One of the best summer nights on the lakeshore is in Grand Haven. Walk the boardwalk, grab dinner and stay for the fountain. On a warm night, it feels like the whole town is out on the water.
It is simple, it is mostly free and it works for every age. Here is how I would put the evening together. You do not need tickets or a plan beyond showing up.
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: A Weekend in Grand Haven
How to Spend a Summer Night in Grand Haven
1) Walk the Boardwalk
The boardwalk runs along the Grand River from downtown to the state park beach and the pier. Start downtown and walk toward the lake.
Go in the late afternoon so you reach the beach and pier with plenty of light left.
Along the way, stop and watch the boats on the river. If you have kids, give them a little time on the sand at the end of the walk before you head back for dinner.
2) The Toasted Pickle
The Toasted Pickle is my pick for dinner near the waterfront. It keeps you close to the action, so you do not have to move the car.
Eat, then head back out for the second half of the night.
It is a casual spot, which makes it an easy choice for families or a group that has spent the day at the beach.
3) Pump House Frozen Yogurt Bar
Pump House Frozen Yogurt Bar is right on the boardwalk, which makes it the easy dessert stop. Build your own and keep walking.
Get it to go and find a spot for the show.
If you walk the boardwalk at sunset, the light on the river makes the whole thing feel like a postcard.
READ: The Great Lakeshore Ice Cream Crawl
4) Stay for the Musical Fountain
The Musical Fountain was built in the 1960s, and it puts on a free water, light and music show at dusk all summer. It is the reason to stay late.
Check the fountain site before you go for the current schedule.
Bring a blanket or something to sit on, and get there a little early to find a good spot. The show is free, and it is one of the best summer traditions on the lakeshore.
A boardwalk walk, dinner by the water, dessert in hand and a fountain show to close it out. That is a summer night I would plan a whole trip around.
West Olive Cottage is a short drive south of Grand Haven, so you can be back home soon after the last song. Come stay with us.
More favorites in my Grand Haven area guide.