Michigans West Coast - Pure Michigan Travel

Our very own west side story here in Michigan's West Coast, home to artists, musicians, designers and craftsman who make everyday living an art form. A remarkable destination where urban beat meets lakeside retreat. Grand Rapids, the region's largest city, boasts an exciting and visitor-friendly downtown. Check into a hotel ranked among America's finest - then walk to over 60 restaurants and nightclubs, a historic home district and world-class museums highlighting art, history and the life of local boy Gerald R. Ford.

Thirty minutes away experience the pristine beaches and breathtaking Lake Michigan sunsets that are out of this world. Relax in the sun or explore coastal villages, stroll through art galleries, climb an authentic Dutch windmill, ride a white-knuckling roller coaster, or careen across the dunes in a chauffeured buggy.

Maps

West Side Story – Michigan’s West Coast

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Taste just how good life is here in Michigan's West Coast, where everyday living is an art form and the beaches and sunsets are out of this world.

Holland State Park

One of Michigan’s most popular destinations, Holland State Park, offers expansive white sand beaches, swimming, picnicking, two campgrounds and spectacular sunsets!

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Stich

Walking the Pier - Grand Haven, Michigan

Grand Haven is a renaissance city that has become a beacon for those looking for simplicity in a scene of natural beauty. Grand Haven is a place of serene family enjoyment, lively outdoor recreation, history and culture, and festive events, located on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Photo courtesy of Grand Haven Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids

Within the 125-acre park that is Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, you will discover the largest tropical conservatory in Michigan, premier sculpture galleries and exhibitions with over 100 sculptures by world renowned artists, indoor specialty gardens and outdoor gardens designed by James VanSweden and Penelope Hobhouse.

Photo courtesy of Grand Rapids/Kent County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Downtown Grand Rapids

Make Grand Rapids part of your trip during your next visit to Michigan's West Coast. Blessed with abundant natural wonders, from the lush green valleys of the Grand River Basin to the sugar-sand beaches of Lake Michigan, it's an ideal destination for outdoor activities including golfing, fishing, swimming, boating, biking and sightseeing – and everything is close by!

Photo courtesy of Grand Rapids/Kent County Convention & Visitor's Bureau

Downtown Holland

Shop ‘til you drop in Holland's award-winning downtown. With over 100 specialty shops, galleries, cafes and eateries, you are sure to find something special for yourself or someone you love.

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Stich

Lake Michigan Sunset in Grand Haven

Grand Haven was recognized as one of the top five beaches in the United States by Good Morning America-Travel Mom in 2005. And when you arrive you will see why visitors have decided to make this their annual Michigan vacation destination year after year.

Photo courtesy of Grand Haven Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hackley & Hume Historic Site - Muskegon, Michigan

The Hackley and Hume Historic Site preserves the homes of Muskegon's most famous lumber baron, Charles H. Hackley, and his business partner, Thomas Hume. The site envelops the visitor in a unique living space, bringing late 19th century craftsmanship to life.

Photo courtesy of Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Monroe Center – Downtown Grand Rapids

Visitors and locals alike flock to Grand Rapids for a stroll along the store fronts or a bike ride through the city parks. The downtown area is very walkable with many attractions, dining options and accommodations all in close proximity to one another.

Photo courtesy of Grand Rapids/Kent County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Heritage Landing - Muskegon, Michigan

Experience the "Lake Effect" with sugar sand beaches and majestic Michigan dunes, the perfect place to relax, play and take in a spectacular sunset at Heritage Landing or Pere Marquette Park in Muskegon. Enjoy Great Lakes maritime history, charter fishing and Michigan’s Adventure amusement park.

Photo courtesy of Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

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Explore Michigan's West Coast

FREE iPod Shuffle with Hotel Stay - Feel the Grand Rapids Beat!
Book a two-night Feel the Grand Rapids Beat package at a participating Grand Rapids area hotel between May 29, 2009 and September 7, 2009, and you'll receive a FREE iPod Shuffle. Download Touring Tunes podcasts to your Shuffle for great ideas on what to see and do while you're visiting. One iPod per household, quantities are limited. Reserve your room today!

Touring Tunes Podcasts
Download or listen to Grand Rapids' original podcasts, providing inside tips on what is new and fun to do in the city while you visit. Check back often for updates throughout the summer.

Beaches
19 beaches along Michigan’s West coast await you, including some of the nation’s best. Visit Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon, the only nationally certified "clean beach" on the Great Lakes. Delight in Grand Haven's famous "singing sands. Climb towering dunes or take a thrilling dune ride.

Attractions
Discover Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where the most comprehensive collection of outdoor sculpture in the Midwest is displayed within 125-acres park of natural beauty. Explore the Lena Meijer Children's Garden, one of the largest in the nation, or find your rhythm at the Summer Concert Series featuring major artists such as Lyle Lovett, Sara Evans and more. Take on Thunderhawk, the newest addition at Michigan's Adventure Amusement Park. History is even fun along Michigan's West Coast with a tour of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum or a World War II submarine.

Events
All season long enjoy festivals and events where the goal is fun. Groove to a summer concert along the shore. Celebrate the 84th United States Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven. Catch a Whitecaps baseball game. See your favorite stars in concert at the Van Andel Arena.

Packages
Take advantage of great getaway packages and deals based on your interest and travel dates. From unique B&B’s and hotels, to the chains you know and trust, each of our communities have packages to help you explore, relax and enjoy Michigan’s West Coast.

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