Surrounding Cities
One of the best things about Grand Rapids is its proximity to Lake Michigan. Generally within 30 minutes you can be sitting on an awesome beach enjoying one of the best sunsets you will ever see. Here are just a couple of the local towns of West Michigan:
Grand Haven
Grand Haven has a historic downtown with unique shops, art galleries, charter fishing, and plenty of great restaurants and ice cream parlors. There is a 2.5 mile boardwalk which you can venture out on and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The boardwalk borders the channel and takes you out to the pier and gorgeous, award winning sandy beaches. You will feel as if you have ventured to California for the evening!
Saugatuck
Saugatuck is best known for its numerous bed and breakfasts, shopping and the Saugatuck Waterfront Film Festival. There is always something new to see in this truly unique business district. You can take the chain driven ferry across from downtown to Oval Beach to enjoy at a day at the beach. Oval Beach was rated as one of the top 25 beaches in the world by Conde Naste Magazine.
Holland
Holland is well known because of its Tulip Festival which has been going on for over 80 years. The town offers unique shopping and restaurants. Also, Holland State Park has a great beach to enjoy.
Muskegon
Muskegon has been undergoing an incredible amount of change in the past decade. There is a lot of history to explore as well some wonderful scenery at the many state and county parks for nature lovers. Pier Marquette Beach is always a good stop. Also, you will want to take in the many festivals including the popular summer celebration.
Whitehall / Montague
The White Lake area is truly one of the hidden gems in the West Michigan area. This area is less traveled so the town itself and the beaches are less crowded. You will want to take the family to Duck Lake and make sure to have lunch at Pickadills – highly recommended. The very popular Rothbury Music Festival has become a yearly staple for the area. Don’t forget to check out the World’s largest Weathervane in Montague.
