The Charming Michigan General Store That's Been Open For More Than 70 Years
By Emily Tieman|Published June 08, 2023
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Emily Tieman
Author
Emily Tieman is a lifelong Michigander and has a love for locally owned small businesses. She is a freelance writer for Only In Your State and has her own vintage content creator business.
There’s nothing better than finding a local hangout when you’re visiting a new town. There are many restaurants and shops that cater to tourists, but we want to be where the locals go! This general store in Holland, Michigan is it. Locals and tourists alike have fallen in love with this quaint shop and made a tradition of visiting it every summer.
The Ottawa Beach General Store is located just steps away from the shores of Lake Michigan in West Michigan.
You haven’t experienced a summer in Holland, Michigan until you’ve spent the day at the beach and then walked or biked to the Ottawa Beach General Store.
Conveniently located down the street from campgrounds, Holland State Park beach, and Lake Macatawa beach, it’s only natural that this shop has become a favorite spot in Holland.
Opened in the 1930s, the store was initially called “The Windmill” and was a beachside general store with bike rentals. In the 1970s it was an antique store and since then it has returned to its roots as a general store.
Personally, I rode my bike here nearly every day in the summer growing up because of the huge candy selection that kids love. You’ll also find local beer, donuts, coffee, groceries, camping essentials, and souvenirs here.
Don’t forget to stop by for a tasty ice cream cone after watching Lake Michigan’s breathtaking sunsets. There is a large deck with plenty of seating to spend time with your family and friends.
The Ottawa Beach General Store is open seasonally from late spring through late summer. Whether you’re a West Michigan local or a visitor just passing through, you’ll want to make the Ottawa Beach General Store a summertime tradition.