If you’ve visited many of Michigan’s most charming small towns and cities, you’ve undoubtedly appreciated our state’s cozy cafes, locally owned boutiques, and delightful downtown decorations. While every downtown area in Michigan has its perks, there’s one community with a decidedly original feature – and it’s tucked away below the feet of everyone who strolls through the area.
The city of Holland is located in Ottawa County, just a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan.
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If you’ve ever spent time in this community, you know that it’s rich with local pride. From its annual Tulip Time celebration to its long-standing eateries, there’s so much to love.
Flickr/Downtown Holland
At the heart of Holland is its bustling downtown area, most of which is sprawled out along 8th Street. At first glance, this might look like any other downtown - but Holland has a secret.
Flickr/Fellowship of the Rich
That’s right: for upwards of 20 years, Holland has prioritized the maintenance of an extensive heating system that keeps snow and ice at bay below streets and sidewalks downtown.
Flickr/MjZ Photography
This is no ordinary heating system. In fact, Holland’s public snowmelt system is the largest in the United States, consisting of a whopping 168 miles of heated coils below the surface.
Flickr/Bill Couch
When you visit downtown Holland during the chillier months, you’ll never have to worry about slipping on the ice - and visitors can safely drive down 8th Street in the dead of winter.
Flickr/MjZ Photography
Of course, you’ll be none the wiser as you explore the area. These hot water-charged coils are tucked away, allowing downtown Holland to maintain its charm and visual appeal.
Facebook/Downtown Holland
Whether you’re stopping in for a bit of shopping, snagging a quick lunch, or simply enjoying a wintertime drive, downtown Holland and its snowmelt system will undoubtedly impress.
Flickr/Bill Couch
Have you checked out this beloved West Michigan community in years past? What were your impressions of its downtown area? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another must-visit Michigan town by filling out our nomination form here.
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Flickr/Downtown Holland
Flickr/Fellowship of the Rich
Flickr/MjZ Photography
Flickr/Bill Couch
Facebook/Downtown Holland
For another fantastic outing, check out this cozy winter getaway town in Michigan.
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Address: Holland, MI 49423, USA
