It’s not just humans soaking up the summer sun on the beach—our four-legged friends are living their best lives, too. With water bowls set out along sidewalks, tail wags echoing through downtown, and more patios than ever welcoming your pup’s presence (with the occasional treat), it’s clear that Holland is a dog town.
The lakeshore town has quietly become a haven for dog lovers, offering everything from leash-free beach access to wooded trails, and even restaurants that allow your pooch on their patio. This should come as no surprise. We see people all over downtown walking their pups.
It’s about time we take a dig into dog-friendly destinations.
Ready to plan your next paw-some outing? (That was cheesy, but who can resist a good dog joke?) Here’s where to go, what to do, and why Holland just might be West Michigan’s top dog destination.
When the sun is out, downtown patios fill up fast—and these days, so do the stainless steel water bowls. More and more restaurants and cafes are rolling out the welcome mat for canine companions. Let's take a look at a few spots you can visit.
13 W 7th Street
Holland
A long-time favorite stop for craft beer lovers, Big Lake Brewing with its spacious patio is indeed dog-friendly. Staff have been known to offer a bowl of water for your pup while you sip on a good IPA.
62 E 8th St #100
6 W 8th St
Holland
Just down the street… And if you’re craving a sweet treat, visit Kilwins or Peachwave, both of which allow leashed dogs to hang out nearby while you sit in their outdoor seating areas. And, rumor has it, some pups even get a sample (vanilla only, please).
64 W 8th St
Holland
If you’re looking for a meal, head to Mezkla Taqueria and enjoy a stack of tacos while your pup lounges right next to you on the outdoor patio.
99 E 8th St
Holland
More of a sushi lover? Take a gander at Mizu Sushi and bring fido along to sit on the nicely shaded patio.
84 East 8th St
Holland
Or, you may be more in the mood for a classic dish, so visit Hops at 84 East. Your doggie can sit next to the picnic table outside.
1862 Ottawa Beach Rd
Holland
For a meal with lake views, head to Lolo’s Bar & Grill at Yacht Basin Marina. The patio is super casual, and the friendly staff are happy to accommodate furry tagalongs. It’s a great post-park or beach stop.
73 E 8th St
Holland
The Curragh Irish Pub is a cozy spot with a great outdoor seating area right on 8th Street.
11539 E Lakewood Blvd #50
Holland
Salt & Pepper Savory Grill is a lively local hangout with a dog-welcoming patio.
2233 Ottawa Beach Rd
Holland
The name says it all—Dune Dogz & Treats. Hot dogs for you and plenty of attention for your pup.
Take a look at the website Bring Fido for more places your dog can tag along.
I’m sure many of us are attuned to our pup’s personality. So, whether yours likes to swim, sniff out wooded trails, or sprint through open fields, there are plenty of outdoor spots for every kind of energy. From sandy shores to shaded parks, here is where you can let them stretch their legs or even take a dip in the lake.
2215 Ottawa Beach Rd
Holland
While the main Lake Michigan beach at Holland State Park doesn’t allow dogs, the Lake Macatawa side is a lesser-known amenity for leashed waterfront walks. The path along the water is scenic enough to keep your pup occupied as you take a calm stroll. It’s perfect for a sunrise or sunset walk.
9791 Lakeshore Drive
West Olive
If you’re looking to take your dog in the water, check out Kirk Park Dog Beach (in Grand Haven, just north of Holland). During the summer season, dogs are allowed off leash before 10am and after 6pm in a designated beach area. It’s a favorite spot amongst locals for play sessions and sunset splashes. Expect a happy chaos, though, as you might be surprised by flying tennis balls, soaking-wet retrievers, and plenty of drippy, wagging tails.
6575 138th Ave
Saugatuck Dunes
To the south about fifteen minutes, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers leashed access to a peaceful, wooded trail and a less busy stretch of shoreline. There is even a pet swim zone accessible via the Yellow Trail. This might be an option if your pup is easily distracted or nervous in crowds.
4260 144th Ave
Holland
On the northern side of Holland is a fully-fenced, five-acre park that features separated zones for petite and large dogs. There are water stations and plenty of open space to run about. Quincy Dog Park is definitely a spot for pups who love to socialize and aren’t afraid of a little rear sniffing.
1076 E 16th St
Holland
A new addition to the dog scene is Holland’s first in-city dog park, Van Raalte Farm Park Dog Area, with walking trails and grassy open space for a game of fetch or just roaming around.
1180 Ottawa Beach Rd
Holland
This is a quieter spot… So, if your dog is "no bark, all chill," Park Township Dog Park is the perfect place to unwind together. There is agility equipment available to use. There is also a water hookup provided during the summer months.
16300 Riley St
Holland
If your dogs are more the explorer types, take ‘em to Riley Trails. Make sure they are leashed as it contains some biking trails. And watch out for photographers since this is a popular place for photos. It’s quiet, beautiful, and great for dogs who love to follow a good scent.
In a town where water bowls sit outside storefronts and “dog menu” isn’t a joke, it’s clear that pups are part of the community fabric.
And maybe that’s the best part—seeing a city that doesn’t just allow dogs, but welcomes them with open arms (and the occasional peanut butter treat).
So leash up, grab some treats, and hit the town. Your dog’s best day ever might just be waiting in Holland. (I’m sure even the car ride to get there will be enjoyable… tongue out and slobber droplets covering your rear windows.)
Sierra Ozolins is a West Michigan native, currently a student at Hope College. As an athlete, she is passionate about fitness—from running to weightlifting. With a interest for politics and lifestyle, she is intrigued how local culture, community, and everyday events shape the world around her—often with an iced coffee in hand and her dog by her side.
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