Springtime in West Michigan is one of the most beautiful times of the year. Yes, there is a lot of rain, but spring also means warmer weather. In fact, there is an unwritten rule that Michiganders can wear shorts after one warm afternoon. While anyone living outside of Michigan might call us crazy, it’s not uncommon, especially after a long, cold winter.
Aside from the shorts, anyone living in Michigan knows it’s the perfect time to explore the outdoors and watch flowers blossom.
Tulip Time
Speaking of flowers, West Michigan is home to one of the largest tulip gardens in the country. Holland, Michigan has 6 million tulips blooming each year. But that’s not all, Holland also hosts their annual “Tulip Time” festival that attracts over 100,000 people per year. While the festival was canceled in 2020, due to the pandemic, the festival is back on this year!
Nelis’ Dutch Village
As somewhat as a preview of Tulip Time, Nelis’ Dutch Village opens April 17th. The Theme park celebrates the Netherlands with a wooden shoe factory, cheese-making, a petting zoo, and of course an abundance of tulips blooming. Save $1 when you purchase your tickets online.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
When springtime hits, many race to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park to see the largest temporary butterfly exhibit in the nation, Butterflies are Blooming, which features over 7,000 butterflies from around the world. Another popular attraction is the eight-acre masterpiece, The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. Placed among 4,000 boulders, visitors follow the winding paths through the garden and search out a variety of plants native to both Japan and West Michigan.
John Ball Zoo
It’s also the perfect time to spend a day with animals at John Ball Zoo. With over 2000 animals, representing 230 different species, John Ball Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in West Michigan. While the zoo does currently have visitor restrictions and a limited capacity, tickets are available on their website.
West Michigan Whitecaps
2020 was not a good time to be a fan of any sport. Most sporting events were halted, and those that continued didn’t allow fans. However, the West Michigan Whitecaps recently announced their plans to allow fans at a limited capacity this season. The Whitecaps home opener is on May 11th, buy your tickets before they sell out!
Aircraft Viewing Park
One hidden gem in Grand Rapids is the viewing park at Gerald Ford International Airport. Enjoy a picnic or a lunch date while watching planes come and go. The park has 100 parking spots, several picnic tables, and plenty of space for kids to run around.
Now that winter is “officially” over, take advantage of the warmer weather, longer days, and beautiful sunsets. Spend time outdoors golfing, fishing, bike riding, or any activity that requires you to be out. Explore our Sports, Leisure, and Water page to discover the outdoors of West Michigan.
