Holland MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Holland, Michigan.
1. Windmill Island Gardens
AUTHENTIC DUTCH WINDMILL
Windmill Island Gardens features the authentic Dutch windmill 'De Zwaan' as its centerpiece, surrounded by 36 acres of manicured gardens and over 150,000 tulips. Visitors can explore dikes, canals, and walking paths while enjoying cultural exhibits including an antique children's carousel and Amsterdam street organ. The island provides a beautiful oasis on the edge of downtown Holland, offering a glimpse into Dutch heritage through its architecture and attractions.
2. Holland State Park Beach
PRISTINE SANDY SHORES
Holland State Park Beach offers a spacious beachside retreat with romantic sunsets and shallow waters perfect for families with children. Visitors can enjoy picnicking while taking in views of lakefront homes, passing boats, and the iconic Big Red Lighthouse along the channel. The park's pristine sandy beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports throughout the summer season.
3. Big Red Lighthouse
ICONIC LAKE MICHIGAN LANDMARK
The Big Red Lighthouse stands majestically along the channel of Lake Michigan, serving as one of Holland's most recognizable landmarks. Photographers and history enthusiasts flock to this vibrant red structure to capture its beauty against the backdrop of stunning lake views and sunsets. While access to the lighthouse itself may be limited, visitors can admire this historic beacon from Holland State Park or boat tours on Lake Macatawa.
4. Holland Museum
RICH LOCAL HERITAGE
The Holland Museum chronicles the city's fascinating past through comprehensive exhibits that showcase the area's Dutch heritage and cultural development. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of Holland's founding, growth, and transformation over the years. The museum provides educational programs for all ages, making it an essential stop for those seeking to understand the historical context of this charming Michigan city.
5. Cappon House Museum
VICTORIAN ERA ELEGANCE
The Cappon House Museum provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into Victorian-era life through the preserved home of Holland's first mayor, Isaac Cappon. Featuring original furnishings and period-appropriate decor, this historic house showcases the lifestyle of a prosperous 19th-century family in remarkable detail. Tours of the museum offer fascinating insights into daily life, architectural styles, and social customs of Holland's formative years.
6. Nelis' Dutch Village
AUTHENTIC NETHERLANDS EXPERIENCE
Nelis' Dutch Village offers a Dutch-themed park with cultural activities including traditional cheese making, stroopwafel demonstrations, and interactive exhibits celebrating Netherlands heritage. Families can enjoy rides, visit the petting zoo, watch wooden shoe carving, and experience authentic Dutch dancing performances throughout the day. The village serves as a cultural time capsule, recreating the atmosphere of the Netherlands from over 100 years ago through its architecture, costumes, and activities.
7. Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk
BREATHTAKING LAKESIDE VIEWS
Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk features a 1.8-mile loop trail through scenic woods, culminating at a summit that offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa. The boardwalk includes strategically placed rest spots along the way, making the moderate hike accessible while still presenting some challenges with its stairways. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse ecosystem visible throughout the seasons, from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage displaying Michigan's natural beauty.
8. Veldheer Tulip Gardens
MILLIONS OF VIBRANT BLOOMS
Veldheer Tulip Gardens showcases over 4 million tulips across vast fields, creating a spectacular display of color during the spring blooming season. Beyond the flowers, visitors can observe artisans at work in the Wooden Shoe and Delft Factory, where traditional Dutch crafts are created through hand-carving and painting techniques. The gardens also feature a unique attraction of bison herds grazing on the grounds, offering a surprising contrast to the meticulously maintained floral displays.
9. Outdoor Discovery Center
WILDLIFE AND NATURE EDUCATION
The Outdoor Discovery Center operates as a non-profit education and conservation organization dedicated to connecting people with nature through immersive experiences. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails that wind through diverse habitats including wetlands, forests, and prairies while observing native Michigan wildlife. The center offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events designed to foster environmental stewardship and appreciation for natural ecosystems.
10. Bowerman Blueberries Farm Market
SWEET AGRICULTURAL TRADITION
Bowerman Blueberries Farm Market has been a Holland tradition since 1954, offering visitors the chance to experience Michigan's renowned blueberry harvest firsthand. During the peak season from mid-July through mid-August, guests can participate in u-pick activities or purchase already harvested berries along with other local fresh produce. The market provides a farm-to-table experience with homemade baked goods and specialty products made from their blueberries, showcasing the agricultural heritage of the region.
11. Shopping
UNIQUE DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUES
Shopping in Holland offers a charming experience with its walkable downtown district filled with unique boutiques, specialty stores, and Dutch-themed souvenir shops. Visitors can browse through an eclectic mix of clothing retailers, home decor establishments, art galleries, and specialty food stores that showcase local products and craftsmanship. The 8th Street shopping corridor provides a picturesque setting with its brick-paved streets, hanging flower baskets, and historic architecture creating an inviting atmosphere for retail therapy.
12. Dining
DIVERSE CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining in Holland presents visitors with a diverse array of culinary options, from authentic Dutch eateries serving traditional poffertjes and stroopwafels to contemporary farm-to-table restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients. New Holland Brewing Company stands as a local favorite, offering craft beers paired with elevated pub fare in a historic downtown setting. Waterfront dining establishments provide scenic views of Lake Macatawa alongside fresh seafood dishes, completing Holland's vibrant food scene with options for every palate and occasion.
13. Hiking
SCENIC LAKESIDE TRAILS
Hiking in Holland offers nature enthusiasts miles of scenic trails winding through diverse ecosystems including lakeshore dunes, wooded areas, and wetland preserves. The popular Holland Lakeshore Trail connects multiple parks and natural areas, providing hikers with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species. Seasonal highlights include spring wildflower displays, summer beach access points, vibrant fall foliage, and winter landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of Michigan's western shore throughout the year.
14. Fishing
ABUNDANT FRESHWATER ANGLING
Fishing in Holland provides anglers with exceptional opportunities across Lake Michigan, Lake Macatawa, and numerous inland waterways that offer abundant catches of salmon, trout, bass, and perch. Charter services operating from Holland Harbor welcome both novice and experienced fishermen seeking guided excursions with professional equipment and local expertise. Seasonal fishing tournaments draw enthusiasts from across the region, while public piers and access points ensure that everyone can enjoy this popular recreational activity regardless of boat ownership.
15. Camping
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Camping in Holland offers outdoor enthusiasts several options for overnight stays amid the natural beauty of Michigan's lakeshore region, with facilities ranging from rustic sites to modern campgrounds with full hookups. Holland State Park provides popular camping areas with convenient access to sandy beaches, playground equipment, and stunning sunset views over Lake Michigan. Nearby private campgrounds offer additional amenities such as swimming pools, organized activities, and rental cabins, creating memorable outdoor experiences for families, couples, and solo travelers exploring the Holland area.