If you’re dreaming of colorful tulip fields, downtown streets, beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and unforgettable culinary delights, Holland, Michigan deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. You’ll find Holland along the shores of Lake Michigan and this vibrant West Michigan town blends Dutch heritage with stunning natural beauty, making it one of the Midwest’s most unique getaway destinations.
Whether you’re planning a spring escape for the famous Tulip Time festival or a relaxing summer weekend by the lake, here’s your guide to the best things to do in Holland, Michigan.
#1 Experience the World-Famous Tulip Time Festival
The main reason that people visit Holland is because of their Tulip Time Festival, which is one of America’s most celebrated flower festivals. Every spring, more than six million tulips transform the city into a colorful masterpiece while traditional Dutch dancers, parades, live entertainment and artisan markets fill the streets.
We invite you to join us in 2027 for our Holland Tulip Time Trip! While we’ll enjoy the festival, we’ll also visit a family owned berry farm, take a tour of the city, see the Frederik Meijer Gardens, Nelis’ Dutch village, Windmill Island Gardens, and take a dune buggy ride.
#2 Visit Windmill Island Gardens
One of Holland’s most famous attractions is the Windmill Island Gardens which is home to De Zwaan, the last authentic working Dutch windmill imported from the Netherlands. You can stroll through the beautiful gardens, tour the windmill and ride the antique carousel that will make you feel like you are in Europe. This beautiful spot is also part of our trip to Holland along with the Tulip Time Festival.
Fun fact: De Zwaan was built in 1761 in the Netherlands, it was moved to the U.S. in 1964.
#3 Relax at Holland State Park
If you’re visiting during the warmer months we recommend you visit Holland State Park which is one of Micihigan’s most popular beaches. You can spend the day swimming in Lake Michigan, kayaking, paddle boarding, walking and picnicking along the beach or watching the sunset.
Did you know? Holland State Park is also home to the famous Big Red Lighthouse. While parts of the structure date back to 1870, it wasn’t painted its signature vibrant red until 1956, leading locals to affectionately nickname it “Big Red.”
#4 Stroll Through Downtown Holland
Downtown Holland is a great area to visit because it’s very walkable and full of boutique shops, art galleries, coffee houses, wine bars and restaurants.
Visiting Holland, MI in the winter? Don’t worry, the downtown has heated sidewalks giving you plenty of things to do in downtown Holland even in winter.
#5 See Millions of Tulips in Bloom
If you can’t make it to Holland during the Tulip Time festival, don’t worry, because you can find tulip displays outside of the festival time as well. The best time to visit is late April through early May and we recommend looking for tulips at Centennial Park, Window on the Waterfront, Windmill Island Gardens, Veldheer Tulip Gardens or the Downtown flower beds.
#6 Explore Holland’s Dutch Heritage
When you first hear the name Holland, you likely think of Europe, but Holland, Michigan actually gets its name and rich heritage from the Dutch immigrants who founded the city in 1847. To experience that history firsthand, we recommend visiting the Holland Museum, the Cappon House Museum, the Dutch Village, trying authentic Dutch bakeries or observing a wooden shoe demonstration.
#7 Visit Nelis’ Dutch Village
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Holland, Michigan, we recommend visiting the Nelis’ Dutch village which recreates an entire Dutch town making you feel like you’re in Europe. You’ll find costumed performers, Dutch architecture, wooden shoe carving, rides, stroopwafels and beautiful gardens.
What is a stroopwafel? A stroopwafel is a popular Dutch cookie. It is made of two thin, round baked waffle layers. A sweet syrup or caramel filling sits in the middle. The word means “syrup waffle” in Dutch.
#8 Discover Holland’s Culinary Scene
Holland’s food scene is just as memorable as its tulips, you can find waterfront dining, award-winning breweries and authentic Dutch bakeries.
Here are a few of our favorite places if you’re on the hunt for foodie things to do in Holland, Michigan:
- Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant: This restaurant overlooks Lake Macatawa and we love their fresh seafood, steaks, handcrafted cocktails and sunset views.
- Butch’s Dry Dock: This restaurant offers an exceptional wine list, premium steaks and seafood which makes it the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary or retirement.
- The Curragh Irish Pub: You’ll find this restaurant located in the heart of downtown with traditional Irish food, craft beers and whiskey flights. We also enjoy their occasional live music.
- New Holland Brewing Company: We recommend this stop for any craft beer enthusiasts and you may know them for their Dragon’s Milk Stout. You’ll also find a beer garden making it the perfect spot for the warm spring and summer months.
- deBoer Bakkerji: If you visit Holland you have to stop for authentic Dutch pastries and here you’ll find Dutch letters, banket and cinnamon rolls. This is a must-visit for any sweet tooth lovers.
#9 Bike the Scenic Trails
In Holland, you’ll also find miles of paved biking trails that connect to beaches, parks, downtown and nature preserves. We recommend biking popular routes such as Lakeshore trails, Window on the Waterfront, Ottawa County trail system and the Tunnel Park area.
#10 Watch a Lake Michigan Sunset
If you’re visiting during the warmer months we also recommend you watch a sunset on Lake Michigan. Some of our favorite lookout spots include Holland State Park, Tunnel Park, Kollen Park and Laketown Beach.
Why Holland, Michigan Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
Holland, MI should be on your travel bucket list because it perfectly combines European charm, Midwestern hospitality, stunning beaches, colorful gardens and delicious dining. Whether you’re photographing millions of tulips, relaxing on Lake Michigan, exploring Dutch history or enjoying incredible local restaurants, every visit offers something memorable and plenty to do.
Ready to Experience Michigan and Beyond with Us?
Whether you’re joining us among millions of blooming tulips in Holland or planning your next domestic or international adventure, we offer several expert-guided trips year-round for all types of travelers.
Contact us today to start planning your next trip!