Winter Activities in Holland Michigan USA: Things to Do in Winter in Holland MI
West Michigan is known for the beautiful beaches and summer vacations galore. But SO many travelers miss out on the wonders that winter can bring to the West Michigan area in the colder months.
Whether you’re just traveling through Michigan looking for a quick pitstop in a nice small town or a winter wonderland to shop, explore, and mosey along through the charming streets, there are SO many winter activities in Holland MI to fulfill your winter dreams.
The best part of this little town? There’s plenty to do in the walkable city center! Everything from shopping to dining, to wine tasting: all without driving on the snow filled streets! Take advantage of the best accommodation rates AND all the snow filled fun during the off season with “Winter Activities in Holland MI: Things to do in Winter in Holland MI” for this small town:
Stroll Along Their Heated Streets: Downtown Shopping District
The heated streets in this charming town offers a mess-free and accessible way to navigate Hollands downtown streets in the winter while getting your fill of the various shopping, dining, and beverage options in the area. So even if the snow is piling up, feel free to wear your nice shoes and NOT have to suffer through cold feet!
Shop Local Clothing Stores
Don’t miss out on the HUGE variety of local clothing stores featured in Hollands downtown area. Everything from boutique baby/toddler clothing at Tip Toes, trendy women’s clothing at jb and me, to fair-trade goods at The Bridge; there’s a shopping locale for everyone! Check out a few more of our MUST-STOP shops featured below:
More great shopping hotspots:
- The Outpost – Outdoor apparel & camping gear
- Borr’s of Holland – Shoes & accessories
- Francesca’s – Trendy women’s wear
- Silver Fox Jewelry – Jewelry store & unique gifts/accessories
- Spring Sweet – Candles, bath/body, gifts, clothing, and more!
- Holland Peanut Store – Candy store (who doesn’t love an old fashioned by-weight candy store?)
Have a Coffee by the Outdoor Fireplace
In true winter wonderland fashion, Hollands downtown district features an outdoor fireplace where shoppers can gather with family/friends, a warm cup of a coffee, and enjoy the brisk winter air in West Michigan (while warming your hands by the fire, of course!) Be sure to invite some friends and enjoy the fresh air as a great option for winter activities in Holland this season!
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Kilwins Chocolates
Kilwins Chocolates! There’s no better way to warm up on a cold snowy day than with a great cup of coffee and as many chocolates as you can possibly eat. They offer a variety of fresh chocolate treats and ice cream. Stick around long enough and your sure to catch them making their own Michigan fudge right there in house too. Be sure to ask for a sample!
Try a Craft Beer Flight
You are pretty close to Beer City USA, anyway! (AKA – Grand Rapids, MI) There’s no better winter activity in the Midwest region than enjoy a locally brewed craft beer! Be sure to stop at New Holland Brewing and sample one (or a few!) of their famous craft beers!
Have Appetizers at the Local Food Joints
Eating just pairs perfectly with enjoying a beer in the winter, doesn’t it? Holland has no shortage of great food options! Whether you’re looking for unique stone fired pizza, a traditional hamburger and fries, or the joys of an Irish pub, Holland offers something to do for everyone in the winter!
More Great Food Haunts:
- Butch’s Dry Dock – For upscale/formal dining American eats
- The Curragh Irish Pub – Traditional Irish food & music
- Hops at 84 East – Brick oven pizza, a large craft beer selection, the BEST handmade cocktails, and other pub foods
- Mizu Sushi – Sushi, Sashimi, & other Japanese & Korean dishes
- New Holland Brewing Company – Craft beer & American pub eats
Click any of their links to see the full menu!
Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Warner Vineyards
Getting a little chilly? Stop off at Warner Vineyards for a wine tasting to warm your belly and your hands! They feature a variety of dry and sweet wines ready to sample. There’s no better option for winter activities in Holland than warming up for a bit inside this quaint vineyards sampling store!
Catch a Movie, See a Play, or a Live Concert!
A modern theater meets quiant small-town movie house – introducing Sperry’s Moviehouse! Located right downtown in the shopping district, take a stroll at night to catch dinner and movie, all within walking distance of your hotel!
Park Theatre is another great option for live music, comedy shows, and more! Be sure to check their website here for their schedule during your stay.
The Holland Community Theater puts on regular live plays throughout the winter season as well. Check their website for upcoming performances here and purchase tickets in advance to guarantee a spot!
Looking to venture out of the downtown area? Don’t miss out on these must-see’s:
Swim at the Holland Aquatic Center
The Holland Aquatic Center is sure to impress anyone looking for a place to warm up during the brisk winter months. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will enjoy the aquatic center’s various water features including their Zero-Entry Wading Pool, Lazy River, and waterslide! Be sure to check their website for open swim hours during your visit here! Holland Aquatic Center Schedule
Outdoor Activities at the Outdoor Discovery Center
If enjoying the outdoors is more your style, be sure to stop out at the Outdoor Discovery Center. A 100 acre nature preserve that offers just many winter activities in Holland Michigan as well as summer ones, it’s a MUST-SEE in the beautiful snow covered months. Whether you’re interested in snow-shoeing or cross country skiing, this is the place for all you winter sports enthusiasts!
Where to Stay in Holland?
- The George & Evelyn on 8th – centrally located in the walkable downtown area
- Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton or Courtyard by Marriott Holland – both centrally located, more affordable. Book either one below:
West Michigan can be one of the most beautiful and charming areas, even when the weather turns. Guarantee the best prices, the least amount of crowds, and the most downtime by visiting in the slower winter months. Take the opportunity to soak in the calm pace and get lost in this charming cities romantic downtown area this winter!
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Winter Activities in Holland Michigan: Things to do in Winter in Holland MI FAQ’s
- Shop along their bustling downtown shopping district
- Sample homemade fudge at Kilwins
- Try a craft beer and local foods at the great various food vendors
- Catch a movie, play, or live music show
- Wine tasting at Warner’s Vineyards
- Venture outside the downtown area for sportier options such as swimming and cross-country skiing
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Craft beer tasting looks like something I’d love to do there.
These sound like great suggestions for a cold winter’s day.
Okay but heated streets?! As a gal from Arizona, this totally blew my mind! Such a cool (and practical!) concept. Holland looks like a great little town, and I always love to see the ‘other side’ of a place, not just the tourist hot spots. Saving this, as we’re planning a Michigan road trip for the fall!
Michigan is a state I have never been to, but looks like there is plenty to do, even when it’s cold. Love the convenience of the heated streets & the chocolate store sounds delicious!
I thought it was just Canadians would have outdoor fireplaces! Looks like I’d be right at home in Holland!
Holland looks a great quaint spot to enjoy a winter day, thanks for sharing your tips on what to do!