Downtown Brings the Heat!
Complete with art galleries, exceptional dining and everything in between, downtown Ludington is a must-see-and-do when stopping in Ludington. Visit Legacy Plaza to catch a concert, dine in the courtyard or cozy up to the community gas fireplace. Ludington's new social district also gives visitors an oppportunity to purchase alcoholic beverages in specially marked cups from participating businesses and stroll along portions of Ludington Avenue, James Street and Rath Avenue.
Hit the Beach
Ludington has some of Michigan's top rated beaches and coastline just steps from downtown and local hotels. Rated by USA Today as one of the Top 50 All-American Beaches, Stearns Park Beach is a popular destination for families to enjoy the fresh water of Lake Michigan. With over 28 miles of sandy beaches, you are sure to find the perfect place to sunbathe, build a sandcastle or relax with a good book.
Paddling Fun
With over 2,000 miles of streams, 3 rivers and 40 inland lakes and of course Lake Michigan, there is plenty of water to explore! Whether you prefer to row your canoe, kayak, raft or paddleboard, Ludington is the perfect place for your adventure.
Farm to Table Dining
Agriculture is rich in Mason County. Many local restaurants take advantage of our local farmers and products by incorporating them into many dishes served daily. Each week you can shop for fresh local goods made here in Mason County at the Downtown Ludington farmers market, which is held in Legacy Plaza each Friday afternoon from 3-8pm. And don't forget to stop by Scottville's Weekly Farmers Market Tuesday afternoons. Farmer's markets operate May through September.
Snag A Big Catch!
Known as the #1 Salmon fishing port in Michigan, it's hard not to notice that fishing is part of the culture in Pure Ludington! You can take a fishing trip on beautiful Lake Michigan on one of the many charterboats who call Port of Ludington home, or keep your feet on dry land-either way you are bound to make a big catch! Select local resturants will even prepare and cook for your catch of day for you to enjoy for dinner.
Maritime Explorations
Pure Ludington is rich in maritime heritage, some of which is documented in murals throughout downtown and in bronze sculptures in Waterfront Sculpture Park. However, you can experience a piece of maritime history each day---the SS Badger. The last coal powered steam ship operating in the United States, the SS Badger travels between Ludington and Manitowoc, WI taking cargo and passengers. Two lighthouses, which are open to the public for tours, stand as beacons along our coastline, marking a time when they were some of the only technology guiding sailors and fishermen home.
Fall Story Ideas
Secrets of Fall
While it is "best kept secret" to some, September is a favorite time to explore and enjoy all of the joys that Pure Ludington offers. Warm weather and water make it still look and feel much like summer. However, the thinned crowds allow you to feel like Ludington is all your own! Many people think our summertime sunsets are amazing. However, fall brings some of the most spectacular sunsets. So after a day soaking up the sun, take a stroll along the waters edge as you enjoy the sky's show of magnificent color!
Hiking & Biking Color Tours
Fall is a fabulous time to get outdoors and take in the changing colors of nature. Pure Ludington has some great trails for you to hike and bike your way to fall fun, including 18 miles of trails in the Ludington State Park.
Fresh for Fall
Mason County is home to many family-owned and operated farms, providing a bountiful harvest for local farm markets. Centennial barns and rolling hills of farms line country roads, some of which have roadside stands for you enjoy.
Winter Story Ideas
Shop Local, Shop Downtown
Stroll along sidewalks of fowntown ludington and find some perfect gifts for your family and friends this holiday season! Gifts can be found in our unique and eclectic variety of shops, galleries and boutiques. After your shopping is complete, wind down at one of our coffe shops, resturants or pubs.
Light up the Lake NYE Ball Drop
It may not be Times Square in New York, but it sure feels like it! Downtown Lduington hosts one of the biggest outdoor New Year's Eve parties in West Michigan complete with music, entertainment tent, ball drop and fireworks! Ludington NYE ball is lit with over 6,000 LED lights and stands over 6 feet tall. Over 12,000 pack the streets of downtown Ludington to get glimpse of the ball and celebrate the coming of a new year! Join in the fun and celebrate your New Year in Pure Ludington!
Ice Fishing Frenzy
Snow and ice don't stop fisherman from taking to the lakes for their catch of the day. When the ice forms, that's when the fishing heats up! Ice fishing tournaments throughout the winter months add a dose of competition to the equation. Venture out onto the ice for blue gill, walleye or perch fishing.
Winter Fun for Everyone
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding and ice skating are some of the favorite activities families enjoy when the snow falls. The Ludington State Park offers over 8 miles fo trails perfect for snowshoeing along the Hamlin dam as well as the infamous Suicide Hill, where you can test your sledding luck.
