ABC57 Road Trip: Holland, Michigan

HOLLAND, Mich. -- Holland, Michigan is known for their Dutch heritage…and of course, tulips! So, we started our visit at window on the waterfront. The 30-acre park is home to 100,000 tulip bulbs. Even as tulip season passes, the park displays beautiful flowers, but these pretty sights are just one part of what makes Holland so special.

“I think it is the warmth of this community, you walk down the street and people say hi to you, it just is a really small town that cares about the tourism and community,” says Gwen Auwerda, Executive Director of Tulip Time Festival.

Plus, there is not just one park to stop by, but several! We made our way to Windmill Island Gardens.

The 36-acre park is home to the only authentic, Dutch windmill in the country. Brought over back in the 60s, and it is still running. The park…clearly a popular destination!

“People just want to get out and travel, and see the flowers and just enjoy going to places again,” Matt Helmus, Windmill Island Garden Development Director.  

Once tulip season ends, the gardens continue the fun! In the summer, visitors can see a colorful palette of annuals. These sights really are a family experience. Breanne and her family traveled to Holland just to visit the gardens…all 20 of them.

“My first time in Holland was two years ago and it was absolutely beautiful, so we decided to come here every year after and last year COVID hit so it got canceled so we thought why not make a family trip of it and show everyone the tulips and bring some home,” says Breanne.  

But if your kiddos want the full Dutch experience, maybe add Nelis’ Dutch Village into your trip! Step back into the Netherlands of 150 years ago with this family friendly amusement park.

Guests can enjoy the carousel, petal cars, a petting zoo and learn even more about Dutch culture with Dutch dances and more!

Further information about Nelis’ Dutch Village can be found here.