zip line, and even a floating climbing wall, the Aquatic Center has it all.
Straight from the Netherlands, believe it or not, the historic, 251-year-old de Zwaan windmill is still functioning — grinding locally-grown grain into flour — and you can take a tour of it! Better yet, you can even purchase some flour to take home. Then, hop on a bike to explore the rest of the island, featuring an authentic antique carousel and street organ, replica buildings, and beautiful gardens.
You know what would go great with that freshly-ground flour you just bought on Windmill Island? Some fresh, local veggies and fruits! Take a stroll through the Holland Farmers Market and you’ll not only find some yummy garden grub but also baked goods, herbs and spices, honey, cheese — pretty much everything you need to experience a taste of Holland! You can even pick up some plants and flowers, like those tulips for which this place is so famous!
If you’ve got nature lovers in your crew, be sure to work these two awesome nature centers into your agenda of things to do in Holland, Michigan! Stop by DeGraaf Nature Center and the Outdoor Discovery Center and you can explore tons of trails that wind through acres of natural wildlife habitat, learn about local plants and animals at the Visitor’s Center, take a “Geology Walk’” and more! You’ll discover all the wonders of nature that springtime in West Michigan brings.
With a unique location that enjoys lakeshore activities and metropolitan amenities, Holland has much to offer its residents and visitors. In fact, there are so many fun things to do for the whole family, you might want to even consider living here!
If you’re thinking about relocating to West Michigan, reach out to BlueWest Properties. We have properties available that take advantage of Holland’s great community, schools, and job opportunities. We think you’ll agree that this city is a great place to not only visit in the spring and beyond, but also spread roots and raise a family.