The vibrant red and warm golden foliage of autumn heading west on I-96 was a calming backdrop for a three-hour drive to Holland. Known for its annual tulip festival, the city provides visitors a chance to experience a slower pace year-round. While the greater Holland area offers a variety of activities, central Holland has its share of historical, recreational, and cosmopolitan offerings. Within walking distance of these experiences is Bonnie’s Parsonage 1908 Bed and Breakfast, an accommodation alternative with ties to the area’s Dutch heritage.
Weekend Getaways--Ronora Lodge
For some Michiganders, I-94’s western track is a familiar path. Excursions to breakfast behemoth Kellogg, muffin maestro Jiffy, or a sandy shore on Lake Michigan share the interstate with commuters and commercial traffic. I-94 is also the gateway to Watervliet, a rural section of the Niles-Benton Harbor metro area—a region often associated with beachfront getaways. A drive through downtown Watervliet provides a juxtaposition of convenience and tradition. The area’s relaxed vibe is the ideal backdrop for the natural respite offered by the Ronora Lodge and Retreat Center.
Greenleaf—A Southern Sanctuary
Greenleaf’s homage to the past is understandable given its origin as a farmhouse built in 1873 by its namesake, Charles Greenleaf. Its evolution as a bed and breakfast has been a labor of love orchestrated by innkeepers Steve and Diane Newell. They’ve owned the property for over 15 years and spent a decade completing renovations.