Home to Grand Valley State University’s main campus, Allendale is more than a college town in western Michigan. The township offers a relaxed lifestyle with a thriving outdoor scene and easy access to U.S. Interstate 96. "Allendale is conveniently located in the middle of Ottawa County, which makes for an easy commute to Grand Haven, Holland or Grand Rapids," says Johnathan Burkhard, Grand Valley alum and former Allendale resident. "I enjoy watching the seasons change from within the parks on Lake Michigan's shores." Established as a township in 1849, Allendale was initially occupied by the Ottawa people. European settlers moved in after Michigan became a state in 1837 and developed as a transportation hub along the Grand River. Today, the township is home to more than 25,000 residents and takes pride in its more than 175 years of history. Grand Valley State University is the primary employer of the township, contributing more than 4,000 jobs to the workforce. Despite GVSUs presence, Allendale maintains its small-town feel through beloved annual events like the 4th of July Celebration. With continued growth and a larger sense of community, Allendale is on the rise in Ottawa County, all just 15 miles from Grand Rapids.
New developments are popping up all the time in Allendale.
Allendale is home to Grand Valley State University’s main campus.
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New housing developments on former Allendale farmland
The housing market in Allendale is desirable because of its ongoing development and wide range of housing options. With a median sales price of $412,000, homes cost around $5,000 more than the national median. Most of the stock features ranch-style or split-level designs. Neighborhoods like Allendale Meadows and Knollwood Estates have mobile parks, while Oakview Estates, Hidden Forest and Hidden Shores offer new housing developments on former farmland. Prices range from around $50,000 for a three-bedroom manufactured home to $800,000 for a five-bedroom newly constructed two-story traditional. Outliers with expansive acreage can reach up to $1 million.
Allendale has a wide variety of newly-built home styles.
Allendale offers some spacious contemporary homes with traditional styling.
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Allendale Public Schools and Grand Valley State University
Families in Allendale are zoned for Allendale Public School District, which earns a B-plus rating from the review site Niche. The district serves over 2,500 students and is ranked 75th out of 517 for districts with the best teachers in Michigan. There are three elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools. Most students attend Allendale High School, which earns a B-plus and offers a fine arts program and six AP courses. Private options like Allendale Christian School are also available. Those interested in pursuing higher education can look to Grand Valley State University (GVSU) on the city's east side. GVSU is west Michigan’s premier university. It offers competitive academic courses and over 400 student organizations. The university has won the Director’s Cup in NCAA Division II more than any other athletic program.
Allendale High School offers a fine arts program and six AP courses.
Grand Valley State University in Allendale has great academic and athletic programs.
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Gathering at Allendale Community Park
Allendale is a 20-minute drive from Lake Michigan’s shore; however, there are several parks and trails to explore in town. "It's so nice to have quick access to the beaches of Lake Michigan," says Emily Bonello, Grand Valley alum and Allendale resident of 10 years. Allendale Community Park is centrally located and offers a mulched playground, pickleball courts, six baseball fields and a seasonal splash pad. Dog owners and hiking enthusiasts head to Grand Ravines North County Park a mile south of GVSU. It spans over 200 acres and offers a hive of walking trails and scenic views of the Grand River. Popular spots include the 20-acre Grand Ravines Dog Park, with fenced off-leash areas for large and small dogs. The Meadows is GVSU's challenging 18-hole golf course. It offers a driving range and a learning center for players of all skill levels. Allendale experiences all four seasons, from hot summers to freezing winters, with an average annual snowfall of 75 inches.
Neighborhood kids love the playground at Allendale Community Park.
Grand Ravines Dog Park in Allendale has vast green spaces for furry friends to enjoy.
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The annual 4th of July Celebration
In July, residents can attend the annual Allendale 4th of July Celebration at Allendale Community Park. The festivities kick off with a parade at 10:00 a.m. on July 4th and conclude with a highly anticipated fireworks display at 10:15 p.m. Visitors can enjoy the car show, carnival games and a collection of local food vendors throughout the day.
Local grocers and restaurants along Lake Michigan Drive
Allendale does not have a designated downtown area, however, groceries and everyday essentials are available along Lake Michigan Drive. The thoroughfare is lined with grocers like Family Fare Supermarket or Aldi and retailers like Dollar General and Walgreens. When dining in the area, folks can choose between dozens of fast-food chains and a few local restaurants. Main St. Pub is a favorite among Grand Valley students, known for its Tuesday karaoke nights, comfort pub food and top-secret ranch dressing recipe. Peppino’s Pizzeria is a classic Italian sports bar with various pizzas, pasta, wings and burgers for game day dinners.
Allendale residents can stock up on groceries at Family Fare on Lake Michigan Dr.
Main St. Pub in Allendale is known for its Tuesday karaoke nights and comfort pub food.
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Nearby healthcare and trips into Grand Rapids on Lake Michigan Drive
Lake Michigan Drive and 68th Avenue intersect at the heart of the community, connecting residents to Grand Rapids and U.S. I-96 to the north. Public rides are provided by The Rapid, a bus system that serves the Grand Rapids Metro Area. When traveling farther, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is 27 miles away. For healthcare, the Allendale Health Center is located along Becker Drive on the east side of the community.
Crime and monthly tornado sirens
Crime statistics specific to Allendale are not readily available, but Ottawa County, which oversees Allendale, saw a decline in violent and property crime in 2023, and its rates for both remain well below national figures. Allendale’s location is considered a marginal Tornado Alley, meaning there’s a slightly higher chance of tornado activity than the national average. Every first Friday of the month, the tornado sirens in Allendale Community Park and at Grand Valley State University will sound for several seconds as a habitual test.
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