Holland

Day Trips

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.

Kick off your day at Holland State Park, where you can soak in the sun on the beautiful sandy beaches. Enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, feeling the cool breeze. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy while watching the waves lapping at the shore.

After spending the morning at the beach, try your hand at some exciting water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, available for rent nearby. The park's scenic setting makes it a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. If you're feeling adventurous, consider joining a boat tour to explore more of the lake's beauty.

As the day winds down, return to the beach to witness the stunning sunset over Lake Michigan. Have dinner at one of the nearby seafood shacks, where you can indulge in fresh catches of the day. Cap off your evening with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.

Begin your day at the Holland Area Arts Council, where you can appreciate local artwork and participate in any ongoing workshops. Spend time chatting with local artists and getting inspired by the creative atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the nearby downtown area, popping into unique shops and galleries.

Have lunch at a local café that showcases art from the community, continuing the theme of creativity. Post-lunch, visit the Nelis' Dutch Village, where you can immerse yourself in Dutch culture through traditional activities, crafts, and performances. Be sure to catch a clog-making demonstration to see this unique art form in action.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that features a rotating menu of local and seasonal dishes, allowing you to taste the best of Holland's culinary scene. Afterward, consider attending a live theater performance or concert at a local venue, providing a taste of the vibrant arts scene. End your night with a relaxing walk through the town, soaking in the evening ambiance.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before embarking on a biking adventure along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails, taking in the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Stop at various parks along the way to take photos and enjoy the fresh air.

After biking, take a break for lunch at a picnic area or nearby café, refueling for the afternoon ahead. Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where you can hike through the dunes and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The trails offer various levels of difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and avid hikers.

As the sun sets, return to Holland for dinner at a cozy restaurant with a view of Lake Macatawa. Enjoy delicious comfort food while reflecting on your day of adventure. Wind down with a nightcap at a local brewery, sampling some of the area's finest craft beers.

Kickstart your family adventure with a visit to the Windmill Island Gardens, where kids can enjoy the playground and explore the beautiful gardens. Engage in a scavenger hunt to find hidden treasures throughout the park, making it a fun and interactive experience for everyone. Don't forget to snap family photos with the iconic windmill as your backdrop.

After a morning filled with exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at the park, complete with sandwiches and snacks from a nearby deli. Spend the afternoon at Kollen Park, where the kids can run free on the playground while you relax by the water. Consider renting bikes or pedal boats for a fun family activity on the lake.

As the day comes to a close, head back into town for a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Share stories about your favorite moments from the day and enjoy a hearty meal together. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local ice cream shop, treating everyone to a sweet dessert.

Start your day at the beautiful Holland Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through themed gardens showcasing a variety of plants and flowers. Take your time to appreciate the artistry of landscape design while enjoying the fresh morning air. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the vibrant blooms.

After a peaceful morning, enjoy lunch at a nearby café that offers outdoor seating and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Hope College campus visiting the Kruizenga Art Museum, where you can explore exhibitions focused on art and culture. The museum often features local artists, providing insight into the creative community.

As evening approaches, return to the downtown area for dinner at a charming restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach. Savor the flavors of the season while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. End your night with a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit downtown streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

Begin your day with a short drive to Saugatuck, where you can explore the unique shops and galleries in this vibrant arts community. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before heading out for a day of adventure. Don't miss the opportunity to take a scenic ride on the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, connecting you to the picturesque Oval Beach.

Spend the afternoon at Oval Beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, or try your hand at beach volleyball. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the shoreline from a different perspective. Afterward, enjoy a late lunch at a beachside restaurant while taking in the stunning lake views.

As the sun sets, return to Holland for a delightful dinner at a local steakhouse, indulging in hearty dishes. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves. Consider capping off your day with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on your adventurous day.