Just southwest of Grand Rapids, where Lake Macatawa empties into Lake Michigan, lies the town of Holland. And what better way is there to link the city's name with the old world charm of the Netherlands? The town purchased De Zwaan, a 245 year old windmill from a retired miller in Vinker, Netherlands. The twelve story authentic windmill became the parks most prominent attraction and looks out over Windmill Island and 35 acres of lush gardens, canals, dikes, a hundred year old Dutch carousel and an Amsterdam street organ.
The municipal park was first opened in 1965 and was honored by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands, who presided over the opening ceremonies. The well manicured park is special sight year round, but is especially attractive during tulip time, when the grounds are blanketed with May color, including 150,000 tulips in full bloom.