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| Grand Haven, Michigan Lighthouse |
We had a lovely getaway weekend in Grand Haven, Michigan. We stayed at a B&B directly across from the Grand Haven beach and within walking distance to the downtown area.
Grand Haven is a delightful small town on the western side of Michigan located directly on Lake Michigan. It is well known for the Grand Haven Lighthouse which has been guiding ships since 1839. The current Grand Haven Lighthouse was built in 1905.
This lazy resort town with the sound of Lake Michigan lapping the shore has a lot to offer everyone in the family. Downtown streets are lined with interesting boutiques and novelty shops. Ride the Trolley around downtown and visit the many boutiques and then take the trolley to the beach.
There is a boardwalk that fills up every evening after dinner with vacationers, who enjoy ice cream while watching the spectacular sunset over Lake Michigan. Then they turn their attention to the Musical Fountain with the world’s largest synchronized lights, water, and music. The Musical Fountain offers a 20-minute show every night at dusk.
Beaches and Sand Dunes
Grand Haven State Park offers sandy beaches, camping sites, fishing, sunbathing and volleyball courts. All within walking distance of downtown Grand Haven. There are concessions and changing areas. Michigan State park fees apply.
Grand Haven City Beach is located next to the state park. free parking, no entrance fee.
Kirk Park is a 68-acre park of sand dunes, swimming area, pavilion, playground, hiking trails, and an off-leash dog park.
Kitchen-Lindquist Dunes Preserve is a dunes only area with no beach. One of the best examples of dune ecosystems. It has two trails with excellent bird watching.
Biking Trails
Lakeside Trail is a 12-mile path that wraps around Spring Lake and has many public access points including Central Park in Spring Lake, and Pomona Park in Fruitport. This is a delightful trail n the spring with wildflowers and budding trees, lush greenery in the summer and colorful trees in the fall, perfect for snowshoeing in the winter
Lakeshore Connector Path is a 20-mile ride along the seashore between Grand Haven and Holland State Park.
Musketawa Trail is 25 miles of farmlands, wetlands, creeks, and villages. It is a four-season trail for bicyclists, snowmobiles, horses, in-line skaters, hikers, and cross country skiers.
Festivals
Winter
Grand Haven Jingle Bell Parade makes it fun to be in the cold outside,
Attractions
Benz Aviation of Grand Haven is a Cessna Pilot Center that offers sightseeing tours.
Grand Haven Boardwalk runs 1.5 miles along the Grand River with retail shops, ice cream, and snack shops at Chinook pier. You will also find boats for charter, a lighthouse and a catwalk pier there.
Chinook Pier Mini Golf is always a family favorite activity
Courtyard Concerts and offered throughout the summer season.
Imagination Station is a 10,000 square foot wooden play structure designed by local children.
Golf
The Evergreen Executive Golf Course has rolling terrain, creeks, and woods, with a par 60. It is located east of Grand Haven.
Grand Haven Golf Club was founded in 1965, designed by architect Bruce Matthews. It has dense hardwoods, natural sand dunes, and offers a great view of the shoreline.
Watersports
There are kayaks, jet skis, paddleboards, and canoe rentals. You can find fishing boat charters, and scenic charters available to get out and enjoy Lake Michigan.
Restaurants
Rendezvous Family Dining, 401 N 7th St, Grand Haven, MI 49417, (616) 846-3740. Great for the whole family (including breakfast, open 24/7, great location, . It’s frequented by the locals and you’ll find a huge mix of people every time you go. Breakfast is really busy and it’s a “seat yourself” place.
Fricano’s Pizza Tavern, 1400 Fulton Street, Grand Haven, MI 49417, 616-842-8640
The most famous pizzeria in Michigan, this establishment is believed to be the very first pizzeria in the state. Delicious!
Grill Room at the Kirby House,2 Washington Street, Grand Haven, MI 49417,616-846-3299
Enjoy the casual atmosphere at this restaurant that offers an eclectic menu daily for lunch and dinner and offers indoor and outdoor seating. Live entertainment is provided every Friday and Saturday.
Accommodations
You will find several B&Bs, small lakefront motels and traditional motel accommodations including Bluewater Inn & Suites, and Days Inn.
We stayed at the Looking Glass Inn, directly across from the beach on the bluff, walking distance to downtown. Nice room friendly hosts and a wonderful deck to enjoy watching sunsets over the lake.
In addition to the camping at the state park, there is nearby camping at Campers Paradise in Grand Haven, Michigan.
Looking for more fun this fall, check out our list of Fun things to do in the Fall
