The beautiful Lake Michigan Beach House in the Ludington State Park is a two-story shelter with visitor exhibits, lounging, and concessions.
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Activities & Attractions
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There’s such a variety of things to keep you entertained while you’re in the Ludington area! Tour a historic village, play a round of mini golf, or visit one of our many beaches or parks. Even when it’s raining, you’ll find fun, indoor activities that are pleasing to the whole family. You can’t leave the area without visiting one of the spectacular lighthouses of the region, and just catching the sunset over Lake Michigan is worth the trip. View the S.S. Badger carferry as it sails into or out of Ludington, or hop on board yourself for the four-hour trip across the big lake. Boredom is never a problem here in Ludington!
Not only does Ludington offer great attractions, but there are events planned all year long. Check out the Festivals & Events page for monthly event calendars.
Ludington State Park
Ludington has so much to offer its residents and visitors, but our most popular draw is the 5,300 acres that lie just north of town, known as the Ludington State Park. 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. The state park is a vacation within itself, with special programs offered in the summer.
Read more about the Ludington State Park:
Beaches & Parks
What could be more enjoyable than a day at the beach? It’s so relaxing to lie on the soft, warm sand with the golden sun overhead. And with over a dozen parks in the area, you’ve got the perfect place to picnic, let the kids play, and appreciate the fantastic views that we’re so blessed to have.
Read more about Ludington's beaches and parks:
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.
Read more about the S.S. Badger Carferry:
Trails & Tours
Read more about trails & tours in Ludington:
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.
Read more about fishing in Ludington:
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Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
Downtown Ludington
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
Ludington Skate Plaza
The Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.
Hamlin Dam
Read about the mighty dam that lives in Hamlin Lake, how it came to be and how it is utilized to help protect this man-made lake.
Hamlin Lake
Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!
Ludington Art Scene
Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There’s music, photography, art galleries, and more.
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.
