Grand Haven is a small beach town on the west side of Michigan that is home to about 10,000 people, unique restaurants, and sunsets that will blow you away. If you live in Michigan, chances are you have vacationed here or at least spent a gorgeous summer day at the beach boating, fishing, swimming, or sailing. There are over 100 miles of bike trails, a beautiful boardwalk and two lighthouses.
Our state park beach just recently received an award for being one of the best beaches in America and Grand Haven was awarded the best beach town in Michigan! Because of this, Coast Guard City USA attracts many tourists during the summertime, but some of us are lucky enough to call this place home. Here are a few things that you will only know if you live in Grand Haven.
1. The Coast Guard Festival fireworks are better than the fireworks on the Fourth of July.
Now don't get me wrong, we love the 4th of July, BUT the fireworks on Coast Guard Saturday can't compare with anything else.
2. There are over a dozen local ice cream shops. You definitely have a favorite and you probably have worked at one.
There is no chain ice cream shops like Dairy Queen or Baskin Robbins, but you can find ice cream everywhere. Walking down the shoreline will guarantee you a few possible places to stop for a treat. You also most likely have been employed by one of them and that's where your loyalty will always belong.
3. Nothing beats a Grand Haven sunset.
Nothing compares to watching the sun set behind the pier. It really is picture perfect.
4. Pronto pups are the best hot dogs around.
Deep fried in delicious batter, Pronto Pups are the best. The line is usually down the road so be prepared to wait, but trust me, they are worth it! They're yummy and easy to eat when you are enjoying a walk by the water.
5. The Musical Fountain.
This show is a staple of the town. From Disney tunes to current pop hits, the synchronization of the water and lights to the music is a fun entertainer for all ages.
6. You have ridden the trolley at least once.
Even though riding the trolley is a touristy thing to do, you have at least ridden through the town on it once. You can catch a glimpse of most of what the town has to offer while listening to corny jokes.
7. Morning Star or Dee-Lite?
You are willing to wait at Morning Star for their amazing frittatas and gigantic homemade cinnamon rolls or you want to pop into Dee-Lite for a huge plate of eggs and toast. Either way, you know your town is the best when you walk down Washington on Saturday morning and it smells like bacon.
8. You own something from Michigan Rag Co.
Even though you aren't a tourist, you still own a sweatshirt or two from Michigan Rag. From funky patterns to Lake Michigan Unsalted, you wear it with pride and love that it is so unique.
9. Tourist season means leaving an extra 20 minutes early if you are going downtown because finding a parking place is basically impossible.
This also means that mopeds, bikes, and longboards are a perfect way to get around!
10. Grand Haven Informed.
If you are looking for somewhere to file a complaint, ask about local businesses, or need quick traffic updates, look no further. The GHI Facebook page has it all!
11. Rosy Mound is the best place for a hike.
The views on the trails are breathtaking and you end by the lake... what could be better? Whether you are walking your dog or chatting with a friend, this spot is a treasure.
12. There are beaches other than the state park.
If you are a local, you know that there are beautiful beaches other than the state park, which is incredibly crowded all the time. There are many special spots around town to lounge with friends. Regardless of where you are, all the beaches are great.
