Fall in West Michigan - What to Do with Kids

Fall in West Michigan is a magical time of year - crisp mornings, bright colors, and plenty of family fun. If you’re looking for activities to enjoy with your kids this season, Holland and Grand Haven offer so many ways to get outside, make memories, and soak in autumn together. Here are some of my favorite local traditions and hidden gems:

Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Apple Orchard

• Bethke Farms (Grand Haven): A family classic with hayrides, corn mazes, and plenty of pumpkins for kids to pick out themselves.

• Bowerman Blueberries Farm Market (Holland): Known for summer blueberries, but fall brings fresh donuts, cider, and a fun selection of gourds and pumpkins.

• Crane’s Orchard (Fennville): Worth the short drive for apple picking, cider slushies, and their famous pies.

  
  

Explore Local Trails & Parks

• Rosy Mound Natural Area (Grand Haven): The hike includes boardwalks, stairs, and sandy paths leading to Lake Michigan - kids love the adventure and the big dune views.

• Windmill Island Gardens (Holland): Open into October, it’s a chance to enjoy fall colors alongside history and Dutch heritage.

• Pigeon Creek Park: The wooded trails are perfect for a leaf-crunching walk, and kids can bring along bikes or scooters for the wide paths.

• Mt. Pisgah: Similar to Rosy Mound in Grand Haven, this hike includes a wooded walk, stairs, and breathtaking views of both Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan.

Fall Festivals & Community Fun

• Holland Fall Fest: Horse-drawn trolley rides, pumpkin carving, and downtown shopping with seasonal treats.

• Pumpkinfest (Zeeland): A nearby favorite with parades, crafts, and plenty of pumpkins.

• Grand Haven Trick-or-Treating: The downtown area and local neighborhoods go all out for Halloween - kids can trick-or-treat in a safe, walkable setting.

Cheer on Local Sports

• High School Football Games: Bundle up and take the kids to a Friday night game at Grand Haven or West Ottawa. The band, cheerleaders, and community spirit make it exciting even if they don’t follow every play.

Cozy Indoor Options

• Holland Farmers Market: Open through mid-December with fall produce, warm cider, and kids’ activities on Saturdays.

• Tri-Cities Historical Museum (Grand Haven): Great for a chilly day - kids can explore local history and seasonal exhibits.

• Herrick District Library (Holland): Story times and craft events are perfect for slower fall afternoons.

Catch a Lake Michigan Sunset

Fall sunsets along the lakeshore can be some of the most breathtaking of the year. Bundle the kids in blankets, bring hot cocoa, and watch the sky light up from:

• Grand Haven State Park pier

• Tunnel Park (Holland)

• Windsnest in West Olive

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s pumpkin picking, a leaf-covered hike, or a cozy fall festival, Holland and Grand Haven offer so many kid-friendly ways to celebrate autumn. These local traditions make fall in West Michigan truly unforgettable - and a reminder of why we love raising families here.