Once Abandoned, Park Theatre In Michigan Has Been Restored To Its Former Glory
Many historic Great Lake State theaters that were once popular weekend spots have fallen into disrepair and been torn down. These beautiful buildings bring so much charm to local cities and deserve to be treasured and preserved. Thankfully, this abandoned theater in Holland, Michigan has been saved and turned into a flourishing non-profit music venue.
Park Theatre is located in downtown Holland in West Michigan, just a few short miles from the shores of Lake Michigan.
Across the street from lovely Centennial Park, the building first opened in 1886 as a woodworking mill and feed store before becoming the Colonial Theater in 1920. An orchestra and theater organ was housed in the theater until the interior was burned in a fire. The building then reopened as Park Theatre in 1936.
For 64 years, if you wanted to see a movie in Holland, Park Theatre was the place to go. Many first dates happened at this once-thriving movie theater.
But the theater fell victim to shiny new multi-screen movie cinemas and Park Theatre closed in 1984. Aside from a short reopening as a teen nightclub, the building was vacant and abandoned for 15 years.
In 2001 the neglected building was purchased by the Park Theatre Foundation and over the course of five years was restored to its former glory. Park Theatre is now a nostalgic and historic non-profit music venue that has brought back entertainment to downtown Holland.
Not only is Park Theatre a historical treasure but it is also championing the local Michigan music scene. Open mic nights, up-and-coming musicians, and tribute bands work together to keep Park Theatre a must-visit venue.
Comedy shows and private events such as weddings are also held at the entertainment venue. Whether you’re looking to find your next favorite band or revisit the theater to remember the good old days, Park Theatre would love your support.
To donate or see a list of local concerts and events, visit the Park Theatre website or Facebook Page. Have you visited this vintage theater in the heart of downtown Holland? Let us know about your experience in the comments below. While you’re visiting Holland, take a five-minute drive across the bridge to this delicious Dutch bakery.
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Address: 248 S River Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
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Emily Tieman is a lifelong Michigander and has a love for locally owned small businesses. She is a freelance writer for Only In Your State and has her own vintage content creator business.
