Visit the Ludington State Park
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.
Sandcastles Children’s Musuem Courtesy Photo
Children can Create, Discover, & Explore at Sandcastles Children's Museum
Current Hours: Thursdays & Fridays from 9:30am-1pm, Saturdays from 9:30am-5pm, & Sundays from 12-4pm
History of Sandcastles
Sandcastles Children’s Museum has been in operation since 2006, and first began as a “summer sampler museum.” Visitation to the Museum has grown from 1,500 its first year to more than 20,000 annually since 2011. They first occupied a small building on South James Street, then moved to a larger facility four times bigger on West Ludington Avenue.
Now they have found a permanent home in the former Elks Lodge, at the corner of North Harrison and Ludington Avenue and now have four levels of exhibits. Through donations and many volunteers, the building has been renovated to transform it into a kid-friendly and sought after destination.
Seasonal Hours
- Summer hours begin in June and are Monday-Saturday 9:30am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-4pm.
- Fall/Spring Hours begin after Labor Day and are Thursdays & Fridays from 9:30am-1pm, Saturdays from 9:30am-5pm, and Sundays from 12-4pm.
- Winter Hours from February 1st until June are Thursdays & Fridays from 9:30am-1pm, Saturdays from 9:30am-5pm, and Sundays from 12-4pm.
Have your child’s next birthday party at Sandcastles Children’s Museum!
2026 Membership Options:
Regular Family Membership
- $130, includes four children from one family and 1-2 adults to accompany them. Each additional family member is $10. Adults are interchangeable, children are not.
Grandparent Membership
- $130, includes two adults and up to four of their grandchildren. Children are interchangeable, adults are not.
Just Two
- $90, includes one adult and one child. Adult is interchangeable, child is not.
2025 Daily Admission
- $9.50 per person. Children under age 1 are free
Call or visit Sandcastles during open hours to purchase your membership!
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
129 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington, MI 49431
(231) 233-9326
Discover more around Ludington!
Aerial View of Big Sable Point
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
Activities & Attractions
There are so many things to see and do in Ludington! Don’t miss a single activity during your visit by exploring VisitLudington.com!
Maritime Heritage Trail
The Maritime Heritage Trail highlights the lighthouses, industries, art, and figures that make up the maritime history of Mason County!
Pet Friendly Places
Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.
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!
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.
Bicycle Trails
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
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.
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!
Mason County Lumber Heritage Trail
The Lumber Heritage Trail, highlighting Mason County’s rich lumbering history, is one of four that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Ludington’s Great Outdoors
Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.
