The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
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:
The Ludington State Park offers winter activities. With snowshoeing tours, cross country skiing, and natural beauty, it's a winter paradise!
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
Friends of Ludington State Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting wise use and conservation of the Ludington State Park.
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.
The Michigan DNR has announced that Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024-July 1st, 2025 for improvements.
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
The Ludington State Park holds multiple events for the whole family during the summer months. Don't miss the live music and presentations!
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest! Ludington State Park has four campgrounds, hundreds of sites for your camping pleasure.
The Ludington State Park trails are as varied as they are beautiful. Hike or bike 18 miles of eight marked trails with information kiosks.
The beautiful Lake Michigan Beach House in the Ludington State Park is a two-story shelter with visitor exhibits, lounging, and concessions.
Water fun in the Ludington State Park! Float down the Big Sable River, paddle Hamlin Lake water trails, launch a pleasure boat, or swim!
Dune Grass Concessions offers watercraft & bike rentals, concession food, ice cream, convenience items, State Park & Hamlin Lake souvenirs!
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:
In 2021, the Pere Marquette Charter Township unveiled the new Pere Marquette Conservation Park, located on 300 acres of former Dow property.
Waterfront Park features a fantastic view of the S.S. Badger and sits right along two marinas of Lake Michigan.
Copeyon Park's splash pad provides a great spot in the summer! Great fishing and water-filled fun await!
View Lake Michigan from the top of the sandy hill at Summit Park while the kids play on the pirate-ship themed playground.
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.
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
Admire Lake Michigan from the peak of a bluff — what a view! Bring your pet as well, as this beach is dog friendly!
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.
The Michigan DNR has announced that Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024-July 1st, 2025 for improvements.
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.
Hamlin Lake is home to several parks and numerous dunes for exploration and leisure. Pack a picnic, cast your line, and enjoy the sites.
Take a walk along the riverside at Suttons Landing. With wheelchair accessibility, everyone can take in the beautiful riverwalk.
West Michigan's beautiful beaches and parks are popular with couples that desire a more casual ceremony with a beach or outdoor wedding.
The Legacy Plaza is located in the heart of downtown Ludington, a popular spot for relaxing, eating, and entertainment.
Take a walk through the woods at Cartier Park, featuring paved trails. This park is also home to "Central Bark," Ludington's only dog park.
Take your furry friend on their own vacation at Ludington's very own dog park! Play catch, frolic about, and make new friends!
Rotary Park park features several trees and a large, open space. Formerly City Park, the rotary club is behind many of the improvements.
Play on one of Mason County's disc golf courses and explore the trails by hiking, biking, and snowshoeing!
Just as the name suggests, Memorial Tree Park is nestled inside the trees and is a cozy park for relaxation and play.
Picked by USA Today as one of the 51 Great American Beaches in the nation; Stearns Park & Beach is more than just golden sand.
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:
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Where's the best place to watch the S.S. Badger arrive or depart Ludington? Here are great locations for viewing the Lake Michigan Carferry.
Enjoy a variety of shoreline cruises with various themes on the S.S. Badger Carferry in both Ludington and Manitowoc.
Traveling to Ludington on the Lake Michigan Carferry? Here are some helpful hints for your arrival into Port Ludington on the S. S. Badger.
The S.S. Badger car ferry has a long history and is the last remaining example of the Great Lakes rail/car ferry design.
Trails & Tours
Read more about trails & tours in Ludington:
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
The Ludington State Park trails are as varied as they are beautiful. Hike or bike 18 miles of eight marked trails with information kiosks.
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area's rich history.
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
The Lumber Heritage Trail, highlighting Mason County's rich lumbering history, is one of four that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
The Maritime Heritage Trail highlights the lighthouses, industries, art, and figures that make up the maritime history of Mason County!
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
Water fun in the Ludington State Park! Float down the Big Sable River, paddle Hamlin Lake water trails, launch a pleasure boat, or swim!
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:
Here you will find past fishing reports for the Ludington area, including Lake Michigan, PM Lake, PM River, and Hamlin Lake.
“Fish on For Freedom” is a non-profit event that provides a free day of fishing to military veterans 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.
This Hamlin Lake Fishing Map details what kind of fish you might catch in various sections of the lake. Helpful for all anglers.
The very popular Ludington Offshore Classic Fishing Tournament sponsored by Captain Chuck's takes place each July in Ludington.
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.
If there's one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it's excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
Ludington fishing tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket.
The Ludington area is a paradise for those who love boating and fishing. Numerous marinas rent a variety of boats and offer modern facilities.
Ludington's natural resources, charter captains, and outfitters provide great salmon fishing on Lake Michigan and the Pere Marquette River.
There are many places to launch a boat for fishing or recreation in the Ludington area. Most are free of charge, with plenty of parking.
Discover Mason County Cultural Trails
Trails & Tours
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Popular Pages
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
Where to Watch the S.S. Badger Carferry in Port Ludington
Where’s the best place to watch the S.S. Badger arrive or depart Ludington? Here are great locations for viewing the Lake Michigan Carferry.
Sunset Times
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
Maritime Heritage Trail
The Maritime Heritage Trail highlights the lighthouses, industries, art, and figures that make up the maritime history of Mason County!
Cool Things to Do
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Pet Friendly Places
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.
