Discover Holland, Michigan - A Taste of Dutch Charm on Lake Michigan

Day 1: Downtown Dutch Delights & Windmills

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Holland and check into your accommodation, ideally in or near downtown for easy access (e.g., CityFlatsHotel Holland or Courtyard by Marriott Holland Downtown). Drop off your bags and head straight to Windmill Island Gardens (approx. 5-7 minute drive from downtown, ~2.5 miles). Spend 2-3 hours immersing yourselves in Holland’s iconic Dutch heritage. Explore the beautiful manicured gardens, witness the authentic 250-year-old “De Zwaan” windmill (the only original working Dutch windmill in the USA), and enjoy the Dutch street organ. Cost: ~$12 per person.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch at Our Brewing Company (76 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423), a popular downtown spot offering delicious pub fare and local craft beers. Cost for 2: ~$40-50. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll down Downtown Holland’s 8th Street, browsing unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Don’t miss stopping at DeBoer Bakery for an authentic Dutch pastry or a refreshing coffee at Lemonjello’s Coffee (61 E 9th St). Distance: All walking. Cost: Variable for shopping/treats. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the Holland Museum (31 W 10th St), just a short walk from 8th Street, to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, Dutch founders, and local industry. Time: 1.5-2 hours. Cost: ~$8 per person.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) For dinner, choose between the lively atmosphere and hearty comfort food at The Curragh Irish Pub (73 E 8th St) or the European-inspired menu and refined setting of The Alpenrose Restaurant (214 E 8th St). Cost for 2: ~$70-100. After dinner, enjoy a romantic evening walk through downtown Holland, admiring the historic architecture and charming streetlights.

Day 2: Lakeside Majesty & Artisan Crafts

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your day with a scenic drive to Holland State Park (approx. 15-20 minutes, ~7 miles from downtown). You’ll need a Michigan Recreation Passport (day pass ~$9-11 per vehicle for non-residents). Spend 2-3 hours enjoying the pristine sandy beaches of Lake Michigan, walking along the pier, and capturing postcard-worthy photos of the iconic “Big Red” Lighthouse. The fresh air and expansive lake views are incredibly rejuvenating.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Grab a casual lakeside lunch at Ottawa Beach Inn (2150 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424), known for its delicious burgers and proximity to the state park. Cost for 2: ~$40-60. Next, journey to DeKlomp Wooden Shoe & Delft Factory (12755 Quincy St, Holland, MI 49424, approx. 10-12 minutes from Ottawa Beach Inn, ~6 miles). Witness fascinating demonstrations of traditional wooden shoe carving and the intricate hand-painting of Delftware pottery. Time: 1-1.5 hours. Cost: Free admission, variable for purchases. If time and interest allow, consider a picturesque Holland Princess Boat Cruise (290 S River Ave, Holland, MI 44923) on Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan, offering unique perspectives of the coastline and surrounding beauty (check seasonal schedule and availability; cost ~$30-40 per person).
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Indulge in an upscale casual dinner with stunning views of Lake Macatawa at Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant (216 Van Raalte Ave, Holland, MI 49423). Reservations are highly recommended, especially for window seating. Cost for 2: ~$100-150. Enjoy a final evening stroll by the water, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Day 3: Artistic Flavors & Farewell Views

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) If your visit falls on a Wednesday or Saturday (seasonal, May-October), start your day at the vibrant Holland Farmers Market (150 W 8th St), where you can sample local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts. Distance: Walking. Cost: Variable for purchases. Spend some time browsing the charming art galleries and specialty shops that line downtown’s streets, such as Carolyn Stich Studio (89 S River Ave) for local art and souvenirs. Enjoy a last Holland coffee and pastry at JP’s Coffee & Espresso Bar (269 S River Ave).
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Savor a delicious lunch and enjoy a tasting of local craft beers and spirits at New Holland Brewing Co. Pub on 8th (66 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423). This renowned brewery offers a diverse menu that pairs perfectly with their award-winning beverages. Cost for 2: ~$50-70. If you prefer more Dutch immersion, an alternative is a visit to Nelis’ Dutch Village (12350 James St, Holland, MI 49424, approx. 7-8 minute drive, ~3.5 miles), a theme park offering traditional Dutch dances, a petting zoo, and rides (seasonal, check opening hours/dates; cost ~$15-20 per person). Conclude your afternoon with any last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite downtown spot.
• Evening (4:30 PM onwards) For a memorable farewell dinner, head to CityVu Bistro (61 E 7th St, Holland, MI 49423) on the rooftop of the CityFlatsHotel. Enjoy modern American cuisine with fantastic panoramic views of downtown Holland. Cost for 2: ~$80-120. Reflect on your “Dutch Delights & Lakeside Bliss” adventure before heading to your departure point.

Day 1: Dutch Delights & Downtown Charms

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Holland and check into your family-friendly accommodation (e.g., Courtyard by Marriott Holland Downtown or a local Airbnb). Start your Holland adventure with an immersion into Dutch heritage at Windmill Island Gardens. Explore “De Zwaan,” the authentic 250-year-old Dutch windmill, watch the miller at work, and let the kids enjoy the antique carousel and miniature Dutch village. The beautiful gardens are perfect for a morning stroll.
  • Distance: Typically 1-2 miles from downtown Holland lodging (5-10 minute drive).
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours.
  • Cost: Adults $12, Children (3-12) $7. (Approx. $38 for a family of four).
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a casual, family-friendly lunch at Russ’ Restaurant (various locations, American diner style, $12-18 per person). Afterward, head to DeKlomp Wooden Shoe & Delft Factory. Here, you can watch artisans hand-paint delicate Delftware and carve traditional wooden shoes. It’s a fascinating look at Dutch craftsmanship and a great photo opportunity. There’s also a gift shop.
  • Distance: Windmill Island to Russ’ (Northside) to DeKlomp is about 5-7 miles total (15-20 minute drive).
  • Time Needed: Lunch 1 hour, Factory 1-1.5 hours.
  • Cost: Factory tour is free. Lunch at Russ’ approx. $50-70.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Take a leisurely walk through charming Downtown Holland. Enjoy the unique boutique shops and admire the architecture. In warmer months, kids might enjoy the splash pad at Centennial Park. For dinner, experience New Holland Brewing Company - Pub on 8th. They offer a diverse menu with options for everyone, including a dedicated kids’ menu, in a lively atmosphere.
  • Distance: DeKlomp to Downtown Holland is about 3-4 miles (10-15 minute drive).
  • Cost: Dinner at New Holland Brewing: $80-120.

Day 2: Lakeside Dunes & Nature’s Wonders

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Pack your beach essentials and head to Holland State Park. Spend the morning playing on the expansive sandy beach of Lake Michigan. Build sandcastles, splash in the waves, and take a memorable walk along the pier to see the iconic “Big Red” lighthouse up close. Concessions and restrooms are available.
  • Distance: From downtown Holland, it’s about 8-10 miles (15-20 minute drive).
  • Time Needed: 3-4 hours.
  • Cost: Michigan Recreation Passport required for vehicle entry ($12 for MI residents annually, $17 for non-residents annually, or $11/day for non-residents).
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a picnic lunch that you’ve packed, either at Holland State Park or nearby Tunnel Park. Tunnel Park is famous for its concrete tunnel that goes directly through a dune to the beach, plus an excellent playground area for children. It offers beautiful views and another fun spot for beach play.
  • Distance: Holland State Park to Tunnel Park is about 2 miles (5-minute drive).
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours.
  • Cost: Free entry.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Transition from beach to nature at the Outdoor Discovery Center. Explore miles of accessible trails, visit the nature center with live animals, and engage with educational exhibits. It’s a fantastic, free resource for learning about local ecosystems. For dinner, enjoy American comfort food at Beechwood Grill in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
  • Distance: Tunnel Park to Outdoor Discovery Center is about 7-8 miles (15-20 minute drive). Outdoor Discovery Center to Beechwood Grill is about 2-3 miles (5-10 minute drive).
  • Cost: Outdoor Discovery Center is free (donations welcome). Dinner at Beechwood Grill: $70-100.

Day 3: Panoramic Views & Farm Fun

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) Start your day at Veldheer Tulip Gardens & DeKlomp Wooden Shoe & Delft Factory. While the peak tulip season is spring, Veldheer is still charming with its Delftware production, wooden shoe painting, and unique animal park featuring American bison, reindeer, and various farm animals that kids can feed. It’s a fun, interactive experience.
  • Distance: From downtown Holland, it’s about 5-6 miles (10-15 minute drive).
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours.
  • Cost: Admission to gardens/farm: Adults $10, Children (3-12) $5 (approx. $30 for a family of four). Animal feed extra.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Grab a quick, delicious lunch at Captain Sundae (seasonal, known for ice cream and light lunch fare, $10-15 per person). Afterward, head to Mt. Pisgah Dune Climb at Holland State Park. This is a family-friendly challenge, climbing a wooden staircase to the top of a dune for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Macatawa, Lake Michigan, and “Big Red” lighthouse. Kids will love the accomplishment and the incredible scenery.
  • Distance: Veldheer to Captain Sundae to Mt. Pisgah is about 5-7 miles total (15-20 minute drive).
  • Time Needed: Lunch 1 hour, Dune Climb 1-2 hours.
  • Cost: Mt. Pisgah is free, but requires a Michigan Recreation Passport if parking in the state park lot (covered by Day 2’s pass). Lunch at Captain Sundae: $40-60.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Enjoy some downtime back at your lodging. For a special “splurge” dinner, head to Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant. Located right on Lake Macatawa, it offers beautiful views, a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, and a menu with delicious options for both adults and children.
  • Distance: Mt. Pisgah to Boatwerks is about 5-6 miles (10-15 minute drive).
  • Cost: Dinner at Boatwerks: $100-150.

Day 4: Final Views & Fond Farewells

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Consider a local favorite like Lemonjellos Coffee in downtown Holland for pastries, coffee, and a light bite (approx. $30-50 for a family). Afterward, take a final stroll through Window on the Waterfront park. This beautiful park along Lake Macatawa features walking paths, a small playground, and great views – perfect for one last outdoor play session or simply relaxing by the water before you depart.
  • Distance: Lemonjellos and Window on the Waterfront are both in or adjacent to downtown Holland.
  • Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours.
  • Cost: Breakfast/Coffee: $30-50. Park is free.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM) Before hitting the road, grab a final Holland lunch. Culver’s is always a kid-pleaser with its butterburgers and frozen custard (multiple locations, approx. $10-15 per person), or pick up some fresh sandwiches for the journey from J.P.S. Deli. Check out from your accommodation and depart from Holland, Michigan, with wonderful family memories!
  • Distance: Various locations for lunch spots, typically a short drive from downtown.
  • Time Needed: 1 hour for lunch.
  • Cost: Lunch at Culver’s: $40-60.