Introduction to Grand Haven, Michigan
Grand Haven, Michigan, in Ottawa county, is 28 miles W of Wyoming, Michigan and 84 miles E of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is part of the surrounding Grand Rapids - Muskegon - Holland metro area.
Grand Haven History
French settlers were among the first to arrive in the area now called Grand Haven. Before them, the area was inhabited by the Pottawattamie and Ottawa Indians. Madeline La Framboise and her husband established the area's first fur-trading outpost called Gabagouache. The city was given the name "Grand Haven" in 1835, and in the year 1867, the community was officially incorporated as a city. In the 1850s, a number of churches were built here, and the city's first bank was established.
Grand Haven and nearby Attractions
- Settlers House
- Cappon House Museum
- Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven
- Grand Valley Marina
- Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park
- Mulligans Hollow Park
Things To Do In Grand Haven
Visitors to Grand Haven should take a trip to the famous Settlers House, which was once the home of the Irish Canadian immigrant Thomas Morrissey and his family. The cottage now showcases artifacts from the 19th century. The Chamber of Commerce is another place of historical interest in the city of Grand Haven. Travelers can also visit the nearby Holland Museum. The Outdoor Discovery Center offers an education center which is built on a 110-acre preserve. In the city itself, one can visit the beautiful North Shore Marina, the Wharf Marina, and the Corps of Engineers Boatyard. The John Ball Zoo and the Michigan Adventure amusement park can be ideal for a fun outing with family and friends.
Grand Haven Transportation
Muskegon County Airport is nearby.
Grand Haven Higher Education
For higher education, residents can enroll at the Muskegon Community College, the Grand Valley State University or Hope College.