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.
The Baby Badger
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Ludington's Baby Badger is a Parade Favorite for Kids!
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.
More Activities & Attractions
More Activities & Attractions in Ludington...
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.
Accessible Walkways at Stearns Park Beach
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
Mason County Sculpture Trail
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
The Baby Badger
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
Mason County Barn Quilt Trail
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Night Life
The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down here in Ludington! Nightlife here includes festivals, cozy restaurants, and local performances.
Murals of Ludington
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.