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”.
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Ludington is known for many things but visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Once used primarily as a way to guide ships into port, these are now historic structures that are beautiful backdrops to our Lake Michigan shoreline. Both lights are owned and maintained by the Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Association and volunteers staff the lights during the busy summer season. There is a $8 donation fee for adults to tour the lights, and $5 for youth age 17 & under.
If you are within 200 yards of any Michigan lighthouse you can activate the foghorn. Just turn your marine radio to channel 79, then click five times in rapid succession.
Located at Stearns Park Beach, the North Breakwater Light is ranked as the #1 Michigan lighthouse to visit, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset or wave at the S.S. Badger carferry as it cruises out onto Lake Michigan. The breakwall leading out to the light is a popular venue for fishermen and those who enjoy walking the mile-long round trip. Originally built in 1871 and replaced in 1924, the light shines across nearly 20 miles of water, and its familiar horn warns boaters of impending bad weather. While at Stearns Park, enjoy the Skate Park, mini-golf, playground, shaded picnic area, and concessions.
2023 North Breakwater Light Tour Hours: 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Sunday from May 23-September 3.
The Big Sable Point Lighthouse stands proudly at the tip that juts out into Lake Michigan within the Ludington State Park. The black-and-white striped tower is listed on both the state and national registers of historic places. Take a tour of the lighthouse and visit the gift shop that is located in the original keeper’s quarters. The Ludington State Park was named the #1 state park in the Midwest and offers camping, hiking and biking trails, a dam, two beaches, and seasonal programs. Tube down the Sable River or take a relaxing canoe ride along the shoreline. The wildlife and natural habitat at the park are spectacular, and even when there are thousands of visitors, you can find a quiet trail to escape the crowds.
2023 Big Sable Point Lighthouse Tour Hours: from 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Sunday from May 9-October 22.
One of the best times to visit the lighthouses may be in the evening. We have some of the most gorgeous sunsets you’ll find anywhere. In fact, many people make sure they’re down at the beach to witness the golden orb sink into Lake Michigan. Check for the sunset times by viewing the sunset schedule.
The 410′ S.S. Badger is the largest carferry to sail the Great Lakes, and can carry 620 passengers and 180 autos. It travels at roughly 18 mph to make the four-hour trip, with nearly 490 crossings per year. On board are 40 staterooms, outside deck, snack bar, video arcade, gift shop, TV and movie lounges, and children’s playroom. In 1997, the Badger was officially named a Registered Wisconsin Historic Site, and in 2002, was named Ship of the Year by the Steamship Historical Society of America. In 2009, the Badger was placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the U.S. Department of Interior. And in 2016, the S.S. Badger finally gained its status as a National Historic Landmark- almost five years after Lake Michigan Carferry’s initial application.
It started with the Ann Arbor I in the early 1900’s, and 13 carferries later, the S.S. Badger still sails from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin from mid-May to mid-October. It is as symbolic to Ludington as our lighthouses, and a beloved sight to watch.
Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Association
P.O. Box 673, Ludington, MI, 49431
(231) 845-7417
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”.
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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