Discover Ludington in West Michigan!
Table of Page Contents
Welcome to Ludington — the land of beautiful beaches on the coast of Lake Michigan, with plenty of outdoor adventures and lots of fun!
The Best Beaches!
There are so many Ludington beaches to discover! You’ll find miles of clean, sandy beaches along Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, just minutes from wherever you are in the area.
Stearns Park is the most popular beach, with FREE parking, concessions, playground, Skate Park, mini golf, and shuffleboard.
Whether you enjoy swimming, skiing, tubing, boating, or fishing– Ludington’s beaches and lakes provide hours of relaxing enjoyment and exhilarating adventure.
S.S. Badger Carferry
Ludington is the home port of the largest carferry to sail the Great Lakes. The S.S. Badger carferry makes its voyage from Ludington to Manitowoc, Wisconsin mid-May to mid-October.
This 410′ ship carries up to 620 passengers and 180 vehicles. Onboard you can play Badger Bingo, watch a movie, shop, or enjoy a meal in one of their two restaurants. Kid’s activities include a video arcade, coloring contests, and playroom. The best part of the journey is sitting on deck and enjoying the view–including spectacular sunsets. The S.S. Badger is on the National Register of Historic Places. Read about the best places to watch the carferry sail and helpful hints when arriving by the carferry.
Two Lighthouses!
That’s right! Two Ludington lighthouses to discover! These beautiful and historic structures are an integral part of our community.
The North Breakwater Light is in downtown Ludington at the end of Ludington Avenue and the Big Sable Point Lighthouse is within the Ludington State Park just north of town.
In addition to the two lighthouses in Ludington, if you venture 30 miles north or south you’ll find Manistee’s North Pierhead Lighthouse and Little Sable Point Lighthouse in the Silver Lake State Park. Most lighthouses are open for tours in the summertime, offering a glimpse into Great Lakes maritime history.
Ludington State Park
Midwest Living Magazine voted the Ludington State Park the #1 state park in the Midwest, with seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Enjoy camping, boating, fishing, swimming or hike on one of eight marked trails that wind through the park and bring you face to face with nature’s beauty.
Two highlights of the Ludington State Park are the Hamlin Lake Dam and the Big Sable Point Lighthouse. While you’re at the Lake Michigan Beach be sure to visit the Beach House for concessions and a great view or head over to Hamlin Beach and rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or paddle boat for hours of fun.
Current Events
There's always a festival or fun event to attend in the Ludington area. Check out what's happening now!
August in Ludington means free movies, on three Thursday nights at dusk in Ludington’s Rotary Park (formerly City Park).
The Suds on the Shore Craft Beer & Wine Festival is held each August at Ludington's Rotary Park to benefit the United Way of Michigan.
The Western Michigan Boat, RV, Outdoor, & Home Show is held annually at the Ludington Municipal Marina near Waterfront Park in Ludington.
The popular Gold Coast Artisan Fair is usually held the second weekend of August at Ludington’s Rotary Park.
Enjoy a variety of shoreline cruises with various themes on the S.S. Badger Carferry in both Ludington and Manitowoc.
Enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on the beach! The Ludington Fire Department mans the fire while you enjoy the sunset.
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Fantastic Fishing!
Anglers from all over know that Ludington is the #1 salmon port on Lake Michigan.
Numerous Ludington charter captains have years of experience on the big lake and are eager to take you on a fishing excursion.
Check out our current and archived Fishing Reports for Lake Michigan charter fishing. Ludington area inland lakes are wonderful for fishing as well. Hamlin Lake is full of northern pike, bass, perch, and bluegill- or ice fish in the winter for panfish and walleye.
There’s also great fishing in nearby Pere Marquette Lake and the Pere Marquette River.
Activities & Attractions
From vacations to staycations — Ludington has all you want in a fun adventure. Discover our top attractions and activities...
Step back in the past and learn about Ludington's rich maritime history at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.
Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There's music, photography, art galleries, and more.
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area's rich history.
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
A children's flotilla that's a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many "cars".
Arrive in Ludington by boat and dock at one of three marinas: Ludington Municipal Marina, Harbor View Marina, & Pere Pointe Village Marina.
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
The Ludington Area Center for the Arts (LACA) is the gathering place for community expression through arts and cultural experiences.
Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.
There are many places for anglers to try their luck, and Ludington has such a great variety of fish. The area also has great charter captains.
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library's Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
The Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
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.
Putt putt for a purpose by visiting the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Course in Stearns Park, right on Lake Michigan.
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
Disc golf is a big deal here in the Ludington area, with up to 20,000 people per year visiting one of our six courses.
Ludington has many beautiful beaches and parks to explore. Enjoy a day on the shores of Lake Michigan or take in the scenery at a local park.
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
Ludington Business Directory
Small businesses are at the heart of the Ludington area. Select a business category to find the experience, product, or service to make your visit complete.
Enjoy nature's beauty by sleeping under the stars at clean campgrounds, forests, or parks in the Ludington area.
The Ludington area is a paradise for those who love boating and fishing. Numerous marinas rent a variety of boats and offer modern facilities.
There are a huge variety of things to do that will keep you entertained while you're in the Ludington area!
You'll find personal, friendly, and cozy accommodations at a Ludington Bed & Breakfast, many of which are located within Victorian homes.
Ludington area hotels and motels offer all the amenities to make your next vacation or business trip an enjoyable one.
Taxis, cabs and shuttle services are a great way to get all your running and errands done without having to drive!
From beautiful venues, indoors and outside, to talented vendors, Ludington is a great location for your wedding or celebration.
Most restaurants and dining establishments in Ludington are found on the US-10 corridor or in the downtown area.
The friendly merchants welcome you to Ludington and invite you to shop until you drop! The variety of stores is not to be missed.
Ludington home & garden businesses can help beautify your indoor and outdoor spaces. Consult with one to create your dream home today!
When traveling away from home, you want to know where to find the necessities, and the Ludington area offers all the services you need!
Stop into a Ludington party or convenience to store to get your beverages, ice, snacks, lotto tickets, gas, and more.
Find all the groceries you need for the perfect picnic or party in Ludington. You'll find fresh deli items, meats, ice cream, and more.
Ludington's lodging facilities provide all the amenities to make your stay enjoyable and keep you coming back.
There's no need to take a vacation from your health, beauty routine, or fitness while you're enjoying yourself here in the Ludington area.
The wide variety of resorts, vacation rentals, and cottages in Ludington are furnished and have full kitchens. Find your place to stay here.
Weddings & Celebrations
Plan Your Celebration in Beautiful Ludington
The Ludington lakeshore is the perfect setting for your wedding celebration or any other special occasion. We can help you prepare for the big day by connecting you with the best service providers around.
Whether your hometown is here in Ludington, or you’re looking to host a destination event at one of the beautiful venues here, you’ve arrived at the best site to begin preparing for your big day!
Check out our local businesses that specialize in everything you need for your wedding or party!
