And there are lots of things to do in West Michigan as the weather turns warmer and the snow melts away. Along the coast, warm weather means easier access to the beach, even if there is still a little chill in the air. Put on your boots and gloves and look for Petoskey stones or sea glass.

If you are a lighthouse buff, spend a day checking out West Michigan's beautiful structures. Visit the Holland State Park and view Holland's long-standing landmark, the Big Red Lighthouse. Although the current structure is newer, the original lighthouse was built in 1870 and a light has been burning there ever since. Other lighthouse locations include New Buffalo, Grand Haven, and Manistee. Take a Lakeside spring day trip and also check out Ludington's two Lighthouses North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point or the Little Sable Point Lighthouse in Mears.

Take a walk to the museums in downtown Grand Rapids. Visit and explore the wide variety of great museums in West Michigan's biggest city. Check out many of the great exhibits at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, or the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, or the Grand Rapids Art Museum.

Although there is a wide variety of exhibits in each space, be sure to check out their upcoming concerts and presentations as well for a truly great experience.

Take a tour through West Michigan's many craft breweries and pubs. Grand Rapids has not only taken the nickname of Beer City, but all of West Michigan is "brewpub-friendly." There are great places to go and sample both libations and delicious dishes nearly everywhere you look these days, so do a little research and head out with a designated driver to check out Saugatuck Brewing Company, or Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids, or Harbor Lights Brewing in South Haven.

There are dozens of others so find what best fits your tastes and set out on an adventure.

West Michigan has many great places to visit and endless outdoor activities to explore. Whether you want something to do indoors or out in the spring sun, you'll find it somewhere along the Lake Michigan coastline.