Holland has a little of everything: a walkable downtown, Dutch history and a state park beach with a lighthouse.
I live in Holland, so I get asked for this plan a lot. Here is the weekend I would give a friend. It works in any season, and you can do most of it on foot.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: 4 Places to See Holland's Dutch Roots Up Close
My Holland Weekend Plan
1) Windmill Restaurant
Breakfast downtown on 8th Street. Start here and you can walk to the next stop.
The Windmill is a classic Holland breakfast. Go a little early on weekends and you will have the rest of the morning for the museum.
2) Holland Museum
An hour of local history.
It is the best way to understand the Dutch side of Holland before you see the rest of town.
It is also a nice option on a cold or rainy morning. Kids will enjoy it too.
3) Holland State Park
Walk the beach and see Big Red.
Here's a tip: the north side of the channel gets you the best view of the lighthouse.
The state park beach is the best place in Holland to see the lake. In summer, bring a towel and stay for the afternoon. In the off season, bundle up and walk. If the waves are up, enjoy the lighthouse from the sand.
4) Mt. Pisgah
Climb the stairs for the view.
It is right by the state park, so do both in the same afternoon.
Mt. Pisgah is a short climb with a big view. Take the stairs slowly and enjoy the view of Lake Michigan and Big Red from the top. Bring water if it is a warm day.
READ: Tulip Time Tips From People Who Have Done It Many Times
5) Boatwerks Waterfront
Dinner on Lake Macatawa. If I were planning one nice dinner for a Holland weekend, this is where I would book.
After a day at the beach, it is a nice way to stay near the water a little longer.
Boatwerks is a good choice for a relaxed dinner by the water. Go a little before sunset if you can. It makes a nice end to a day spent outside.
6) Lemonjello's Coffee
Coffee the next morning, next to Hope College. It has an artsy, easygoing feel that suits a slow last morning.
Grab a cup and take a slow walk through downtown before you head home.
Lemonjello's is a good spot to start a slow Sunday. Bring a book, sit for a while, and enjoy one last morning in town.
Holland is easy to do in a weekend, and it is just as good in winter as it is in summer. Downtown, the beach and a view from the top. That is Holland. It is my favorite town to show off.
Holland Home Retreat and Stay + Play Holland are both close to downtown. Pick your house and come stay with us.
More favorites in my Holland area guide.