West Michigan has so much to offer– from the great outdoors to festivals across the region, there are endless things to do during the summertime. Whether you’re a tried-and-true local, a prospective West Michigander, or just here for a visit, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten things you should put on your West Michigan Summer Bucket List to make this the best summer yet.Â
1. Watch the sunset over Lake Michigan.
There’s nothing more beautiful than a sunset over the water. With so many beachfront options like Grand Haven State Park Beach and Holland State Park Beach, grab your family and friends, a beach towel, and set up for a breathtaking scene that will never get old.
2. Catch an outdoor concert
The live music scene in West Michigan has something for everyone to enjoy. Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens is bringing in some big-time artists with spectacular views, and Relax at Rosa is offering free music at lunchtime with up-and-coming artists.
3. Try a new ice cream flavor
A sweet treat is the perfect way to end the night! From the House of Flavor’s Mackinac Island Fudge to Captain Sundae’s Chunky Strawberry, discover your new favorite ice cream (that you will inevitably visit every week for the rest of summer).
4. Sip on coffee from a locally owned coffee shop
Coffee tastes better when it’s locally owned! Check out The 205 Coffee Bar in Holland, Scorpion Hearts Club in Grand Rapids, or East End Coffee Stop in Grand Haven.
5. Take a road less traveled
Are you a fan of lacing up your hiking boots and trying a new trail? Try Aman Park or Provin Trails for some easy hiking, PJ Hoffmaster for some dune trails, or the Dragon Trail if you’re looking for a longer adventure.
6. Frolic in some flowers
West Michigan is home to some seriously photo-worthy flower fields. Stroll through the lavender at Summerhouse Lavender Farm or find your golden hour moment in the sunflowers at Degen Farm.
7. Visit a local festival
If there’s something West Michigan knows how to do, it’s to throw a festival! Check out the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, the South Haven Blueberry Festival, and the Grand Rapids Hispanic Festival for endless opportunities for fun.
8. Grab a bite to eat– somewhere unexpected
There are a lot of unique dining options in the region: try eating next to the lake at Boatwerks or in 70s style lounges at The Commons.
9. Shop local
Whether you’re window shopping or need something new, West Michigan has everything– a comic at Vault of Midnight, a flower shop/ boutique experience at Spring Sweet, or something new-to-you at Vintage Green Antiques.
10. Get artsy
The art community is thriving in West Michigan, and you can see busts at the Frederic Meijer Gardens Sculpture Park, the David Hockney: Perspective Should Be Reversed exhibit at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and visit artist talks at the Muskegon Museum of Art.
What will you add to your bucket list this summer? Tag us in your favorite West Michigan adventure!
