Early morning in downtown Ludington | Mark Steigenga
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events. Several downtown businesses have late night shopping hours on Fridays & Saturdays during the summer months; shop til 9pm!
Every town has their specialty shops, and Ludington is no different. Unique items can be found in various stores, as well as clothing that features the “Ludington” name. Jewelry, gift shops, photo galleries, and consignment shops are just a sampling of the businesses that are eager to serve you. You’ll enjoy the personal, friendly service that Ludington area shopkeepers are known for. There’s parking in front, or use the large lots behind the businesses on the north side of Ludington Avenue.
Shopping can make one hungry, so take a break from the heat and pop into a downtown Ludington restaurant. Homestyle cooking, bistros, ice cream, Italian, sports bars…whatever your preference, you’ll find just the place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Head down south James Street for even more restaurants. North James Street Plaza is closed to traffic, and has tables set up for eating alfresco. Outdoor dining is also available in front of several downtown restaurants during the summer months.
Take a look at the menus of Ludington restaurants in our Lakeshore Menu Guide.
From May-October, Legacy Plaza (formerly James Street Plaza) is the venue for the Ludington Farmer’s Market, open Fridays from 3-8pm. Purchase some produce fresh from local farms, or pick up some baked goods, jewelry, or handmade craft items. Final Friday Experiences (formerly Friday Night Live) take place the last Friday of each month from May-September. Food vendors, music, kid’s games, and entertainment make this event very popular with visitors and residents alike. Other festivals that take place downtown throughout the year are the Ludington Area Jaycees July 4th Freedom Festival, Octoberfest, and the New Year’s Eve Lighted Ball Drop.
Need a bit of culture in your life? The Ludington Area Center for the Arts is located just off Ludington Avenue on South Harrison Street, and is the venue for concerts, writer’s forums, and theater productions. Ludington’s Waterfront Park has a collection of unique sculptures you won’t want to miss. There are also painted murals on the facades of nine downtown businesses, making for an interesting walking tour. Ludington is home to many galleries featuring the talents of local artists including photographers, painters, potters, jewelers, crafters, and more.
Three parks are within walking distance of the downtown area. Waterfront Park is nestled between our two marinas, and features a modern playground, sculptures, tables, and amphitheater. Rotary Park (formerly called Ludington City Park) is located between the beach and downtown, and is the home of the Arts & Crafts Fairs held twice during the summer. Stearns Park is at the west end of Ludington Avenue, and features an expansive beach, concessions, a grassy area with grills and tables, mini golf, shuffleboard, playground, and skate park.
The first to settle in what is now Ludington were the Ottawa Tribe. The Caswell family were the first white settlers in 1847.
No matter your religion or beliefs, there is a place of worship for everyone in and around Ludington. See our comprehensive list here.
Ludington has many community services and non-profit organizations whose missions are to help fill the gaps for those in need.
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.
Ludington visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
The Ludington Area Center for the Arts (LACA) is the gathering place for community expression through arts and cultural experiences.
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Ludington’s natural resources, charter captains, and outfitters provide great salmon fishing on Lake Michigan and the Pere Marquette River.
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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