SW Michigan’s larger meetings destinations are all within a reasonable distance to the Lake Michigan coast, where groups can catch some local culture, hold a memorable event or extend travel for a day or two.
Holland and Harbor Country are two popular spots for tourists and attendees.
Holland
It would be hard not to feel relaxed in Holland, Mich., which sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa and is known for its Dutch hospitality and charm–even in the cold Midwestern winters.
“We are considered a year-round destination for meetings because we have a snow-free downtown, the city has 60 miles of plastic piping beneath its streets,” says Sally Laukitis, executive director at the Holland Area CVB. “This system uses recycled wastewater that is then heated and melts the snow.”
The city is perhaps most famous for its annual Tulip Time Festival and the authentic DeZwaan windmill, situated within Windmill Island Gardens (event space for 300). It is also home to “Michigan’s most photographed lighthouse,” simply called the Big Red Lighthouse, and a booming food and beer scene.
“Some people comment on how clean Holland is, and that people really take care of their properties here,” Laukitis says. “It’s just a welcoming, friendly environment in a cool destination.”
The Holland Area CVB can provide a number of services for meeting planners, including free registration assistance that includes a costumed Dutch greeter who is also available for guided tours. It also works with the nearby Grand Rapids CVB to hold shopping excursions and other activities.
Harbor Country
Harbor Country, made up of Michiana, Grand Beach, New Buffalo, Union Pier, Lakeside, Harbert, Sawyer and Three Oaks, lies within easy reach of downtown Chicago as well as Kalamazoo in SW Michigan.
“We’ve got the water with the lake and beaches, countryside for the foodie experience and we’re also experiencing a micro craft brewery boom,” says Viki Gudas, executive director at Harbor Country COC.
Greenbush Brewing Co. in Sawyer is a must-try stop for craft beer enthusiasts and Journeyman Distillery has 2,500 square feet of open factory space–once used for manufacturing corsets and buggy whips–that can be used for corporate events, business meetings and more.
Gudas said one of her favorite meeting spots was Gintaras Resort on the Lake, a vintage resort in Lakeside, with cottages right on Lake Michigan’s beachfront.
“They have a lighthouse space that can accommodate around 150 people, which is a very popular spot for weddings, but can also be used for meetings,” Gudas says.
She also added that Marina Grand is a wonderful boutique hotel and one of her other top choices for meetings and events. As for essential experiences, Gudas says kayaking the Galien River is an activity that should not be missed, that really gives visitors a feel for the area.
