Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

The Thriving Arts Scene in Ludington Has Something for Everyone

Art can be complicated to explain, due to the diverse range of activities that are involved, including painting, photography, music, dance, theater, and more. Ludington is alive with an array of cultural events that take place throughout the year. Combined with the beauty of lake views and richly forested land, this area has emerged as a venue for those who truly love all kinds of art. There are additional opportunities to enjoy the arts throughout West Michigan, as well!

Ludington Area Center for the Arts

A group of local residents had a vision a few years back to create a “hub” in Ludington where all the arts could come together and the Ludington Area Center for the Arts was born. Housed in the former historic United Methodist Church building, it is now the home for theater presentations, concerts, writer’s forums, speakers, and gallery exhibitions. Arts and crafts studios are located on the second floor and in the lower level.

Music

Nothing brings people together more than music, and there is certainly no shortage of concerts and performances in the Ludington area. Summer music fills the air with events such as the Thursday night concert series in downtown Ludington along with performances on Friday in conjunction with the weekly farmer’s market, Many of the local bars and restaurants host live music throughout the summer, as well. Not a week goes by that you can’t find a musical performance somewhere in Ludington. The Ludington Area Center for the Arts hosts live music performances throughout the year, as does West Shore Community College in nearby Scottville that has various musical acts and musical theater shows as part of their annual performing arts series.

Plays & Theatre Performances

A movie is a nice escape from life, but a good live performance is hard to beat. The Ludington Area Center for the Arts  showcases local talent in their theater productions. Various theatre performances come alive not only at West Shore Community College but with shows produced by the Stage Left Theatre Company.

Downtown Ludington Art

While shopping or dining in downtown Ludington, look around and be amazed at the murals that adorn the outside walls of many area businesses. Painted by various artists, these murals tell the story of the people and events that made Ludington what it is today.

Just two blocks from downtown is the beautiful Waterfront Park. Nestled between two marinas, you’ll find a playground, tables, paved walkways, and nine bronzed sculptures. As you walk the park, stop and admire these works of art that depict Ludington’s maritime, farming, and lumbering history. 

Photography

Amateur and professional photographers love the beauty of the Ludington area and its spectacular scenery to create digital memories. Photo Workshops are held throughout the year by renowned local photographers, Todd & Brad Reed, to help people learn how to take the best possible picture. Our lighthouses, beaches, sunsets, and Ludington State Park provide the perfect backdrop for memorable vacation photos.

Summer Art Fairs

Small towns are known for arts and crafts fairs, and Ludington has two separate events during the summer. The first, the West Shore Art Fair, is a juried fine arts fair held in early July. The second event is the Gold Coast Artisan Fair held in mid-August. Pentwater has its Fine Arts Fair in mid-July on the Village Green, and other local communities such as Manistee also hold Art Fairs.

Downtown Ludington Art Walk

Explore the enchanting world of art on an “art walk” through Downtown Ludington. Dive into the creativity of handcrafted art and photography showcased in numerous shops. Here are the top 7 local exhibits along a walkable route in the downtown area:
 
1) Ludington Area Center for the Arts – 107 S. Harrison St.
2) The Red Door Gallery – 416 S. James St. 
3) ART Rocks – 323 S. James St.
4) Dimitridon Studios – 225 W. Ludington Ave.
5) The Pier Ludington – 222 W. Ludington Ave.
6) My Happy Place – 208 W. Ludington Ave.
7) Todd and Brad Reed Photography – 114 W. Ludington Ave.
 
For more information, visit downtownludington.org.
 

What's going on now in Ludington?

Discover more to do in Ludington!

Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
 

Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!

Historic White Pine Village

Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.