Fall is a great time to visit Grand Haven, Michigan. With fewer crowds, crisp Lake Michigan air, and vibrant fall foliage, this charming beach community offers a peaceful, scenic escape. Whether exploring the outdoors or relaxing by the water, there’s no shortage of things to do in Grand Haven during the fall. If you’re planning a fall getaway, Unsalted Vacations has accommodations to ensure your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable.
Here are five things to do in Grand Haven this autumn to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Hike Rosy Mound Natural Area
For nature lovers, hiking in the Rosy Mound Natural Area is a must. The trail takes you through forested areas bursting with vibrant fall colors. As you walk through the woods and up the dunes, the view opens up to a stunning panorama of Lake Michigan. This hike combines the changing leaves’ beauty with the lake’s serenity, making it an ideal activity for an afternoon immersed in nature. The cooler weather adds to the comfort of the trek, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenic views at your own pace.
2. Visit the Grand Haven South Pier
Visiting the iconic Grand Haven South Pier is a great way to experience the city’s history while soaking up the fall atmosphere. Take a walk along the pier, where you can admire the surrounding trees as their leaves turn color. The fall breeze from the lake makes the experience even more refreshing. The peacefulness adds a serene charm, making it ideal for a quiet stroll or photo opportunity.
3. Explore Downtown Grand Haven
Downtown Grand Haven offers a mix of local shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants. Stroll along the streets, where fall decorations and seasonal displays in store windows create a festive feel. Peruse unique souvenirs, grab a warm drink, or enjoy lunch at one of the town’s eateries on the way to your next activity.
4. Go Apple Picking at a Local Orchard
One of the best ways to celebrate fall is by visiting a nearby orchard. Many orchards around Grand Haven offer fresh apples and other seasonal produce. This family-friendly activity gives you a taste of the autumn harvest while allowing you to enjoy the beautiful fall landscape. Bring home a basket of crisp apples to enjoy during your stay, or relish the experience of wandering through the orchard on a cool fall day.
5. Enjoy Outdoor Dining
Even as temperatures dip, outdoor dining is a popular way to enjoy Grand Haven’s laid-back atmosphere. Many restaurants offer patio seating where you can indulge in a delicious meal amid the beauty of fall foliage. Whether savoring fresh seafood or a warm bowl of soup, the combination of flavorful food and scenic views of the changing leaves makes for a memorable dining experience. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring the town and its natural beauty.
West Michigan Vacation Rentals in Grand Haven and Beyond
With many things to do in Grand Haven, your autumn escape will be full of exploration and relaxation. From hiking through colorful trails to relaxing by the water, fall in this West Michigan community offers a range of experiences highlighting the town’s charm and natural beauty. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at one of the comfortable properties from Unsalted Vacations, making your trip unforgettable.
By now, it’s no secret that the Lake Michigan summer offers a wealth of opportunities for friends and family to forge cherished memories while enjoying fantastic weather. Grand Haven, Michigan, is an excellent place to start your adventure, as it is just an hour’s drive from some of the best summer activities in the area. Today, we’ll explore ten options you’ll have while staying with Unsalted Vacation Rentals.
Grand Haven City Beach
Grand Haven City Beach is one of the most popular beaches to enjoy on a Lake Michigan summer day, and for a good reason—its expansive shores and azure wavy waters make it the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or play in the sand, there is much to appreciate about Grand Haven City Beach.
Enjoy a Picnic in the Park
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to combine a Lake Michigan summer day and a scenic lunch, a picnic in one of the many parks in the area is the perfect solution. For example, Duncan Woods and Hemlock Crossing are two popular options that offer picturesque landscapes and peaceful surroundings. Pack a basket of your favorite foods, bring a blanket, and settle in for a leisurely afternoon with your crew.
Go Fishing
Lake Michigan is an angler’s paradise, with many fish species to catch, including salmon, trout, and walleye. Plenty of fishing charters and boat rentals are available in the area, making it easy to explore the lake and find the perfect fishing spot. In addition to Lake Michigan, the area around Grand Haven also offers several rivers and smaller lakes to try your luck!
Take a Lake Michigan Cruise
There’s nothing quite like watching the sunset over Lake Michigan in summer, and one of the best ways to experience it is on a cruise. Star of Saugatuck and Aquastar Lake Cruises are two popular options that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. Check out the Grand Haven Area travel page for more information.
Explore the Lighthouses
Lake Michigan has many historic lighthouses along its coastline, and the Grand Haven area is no exception. The Grand Haven Lighthouse, the South Haven Lighthouse, and the Muskegon Lighthouse are just a few examples of the many iconic cylindrical structures you can explore in the area. Take a tour, learn about the history, and enjoy the captivating vistas from the top.
Visit a Farmers’ Market
West Michigan summers are known for their delicious farm-fresh produce, and visiting a local farmers market is a great way to experience it. Pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables for your picnic, or prepare a delicious home-cooked meal at your vacation rental with local ingredients. Many nearby farmers markets also carry artisan crafts, baked goods, and dairy products.
Go on a Bike Ride
Biking is popular in the area, with miles of bike paths and scenic routes along the lakeshore and beyond. Rent a bike or bring your own and explore the area on two wheels. The Grand Haven State Park and the Muskegon State Park are just a couple of the many places you can ride around while immersing yourself in some of West Michigan’s beautiful summer surroundings.
Visit the Nearby State Parks
West Michigan’s state parks offer stunning views of the lake and opportunities to explore its coastal ecology. Holland State Park is a prominent spot with accessible boat launches and breathtaking sunsets. Hoffmaster State Park offers picturesque views, including the Dune Trail Overlook, which provides a panoramic perspective of the lake. Muskegon State Park features 12 miles of hiking trails and a track chair for wheelchair users. At the same time, Van Buren State Park is an excellent location for picnics, swimming, and fishing, with access to a 14-mile trail connecting South Haven to Hartford for cyclists.
Relax at Your Lake Michigan Summer Vacation Rental
The reason guests choose to stay with us for their precious Lake Michigan summer getaway is because our vacation rentals provide comfort and convenience, all under one roof. From exploring the state parks to discovering the various beach communities, having a place to call home at the end of each exciting day is crucial. Whether you need a lakeside condo or a spacious cottage-style house, Unsalted Vacation Rentals has you covered.
Check out our collection of Lake Michigan vacation homes and start planning your summer getaway today!
Teeming with scenic shorelines, iconic woodlands, and stunning sand dunes, the Michigan state parks are excellent places for those seeking adventure. And on our side of the “Great Lakes State,” the state parks are numerous. Discovery is undoubtedly one of the pillars of a successful vacation, and West Michigan poses an inviting opportunity for exploration. And just in time to shake off the winter blues, Unsalted Vacation Rentals is pleased to offer a comprehensive collection of rental homes for you to find the perfect base camp for an exciting getaway.
Before you hit the open road, be sure to get yourself a Michigan State Park Recreation Passport either online or at one of the many park locations. Not only will the passport grant you parking access to all the Michigan state parks, but the proceeds will help manage some of our most treasured assets.
Holland State Park
As one of Michigan’s more popular parks, Holland State Park is worthy of your Lake Michigan bucket list. In the summer, you may find yourself fishing and boating off the shore, thanks to one of the accessible boat launches. Locals will tell you that this precious public space has one of the best sunsets in the Upper Midwest. It’s no secret that Holland State Park is a beautiful spot, so make sure you arrive early during peak season!
Hoffmaster State Park
As the home of the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center, Hoffmaster State Park is a fantastic place for those who want to learn more about Lake Michigan’s coastal ecology. And if you’re looking for picturesque views, the Dune Trail Overlook promises to provide breathtaking photo opportunities giving you a panoramic perspective of Lake Michigan. Don’t worry; there are several benches along the way! There are also 10 miles of other scenic trails.
Muskegon State Park
Easily one of West Michigan’s unique public areas, Muskegon State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. The park features approximately 12 miles of maintained hiking trails and has a track chair allowing those who use wheelchairs to go off the beaten path. There are also about three miles of shoreline, making a perfect spot for picnics, swimming, and fishing.
Van Buren State Park
With grills, picnic tables, and a lovely swimming beach, Van Buren State Park offers a quintessential cookout spot. Moreover, guests can access the Van Burn State Park Spur Trail—a four-mile pavement trail leading to South Haven. Cyclists can go further thanks to the 14-mile trail connecting South Haven to Hartford.
Lake Michigan Summer Vacation Rentals
Now that spring and summer are just around the corner, visiting the Michigan state parks is something to put on your vacation to-do list. But before you create your itinerary, you’ll want to find a place to call home. So if you wish to stay near Muskegon, Holland, Manistee, or Grand Haven, Unsalted Vacation Rentals has an expansive assortment of vacation homes that will make exploration easy. To learn more or book your stay, visit us online or call 833-734-0090!
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While it may not seem like it, the Lake Michigan spring will be here in a matter of weeks. Anyone who has spent time on “The North Coast” during the winter months can tell you why we’re so excited about longer days and warmer weather. But as beautiful as the snow-covered landscape can be, spring signifies a highly-anticipated departure from cold air and bitter wind chills. Needless to say, our joy will intensify as the ice melts! And as we inch closer to winter’s end, there’s no better time to start thinking about things to do in West Michigan this spring than now!
5 Things to Add to Your West Michigan Spring Bucket List
With so many unique things to do in West Michigan after the snow and ice are gone, it’s no wonder spring is a fantastic time of year. Our slice of the Lake Michigan shore has a lot to offer for everyone, from city dwellers looking for a break from the noise to families hoping to shake off winter. Below, we’ll share a few things you can add to your West Michigan Spring bucket list.
Go Biking Along Lake Michigan
With over 100 miles of bike-friendly pathways around Grand Haven, the easily-accessible West Michigan tourist hub is a hidden gem for cyclists. The Lakeshore Connector Path is a 20-mile paved corridor connecting two beloved West Michigan beach towns, Holland and Grand Haven. The biggest draw to this bike path is you can go from Grand Haven State Park to Holland State Park in one route. Other noteworthy bike paths include the Grand River Explorers Trail, Lakeside Trail, and Tri-Cities Connector Path.
Explore the Beaches
You might think Michigan spring is too cold to hang out at the beach. Still, there’s something to be said for having fewer people taking up space on the shoreline. Empty beaches take on a new persona that any photographer, artist, or sightseeing enthusiast can appreciate. Check out our Best Beaches in West Michigan blog for a few ideas!
Work on Your Golf Game — Indoors
Many people may not realize it, but West Michigan is an excellent place for a golf vacation. Although some courses will be open as soon after the snow melts, some players will want to avoid soggy fairways. Thankfully, LiveGolf at Muskegon Country Club gives golfers the unique opportunity to brush up on their drives, chip shots, and putts in a controlled environment. Visit their website to see if you want to take a swing at it!
Visit the Holland Aquatic Center
Look no further than the Holland Aquatic Center if you and your crew can’t wait for summer to get in the water. This world-class water facility offers various features, such as a 50-meter competition pool. Your group will also love the warm-water lap pool, gigantic indoor water slide, and a welcoming “Splash Zone.” There’s something for everyone!
Set Your Clocks to Tulip Time
One of West Michigan’s most outstanding spring events is the Tulip Time Festival 2024in Holland. In addition to the iconic tulips found throughout the city, guests and visitors alike can enjoy a series of concerts, parades, and family-friendly activities. And the best part is Tulip Time Festival is a week-long celebration, making planning more manageable!
Unsalted West Michigan Spring Vacation Rentals
Now you have an overview of some fun things to do during the West Michigan spring season. So it’s time to find a place to stay and start planning your itinerary! Choose from an astounding variety of options from Unsalted Vacation Rentals.
Better yet, visit our Spring Staycation page! You’ll find discounted rates at select properties through April 30, 2024. Book now and take advantage of the year’s lowest rates on these properties!
BVW Unsalted Vacations Property Management manages all of our properties. We provide a starter kit of paper products, toiletries, hospitality-grade linens and much more.
Want to chat with a live representative? Click the blue chat icon on the lower right corner of the screen for assistance. You can also text the team at 616-383-5253 or email [email protected].
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As one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes, Lake Michigan is as iconic as anywhere else on the map. Wave-tattered piers, stoic lighthouses, and beautiful boardwalks all play an integral role in creating the ideal vacation environment for friends and family alike. And it doesn’t take long to realize that many West Michigan beach towns offer a certain charm that’s difficult to replicate—places where down-home midwestern sensibilities fuse with the laid-back coastal atmosphere are familiar on this side of the Great Lakes State. So as the region’s premier vacation rental provider, Unsalted Vacation Rentals would like to share three places to consider for your next Lake Michigan getaway.
The Best Lake Michigan Beach Towns for Summer
While there are certainly plenty of things to do year-round, summer in West Michigan presents a clear opportunity to explore the lakeside. And it’s not just the beaches! These “North Coast” communities are teeming with activities and attractions ranging from quaint shops to picturesque parks.
Grand Haven
Grand Haven, MI, also known as “Coast Guard City,” boasts two spectacular beaches near enough to walk to and from downtown. The boardwalk and trolley offer excellent ways to get around while visiting stores, restaurants, and the Grand Haven Musical Fountain—a must-see attraction. The Grand Haven Lighthouse provides a fantastic photo opportunity, and there are two piers on the north and south sides of the Grand River, perfect for a stroll or fishing.
Saugatuck
Home to one of the state’s—and arguably the nation’s—most beautiful beaches, Saugatuck, MI, is a gorgeous community drawing visitors from all over the Midwest and beyond. In addition to seemingly endless outdoor recreation options, this West Michigan beach town is a robust cultural hub thanks to the Ox-Bow School of Art. And with such stunning scenery at every turn, it’s no surprise that many artists from Chicago have spent time in Saugatuck to find inspiration amid Lake Michigan’s shores. The Saugatuck Center of the Arts is an ideal place to enjoy a play or unique exhibit.
Holland
Ideally situated between Grand Haven and Saugatuck, Holland is another Lake Michigan community known for its love for tulips—and of course, its beaches. Watch the sunset over the shoreline or stroll the charming downtown. Holland State Park offers picturesque views of the Holland Harbor, where you’ll find another historic lighthouse, and the Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk provides patrons with panoramic city vistas. The Tulip Time Festival is a must for anyone who loves city celebrations.
Muskegon
Muskegon is undoubtedly among the best West Michigan beach towns, boasting two large beaches on the lake, the Michigan Adventure theme park, and an impressive art museum. Part of what makes Muskegon an excellent place to visit is the variety of attractions. From museums, theatres, and festivals to golf clubs, fishing charters, and bowling alleys, there’s something for everyone in Muskegon. They even have a planetarium!
Not Your Typical Lake Michigan Beach Town Vacation Rentals
These extraordinary West Michigan beach towns are just a few awe-inspiring and iconic communities you can visit while staying with Unsalted Vacation Rentals. And there’s no better time to begin thinking about your Lake Michigan vacation than now! Please contact us online and browse our collection to find out more!