Located on the shores of Lake Michigan with miles of beachfront and water access, Ludington offers a quintessential "Up North" experience, close by. Ludington and surrounding Mason County deliver the perfect combination of unspoiled natural resources and unrivaled outdoor recreation with quaint, small-town charm and rich history—an ideal destination for everyone.
With specialty shops and family-owned restaurants dotting the pedestrian-friendly downtown, plus award-winning beaches along its 28 miles of sandy shoreline, choices for families to make memories for a perfect weekend getaway abound in Ludington, with activities for all ages and interests.
1. Enjoy Some Fun in the Sun and Sand.
Photo courtesy of Ludington CVB
A visit to Ludington would not be complete without a stop at one of the area's award-winning beaches. Mason County boasts over 28 miles of sugar-sand shoreline along Lake Michigan, which means there are plenty of places to find the perfect spot to soak up the sun and play in the sand. Known for its close proximity to Downtown Ludington, outstanding amenities and clean, family-friendly atmosphere, Stearns Park Beach is a great place to enjoy, especially for families. Two concession stands, shuffleboard, a skate park, playground and more; this beach wasn't named by USA Today as one of the Top 50 All American Beaches in the US for nothing!
2. Climb to The Top of Two Lighthouses.
Photo courtesy of Todd Reed
While there are many attractions in Ludington, the lakeshore and its lighthouses are among the most iconic. Young or old, the lighthouses are a must-see while visiting Ludington. Both lights are open to tour and climb to the top for some unique perspectives of the shoreline, and you might even catch some live music or another fun event, depending on the day.
3. Explore Ludington State Park.
Photo courtesy of Ludington CVB
One of Michigan's most popular state parks, Ludington State Park is comprised of nearly 5,300-acres of scenic sand dunes, ponds, marshlands and forests. Situated between Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan, there are several miles of shoreline and beaches on both sides to enjoy. The park itself is also home to 24 miles of hiking trails that loop through woods, over dunes and through the diverse ecosystems in the park. The camp is also home to four miles of bike trails and three different campgrounds, which fill up fast each year!
4. Make a Big Catch on the "Big Lake."
Photo courtesy of Ludington CVB
Ludington's location on Lake Michigan between Big Sable Point to the north, and Little Sable to the South, offers the best fishing found on Lake Michigan. Groups and families can enjoy the "big lake" fishing experience aboard a charter fishing boat. Expert captains know the hot spots to cast a line and reel in something big! Better yet, you can take your fresh catch home, or to a local restaurant, to have it cooked for you for dinner!
5. Take A Trip Aboard the SS Badger.
Photo courtesy of Brad Reed
The SS Badger, the last coal-fired steam ship operating the US, is a not only a short-cut across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, but it's a fun and relaxing ride, too! The ship's bow offers lounge chairs for relaxation, and the sounds of the waves provide a great soundtrack for enjoying a book, cocktail or even a nap. The entertainment aboard the ship includes a movie theater, live music, satellite TV and a gift shop. Children will enjoy the Kids Port Playroom, the Captain Conrad Scavenger Hunt and high-definition video game stations. However you choose to spend your time aboard the historic ship, it's bound to leave a lasting impression on the entire family!
6. Savor the Local Flavors.
Photo courtesy of Ludington CVB
Downtown Ludington is home to some unique, quality restaurants as well as great spots to enjoy craft beer. Whether it is getting some smokin' good barbeque from Q's Smokehouse, grabbing a slice of pizza from Sportsmans Restuarant, or enjoying a pig's dinner ice cream sundae at House of Flavors Restaurant, there are some unexpected culinary creations worth trying!
7. Run, Jump and Play.
Photo courtesy of Ludington CVB
With great family-friendly hot spots like Jump Around Fun Center, Sandcastles Children's Museum, the Ludington Area Center for the Arts, and the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, there are many exciting places for families to play, create and learn. Downtown Ludington also hosts family-friendly events worth checking out throughout the year too, such as Friday Night Live in July and August.
8. Dance and Sing Along.
Photo courtesy of Todd Reed
The music scene in Ludington has exploded in recent years. In the height of the summer season, you can be sure to find live music every night of the week. Whether it's a jam in the North James Street plaza on Thursday evenings or a community dance party at West Shore Bank's Rhythm and Dunes Concerts at Waterfront Park, there's a genre and spot for everyone—especially families who love music!
Courtesy of Ludington Convention & Visitors Bureau.
