Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

Baby Badger

Ludington’s fondness for its iconic Lake Michigan Carferry prompted city officials to create a children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. This flotilla makes frequent appearances at local family events like the Final Friday Experience (formerly Friday Night Live).

The Birth of the Baby Badger

Cary Shineldecker, a local resident and engineer at Precision Design, was approached about designing and coordinating this project. His love of the community prompted Shineldecker to donate his time and talent to this creation. Dow Chemical generously donated a lawn tractor over which the “ship” would sit, and GLC Metal Fabricators went to work on the steel fabrication. Then Lake Painting provided the sandblasting and painting for the project. Once this part was done, the Department of Public Works built the boats that attach to the back, with graphics done by Tye’s Signs and Northwood Signs. To cover the city’s costs, local businesses sponsor the individual boats that the children ride in.

Baby Badger at the Final Friday Experience

The Baby Badger, as it is affectionately named, made its debut at the first of four Friday Night Live events (now called the Final Friday Experience) in Ludington July 18, 2008. It was a huge hit, and the boats were constantly filled with children as city and carferry officials maneuvered the ride through the streets.

Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!

Ludington’s Great Outdoors

Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.

Disc Golf Courses

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.

Waterfront Park Sculptures

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.

Mason County District Libraries

In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.