All About Holland 2024

MI CHIGAN HOLLAND DI SCOVER

2024 AREA VISITORS GUIDE

welkom Discover Holland, Michigan, and discover a place full of tradition, beauty, and warmth. A place where wonder and magic come alive, and small-town charm feels like home. A place where each season invites you and yours to slow down and savor every moment. A place where old favorites become new memories. A place made for you.

Jeff TeRoller

Discover

6

Plan

8

History + Heritage

10

Go Dutch

12

Day on the Lakes

14

Beaches

18

Outdoor Adventure

20

Bike

22

Golf

24

Fun for All Ages

26

Experience Downtown

30

Arts + Entertainment

32

Uniquely Holland

36

Handcrafted in Holland

38

Tulip Time

40

Celebrate the Season

44

A Time Less Traveled

46

Zeeland

48

Plan Your Event

50

Accessible Travel

52

Make Holland Your Home

54

Lodging

58

Events

#discoverholland 5

Plan To make 2024 unforgettable, browse these pages for ideas, visit our website, or dial the Holland Visitors Bureau for a friendly voice to guide your way. Whether traveling here takes you minutes or hours, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived in a different world.

Jeff TeRoller

Grand Rapids

Milwaukee

Lansing

HOLLAND

Detroit

Chicago

Columbus

Indianapolis

Getting Here Holland is only 30 minutes from the Gerald R. Ford

International Airport in Grand Rapids and has daily Amtrak service available to and from Chicago. Holland is also easily accessible by automobile from both US 31 and I-196, as well as via scenic routes along the lakeshore.

Time to Holland Grand Rapids • 30 minute drive

Lansing • 1.25 hour drive Chicago • 2.75 hour drive Detroit • 3 hour drive Indianapolis • 3.5 hour drive Milwaukee • 4 hour drive (or via ferry!)

Columbus • 5.5 hour drive St. Louis • 6.25 hour drive

Lake Michigan Car Ferry Service Lake Express • Milwaukee, WI to Muskegon, MI S.S. Badger • Manitowoc, WI to Ludington, MI

Contact + Hours 78 East 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423 800.506.1299 • 616.394.0000 • Fax: 616.394.0122 info@holland.org • holland.org Mon-Fri 9AM - 5PM • Sat 10AM - 3PM • Sunday 11AM - 3PM stay connected

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History + Heritage Holland is an increasingly diverse city which welcomes new residents from across the globe. Today’s immigrants come because they know Holland is a wonderful place to find a meaningful community, raise a healthy family, and enjoy a vibrant retirement.

All Photos Courtesy of Holland Museum

8 www.holland.org

Early History

Dutch Settlement

20th Century

Holland Today

Up until a few centuries ago, Michigan was inhabited solely by Native American tribes. When French fur traders arrived in the early 1600’s, the people they first encountered were likely members of the Ottawa nation, whose Indian name means “traders.” Over two hundred years later, an Ottawa leader, Chief Joseph Waukazoo, scouted a location for a colony. His tribe settled on the shores of the Black River, just a few miles from what is today Holland, Michigan.

In 1846, the Dutch began their journey to the area, and through hard work and resilience, built the “Holland Kolonie." By the early 1860’s, Holland was an agricultural port and had an institution of higher learning that would become Hope College. One ill-fated spark, however, almost wiped out the bustling town on October 9, 1871 (the same date as the Great Chicago Fire). Even though nearly everything burned, the community demonstrated its resolve, and Holland rose from the ashes, stronger than ever.

20th century Holland was a thriving industrial district known for its furniture manufacturers and for the Holland Furnace Company, the H.J. Heinz Company, and the Chris-Craft Corporation. During the 1920’s, Tulip Time was born and would become one of the nation's most celebrated flower festivals. Holland also became a favored destination for vacationers from Chicago and St. Louis, spurring the construction of ornate resort hotels and family cottages.

As late as the 1950’s, 90% of Holland residents still claimed Dutch heritage. The town, however, already had begun its evolution to a community rich with many cultures. The decade before, the first Hispanic migrant farm workers arrived to take jobs in fields and food processing plants, many staying permanently due to year-round work and educational opportunities. Later, following the Vietnam War, Asian refugees traveled halfway around the world to make Holland their new home. Like the immigrants before them, these groups came in search of a better life and also added to the multifaceted fabric of our community.

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Go Dutch Welkom to Holland! No matter what brings you here, we invite you to enjoy our town and immerse yourself in our warm Dutch hospitality.

Holland Museum

De Klomp Delft Factory

From the old country to the new world, the Holland Museum presents a distinctive collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of Holland’s rich history — from the arrival of the Dutch in 1847 through our diverse ethnic heritage of today. $ • X

Take a tour of the only delft pottery factory in North America. Watch as liquid clay is poured into molds and talk with artists as they hand-paint and glaze the finished pieces. Call for demonstration times, or just go and admire 400+ different objects crafted right on site.

Î Pet Friendly (*restrictions apply)

10 www.holland.org

Nelis Dutch Village

Cappon House + Settlers House Just a few blocks from the Holland Museum, the Cappon and Settlers Houses tell the story of Holland’s first mayor and our earliest working-class settlers. $

Nelis' Dutch Village

Windmill Island Gardens A botanical paradise, this 36-acre park gets its name from the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States. De Zwaan is nearly 150 years old and sits upon picturesque grounds that make you feel transported to another country, if not century. This beautiful little island is a dazzling treasure to the residents of Holland, and one we delight in sharing with our visitors. $ • X • Î

Step back into the Netherlands of over 100 years ago, where costumed dancers perform in wooden shoes and welkom visitors into their klompen folkdance. Then wander along canals to discover picturesque Dutch shops, old-world amusements, and traditional treats. $ • X • Î

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Instagram/@spark.fit.coaching

The Holland Princess

Day on the Lakes Imagine gentle waves lapping the shores of a lake called Macatawa. Now follow these waters as they flow through a narrow channel, past a Big Red Lighthouse, and into the vast expanse of Lake Michigan. This unsalted playground could hold your next adventure.

Riverboat

Watersports

Cruise past the Big Red Lighthouse aboard the Holland Princess . From spring through fall, this 65’ paddlewheel boat journeys past historic landmarks, picturesque lake homes, and nature at its best. Come float your way to Lake Michigan aboard a truly remarkable vessel. $

Name a water toy, any water toy, and it’s likely you can ride one on Holland’s beautiful waters. Command a pontoon, wave runner, or speedboat. Balance upon a stand-up paddleboard, kitesurf through the waves, or kayak the Lake Macatawa Loop. No toy? No problem. Rent any of these and more. $

12 www.holland.org

Instagram/@pixiarte

Seth Cunningham

Charters

Boat Launches

Marinas

Hooking a giant king salmon at sunrise. Picnicking aboard a luxury powerboat. Steering a sailboat into the sunset. Whatever your dream day on the water, there’s a seasoned captain on deck to make it a reality. $

Arriving by car with a boat or jet ski in tow? It’s easy to launch from Kollen Park, Dunton Park, and Macatawa Lake Public Access. Those with kayaks can slip into the water from custom ramps on either side of Lake Macatawa. $

Sailing into town? Leave Lake Michigan and cruise into the calming waters of Lake Macatawa. Portside, Ottawa Beach Marina offers 25 transient slips and a short walk to Holland State Park. Starboard, Eldean Shipyard offers transient slips as well, plus a pool, two hot tubs, and a clubhouse. $

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Beaches Bask in the beauty of the Lake Michigan shoreline and the magnificent beaches that adorn it.

INSIDER TIPS

Arrive early as parking lot fills up quickly

Bring a bike or wagon in case parking lot is full

Respect our fragile dunes and protected areas

Remember to mind park boundaries

Stay for the sunset

BEACH CONDITIONS

Holland State Park has a state-designated swim beach that uses a flag warning system. Check the flag upon arrival, and be sure to monitor it throughout the day as conditions can change very quickly.

Instagram/@a_brunner715

14 www.holland.org

Holland State Park For a classic day at the beach, go to one of Michigan’s most visited state parks. This lakeside oasis has windswept sandy beaches, towering waffle cones, and dunetop hiking trails. As a bonus, it also has the best views of Big Red Lighthouse. *Dogs permitted at Lake Macatawa beach; dogs not permitted on Lake Michigan Beach, but welcome on paved paths and sands along channel. 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland $ • X • Î * Kirk Park High bluffs, wooded dunes, and 1/3 mile of sandy Lake Michigan coastline define popular Kirk Park. You’ll find a swimming beach, kids play area, hiking trails with an accessible loop, horseshoe pit, and a dedicated off-leash dog beach. 9791 Lakeshore Dr N, West Olive $ • X • Î Laketown Beach A bit off the beaten path, tiny Laketown Beach offers spectacular views of the “Big Lake” from a wooden stairway that climbs up and over dunes to arrive at the waterfront. 6710 142nd Ave, Holland Olive Shores This mostly wooded park is known for its sandy swimming beach and the trails, boardwalks, and stairs traversed to get there. Olive Shores is a great spot to watch a spectacular West Michigan sunset. 8555 Olive Shore Ave, West Olive $ • X

Saugatuck Dunes State Park With 2 ½ miles of shoreline, this 1,000-acre park is home to freshwater coastal dunes over 200 feet tall. Beachcombers can make the 2/3’s mile trek to Lake Michigan from the picnic and parking area. 6575 138th Ave, Holland $ • X • Î Tunnel Park Climb a dune staircase to panoramic views of Lake Michigan, or take a shortcut through the namesake tunnel to a rolling sandy beach. A great place for a picnic, Tunnel Park is the spot to unwind as the kids race up and tumble down a soaring sand dune.

BEACH SAFETY

There are no lifeguards at any of our beaches

Currents can be strong in Lake Michigan

Digging into sand cliffs can cause collapse and is dangerous

Do not walk on pier when safety gates are closed

A double red flag means it is illegal to enter the water

*Pets permitted on leash October 1 – April 30 only. 66 Lakeshore Drive N, Holland $ • X • Î *

Î Pet Friendly (*restrictions apply)

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Jeff TeRoller

Instagram/@itsryanc

Instagram/@mercado.creations

Jeff TeRoller

#discoverholland 17

Outdoor Adventure Explore a perfect landscape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Instagram/@lakeshore_wanderer

Instagram/@zepp_the_shep

18 www.holland.org

Adams Street Landing 10 Acres. Picnic tables, kayak/ canoe launch, fishing. Î 10363 Adams St, Holland DeGraaf Nature Center 18 acres. Live animals, hands on exhibits, children's play area, geology walk, hiking, snowshoeing. Î 600 Graafschap Rd, Holland Hawthorn Pond Natural Area 40 acres. Picnic tables, kayak launch, walking trails, fishing. Î 9876 Black River Ct, Holland Helder Park 159 acres. Lighted tennis and pickleball courts, basketball, beach volleyball, and soccer. 4-acre fenced-in dog park. Î 3751 104th Ave, Zeeland Hemlock Crossing + Nature Center 239 acres. Nature Center, kayak/canoe launch, pedestrian bridge, picnic shelters and grills, hiking and cross-country ski trails, snowshoe rentals. Î 8115 West Olive Rd, West Olive Holland State Park 142 acres. Campgrounds, concessions, beach volleyball, playground, fishing, connections to trails and Mt. Pisgah dune climb. Î * * Dogs allowed at Lake Macatawa Beach and along channel. 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland Mt. Pisgah 157-foot dune with 239 wooden stair climb. Panoramic views of lakes Michigan and Macatawa. Overlooks and connecting trails to Holland State Park Macatawa Campground. 2238 3rd Ave, Holland

Kirk Park 68 acres. Picnic shelter and tables, grills, playground, hiking, cross-country ski trails, seasonal modern restrooms. Î 9791 Lakeshore Dr, West Olive Olive Shores 20 acres. Hiking trails, barrier free loop trail, stairways, overlooks, picnic tables, modern restrooms. 8555 Olive Shore, West Olive Outdoor Discovery Center Nature Preserve 155 acres. Visitor center with wildlife exhibits, live animals, taxidermy, birds of prey center, Cultural History Center, large picnic pavilions, art trail, natural playscape, archery Park Township Dog Park 25 acres. Fenced in off-leash dog park, sections for large and small dogs, shaded seating, seasonal running water. Î 1216 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland Paw Paw Park 172 acres. 18-hole disc golf course, rustic toilets, picnic shelter and tables, grill, 1/2 mile paved trail, hiking trail, cross-country ski trails. Î East: 1230 Paw Paw Dr West: 1099 Paw Paw Dr Holland Pine Bend 239 acres. Weaver House and trellis, picnic tables, grills, rustic toilets, 6+ miles of hiking/cross-country ski trails connecting to Hemlock Crossing. Î 15400 Polk St, West Olive center, fishing pond. Î 4214 56th St, Holland

Pigeon Creek Park 282 acres + 130 adjacent acres county open space land. 10+ miles hiking, biking, cross-country ski, snowshoe, and equestrian trails; picnic tables, grills, ski lessons, sledding hill, seasonal concessions, lodge, ski and snowshoe rental, modern and rustic toilets. Î * *No dogs in winter. 12524 Stanton St, West Olive Quincy Park 133 acres. Softball fields, picnic shelters, and play areas. 5-acre fenced-in off-leash dog park, double-gated entrances, separate areas for large and small dogs, seasonal drinking fountains. Î 4260 144th Ave, Holland Riley Trails 300 acres. Fishing, 7 miles hiking and cross-country ski trails, 4.5 mile mountain biking course, rustic toilets. Î 16300 Riley St, Holland

Stu Visser Trails 37 acres. Nature trails, boardwalks, wetland observation, small pond connecting to live stream. Î 929 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland

Upper Macatawa Natural Area 612 acres. Single-track

mountain bike trails, hiking and cross-country ski trails, paved bike trails, picnic tables, rustic toilets, hunting by special permit. Î 1300 - 84th Ave, Zeeland 2171 - 76th Ave, Zeeland Van Raalte Farm Park 160 acres. Groomed cross country ski and hiking trails; picnic shelter, winter sledding; dedicated fenced in dog park with enclosed and heated dog wash station, dog water fountain, pet waste stations; year-round restrooms, benches, water

bottle filling stations. Î 1076 E 16th St, Holland 975 E 24th St, Holland Winstrom Park + Nature Preserve 72 acres. Boardwalk, overlooks, nature trails,

Sanctuary Woods Preserve

40 acres. Trails and 171 step stairway to view of Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan. 4750 66th St, Holland

scenic walkway, natural area, wetlands, 18-hole disc golf course, picnic tables, tot lot, tennis courts, sand volleyball, basketball court. Î 1774 Perry St, Holland Wolters Woods Township Park 34 acres. Playground, horseshoes, nature trails, shuffleboard, picnic pavilion, wildlife. Î * *Dogs only allowed on trails. 6281 147th Ave, Holland

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

1000 acres. Coastal dunes, 13 miles of forested trails, picnic area, cross-country skiing. Rustic toilets. Î 6575 138th Ave, Holland

Shore Acres Township Park

40 acres. Soccer field, baseball diamond, basketball courts, BMX track, 19-hole disc golf course, mountain biking trails, connector trails to Lake Michigan through Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Î 6602 138th Ave, Holland

Î Pet Friendly (*restrictions apply)

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Bike

More than 150 miles of bike trails spool around the area, making Holland an ideal hub for cycling. Looped routes link popular destinations like Tunnel Park, Window on the Waterfront, and Kollen Park. Other scenic routes include the 11-mile wooded tract to Saugatuck and the 20-mile Lakeshore Connector Path winding its way north to Grand Haven. For a longer ride, choose from two 40 mile loops starting downtown, or join the 500-mile US Bike Route 35 that runs through our town all the way to Canada.

Whether looking to enjoy a leisurely ride to the beach or take on the Holland 100, your pathway to happiness begins here.

20 www.holland.org

Off-Roading

Pigeon Creek Park 282 acres + 130 adjacent acres

county open space land. 10+ miles hiking, biking, cross-country ski, and equestrian trails. *No dogs in winter. X • Î * 12524 Stanton St, West Olive Riley Trails 300 acres. Seven miles hiking and ungroomed cross-country ski trails, 4.5 mile mountain biking course. X • Î 16300 Riley St, Holland Shore Acres Township Park 40 acres. BMX track, 1.6 mile singletrack mountain bike trail. 6602 138th Ave, Holland Upper Macatawa Natural Area 612 acres. Four+ miles of single track mountain bike trails, paved bike trails, scenic overlooks, picnic tables, rustic toilets. Check mountain biking trail conditions before visiting: facebook.com/UpperMacatawa. Î

Instagram/@velocitycycles

Staging Areas

Virginia Park Picnic shelter, playground, and easy

access to US Bike Route 35. 669 Harrington Ave, Holland

Dunton Park Lakeside wooded park an easy distance from downtown. X (Seasonal) 290 Howard Ave, Holland First Assembly of God A great place to begin a ride to Zeeland or Grand Rapids. 1331 E 16th St, Holland Kirk Park Popular park with access to Lakeshore Connector Path, dog beach. X (Seasonal) • Î 9791 Lakeshore Dr N, Holland Kouw Park Large parking area and access to Lakeshore Connector Path. Scenic ride south to Holland State Park and back. X (Seasonal) 5599 Lakeshore Dr N, Holland Shore Acres Park Easy ride south to Saugatuck or north to Holland. X (Seasonal porta-potty) 6602 138th Ave, Holland Upper Macatawa Natural Area Heading east to Grand Rapids? Bike paths or lanes most of the way. X 1300 - 84th Ave, Zeeland

Winstrom Park Ride west to the state park or connect to Lakeshore Drive to ride north. X (Seasonal) 1774 Perry St, Holland

1300 - 84th Ave, Zeeland 2171 - 76th Ave, Zeeland

Wolters Woods Park Starting place to ride the Beeline Trail south to Saugatuck and avoid traffic in town. X (Seasonal porta-potty) 6281 147th Ave, Holland

Rentals

Beachside Bike Rentals 2011 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland (616) 399.9230 Cross Country Cycle 345 Douglas Ave, Holland (616) 396.7491 Radventures 321 Douglas Ave, Holland (616) 212.3036 Velo City Cycles 326 South River Ave, Holland (616) 355.2000

DOWNTOWN HOLLAND Popular downtown parks for a ride starting in town

Centennial Park 250 Central Ave, Holland X Kollen Park 240 Kollen Park Dr, Holland X Window on the Waterfront 85 East 6th St, Holland X Smallenburg Park 379 Fairbanks Ave, Holland X (Seasonal porta-potty)

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Golf

Ready to hit the links? Seven golf courses in and around Holland are open to the public, providing a variety of golfing experiences. For a shorter outing, choose a 9-hole course right in Holland. The Links at Rolling Meadows has nine holes of par 3 play, and two additional venues each host multiple 9-hole courses. Winding Creek’s three distinct courses blend links-style holes, tree-lined fairways, and target golf layouts. Three Fires offers 27 holes plus a practice facility with a large driving range and chipping and putting greens. A short drive will take you to four outstanding 18-hole courses. Diamond Springs, nestled in 250 acres of oak and pine-clad sandhills, features an English-style pub house within its dramatic setting. The Ravines is an Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course known for its stunning and serene surroundings. Clearbrook is a qualifying site for the Michigan Open and has hosted the West Michigan PGA Championship. Last, but by no means least, is Crestview, revered for its scenic combination of doglegs, creeks, ponds, and mature trees. From true links-style to forested golf, each distinctive course is well-maintained, and loyal local golfers appreciate them all for their nuances, beauty, and challenges.

22 www.holland.org

Clearbrook Golf Club 6494 Clearbrook Dr, Saugatuck (269) 857.2000

Crestview Golf Club 6279 96th Ave, Zeeland (616) 875.8101 Diamond Springs 3400 34th St, Hamilton (269) 751.4545

Links at Rolling Meadows 1259 Saint Andrews, Holland (616) 395.5926 Ravines Golf Club 3520 Palmer Dr, Saugatuck (269) 857.1616 Three Fires Golf Club 6045 136th Ave, Holland (616) 399.1678 Winding Creek Golf Club 4514 E Ottogan St, Holland (616) 396.4516

ALSO AVAILABLE:

X-Golf Fine tune your game on simulations of 30+ world-renowned courses. 12331 James St, Holland (616) 377.7230

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Fun for All Ages Create memories – rain or shine!

Scrapyard Climbing Collective

Instagram/@spark.fit.coaching

Nelis Dutch Village

24 www.holland.org

AMC Holland 8 Theatre Enjoy the latest movies, including 3D features. 12270 James St, Holland (616) 394.5774

Fellinlove Farm A small family farm for people

Lost City Laser Tag Indoor family entertainment center featuring 5,000 sq ft laser tag arena and arcade. 12330 James St, Holland (616) 396.6746 Moran Park ADA accessible; basketball, pickleball, tennis, and volleyball courts; shuffleboard, playground, restrooms. Î 515 Maple Ave, Holland Northland Lanes Have some fun in this full service bowling facility. 308 N River Ave, Holland (616) 392.7146 Paint a Pot A paint-your-own pottery studio for all ages. 390 E 8th St, Holland (616) 355.6442 Pirate's Landing Mini Golf at Captain Sundae (Seasonal) Follow Captain Burke's tale of stolen treasure. 365 Douglas Ave, Holland (616) 396.5938

Scrapyard Climbing Collective Rock climbing gym and sports facility for people to climb, learn, and be active. 76 S River Ave, Holland (616) 294.3931 Smallenburg Playground + Skate Park ADA accessible (boundless) playground, open green space, picnic tables, skate park, community pool, seasonal restrooms. Î 325 Fairbanks Ave, Holland eateries, massage chairs, and children’s Playhouse Theater. 84 W 8th St, Holland (616) 795.0685 Sundae Sundae Golf Golf (Seasonal) 18-hole miniature golf course with specialty sundaes, hot dogs, and more. 631 E. Lakewood Blvd, Holland (616) 396.8085 Urban Air Adventure Park Large-scale indoor trampoline center. 12331 James St, Holland (616) 931.5147 Sperry's Moviehouse Boutique theater with

of all ages and abilities. 6364 144th Ave, Holland (616) 283.7555

BAM! Entertainment Center

Garsnett Beacon Candle Co.

Holland’s one-stop family-fun indoor entertainment center. 478 E 16th St, Holland (616) 392.7086 Bouws Community Pool at Smallenburg Park (Seasonal) Outdoor community pool open the first week in June through Labor Day. 365 Fairbanks Ave, Holland (616) 355.1053 Craig's Cruisers Fun center with go-karts, swan boats, and arcade. 651 Chicago Dr, Holland (616) 392.7300 Critter Barn Year-round, fully accessible farm provides hands-on learning experiences. 2950 80th Ave, Zeeland (616) 748.1110 13,000 square feet of boxes, rails, quarter-pipes, and a mini half pipe. 1216 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland Escape Out of the Box Follow the clues. Solve the puzzles. Find the key. Escape the room. 114 E Main Ave, Zeeland (616) 772.5544 David L. Dirkse Skate Park

Handmade candles + craft bar to custom blend your own candles. 210 S River Ave, Holland (616) 287.3444 Griff's IceHouse West Indoor ice rink with public skating, drop-in hockey, pro shop, and skate rental. 4444 Holland Ave, Holland (616) 796.6927 GQT Holland 7 Theater Watch the latest movies in comfy recliner seats, including 3D features. 500 Waverly Rd, Holland (616) 392.9547 Huizenga Playground + Skate Park Basketball, pickle ball, and beach volleyball courts; softball fields, picnic shelters, skate park, play area, small pond for fishing, restrooms. Î 350 Royal Park, Zeeland Kollen Park + Heinz Waterfront Walkway Î ADA accessible; waterfront boardwalk, bandshell, boat launch, three day-use boat slips, fishing decks, grills, large group picnic shelter, playground, restrooms. 240 Kollen Park Dr, Holland

Rollxscape Skating Center A classic roller-skating arena

for you and your family. 12521 James St, Holland (616) 298.7118

Sally Smoly Nature Playscape

Multi-age, family-friendly, fully accessible, natural play and learn park. 95 College Ave, Holland

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Experience Downtown Historic and hip, downtown Holland is a year-round destination begging to be explored.

INSIDER TIPS

Parking in Downtown Holland is FREE

Public, year-round restrooms are located at 9th + Central Seasonal restrooms are located by the splashpad next to Courtyard by Marriott

Tuesday-Saturdays are the best shopping days

Downtown Holland has a social district

Dogs are welcome in many downtown shops. Look for the dog-friendly sticker Î

No dogs are allowed at the Farmers Market

The Visitors Bureau is located downtown and has local maps and information

26 www.holland.org

Shopping

Events

Farmers Market

Downtown Holland’s historic architecture houses an inspiring collection of shops found nowhere else. Stroll heated brick sidewalks to discover everything from electric bikes to board games to one-of a-kind antiques. Our boutiques offer such delights as wine tasting, novels, home accents, apparel for all ages, and gifts galore. Find what you didn’t know you needed on a shopping expedition to remember. Select from a melting pot of menus featuring flavors for every palette. Savor tapas, street tacos, “Bleu Berry” salad, and even Drunken Noodles. Our eateries feature a variety of offerings for everyone in your party, and most restaurants have options for those with specialized dietary needs. With choices from deep dish pizza to farm-to-table delicacies, we’ve got you covered. Dining

Perhaps the most special thing about our downtown is how both its appearance and activities change with each season. In springtime, it’s tulips and parades and in summer, perennials and street performers. Autumn brings corn stalks and pumpkin carvers, while winter shines with Sinterklaas and ice sculptures.

The Holland Farmers Market has been bringing the harvest to town for over 45 years. What better way to kick off your day than browsing the cream of the crops from more than 75 different vendors? Wander this renowned open-air market to find fresh fruits and vegetables, jams and honeys, artisan cheeses and meats, fresh fish and cut flowers. Some farmers even make some pretty amazing blueberry donuts. Located at 8th Street Marketplace, adjacent to Holland Civic Center Place.

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28 www.holland.org Hannah VanDyke

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Arts + Entertainment Holland’s performing arts scene has it all. From live music on the patio of a favorite pub, to a harp virtuosa bringing a concert hall to its feet, there is something to nurture the creative spark in each and every one of us.

Ensembles

For a soul-stirring performance, consider a Night at the Opera with the Holland Symphony Orchestra, Masterpieces of the Sacred with the Holland Chorale, or a rousing lakeside concert by the American Legion Band.

30 www.holland.org

Galleries

Once you’ve had your fill of the contemporary and centuries-old Dutch art exhibits at the Holland Museum, head to the Holland Arts Council to view works by talented regional artists. Nearby, the Kruizenga Art Museum is a center for curiosity, inspiration, and cultural exploration, as are the galleries and studios throughout town. At your leisure, muse over oil paintings, handcrafted hardwood bowls, hazy watercolors, and one-of-a-kind jewelry by artisans from nearby and around the world. The historic Knickerbocker Theatre holds a film series each season featuring critically acclaimed arthouse movies, both international and domestic. Classical music aficionados flock to Hope College’s Great Performance Series with its Grammy-winning jazz and chamber ensembles, and book enthusiasts revel in rich and distinctive literary experiences during the Jack Ridl Visiting Writers Series. For award Creative Series

Public Art

Venues

With nearly 100 outdoor installations, Holland has a lot of art to discover.

The Jack H. Miller Center for the Musical Arts has an 800-seat concert hall and over 125 events each year. The Park Theatre will keep you laughing and singing along with their comedy circuit and Legends music series. The Holland Community Theatre showcases the talents of local actors. And you never know what you’ll find at the Holland Civic Center Place, possibly a Merchants and Makers market or your favorite country music star.

The murals alone are worth a daytrip. Giant flowers flourish outside the 205 Coffee Bar, a bicycle sprocket rides the wall of Velo City Cycles, and a two-story tribute to the local Hispanic community graces the side of the Holland Armory. There’s also a scavenger hunt of sculptures. See if you can find a group of bronze musicians playing beneath the shade of a Norway maple, the sandstone Zhdondige-kwe , and the mushing dogsledder crafted from recycled scrap metal. More than half the outdoor art is within walking distance of 8th Street, the rest peppered throughout the Holland area.

winning stage performances, the Hope Repertory Theatre productions deliver.

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Uniquely Holland Where else can you climb atop the Cowardly Lion, whoosh down a three-story water slide, and meet Abraham Lincoln?

Big Red

Don’t miss Michigan’s most photographed lighthouse, Holland’s beloved “Big Red.” Since 1870, this iconic lighthouse has stood sentinel over the channel to Lake Michigan. For a breathtaking panorama of the shoreline and its colorful guard, climb a dune staircase to Mt. Pisgah. To get an up-close view, make your way via car or the scenic Black Lake Boardwalk to Holland State Park’s north pier – the best place to admire Big Red. One of the last of its kind in America, the Holland Bowl Mill makes exquisitely crafted solid hardwood bowls the same way as over 150 years ago. It can take almost 100 years for a hardwood tree to develop the grains that make each bowl so beautiful, and the skilled artisans who handle the wood give it the reverence it deserves. For over a month, they lovingly hand carve, dry, sand, and oil each piece, touching each one more than 100 times in the process. This 4th generation family business remains a master of a vanishing art. Come visit their factory where antique machinery is buzzing, sawdust is flying, and the scent of fresh cut wood perfumes the air. Holland Bowl Mill

32 www.holland.org

The Pump House

This charming museum is the last surviving structure of the Hotel Ottawa complex that burned in 1923. The Pump House tells the stories of Holland’s historic coastline and is a central feature on the Black Lake Boardwalk linking the Mt. Pisgah dune stairs to Holland State Park. Open weekends in June and daily July to Labor Day. Experience the sights and sounds of these tumultuous years in our nation’s history: smell the powder, hear the boom of cannons, and talk to famous generals as they plan their assaults. Each year, “Abraham Lincoln” and other historic figures gather at the onetime home of Civil War veteran Ben Van Raalte, a son of Holland’s founder. Van Raalte Farm is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of a 160-acre park providing the perfect backdrop for our annual Civil War Muster. Civil War Muster

Holland Aquatic Center

Historic Tours

Holland Aquatic Center

Choose a self-guided walking tour to discover our historic downtown at your own pace, or enjoy a guided excursion. With Holland Tasting Tours, you can snack and stroll down 8th street while hearing stories of the past. This same operator offers a fascinating tour of Pilgrim Home Cemetery where you’ll learn about town founders and the owner of the “good right arm” that rests there. She also has her very own Tulip Trolley for private motor tours. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, embark on an Antique Joy Ride. Board a Ford Model A and amble the backroads to some of West Michigan’s most cherished places. $

The whole family will be thrilled with the lazy river, water slide, and kids play pool. There is also a warm-water lap pool, steam room, sauna, and giant hot tub. For dry exercise options, check out the elevated 1/10th mile track, work-out equipment, and wellness area. All features are designed to welcome an intergenerational mix of guests. HAC also offers a championship-level experience for athletes, coaches, and fans alike. Organizers can allocate competitive space for simultaneous swimming and diving events, plus there is abundant deck space for teams to warm up. $

Oz Sculpture Garden

This tribute to the classic tale is just a short distance from the author’s summer cottage and steps from downtown. The exhibit features a seasonal novel sculpted from thousands of colorful plants. Follow the yellow brick road, and you’ll encounter seven life-sized bronze statues inspired by the timeless novel’s original illustrations.

34 www.holland.org Instagram/@nickbromleyphotography

Ross Vande Waa

Holland Aquatic Center

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Handcrafted In Holland

In a state known for its award-winning breweries, microbreweries, and brew pubs, the Holland area can hold its own. We are home to several breweries and vineyards that pride themselves on creating fantastic craft beer, artisan spirits, and world-class wine using the finest locally grown ingredients. Whether in search of a stout or mead, handcrafted cocktail or cider, you will be sure to find the perfect pour. Get a taste of Holland’s handcrafted beverage scene with a free Handcrafted Passport from the Holland Visitors Bureau. Visit any participating establishment and simply enjoy a beverage or two. Hear their story, learn more about their creative libations, and jot down tasting notes and favorite highlights of your experience. Before you leave, request a stamp from each artisan’s location. When you collect 10 stamps, bring or mail your passport back to the Visitors Bureau to receive a custom-made “Handcrafted in Holland” bar blade.

Instagram/@newhollandbrew

Instagram/@tanglewoodwinery

HANDCRAFTED PASSPORT

Sip and sample your way through the Holland area like a local with this insider’s guide to all you need to know about our region’s handcrafted scene.

36 www.holland.org

Your friends at the Holland Visitors Bureau remind our guests to drink responsibly and consider booking alternative transportation.

On-Time (616) 510.9659

Rosebud Transportation 24/7 (616) 848.7588

Santiago's Driving Services (616) 216.4689

Sunrise/ Sunset Transportation 24/7 (616) 994.3495

Saugatuck/Douglas Taxi (269) 543.3355

Old Harbor Shuttle (616) 215.6373

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Tulip Time

May 4-12

A bucket-list item for many, Tulip Time began in 1929 when the City of Holland saw its first crop of 100,000 tulips bloom. Since then, Holland has blossomed each spring with millions of tulips, and Tulip Time has grown to be much more than a flower festival. Tulip Time parades are some of the largest and most spectacular events in Michigan. Thousands of spectators line the streets to watch flowering floats, marching bands, and Dutch Dancers in over two miles of pure celebration. Throughout the week, Dutch Dancers also perform around our vibrant town, high kicking their wooden shoes through traditional folk dances. Beyond the beautiful blooms, this special week offers a great variety of national and local entertainment, a carnival, fireworks, and much, much more. 2023 International Flower Festival of the Year

Abhishek Chandra

INSIDER TIPS

Watch the Tulip Tracker beginning in early April

There’s extra room for admiring the tulips midweek

Holland is on Eastern Standard Time

Make a parking plan with info from tuliptime.com

Bring your walking shoes!

Don’t Pick the Tulips!

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Festival Highlights

May 4 Tulip Time Run

May 4 – 5 Artisan Market

May 4 Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute

May 7 FiddleFire

May 8 Holland American Legion Band

May 8 - 11 On Golden Pond

May 9 Kinderparade

May 9 Texas Tenors

May 10 Scotty McCreery

May 11 Volksparade

May 11 Fireworks

Carnival Dutch Dance Performances Tulip Immersion Garden Quilt Show Walking Tours And more! Daily Activities

Visit TulipTime.com for the full schedule of events

Event tickets go on sale each November

TULIP TIME 2025 May 3-11

Celebrate the Season

City of Holland

Holidays In Holland

November 15 Shop ‘Til You Drop

November 23 Holiday Open House

November 30 Small Business Saturday

December 3 Parade of Lights

December 13 Up on the Rooftops

December 14 Shopping Jam

December 14 Victorian Christmas

December 14 Holland Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert

A Magical Holiday Destination

Dates TBD Hope College Christmas Vespers

Seasonal Highlights

Journey back to a time of festive wonder where twinkle-lit trees and evergreen wrapped lampposts add a sparkle to the season’s sensations. Go on, imagine a Holiday Open House with roasting chestnuts and strolling carolers. Envision Santa coming to town in a dazzling Parade of Lights. Dream of a towering Dutch windmill glittering in the night and surrounded by thousands of LED “tulips.” These are just glimmers of the festive fun in our historic town. As the holidays approach, you can warm up at a roaring fireplace on the way to the outdoor Dutch Kerstmarkt, with its hand-woven

mittens, homemade wreaths, and blacksmith-forged ornaments. You can also experience a Victorian Christmas, meet Sinterklaas as he hosts Magic at the Mill, and stir your spirit with carols played by the Holland Symphony beneath a Gothic rose window. While any day is a good day to wander our downtown with a spiced beverage in hand, a little strategic planning might add an extra dash of joy. Check our calendar for all the festivities!

Kerstmarkt November 16-December 14 Fridays + Saturdays European-style outdoor holiday market

Magic at the Mill December 6-21 Fridays + Saturdays Holiday light spectacular

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42 www.holland.org

Caitlin Nichols

#discoverholland 43

Adisa Sejdinovic

Mt. Pisgah Dune Climb

A Time Less Traveled

Autumn

Winter

To experience Holland like a local, be our guest in moments between our busiest times.

With daily average highs of 75˚F, September melds the best of summer’s sweetness with the flair of fall. At this golden time of year, those in Holland slow down and savor the last of the sailboat races and Windmill Island’s glorious blossoms, then climb ladders to pick Honeycrisp apples. Fall colors peak in October, their beauty lasting into early November.

Lake effect snow and glittering ice crystals can make your outdoor adventure not just a way to keep fit, but a way to be inspired. Snowshoe through hemlocks, stand-up paddleboard through craggily ice formations, and whiz down an illuminated sledding hill. Best yet, cross-country ski across dune tops for a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan and its frosted winter beaches.

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Snowmelt

Spring

Beyond the Weekend

Since 1988, residents and visitors alike have enjoyed snow-free streets and sidewalks in downtown Holland all year long. The underground piping for the system is over six miles long and uses waste energy to create the largest publicly-owned snowmelt system in North America. Holland offers sure-footed jogging, dog walking, and downtown explorations, even in the midst of winter.

Nature is a finicky being, especially in springtime. This is why the smart parks department folks in Holland plant early, mid, and late blooming tulips. Many years, the end of April is filled with blooms and only locals to enjoy them. In others, her glorious colors span the entire month of May, well beyond the tulip festival celebrations. Tulip forecasts begin in March. Just in case you wanted to know . . .

Stay midweek and you’re sure to save on lodging and have more of Holland to yourself, even during our most popular times of year. So, arrive on a Tuesday or extend your stay through a Thursday night, and you’ll fit right in with the descendants of thrifty Dutchmen!

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Critter Barn

City of Zeeland

Zeeland Holland’s next door neighbor is a wonderful place, full of heritage, history, and Zeel!

Downtown

Dekker Huis

Jump into a community event to see what the heart of Zeeland is all about. You can also relax on an outdoor patio or order a drink to go and stroll the social district. Be sure to visit Frank’s, a fourth-generation diner and soda fountain, and check out the mom-and-pop shops to find one-of-a-kind treasures.

The Dekker Huis Museum is filled with realistic exhibits representing the experience of early settlers and life long ago on Main Street. Pick up a self guided tour to wind through the beautifully maintained downtown neighborhoods and past the oldest homes in Zeeland.

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Highlights

February 24 Plaiderday

May 25 Spring Peddlers’ Market

May 27 Memorial Day Parade

Dekker Huis

June 25 Zeeland Zoom

July 12 + 13 Show and Shine Car Show + Cruise

September 2 Labor Day Truck Parade

September 7 Fall Peddlers Market

October 4-5 Pumpkinfest

October 31 Trick or Treat on Main Street

City of Zeeland

November 28 Turkey Trot

December 2 Christmas Tree Lighting + Magical Christmas Parade

Critter Barn

Splash Pad

December 4-6 Feel the Zeel of Christmas

This year-round active farm provides an unforgettable hands-on learning experience for all ages and abilities through the miracles of nature. Bottle feed a calf, milk a goat, pet the bunnies, and even collect eggs from the hens. $

Families are encouraged to cool off in the Downtown Splash Pad where guests can safely settle into their own slice of sunshine and watch their kids play, splash, and shriek with delight!

Seasonal Series

June 6 - 27 July 11 + 25 August 8 + 22 Thursdays Music on Main

July 2 - 30 Tuesdays Soundz of Summer concert series

July 1 - 29 Mondays Zeelmania

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Plan Your Event Picture your next event: a destination wedding, an industry trade show, a sports tournament or, perhaps, a corporate retreat. Now picture it in Holland. You’re smiling, right?

AT YOUR SERVICE

The Holland Area Convention + Visitors Bureau knows our

amazing town inside and out. Let us help plan and implement all phases of an extraordinary experience. We can work with you to secure competitive lodging proposals, meeting sites, and entertainment. We’re also happy to provide registration assistance, spouse itineraries, and welcome packets. All at no cost to you!

Haworth Hotel

Piek Events

Holland Aquatic Center

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Meetings

Groups

Weddings

Holland is a favorite Great Lakes destination for both attendees and corporate planners. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Holland is home to first-class hotels, an award winning downtown, and spectacular waterfront parks. Add in Dutch hospitality and attractions, and Holland offers a stunning backdrop for events large and small. Many travelers come early, stay late, and choose to bring their families along when the event site is in Holland. This is good news for attendance – more people come to meetings and conventions when Holland is the destination. Let our Visitors Bureau help craft a memorable meeting experience and market the small-town characteristics that make our town an enchanting setting in any season.

Our welcoming community is ready to accommodate groups of all sizes. With diverse dining options, comfortable accommodations, and friendly locals, your travelers will feel right at home. Pick a season, any season, and your guests can delight in a parade, festival, and ever-changing scenic beauty. Plus, Holland’s historic downtown is a year-round destination packed with over 100 unique boutiques, bistros, and breweries. Themed tours almost create themselves. Combine an 1800’s cemetery tour with the Civil War Muster; a visit inside an authentic Dutch windmill with the Holland Museum’s old-world galleries; or go regional with a Buggies, Bulbs, and Bavaria Midwest cultural tour.

Holland is a beautiful destination for your big day and for the guests you want to witness it. From a windmill view veranda to a rooftop terrace, we have a venue for dreams with a variety of budgets.

holland D O W N T O W N meet MI

HOLLAND DI SCOVER MI CHIGAN

HOLLAND DI SCOVER MI CHIGAN

HOLLAND DI SCOVER MI CHIGAN

GROUP TOUR PLANNER

MEETING PLANNER

WEDDING PLANNER

For more info, give us a call or check out our detailed event guides online.

QR Code

Sports

Holland has world-class venues for team competitions. Our roster includes collegiate-standard softball fields, a Red Wing’s affiliate ice arena, and an Olympic trial-ready swim and dive facility. With over 1,900 hotel rooms, Holland hosts such renowned events as the 2024 Cecchetti International Ballet Competition.

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Instagram/@jenjen2083

Instagram/@thebrokentraveler

Accessible Travel A Holland “Welkom” extends to people of all abilities. We make every effort to provide an accessible town for everyone, and here are some areas with A+ results.

Transportation

Lodging

All the hotels in this guide offer accessible rooms. Please call prior to your visit, so they can work with you to accommodate your individual and group needs.

Our city-owned transport system, MAX Transit, offers various ADA resources to passengers on their routes in the Holland area. Wheelchair rentals are available in town, and there is ADA parking throughout the region and at all major attractions.

50 www.holland.org

Instagram/@thebrokentraveler

Critter Barn

Attractions

Ask Us!

Outdoors

Specifically designed with adaptive equipment, Critter Barn allows people of all abilities to enjoy a day on the farm. The Holland Aquatic Center provides fun water environments for those with unique intellectual and physical needs. Sperry Moviehouse has Fidelio receivers for people requiring visual and auditory assistance, and both Windmill Island Gardens and Nelis’ Dutch Village have complimentary wheelchairs available for use on site.

Let our friendly community work with you to make this visit your best. If a different table in a restaurant makes your stay more comfortable, paper and pen foster open communication, or assistance with technology enhances your experience, please ask!

Holland is full of parks, and most have accessible features. The inclusive playground at Smallenburg Park is boundless, and Moran Park’s newly updated one has adaptive play elements including a wheelchair ramp. One of the top wheelchair accessible parks in West Michigan, Holland State Park has a pathway down to the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan, beach wheelchairs, and accessible sitting areas, so everyone can enjoy a spectacular lakeside sunset.

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Make Holland your Home Holland is hard to resist. Just hours from major metropolitan areas, but a world away from the hustle and bustle, Holland offers a quality of life not found in many other places.

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Welkom

No matter your age, Holland is a great place to grow. Whether a toddler taking her first tentative steps, a college grad starting his first job, an artist raising a family, or a grandmother enjoying her golden years, Holland is filled with the creative people, places, and things you need to live an extraordinary life.

Natural Beauty

Located on the scenic shores of lakes Michigan and Macatawa, Holland offers white sandy beaches and year-round outdoor adventures. Being a tourist destination has its advantages – the spring Tulip Time festivities, summer street performers, fall apple orchards, and winter holiday parades are for the enjoyment of locals as well. You can live where other people can only vacation. Though a smaller city, Holland is not lacking in culture or intellectual stimulation. Hope College hosts artistic, musical, literary, and theatrical events throughout the year and invites the community to take part. Other downtown venues frequently bring in live performers and speakers to both delight and inform. Cultural festivals help us connect with fellow Hollanders in engaging and entertaining ways. There is always something new to learn or explore. Culture

Innovation

Convenience

Holland attracts innovative people. Together, we created the largest municipal snowmelt system in North America which keeps our downtown streets and sidewalks snow free all winter long. LG Energy Solution chose our city for a $1.7B expansion due to our talented workforce, and homegrown New Holland Brewing is a recognized leader in the craft beverage revolution. Our downtown even hosts a center for collaboration, surely a factor in Forbes naming Holland a “Hotbed for Small Businesses.”

All the elements needed for a thriving city are present in the Holland area: award-winning healthcare systems, a dynamic economy, growing diversity, civic pride, excellent schools, critically acclaimed arts and, above all, community involvement. For even more opportunities, Grand Rapids, its suburbs, and other shoreline towns are our next-door neighbors. Many residents commute to these locations and beyond. Plus, Chicago, Detroit, and more than 20 colleges and universities are all within a three-hour drive.

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