Ludington

Ludington, a harbor town on Lake Michigan, is located at the mouth of the Pere Marquette River. Year-round recreation in Ludington includes boating and swimming on Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake, and other smaller inland lakes, as well as hunting, fishing, and camping. Ludington State Park (including the Big Sable Point Light), Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness, and Manistee National Forest are all nearby. The SS Badger, a vehicle and passenger ferry that runs daily across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, is also based in Ludington. A favorite local pastime is watching the Badger come into port in the evening from the end of the north breakwall near the Ludington lighthouse.

Hike or relax away from modern life at nearby Ludington State Park, Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness, or Manistee National Forest. Back in town, take part in a local tradition by walking down to the Ludington Lighthouse to watch the SS Badger, the passenger ferry that runs between the town and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, return home each evening and catch the sun setting over Lake Michigan. Stop by the Children's Sandcastle Museum to learn something new for your next beach trip. Stop by during the summer to attend the West Shore Art League's Art Fair, run the Lakestride Half Marathon, or explore their many other year-round attractions.