Visit Ludington...
Visit Ludington in West Michigan!
Ludington's scenic location includes beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and the most glorious sunsets.
Find your next adventure here!
Activities & Attractions
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There's music, photography, art galleries, and more.
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Calendar of Events
Each April, AFFEW (A Few Friends for the Environment of the World) hosts an annual Earth Day event in Ludington.
Every year, local organizations offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Ludington State Park
Experience why Ludington State Park is considered the "Queen" of state parks!
Midwest Living Magazine voted the Ludington State Park the #1 state park in the Midwest, with seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Enjoy camping, boating, fishing, swimming or hike on one of eight marked trails that wind through the park and bring you face to face with nature’s beauty.
Two highlights of the Ludington State Park are the Hamlin Lake Dam and the Big Sable Point Lighthouse. While you’re at the Lake Michigan Beach be sure to visit the Beach House for concessions and a great view or head over to Hamlin Beach and rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or paddle boat for hours of fun.
Lake Michigan Car Ferry
Ludington is HOME PORT for a Lake Michigan cruise ship--the S.S. Badger Carferry!
Ludington is the home port of the largest carferry to sail the Great Lakes. The S.S. Badger carferry makes its voyage from Ludington to Manitowoc, Wisconsin mid-May to mid-October.
This 410′ ship carries up to 620 passengers and 180 vehicles. Onboard you can play Badger Bingo, watch a movie, shop, or enjoy a meal in one of their two restaurants. Kid’s activities include a video arcade, coloring contests, and playroom. The best part of the journey is sitting on deck and enjoying the view–including spectacular sunsets. The S.S. Badger is on the National Register of Historic Places. Read about the best places to watch the carferry sail and helpful hints when arriving by the carferry.
Miles of Beaches!
There are so many Ludington beaches to discover! You’ll find miles of clean, sandy beaches along Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, just minutes from wherever you are in the area.
Stearns Park is the most popular beach, with FREE parking, concessions, playground, Skate Plaza, mini golf, and shuffleboard.
Whether you enjoy swimming, skiing, tubing, boating, or fishing– Ludington’s beaches and lakes provide hours of relaxing enjoyment and exhilarating adventure.
Lighthouses
Ludington is a harbor town rich with MARITIME history, and two lighthouses!
That’s right! Two Ludington lighthouses to discover! These beautiful and historic structures are an integral part of our community.
The North Breakwater Light is in downtown Ludington at the end of Ludington Avenue and the Big Sable Point Lighthouse is within the Ludington State Park just north of town.
In addition to the two lighthouses in Ludington, if you venture 30 miles north or south you’ll find Manistee’s North Pierhead Lighthouse and Little Sable Point Lighthouse in the Silver Lake State Park. Most lighthouses are open for tours in the summertime, offering a glimpse into Great Lakes maritime history.
Find a Business
Small businesses are at the heart of Ludington. Select a business category or one of our "Featured Businesses" to find the experience, product, or service to make your visit complete.
Fishing
FISHING Ludington lakes and rivers is a great catch!
Anglers from all over know that Ludington is the #1 salmon port on Lake Michigan.
Numerous Ludington charter captains have years of experience on the big lake and are eager to take you on a fishing excursion.
Check out our current and archived Fishing Reports for Lake Michigan charter fishing. Ludington area inland lakes are wonderful for fishing as well. Hamlin Lake is full of northern pike, bass, perch, and bluegill- or ice fish in the winter for panfish and walleye.
There’s also great fishing in nearby Pere Marquette Lake and the Pere Marquette River.
Weddings & Celebrations
With Ludington as the back drop, your dream will come true.
The Ludington lakeshore is the perfect setting for weddings and celebrations. Every special occasion is even more special with Ludington hospitality. Local vendors like caterers, bakeries, party stores, and more, are abundant in Ludington, and to help you prepare for your special event. The small businesses in the Ludington area are some of the best service providers in West Michigan!
Whether your hometown is here in Ludington, or you’re looking to host a destination event at one of the beautiful venues here, Ludington is the right spot!
Check out our local businesses that specialize in everything you need for your wedding or party!
