HOLLAND, Michigan — Holland, Michigan, is one of the Midwest’s most original cities. With a rich Dutch heritage, it's a wonderful place to visit. Holland's late April/early May Tulip Time Festival brings thousands to view some of the most beautiful tulip displays this side of Amsterdam. That, along with downtown-based, Christ-centered Hope College are the town's main claim to fame.
There was a time when the town of 33,000 was pretty sleepy, especially in the winter. That all changed when city fathers came up with a unique idea. Put tubing underneath the downtown roads and sidewalks flowing with warm weather. The idea worked, with no ice or snow downtown even on the most severe winter days.
Linda Hart, with the Convention and Visitor's Bureau, says the decision to heat the sidewalks and roads was a game-changer and would be for generations.
"There was a gentleman who’s name was Edgar Prince. He was a Hollander. He had learned the concept over in Europe. In 1988, we went through a $325 million streetscape project, two-thirds of it paid for by Prince himself," Hart said. "They took out all the sidewalks, all the streets and it was a third. A third free parking, a third green space and a third retail space. We carried that concept for the last 40 years in any new development that takes place."
Holland Michigan in Winter
Wherever you go in Holland, you are reminded of the Dutch heritage here. From the Dutch Reformed Church presence to the quaint shops, beautiful artwork and the towns many festivals, city leaders are aware that this town's Netherlands-feel is a big draw to tourists.
Holland is also called the city of churches. More than 170 churches make their home here.
The lake, the access, the beautiful annuals that replace the May tulips...all of these aspects of Holland make it such a sought-after destination.
"We have music in the park on Tuesdays and Fridays. If you are looking for something out on the big Lake Macatawa, fall is just stunning. We have a wonderful fall fest with nationally recognized pumpkin carvers from all over with us," Hart said.
Holland is the kind of Midwest town you can't stay away from. From the lake breeze to the all-season festivals to the unique road and sidewalk heating system, there is something here for anyone...anytime!