Windmill Island Gardens, photos courtesy Holland CVB
Distinctive Holland
Get your wooden shoes on
Both historic and hip, Holland is a favorite group travel destination. Numerous Dutch-themed attractions and events showcase the city’s Dutch heritage. But groups can also kick off their “klompen,”or wooden shoes, at the beach to enjoy the Lake Michigan sunsets; dine in the penthouse restaurant atop a boutique hotel that was designed with the environment in mind; and ride the GroovExpress bus during the GrooveWalk musical extravaganza.
New in Holland
Shopping and sculpture
One of the reasons people never tire of downtown Holland is that there’s always something new. There are several shops that recently opened, a couple that are relocating to a more central area — like Warner’s Wine Tasting — and several that have revamped their look. Downtown events keep cropping up, such as the Street Performer Series, the Summer Concert Series and Live Mannequin Night.
Speaking of things that don’t move, outdoor sculptures keep getting added, among them the grand “Strong Hearted Woman” by local artist Jason Quigno. And now, some local sculptures are moving; they include “Whirligig” and “Pantanemone,” two whirling sculptures by another local artist, Dennis Foley.
Taste Holland
Savory or sweet
Holland area has numerous restaurants that you won’t find anywhere else. Cranes Orchards recently opened Cranes in the City, which features scrumptious fruit and berry concoctions. You can take in fine dining at the CityVu Bistro, Butch’s Dry Dock and AlpenRose; dine by the lake at the Piper or Boatwerks; settle in with the casual cuisine of 84 East Pasta, 8th Street Grille, City Delicatessen, Good Earth and Crazy Horse; and enjoy a local brew at the New Holland Brew Pub or Our Brewery.
Craving some sugar? Your sweet tooth will be thrilled selecting treats at the Peanut Shop, an old-fashioned candy store; Kilwins, for fudge, ice cream and candy; local favorite Captain Sundae’s; and the bakery at AlpenRose restaurant.
