Holland, MI Travel Guide

A romp through Downtown Holland…


It’s no secret that downtown Holland is one of my favorite places. No matter what the season, it’s a pretty magical place. In the summer it’s alive with beach bound visitors and live music. In the winter it’s decked out for the holidays in the most cozy way possible.

I wanted to share a bit of a guide covering everything from favorite eateries to must-see shopping. Whether you’re a local or out of state visitor, I hope it helps you navigate the goodness that is Holland, Michigan!

WHERE TO STAY

There are great places to stay in Holland that are central to the downtown area. Here are a few favorites:

  • City Flats: This would easily be my #1 choice when it comes to lodging in town. Their staff is fantastic and they have a great restaurant if you’re hungry during your stay. A movie theater and rooftop space rounds out why it’s my go-to when people ask where to stay.

  • Courtyard by Marriott: Great cafe and beautiful pool located right on 8th Street downtown.

  • Haworth Holland at Hope College: Tucked away on Hope College’s campus, the Haworth Hotel’s proximity to downtown shopping and dining is perfect.

peanut-store-holland-michigan

WHERE TO EAT

There’s no shortage of delicious places to share a meal in Holland.

  • Taco + Bar: No fuss delicious tacos, margaritas, and chips/guac. Highly recommend the carnitas and fried cauliflower taco.

  • Poquito: Tapas in a beautiful setting. After your delicious meal, head next door for a cocktail (see below).

  • Obstacle No. 1: An intimate, chic cocktail lounge offering everything from classic cocktails to unique concoctions that play with ingredients like matcha tea syrup and corn flake milk foam.

  • Seventy-Six: A little of everything you could want. Great starters and delicious entrees.

  • Itty Bitty Bar: Dive bar with delicious dive bar classics. Make your own pizza, share a starter, or enjoy a bit of pasta.

  • Butch’s Dry Dock: Lovely spot for a dinner or glass of wine. A few favorites: Garlic Frites, Spaghetti, Seared Scallops

  • The City Deli: One of my top suggestions for lunch. Great soup and endless grilled sub options.

  • Boatwerks Waterfront: Staring right at Lake Macatawa, Boatwerks has one of the best views while dining. Summer is prime time there when you can enjoy your meal on their patio.

  • Windmill Restaurant: A downtown Holland staple. If you’re looking for breakfast this would be your place.

  • New Holland Brewing: If you’re a beer fan, this would be my #1 pick for you. Don’t forget to pair your craft brew with a delicious snack.

  • The Biscuit: Another delicious breakfast and brunch spot in a cozy setting.

  • DeBoer’s Bakkerij: If you’re on the way to/from the beach and need a spot to go, DeBoer’s is conveniently located right on the way. Great classic dishes and a bakery if you need a treat to go.

  • Captain Sundae: This is a must if you are on the hunt for a good ice cream cone. Their famous Tommy Turtle is legendary for good reason.

  • The Peanut Store: A good ol’ candy store.


WHAT TO DO

This was the toughest part to narrow down because there are so many fun event you can enjoy in Holland. Here are a few, but they have a bit of everything so you’ll find fun no matter what your interests are.

  • Downtown Holland…everything: Downtown Holland is the hub of the entire town. Many of the restaurants that I shared are located right downtown. Great shopping (see below), cozy coffeeshops, and within the last couple years, a movie theater! The Downtown Holland group does a fantastic job of planning fun events and keeping people in the loop on all things fun that are happening.

  • Shopping: There are so many fantastic spots to shop. A few of my downtown favorites include Spring Sweet, Frances Jaye, Gezellig, Reader’s World, The Outpost. If you are looking for chain stores (Target, Barnes and Noble, Ulta, Old Navy etc.), those are available about 10 minutes from downtown in a shop-able clump.

  • Holland State Park: One of the things that Holland is most well known for is the beach. The iconic “Big Red” lighthouse looks over Lake Michigan and the channel welcoming sailboats. Whether it’s a beach day or evening sunset (or all of the above), it’s a must see.

  • Farmer’s Market: We are spoiled in Michigan with lots of fantastic farmer’s markets, but Holland is easily one of my favorites. Shop the local produce every Wednesday and Saturday from April through October, rain or shine!

  • Nelis’ Dutch Village: Really want to lean into the Holland of it all and soak up everything Dutch? Visit Dutch Village!

  • Tulip Time: One of the prettiest events around. People come from near and far to enjoy old traditions like sweeping the streets and Dutch dancing along with delicious cuisine. To tip-toe through the tulips is pretty magical.

I hope you make your way to Holland sometime. It really is a special place that’s unlike anywhere else on the planet. If you are heading to the area and looking for a specific suggestion, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Happy Holland-ing!

Sincerely,
Ashley

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