Courtesy Photo by Port of Ludington Maritime Museum

Museums

Ludington is home to several museums dedicated to preserving the area’s rich history and gives a look into the array of industries — both past and present — that make up the Ludington community.  Take a step back in time to learn about Ludington’s history and culture through digital story telling, authentic images and artifacts, as well as engaging interactive exhibits to engage and captivate visitors of all ages.

Port of Ludington Maritime Museum

The newest museum on our list, Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, allows tourists and visitors alike to step back in the past and learn about Ludington’s maritime history. The museum is housed in the former U.S. Coast Guard Station, now on the National Register of Historic Places. The Ludington Maritime Museum building is in a prime location overlooking the harbor and is a popular attraction in an already beautiful Lake Michigan city. 

The Marchido School, which was established in 1895, sits in the Historic White Pine Village. | Courtesy Photo
Port of Ludington Maritime Musuem
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Historic White Pine Village

Discover small town Michigan life in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s at Historic White Pine Village. Set upon 13 beautiful acres overlooking Lake Michigan, you can visit more than 30 museums that depict Mason County’s history. Historic White Pine Village opened in 1976 with only 11 buildings, one of which was the first Mason County Courthouse, built in 1849. Many of the buildings are original and were moved to the village.

Sandcastles Children's Museum

Sandcastles Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum with 4 floors of exhibits to promote learning through play. Exhibits include a real Cessna airplane, Badger playship, grocery store, climbing wall, veterinary office, hospital nursery, Grandpa’s farm, and more! Party room available.

Value of Sports Museum

The Value of Sports Museum is part of Historic White Pine Village and adds significantly to the visitor experience available at this important area attraction. It goes beyond the game and final scores and highlights the importance that sports play in developing character for participants and non-participants alike. The Value of Sports Museum, features professionally designed kiosks and exhibits that tell the stories of well-known athletes and local men and women who have excelled in sports and in life. These special people are role models for helping us appreciate and understand the life lessons to be found in sports – beyond the game.

More Activities & Attractions in Ludington

Trails and Tours

Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!

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”.

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.

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.

Hamlin Lake

Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!

Sunset Times

It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.

Cool Things to Do

Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.

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.