Holland, Michigan

Holland, Michigan is located on the western side of the Lower Peninsula. The city consists of 17 square miles with a population of 35,000. Holland was settled in 1847 by Dutch separatists escaping persecution in The Netherlands, and much of the Dutch culture and religion have remained strong influences in this city.

There are 170 churches in Holland and boasts the founding of the “What Would Jesus Do” bracelets in the 1990s. The Heinz pickle factory has operated in the same location since 1897, and Holland has one of the most photographed lighthouses in Michigan, Holland Harbor Light. A 250-year old original Dutch windmill is located in a municipal park and stands 125 feet tall with 40-foot sails.

In May of each year, Holland hosts the Tulip Time Festival, which draws huge numbers of visitors with its traditional Dutch costume, marching bands, and wooden shoe dances. Holland is served by two airports – Park Township Airport and the larger Tulip City Airport – as well as Amtrak train service.

The average climate in Holland is 20-30 degrees in winter and activities that are popular are tobogganing, snowshoeing or enjoying time in the aquatic center. With temperatures of 70 degrees in summer, this makes visiting the museums, lighthouse and windmill gardens a delight.