Lake Winds Energy Park
Lakewinds Energy Park is generating electricity for Ludington and West Michigan! Take a country drive and see the wind turbines in action.
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Our Top 50 Cool Things to Do in the Ludington Area
1. Walk out to the North Breakwater Light to watch Ludington’s own carferry, the S.S. Badger, pass by.
2. Spend a sunny day at one of the many clean beaches.
3. Explore the magnificence of the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant.
4. Watch the golden sunset at Stearns Park.
5. Discover Mason County’s heritage at Historic White Pine Village.
6. Bring the family downtown to watch a good old-fashioned July 4th parade.
7. Kick off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes.
8. Browse for antiques and collectibles in our unique stores.
9. Enjoy a delicious ice cream cone on a really hot day.
10. Board the S.S. Badger carferry for a memorable trip across the lake.
11. “Sleep under the stars” in one of the area’s campsites.
12. Participate in the Mason County Library’s summer reading program.
13. Enjoy Michigan farm fresh fruits and vegetables from a local farm market.
14. Experience the joy of fishing year ’round.
15. See how much fun you and your friends can have during a game of mini-golf.
16. Feel the “boom” of our spectacular Freedom Festival fireworks.
17. Watch the sun rise over Lincoln Lake from Stearns Park Beach.
18. Drive around our neighborhoods to see the winter light displays.
19. Take a drive down Ludington Avenue in the summertime to soak in the colorful beauty of the petunias.
20. Fire up the grill for a delicious outdoor barbecue.
21. Play a rousing game of volleyball with friends at the beach.
22. Explore the Ludington State Park with the snowshoes you just made in their workshop.
23. Take a bike hike around town, through the marina and along the lakeshore.
24. Experience the magnificence of a truly clear starry night, without interference from big city lights.
25. Discover the historical beauty of our area’s lighthouses.
26. Rent a canoe, pontoon or kayak for a relaxing day on Hamlin Lake.
27. Take an exhilarating ride over the dunes at Silver Lake.
28. Golf among the pines at one of the many picturesque courses in the area.
29. Bring the kids to the Waterfront Park‘s wonderful playground, while you admire the surrounding sculptures.
30. Let the breathtaking colors of fall envelop you as you drive or walk the leaf-strewn streets.
31. Check out the artisan/farm market and enjoy live music in Legacy Plaza on Fridays during the summer.
32. Take the kids to Sandcastles Children’s Museum conveniently located in downtown Ludington.
33. For a day you won’t forget, head out on Lake Michigan aboard a charter boat.
34. Ludington has its own wind farm, called Lake Winds Energy Park. View 56 wind turbines just south of town.
35. Catch a play or concert, or take a class at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts.
36. While at Stearns Park Beach, let the kids expend some energy at Ludington’s Skate Plaza.
37. Shop for goodies and treasures during the summer at one of two Art Fairs in downtown Ludington’s Rotary Park.
38. You’ll want to be in Ludington on New Year’s Eve to experience our very own Lighted Ball Drop. Fireworks, music, and drinks round out a great way to ring in the new year!
39. Pamper yourself with a massage, facial, manicure, or pedicure at one of Ludington’s salons.
40. Check out the natural beauty of the Ludington State Park with a hike, a float down the river, or a relaxing day on the beaches of Lake Michigan or Hamlin Lake.
41. Check out Ludington Lumber Days (formerly Octoberfest).
42. Enjoy a production by the Stage Left Theatre Company.
43. Canoe, kayak, or go fishing on the Pere Marquette River.
44. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack at one of Ludington’s many great dining establishments.
45. Check out the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum located in the former Coast Guard Station.
46. Groove down to Waterfront Park for the popular West Shore Bank Rhythm & Dunes Concerts.
47. Participate in one of many ice fishing tournaments during the winter months.
48. Run one of the most beautiful courses in Michigan at the Ludington Lakestride 5k, 10k, & Half Marathon.
49. Check out some of Ludington’s featured Things to Do.
50. Ludington has so much to do all year long so check out their top events.
Discover more around Ludington!
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.
Wilson Hill Park on Upper Hamlin Lake
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake’s Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
Ludington’s North Breakwater Light
Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!
Festivals & Events
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
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.
Bicycle Trails
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
Music Heritage Trail
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
Charter Boat Fishing
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
Enjoy Winter Activities in 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!
What's happening now in Ludington?
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
Mason County District Libraries
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
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”.
Music Heritage Trail
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
Mason County Cultural Trails
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
Lake Winds Energy Park
Lakewinds Energy Park is generating electricity for Ludington and West Michigan! Take a country drive and see the wind turbines in action.
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.
