Blendon Township has a rural feel
Between Grand Rapids and Lake Michigan, Blendon Township is a quiet community of around 7,000 residents. Though the area is seeing more development, it has a reputation for a rustic atmosphere that comes from its surroundings of farms and dense woods. “It still has a lot of the rural, agricultural feel to it,” says Eric Elliott, an agent with Home Realty. “It’s a real back-in-time vibe.” Families are particularly drawn to the area for its high-ranked public schools and access to public parks and nature.
New development is getting popular in Bauer
The township is made up of smaller communities that take on their own personalities when it comes to architecture and housing options. The Borculo community has midcentury and later ranch-style homes, selling between the $270,000s and the $360,000s. Bauer is better known for its 21st-century neotraditional styles, ranging from the $330,000s to the $690,000s, depending on size and amenities. “You’re starting to see growth all over this idea, including some more traditional subdivisions popping in,” says Elliott. “It gives people a lot of options.” Hobbyist farmers are common to the area, drawn in by larger lots and low property tax rates. “You’ll find 2 and 5-acre parcels where people have pole barns and more space to do stuff,” says Elliott, born and raised in Blendon Township.
Hudsonville and Zeeland Public Schools are highly ranked
The eastern half of town is served by the Hudsonville Public School District, which has 11 schools and an A grade from Niche. Other students will attend Zeeland Public Schools, which has 12 schools and an A. “They’re really strong school districts,” says Elliott. “They have great reputations.”
Allendale Community Park has 40 acres of athletic facilities and more
The 40-acre Allendale Community Park has baseball diamonds, pickleball courts and several other athletic fields. It has a splash pad available in the summer and a bandstand that hosts different performances throughout the year. In addition to a dog park, Helder Park has acres of untouched woodlands and facilities for beach volleyball, tennis and soccer. Griff’s Georgetown Ice Arena hosts local hockey teams and open skate periods.
Most shopping is done in Holland and Hudsonville
Retail and dining in the area are minimal, but Elliott says that isolation is usually what people are paying for, especially with so many options outside of the township. “You’re limited when it comes to shopping,” says Elliott. “But places like Holland and Hudsonville are close enough for that sort of thing while staying off the beaten path.” White Flame Brewing is Hudsonville’s oldest brewery. It offers a range of craft beers to accompany its full menu of pizza, burgers and Mexican staples. Holland’s Boatwerks offers seafood specials with a view of Lake Macatawa. RiverTown Crossings has over 100 stores and restaurants with a 20-screen movie theater. The surrounding area has several Family Fare Supermarkets available.
Community events like parades and concerts in Hudsonville
Hudsonville’s Holiday Parade rings in the winter season with family friendly activities, hot cocoa and a line of floats. Summer Thursday nights mean Concerts on the Green: a free evening of live music, food and more.
Blendon is halfway between Grand Rapids and Lake Michigan
Interstate 196 is just south of Blendon Township, leading to Grand Rapids about 20 miles east. Lake Michigan is about a 20-minute drive west.
