Blue skies and sandy beaches extend for, what seems like, forever. A beach town just a few minutes away is filled with sun kissed faces shopping, dining on the sidewalk patios, and enjoying the local farmers market. The creative and colorful gardens provide a place of peace while admiring nature’s beauty. This sounds amazing, right? It is, and you definitely need to add Holland to your list of favorite vacation spots. Read on for our Guide to Holland and all the spots to check out this summer.
Holland offers everything you need for the perfect vacation, whether it be a getaway with your significant other, a girls weekend, or memorable family time. Whatever type of vacationing is your style, from camping, to cottages or upscale hotels, Holland has you covered. Holland is my happy place and my hope is that by the time you finish this piece, you will pack your bags and book!
Where to Eat in Holland
Boatwerks| Location: 216 Van Raalte Ave, Holland, MI 49423
Enjoy your delicious meal with scenic views of Lake Macatawa. Whether you want to enjoy a getaway with your love, or enjoy a family dinner, this is a perfect spot. The bread will keep the kiddos full while you wait for your meal and they have excellent drink options.
Crust 54| Location: 45 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
If your family is like mine, pizza is a staple and Crust 54 has delicious Chicago style pizza with fantastic breadsticks. They have thin crust options for you and amazing greek salads.
Curragh Irish Pub| Location: 3 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423-3503
If you want live music and excellent Irish fare, this is your place. Enjoy your view of downtown Holland on the patio, or soak in the pub life inside. The environment is perfect for families or adult only dining.
What to Do
Mt. Pisgah Dune Climb and Boardwalk | Location: 2238 3rd Ave Holland, MI 49424
This is a great way to get in those steps while enjoying a breathtaking view of the water. A wooden staircase takes you 157 feet above the water and provides excellent photo opportunities. This is a fun way to allow the littles to release energy or enjoy a good workout with your friends and partners.
Holland Farmers Market| Location: 150 W. 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
Enjoy fresh produce, food trucks, and tasty options from numerous vendors. The farmers market is located on the north end of downtown and walking distance from central Holland.
Warner Vineyards| Location: 26 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
What would a Michigan vacation be without wine tasting? This quaint winery is located downtown and provides tasty assortments of wines which have been featured at the White House. Tastings are $8 and include five wines or beers. They also support groups up to 50.
Parks To Enjoy
Windmill Island Gardens| Location: 1 Lincoln Avenue Holland, MI 49423
This is a beautiful place for photos and exploring. In the spring, you’ll see over 1,000 tulips in bloom. Other features include a playground, picnic area, street organ, and costume guides so come spend an entire afternoon in this colorful oasis.
Holland State Park| Location: 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424
You can’t go to Holland without enjoying their endless sandy beaches and the state park is the place to do that. It also offers a walkway to the pier, ample space for beach play, rolling waves, and a plentiful snack bar. This beach is picturesque wetter you make it for a sunrise or sunset.
Centennial Park| Location: 250 Central Avenue Holland, MI 49423
This dog friendly park is adorable and a perfect walking place to soak in the colorful blooms. The fountain and garden add to this scenic spot so don’t forget your camera for some great photos.
Favorite Places to Stay
City Flats| Location: 61 E 7th St, Holland, MI 49423
For a trendy and contemporary stay, my husband and I love the City Flats. You can leave your car here and enjoy walking all weekend with its proximity to downtown. The rooftop brunch is also amazing and their main floor restaurant has delicious drinks and decadent dinner items.
Haworth Hotel| Location: 225 College Ave, Holland, MI 49423
The Haworth Hotel has been recently renovated and is located in the Hope College district. This hotel offers a continental breakfast and is walkable to town and would be an amazing place for a wedding!
Courtyard Holland Downtown| Location: 121 East 8th Street, Holland, Michigan 49423
For an up-to-date stay at the center of downtown Holland, I highly recommend the Courtyard. They have a fully stacked fitness center and gorgeous lobby with dining options for every meal of the day.
Where to Get Dessert
Kilwins| Location: 62 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
Kilwins is a favorite for our family. We love getting the Kilwins Tracks in a dipped waffle cone but if you aren’t in the mood for ice cream, enjoy popcorn or fudge. The fireplaces located on the sidewalk make this a perfect place to enjoy your treat no matter the season.
Peachwave Frozen Yogurt and Gelato| Location: 6 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
If you want a healthier alternative, Peachwave is the perfect place to enjoy a cold treat. They have many flavor options and tasty mix-ins, too.
Where to Get Souvenirs
The Bridge| Location: 18 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
This is a fair-trade shop with accessories, gifts, home products, and children’s items. You are sure to find something for everyone at this quaint downtown shop.
Apothecary| Location: 35 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
This is a great place for locally made items. I always find cute scarves, home decorations, and jewelry here.
Cherry Republic| Location: 29 W 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
My husband and I come here way too much. Cherry Republic has a full range of items from chocolate covered nuts, jams, salsa, and a ton more. They also include wine tasting and nonfood items like t-shirts and stuffed animals in the back.
Where to Grab Brunch
Windmill Restaurant| Location: 28 W 8th St #220, Holland, MI 49423
This is a popular breakfast spot so make sure to arrive early and prepare to wait in line, but I promise it will be worth it. They feature breakfast and lunch items. The cinnamon rolls are fantastic and they are known for their homemade bread and hash brown omelette.
Cranes in the City| Location: 11 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423
This cafe features baked goods, sandwiches, and cozy drink options. I recommend the fried donuts! My favorite sandwich is the City Cristo which includes apple slices. This downtown eatery has window seating so you can enjoy the city views as well.
The Biscuit| Location: 450 Washington Ave, Holland, MI 49423-4103
This brunch spot is not located in downtown Holland but well worth the 7 minute drive and they have several hash options. My personal favorite menu item is the Cranberry French Toast.
Bonus Tips
- Travel time is just about 1.5 hours from mid-Michigan.
- Tulip Time is early May.
- Free parking throughout town.
- Most downtown businesses closed on Sundays.
- Heated sidewalks for winter travelers.
- Public restrooms located downtown and at the beach.
Looking for another another amazing vacation spot? Check out our Guide to Pentwater!
