CATEGORIES
Ask Away
See below for questions and answers from previous visitors, or ask questions of your own.
Will be in Holland the week of May 12…will the tulips still be in bloom? And are there any activities/sights/venues to take my 80-something mother to who can’t walk any distance? Are there trolley tours or bus tours in the area? What is the number one suggestion you would give someone as a must-see before leaving the area? Thanks!
April 29th, 2013
A: This year, the Tulips should be beautiful the week of May 12 – we have had a cold spring, which typically means a colorful May. For information regarding the festival and trolleys, you should contact the official Tulip Time Festival at www.tuliptime.com or 1-800-822-2770. There are many wondful things to do in the City of Holland, including visting our Heinz Waterfront Boardwalk along Kollen Park, taking in our Historic Windmill, visiting Lake Michigin and watching the waves roll in, but my favorite thing to do is hang out on 8th Street on our brick sidewalks watching the friendly faces pass by.
I am thinking about moving to Holland soon I would like to know what area has the lowest crime and the best schools I have an autistic child and I am concerned about his safety and education.
February 12th, 2013
A: It is great that you are considering on moving to Holland. In our own opinion Holland is a great city to call home. In regard to school systems, you will be pleased that our City is home to several outstanding schools. For more information on the schools, we invite you to check out each of them by visiting the following site, http://www.enjoyhollandmichigan.com/education/. In regard to safety in our neighborhoods, you will be excited to know that we have an amazing set of involved neighbors and an egaged public safety department. While we can’t predict everything, we take comfort in knowing that the people of Holland and the Public Safety Department work hand in hand making Holland a safe place for all to enjoy.
What’s the climate like in Holland? I guess I’m most concerned about the winters…are they super cold?
February 12th, 2013
A:Holland’s climate is, well…..diverse. Here you get to experience the newness of spring, the warmness of summer, the color of fall and the fun of winter. And while it does get a little cold in the wintertime, our heated sidewalks and outdoor fireplace along with our many coffee shops will surely warm you up. And if you are looking to get out and enjoy Winter, just head on over to Van Raalte Farm for an afternoon or evening of sledding.
My husband and I are thinking of relocating from Chicago to MI and are exploring cities…what would make Holland stand out? We have a daughter and a dog and are very outdoorsy people.
August 31st, 2012
A: What would make Holland stand out? Where to start? Our top notch Downtown, our amazing school choices, the awe inspiring sunsets over Lake Michigan, over 500 acres of City Parks, our proximity to the artsy shoreline cities of Saugatuck and Douglas, our AMTRAK station to let you go back to Chicago for weekend visits, the cost of housing (compared to Chicagoland), our growing economy, Hope College, etc, etc, etc. Check us out and you will fall in love with Holland, Michigan.
What are the safest places to live in Holland?
August 31st, 2012
A: The safest places in the City of Holland are the places where you get involved as a neighbor. Holland, MI has an amazing group of residents connected to each other, working together to ensure our community remains a top notch place to live. Engaged residents, coupled with an amazing public safety department is the security blanket that we all need to know that our community is as safe as we make it.
We are considering moving to Holland after 30 years in a small town in a NorthWest state. I have heard that Holland is very conservative. Can you address how welcoming people will be toward more liberal residents who are not church-goers? Thank you.
August 31st, 2012
A: Yes, the greater Holland area has a reputation of of being conservative. However, more than that, the City of Holland has a reputation of being welcoming and inclusive. While it may be cliche to say there is something for eveyone here, the truth is, that there is something for eveyone here. In our amazing downtown, we have a handful of coffeshops. In the coffeeshops, you will find one group sipping Latte and discussing Nietzsche. While at the next table a group will be sipping Latte and having a bible study. I encourage you to check us out, and I welcome you to bring your own spirit of life to our community.
I was told that you needed to have a College Degree to be able to afford living in Holland. Is that true?
August 31st, 2012
A: Holland is a diverse and inclusive community. While there are pockets of “high rent” housing, specifically along Lake Macatawa, we have a wide array of living arrangements from apartments and starter homes to ranches and executive homes. We encourage you to contact a local realtor and ask about living in the City.
I am thinking of retiring to Holland, Mi and I will be renting an apartment. I’m not quite ready for a senior citizen home just yet. I am quite healthy, and I am an avid walker and hiker. Is it feasible to live there without owning a car?
August 31st, 2012
A: It is great that you are looking at moving to Holland! Probably one of the best things about our City are the abundance of sidewalks. Our sidewalks can take you from one edge of the City to the other. If you don’t feel like walking far distances, our public bus system can take you, and if you have a desire to visit Chicago for the weekend our own AMTRAK stop makes daily trips to the Big City. So yes, life without a car in Holland, Michigan is quite feasible.
My name is Sherry White
I love it here!
We joke about the fact that we live in Holland during the winters because we can go to the beach during the summers, which in my case is TOTALLY true. Grew up on a huge lake in Wisconsin, and would be “damaged” by trying to live away from a large body of water. Beyond that, Hope College, with its worship community, liverly arts scene and refreshing yourthfulness. I appreciate more now than I did when I moved here the “Dutch clean “ thing. I love Tulip Time.
My name is Roel Garcia
It's a Norman Rockwell painting.
Holland reminds me of a town whose scenes you'd expect to be captured on a Norman Rockwell painting. The town has the amenities of a larger-sized city but also has a "small town" feel to it, where you know your neighbors. I enjoy its quaintness, diversifying community, a great library and a vibrant downtown. I like the way Holland makes me feel, which is comfortable, and cozy. Plus, there are beautiful sunsets to watch off of Kollen Park on summer evenings. In addition, Holland is nestled near Lake Michigan, less than an hour from the hustle and bustle of Grand Rapids and about three hours from Chicago, making them quick rides for day trips. Becoming part of the Holland community has been an enriching experience for me.
My name is Ruth Coleman
Acceptance.
I value acceptance of all ethnic groups especially those who are willing to help build and contribute to the safety and well-being of their own.
My name is Kelli Perkins
We're shakin' and groovin'!
Many people think that Holland is an old school location with a lot of history. But Holland is shakin’ and groovin’ with activity. It’s eclectic, vibrant and delicious! Believe me, if a nose-bejeweled, stripe-haired girl from Chicago can feel at home here, anyone can. We’re here to stay and ready to lead the way!
My name is Barb Aalderink
A wonderful place to raise a family.
Holland is a wonderful place to raise a family and enjoy the beauty of the seasons. In the spring I ride my bike to the lake. In summertime I picnic at beautiful local parks. In the fall I participate in an abundance of community activities. And in winter, I enjoy the beauty of the season. But, most of what I love about Holland I can enjoy year-round…our many nationalities, the pride people take in their homes, the incredible work ethic, and the many places of friendly worship.
My name is Captain Jack Dykstra
Holland is a true leader.
Holland is a leader in what true community is…diversity, values, faith, commitment, volunteerism, generosity, solid work ethic and safety. As a leader in the law enforcement community, I personally take the public’s safety very seriously. Our community based policing and continued community partnerships ensure that this city will continue to be a safe and secure place to live.
My name is Thea Grigsby
An amazing place to put down roots.
I’ve only lived here a few months but I can tell you that Holland is an amazingly great place to put down roots. It’s historic, beautiful, friendly and artistic. There is a wonderful quality of life (no matter what age you are!).
My name is Chris de Alvare
We stand out in a crowd.
Holland has many strengths and assets which make us stand out in a crowd. That’s probably why so many companies have decided to stay in or relocate to Holland. (Not to mention the families and individuals who could relocate anywhere, vacation anywhere or retire anywhere, but have chosen here!)
My name is Matthew Scott
Holland has everything I need.
Holland has everything I need, but Grand Rapids is close and Chicago and Detroit are fully accessible. Holland is small enough and big enough at the same time. There is a lot to offer in the way of recreation, four seasons of things going on, and enough parks that there is always one close by. More and more, folks are looking for just this type of place and we’re lucky enough to already live here.
My name is Marvin Martins
Take your pick.
Holland is a great town in which to own a home. With our great diversity of neighborhoods, we have a house for you. From bi-levels to Historic Homes to Craftsmans (which are my favorite), we are a city with many choices. So when looking around for a place to live, remember the City will always have what you wan
