Grand Haven Is An Enchanting Michigan Town That Makes An Excellent Weekend Getaway Destination

Michigan has more miles of coastline (3,288 miles to be precise) than any other state except for Alaska, so it should be no surprise that the Wolverine State has its fair share of places to enjoy the view. With its sandy beaches, historic shopping district, and picturesque boardwalk, Grand Haven is one of the most charming towns on Lake Michigan. In 2017, Coastal Living Magazine even named it the happiest seaside town in America.

Originally a logging and manufacturing town, as well as an important shipping port, Grand Haven began attracting visitors in the late 19^th century who wanted to find relaxation and recreation in the area’s waters. Today, you can do as much or as little as you like in this resort town: spend the day on the beach, take in an art gallery, or marvel at the Grand Haven Musical Fountain, the largest in the world when it was built in 1962 (the fountain at the Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas eventually took the crown).

Downtown Grand Haven is lined with coffee shops, gift shops, boutiques, and a variety of restaurants. It’s a splendid place for everything from summer splurges to breezy window browsing.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Harbor Trolley takes locals and visitors alike through downtown. It’s an exciting and affordable way to get around town. Wave one down at any intersection along its route.

At the western edge of downtown, the Grand Haven Musical Fountain plays nightly shows at dusk from Memorial Day to Labor Day, combining light, music spanning several genres, and 90,000 gallons of water in a 20-minute synchronized display. And it’s free! Check the website for precise start times.

A 2.5-mile boardwalk connects downtown with Grand Haven State Park beach. Along the way you’ll pass parks, restaurants, and a U.S. Coast Guard station. Choose a bench to watch as boats pass, or bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn.

Stop by the Grand Haven Farmers Market on the northeast end of the boardwalk. The market runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May to October.

Grand Haven State Park features a popular swimming beach and a fishing pier.

Among the park's highlights are the South Pier lighthouses, two operational lighthouses that attract photographers throughout the year.

There are plenty of other excuses to get outside in addition to the beach - fishing charters, dunes with hiking trails, and 100 miles of bike paths in the region, just to name a few.

Have you been to Grand Haven? What are your must-see stops in town?