Tulip Time Festival – Holland, MI

Depart Michigan and get ready to experience the vibrant colors and Dutch heritage at the annual Holland Tulip Festival, where over 6 million tulips bloom in a stunning display of artistry and nature. Stop for lunch at Crane’s Pie Pantry where you’ll be treated to a delicious meal and a slice of homemade pie. Visit the breathtaking Tulip Immersion Garden, a wonderland of colorful blooms. World renowned Dutch horticulturist, Ibo Gülsen, sets up a week-long immersion experience, taking travelers through the history of the tulip, from its origins in Turkey, to the Netherlands, and finally to the small-town community of Holland, Michigan. Gülsen will use 65,000 tulips of all varieties and colors to craft an experience that brings the tulips up to eye-level and create Instagrammable photo opportunities. There's no better place to get acquainted with the city than the Holland Museum. Here you'll experience the arrival of the Dutch in 1847, their struggle for access to Lake Michigan, the devastating fire of 1871, and the amazing story of Holland's rise from the ashes, the birth of Tulip Time, the war years of courage and commitment, and the burgeoning economic growth that continues today. Dinner is included at Red Rock Grille. Check into the Springhill Suites for the evening. (L,D)

Begin your day with an included breakfast at the hotel. Visit the Tulip Time Quilt Show where over 100 exquisite quilts will be hung for patrons to enjoy up close. Every cut, stitch and pattern will showcase the quilter’s skill and experience in an increasingly rare craft. Add a touch of handcrafted charm to your visit at the Holland Artisan Market, where local artisans and craftspeople showcase their one-ofa-kind creations. Take a break with an included buffet lunch at Beechwood Grill. Head to Holland's only tulip farm, Veldheer’s. It is ablaze with acres of tulips from late April to mid-May. Veldheer farms began in 1950 when Vern Veldheer planted a couple hundred tulip bulbs as a hobby. Now, Veldheer's plants around 5 million tulip bulbs each year! On the way home, stop at Horrock's Farm Market in Lansing, MI. It is a beloved local destination known for its wide selection of fresh produce, gourmet foods, flowers, and specialty items. With a vibrant, market-style atmosphere, it offers everything from local produce and artisan cheese to craft beers and an in-store café. (B,L)