For many people, West Michigan means water. But we have so much to offer beyond the beach. Don’t get us wrong, we love an afternoon at Holland State Park, but sometimes it’s worth checking out another stop with less crowds, more trees, and a new experience. Check out these 5 places that will make you feel like a local and help you avoid the beach crowds.
Frederik Meijer Gardens
Located in Grand Rapids, just 35 minutes away, Frederik Meijer Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden and art venue. Inside, enjoy gorgeous, newly updated art galleries, a tropical conservatory, a carnivorous plant house, and restaurant. Outside, spend time walking through the Japanese Garden, along the river boardwalk, admiring the extensive sculpture collection and more! Meijer Gardens even features an amphitheater with a summer concert series so check out their website for the line up and tickets.
Jonker’s Garden
A Holland treasure, Jonker’s Garden is a long time plant paradise and community staple. Their indoor garden shop featuring a variety of house plants and decor is open year round, but their outdoor garden shop comes alive in the spring. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering through beautiful annuals, trees, sculptures and unique pottery. Be sure to stop inside to visit Alfie, the garden cat, too!
Sanctuary Woods
Located on the Southside of Holland, Sanctuary Woods is loved by locals for its quiet beauty. This park features a short trail system at the top of a dune – accessed by a tall, dune stairway. At the top, you get a unique view of both Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan. Be prepared to truly get your steps in at this stop!
Riley Trails
On the other side of Holland, Riley Trails is another great option for enjoying some quality time outside. It is a much flatter and features mostly clear, level trails through the woods. It is a gorgeous place to be and you’ll likely see couples and families having their portraits taken as it is a hub for local photographers – and you will see why!
Rosy Mound
If you’re looking to explore a little more, drive 20 minutes north along Lake Michigan to Rosy Mound Park. This quaint park is a trail system and beach. The trail system winds through the wooded dunes along Lake Michigan and is a combination of pathways and stairs. But once you reach the peak, you will understand why people love this park. A beautiful view of Lake Michigan awaits! There are also boardwalk trails along the water as well as a beach area to enjoy a sunny afternoon.
