Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
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).
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.
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.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
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.
Ludington’s natural resources, charter captains, and outfitters provide great salmon fishing on Lake Michigan and the Pere Marquette River.
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
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 Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.
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