Windmill Island 1 Day Tour from Chicago | Kids 50% Off

If you’re eyeing a full-day escape from the Chicago hustle, a trip to Windmill Island might catch your eye. This tour promises a scenic journey through charming Dutch-inspired towns, vibrant tulip fields (season permitting), and a bit of coastal fun in Saugatuck. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear idea of what to expect and whether it might fit your travel plans.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances beautiful scenery with cultural touches, plus the fact that kids under 12 can go half-price during peak months. The convenience of a guided coach tour with a friendly bilingual guide, combined with included snacks and water, makes it appealing. However, a couple of considerations are worth noting: the day is quite packed, and some may find the stops a little brief, especially if they’re eager to linger. This kind of tour suits those who want an easy, well-organized way to see highlights of Michigan’s Dutch heritage and coastal beauty without too much hassle.

Key Points

• Well-organized full-day trip from Chicago, typically booked about 41 days in advance.
• Seasonal tulip blooms in May make the scenery especially stunning.
• Includes diverse stops: Windmill Island Gardens, Holland downtown, and Saugatuck dune rides.
• Comfortable transportation with bottled water and snacks included.
• Ideal for families and first-time visitors looking for a blend of culture, nature, and fun.
• Flexible itinerary with optional visits and time for exploration.

An Honest Breakdown of the Windmill Island Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Michigan’s most picturesque spots, all packed into about 10-11 hours. What makes it stand out is how it combines different experiences—cultural, natural, and playful—into one day. Let’s unpack each part to see what you’ll likely encounter.

Starting Point: Chicago

Your day begins bright and early at 7:30 am. The coach picks you up and sets out on a comfortable ride that’s typically dished out in a vehicle suited to the group size. The ride itself is straightforward, and the highlight here is unlimited bottled water and snacks, helping you stay refreshed on the road.

Windmill Island and the Tulip Festival

The crown jewel of this trip is Windmill Island Gardens, especially if you’re visiting in late April to mid-May. During this period, the tulips are in full bloom—an unforgettable sight—and this timing is crucial if you want the best photos. The highlight is the De Zwaan windmill, an authentic Dutch-style mill shipped from the Netherlands with around 250 years of history. Walking around the gardens, you’ll enjoy a peaceful, scenic atmosphere, perfect for photos and a leisurely stroll.

One of the reviews mentions, “The view from the top of the windmill is amazing,” which rings true if you’re lucky with the weather and tulip display. Keep in mind, the tulip season is fleeting, so timing your visit in spring is key.

Holland: A Dutch-Inspired Town

Next, the tour takes you to Holland, Michigan, a city with Dutch roots dating back to the 19th century. Here, a local guide leads you around for about two hours, sharing stories about the Dutch immigrants and pointing out Dutch-inspired architecture. This part is particularly appealing if you like strolling through quaint streets, photographing colorful houses, or just soaking in a European vibe without leaving the States.

The reviews indicate that this stop is generally appreciated for its scenery and photo opportunities, though some say there isn’t a lot else to do if you’re not into sightseeing or shopping. The guide’s stories add a layer of richness that makes the visit more engaging.

Saugatuck Dune Rides & Coastal Charm

The final stop is Saugatuck, a charming beach town about an hour away. The highlight here is the dune ride, which lasts about an hour. It’s a fun, somewhat adventurous way to see the landscape, and if you enjoy coastal scenery, you’ll likely find this part enjoyable. The town itself offers a laid-back vibe: strolling the beach, browsing art galleries, or sampling local delicacies on Butler Street.

While the reviews don’t describe the dune rides in detail, the overall impression is positive, especially for those who appreciate natural beauty and a relaxed atmosphere.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included in the package are transportation, a friendly bilingual guide, bottled water, snacks, and a travel keepsake—a custom passport to collect stamps from your tours. These little touches add value, making the experience feel more personalized and memorable.

Not included are meals (though the guide will arrange food), souvenirs, and personal expenses. Admission to Windmill Island Gardens isn’t included if you opt for the less expensive price, so budget accordingly if you want to go inside the windmill or gardens.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses professional vehicles, and the maximum group size is around 55 travelers. This is a good size for a guided trip—large enough to feel social, but not so big that you’ll get lost in the crowd.

Timing & Pacing

Starting early at 7:30 am, your day is packed. Some travelers might find the schedule a little rushed, especially if they want to explore more extensively or linger at each stop. The stops are timed to maximize sightseeing but don’t leave much extra time for spontaneous wandering.

Kid-Friendly & Family Considerations

Kids under 12 can enjoy a 50% discount during July and August, making it budget-friendly for families. The tour’s pace and variety of stops are suitable for families with children, though it’s worth noting that the tour is quite full-day focused, so younger kids might need some patience.

Weighing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $96 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the included snacks, bottled water, and keepsake. For those who enjoy cultural visits combined with scenic drives, it’s a practical way to see parts of Michigan’s Holland and Saugatuck without the hassle of planning multiple local trips.

Some reviews call it “good value for money”, especially given the convenience and the chance to see tulips if timed right. However, if you’re not interested in quick stops or prefer to explore at your own pace, this might feel a little rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Michigan, people looking for a day trip from Chicago, and families seeking a budget-friendly adventure. If you love flower festivals, charming towns, and coastal scenery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Just remember, the timing is crucial for tulip viewing—planning your visit in late April or early May is your best bet.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since kids under 12 get a 50% discount during July and August. The tour involves a lot of walking and bus time, so it’s better suited for children who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a bilingual guide, bottled water, snacks, and a travel keepsake. Entry to Windmill Island Gardens is optional if you select the basic price.

Can I visit Windmill Island Gardens separately?
You can choose to include the visit to Windmill Island Gardens—the option is available during booking—but the entrance fee isn’t included in the basic ticket.

What is the best time to see tulips in bloom?
The tulips bloom at their fullest from late April to mid-May, specifically between 04/29/2025 and 05/16/2025, making this the optimal window for tulip viewing.

How long are the stops?
Each stop is roughly 1-2 hours, with the Holland tour guided by a local expert. The total time at each site varies but is designed to give you a taste rather than an exhaustive exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. If visiting during tulip season, sunscreen and a hat can enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

This Windmill Island day tour from Chicago offers a practical way to enjoy a mix of Dutch-inspired scenery, coastal beauty, and cultural charm—all in one well-organized trip. With a friendly guide, inclusive snacks, and a chance to collect a souvenir passport, it’s designed for travelers who prefer a structured, hassle-free experience over self-guided wandering.

While it’s not the longest or most in-depth tour out there, its appeal lies in the variety of stops packed into a manageable day. It’s perfect for those new to the area, families on a budget, or anyone curious about Michigan’s Dutch heritage and scenic coastlines. Just be sure to schedule early in the season if tulips are your main goal, and prepare for a full day of sightseeing and fun.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable outing that combines views, culture, and coastal breeze, this tour could be just the ticket.