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Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography

Discover Ludington on Lake Michigan

Far removed from the hustle and bustle of the big cities - with Lake Michigan as the backdrop - you'll find the kind of town people want to visit and many call home. Welcome to Ludington, Michigan, a vacation paradise and a wonderful place to live.

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Stearns Park Beach during the busy summer months. | Todd & Brad Reed Photography

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 Park, 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 also has two 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.

Ludington State Park

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.

The Badger makes its way into port. | Todd & Brad Reed Photography

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.

Lake Michigan & Inland Lake Fishing

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 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.

Ludington Business Directory

Events in Ludington

Ludington is famous for it’s summer events but also offers many events in the “quiet season” that keep people coming back all year long!

Farmers Markets run from May-September in downtown Ludington’s Legacy Plaza. One of the best fall events in Ludington is Octoberfest which offers beer, great food, and live music. And Friday Night Live has been revamped  to run on the last Friday of each month from April-September and renamed “Final Friday Experience“. Thousands of  people descend on downtown Ludington for the annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop where they enjoy an entertainment tent and the Ball Drop at midnight with fireworks to follow.

As for summer, there’s definitely no shortage of events to keep visitors and locals alike entertained. If you’re into running, the Ludington Lakestride offers a 5k, 10k, or Half Marathon in June. For those artsy folks, Ludington hosts two popular Arts & Crafts Fairs in Rotary Park each summer. The West Shore Art Fair is held in July and the Gold Coast Artisan Fair is held in August. Easily one of Ludington’s most popular events, the Ludington Area Jaycees Freedom Festival, is held on July 3rd-4th.

More Ludington area info:

Planning a visit to the Ludington area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help: 

Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area.
 

Experience the Ludington Area

Ludington 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!

Top Events in Ludington

There are activities going on in Ludington to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events- Ludington special.

Big Sable Point Lighthouse

112-feet of lighthouse awaits you at the Ludington State Park! Take a tour and follow the winding staircase to the top!

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.