Bookstores & Coffee Shops
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
Sandcastles Children’s Musuem Courtesy Photo
Children can Create, Discover, & Explore at Sandcastles Children's Museum
Current Hours are 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!
2025 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!
Maritime Heritage Trail
The Maritime Heritage Trail highlights the lighthouses, industries, art, and figures that make up the maritime history of Mason County!
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.
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 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.
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!
Bookstores & Coffee Shops
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Hamlin Lake
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Hamlin Lake Canoe & Kayak Trails
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
Ludington’s Pumped Storage Plant Generates Electricity
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are generating electricity for Ludington and West Michigan!
Value of Sports Museum
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
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.
