Things To Do
in Holland
Holland is a lakeside city on Michigan's west coast known for its Dutch heritage and charming canals. It sits along Lake Michigan, offering sandy beaches, parks, and a walkable downtown. The town hosts the annual Tulip Time festival, which celebrates its Dutch roots with blooms and crafts.
Visitors enjoy a family-friendly mix of outdoor recreation, breweries, and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Holland's historic district, where you can admire the Dutch architecture and vibrant flowers. Stop by the Holland Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Grab a fresh pastry and coffee from a local café to fuel your adventures ahead.
After a delightful lunch at one of the local eateries, head to Kollen Park, where you can enjoy picturesque views of Lake Macatawa. Spend some time relaxing on the grassy banks or take a paddleboat out onto the water for a unique perspective of the scenery. As you wander, keep an eye out for the iconic windmill that adds to the Dutch ambiance of the area.
As the sun sets, make your way to the nearby Lake Michigan shoreline for a breathtaking sunset view. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachfront restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and local favorites. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the sand between your toes.
Begin your day with a visit to Windmill Island Gardens, a beautiful park showcasing the city's Dutch heritage. Explore the stunning gardens filled with tulips and other colorful blooms, which are particularly vibrant in spring. Don't miss the chance to climb to the top of the historic De Zwaan windmill for panoramic views of the area.
After a morning of exploration, have lunch at the park's café, where you can enjoy a selection of Dutch-inspired dishes. Spend the afternoon learning about the windmill's history and its significance to Holland's culture through the informative displays. Capture the beauty of the gardens by taking photographs and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
As evening approaches, head back to downtown Holland for a delightful dinner at a local bistro. Savor the flavors of the region while enjoying live music that often fills the air during the summer months. End your day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, perfect for a warm evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $90-160 |
| 🛍️Groceries for two | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum or activity entry | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Dutch heritage and waterfront charm
- Strong craft beer scene (New Holland Brewing)
- Family-friendly with parks and beaches
- Close to nature and nearby Saugatuck dunes
- Tourist crowds in Tulip Time season
- Limited high-end dining options compared to larger cities
- Winter visibility can be challenging due to lake effect snow
Places to Visit in Holland
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Dutch windmill and manicured gardens; especially photogenic in spring and golden hour.
Historic brick sidewalks, quaint storefronts, and pastel canal views—great for street photography.
Expansive sandy shore with lighthouse silhouettes and sunsets over the lake.
Traditional campus architecture with brick buildings and green spaces; shoots well in morning light.
Food in Holland
Holland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dutch waffle cookie with a caramel syrup filling, commonly found in local bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
Dutch doughnuts dusted with sugar, popular at markets and winter festivals.
Fresh lake fish prepared fried or baked, a staple at lakeside eateries.
Almond-filled pastry shaped like a letter, a nod to Holland's Dutch heritage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Occasional lakeside pop-up stalls offering seafood and snacks during summer events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Share sidewalks; yield to pedestrians; use bike lanes where available.
Interact politely; a quick handshake is common; showing appreciation for the Dutch influence is welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Holland
Ensure a smooth experience
Typical in the U.S. is 15-20% at restaurants; tip higher for exceptional service.
Most places accept cash and cards; contactless payments are common; some smaller venues may be cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with chances of afternoon storms; lake breezes make evenings pleasant.
Colorful foliage along the lakeshore; cool days ideal for outdoor walks and harvest festivals.
Cold with possible lake-effect snow; indoor venues and cozy eateries are popular.
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; Tulip Time festival in May can be a highlight.
Holland at Night
Hiking in Holland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dune trails and forested sections along Lake Michigan with scenic overlooks.
Coastal dunes, forested trails, and lake views just south of Holland.
Forest trails and birdwatching within a short drive from town.
Airports
How to reach Holland by plane.
Major regional airport serving Grand Rapids; about 40-50 miles from Holland with rental cars and shuttles.
Large international hub about 220 miles from Holland; options for long-distance travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and retirees; the city has a family-friendly feel.
Near Hope College, there is a student presence and related cultural events.
Predominant demographic; smaller counts of other racial/ethnic groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in winter; local leagues and ice rinks are common in nearby cities.
Youth and adult leagues are common; local parks host games in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Holland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants and markets; look for salads, grain bowls, and vegetable-forward plates, with substitutions available on request.