Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Stearns Park is a focal point in Ludington, where so many people gather for a number of activities. This is the city’s largest beach, with 2,500 feet of sandy shoreline and plenty of FREE parking. Here you can swim, build a sand castle, and enjoy the view of the Ludington North Breakwater Light, open for tours in the summer. The half-mile walk out to the light is popular among couples, families, and fishermen. There are no lifeguards, but beach patrol officers are on duty from 11am-8pm. There is also free Wi-Fi at the park.
Across from the beach and Stearns Drive is a large, grassy area with picnic tables and grills. When you want to escape the sun and the heat, this is a wonderful place to spread out your blanket and catch a few winks! Concession stands are found at both the north and south ends of Stearns Park, and carry all your favorite snacks and beverages. You’ll also find restroom facilities which are open from May-October (weather permitting), as well as drinking fountains. The angled FREE parking at Stearns Park which looks out over Lake Michigan makes it ideal to sit in your vehicle during the colder weather and watch the spectacular sunsets. Professional and amateur photographers choose this setting to capture the ultimate beauty of Ludington’s premier park.
This popular beach is a great spot for a celebration, as well! Beach weddings are prevalent here and the grassy area to the East of the water is also a popular spot for birthday parties, family reunions, etc. No permits are necessary to utilize the space with the understanding that it is public domain.
The North Breakwater Light stands proudly at the beginning of the harbor, and everyone loves to walk the half-mile breakwater to either visit the Light or watch the S.S. Badger sail by. The Light is open for tours in the summer time, and for a $5 donation, you can climb to the top.
The south end of Stearns Park is a flurry of activity, especially at the Skate Plaza. Kids of all ages gather here with their skateboards and in-line skates. On one side of the Skate Plaza is the shuffleboard courts, and the other side features the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Course. To the south of the concession stand you’ll find a nice playground for the kids on the sandy beach. The concession stand is next to the entrance to the long outer breakwall out to Ludington’s North Breakwater lighthouse.
North Beach is located near the entrance of Stearns Park, and South Beach is closest to the pier and playground area. Both North and South Beach locations typically offer cold drinks and popular favorites such as hot dogs, brats, ice cream, and a variety of snacks. Each location also stocks and sells beach essentials like sunscreen, flip flops, inflatable rafts and rings, “noodles”, apparel, sand pails, and beach toys.
Three accessible walkways have been constructed at both the north and south concession stands, as well as in the middle of the beach. Wheelchairs, strollers and anyone who has trouble walking through the sand can now use the walkway to get down to the water from the parking lot. Various donors purchased the boards that make up the walkway, with messages and names inscribed on each board. Stearns Park Beach has been voted the fifth most accessible walkway in the nation!
Coming through downtown Ludington, follow Ludington Avenue to the end, and turn right onto N. Lakeshore Drive. Follow this until the fork in the road, and keep left onto M-116. This takes you along Lake Michigan and out to the State Park.
Just as the name suggests, Memorial Tree Park is nestled inside the trees and is a cozy park for relaxation and play.
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.
Rotary Park park features several trees and a large, open space. Formerly City Park, the rotary club is behind many of the improvements.
Waterfront Park features a fantastic view of the S.S. Badger and sits right along two marinas of Lake Michigan.
Copeyon Park’s splash pad provides a great spot in the summer! Great fishing and water-filled fun await!
Take a walk along the riverside at Suttons Landing. With wheelchair accessibility, everyone can take in the beautiful riverwalk.
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