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Some of my favorite childhood memories were made in Ludington.
Almost every summer growing up, we’d pile into the car and head to our favorite campground near town. Back then, our days were simple and perfect: mornings spent swimming at Stearns Park Beach, afternoons wandering the downtown shops, and evenings capping off with a scoop (or three!) from House of Flavors. It was tradition—and the kind of place that carved a permanent spot in our hearts.
Now, years later, I’ve returned with my own family. And while many of the classics remain, Ludington continues to surprise me. It’s a town that manages to strike a beautiful balance: honoring its roots while embracing fresh, dynamic experiences. Museums have become more interactive and hands-on, perfect for curious young explorers. New restaurants and attractions keep things exciting for repeat visitors. Yet that familiar charm—the same beach, the same ice cream, the same warm, small-town welcome—never fades.
In The Ultimate Family Guide to Visiting Ludington in Summer, I’ll walk you through some of the best things to do, eat, and explore with kids in tow—whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to your favorite lakeside town.
Where We Stayed: Nader’s Motel & Suites
We absolutely loved our stay at Nader’s Motel & Suites—a place that completely redefines what you might expect from a “motel.” This family-owned property is warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed for both comfort and convenience.
Our suite was the perfect size for a family stay:
- Two queen beds in a partially divided room with a sliding door for privacy
- Full kitchen with stove, oven, full-size fridge, dishwasher, and all the essentials
- Living/dining area with a couch, coffee table, dining table, and two TVs
- A cozy back porch with rocking chairs, just steps from the heated saltwater pool
Although it was a bit chilly during our stay, the quiet pool area would be a dream in the heart of summer—especially for families looking for a peaceful alternative to the busy beach. There’s plenty to do on-site, from cornhole and giant Connect Four to shuffleboard, a basketball court, and a gas-powered fire pit that lights up nightly at 7 p.m. during the summer season.
The little touches really stood out—like having two TVs for flexibility, and the ability to cook meals right in the room (ideal for families or longer stays). The vibe was clean, cozy, and super family-friendly.
And the location? Perfect. Just minutes from Stearns Park Beach and downtown Ludington, we found it super convenient to get everywhere we wanted to go without ever feeling like we were in the middle of the hustle.
So if you’ve ever hesitated on a place with “motel” in the name—don’t. Nader’s is the kind of hidden gem that feels like a home base you’ll want to return to again and again.
Must-See Attractions Within Ludington
Historic Attractions Not to Miss
Historic White Pine Village
Tucked just a few minutes south of downtown Ludington, Historic White Pine Village offers visitors a walk through time—and I can’t believe I missed it growing up despite spending so many summers camping nearby. On our visit, we spent about an hour exploring highlights like the one-room schoolhouse, a cozy log cabin, the 1849 Mason County Courthouse, and even an old-fashioned ice cream parlor (yes, they still serve cones in the summer!). The entire village feels like multiple museums in one, each building filled with detailed exhibits and fascinating local artifacts.
Established in the 1970s, this open-air museum features 30 meticulously restored buildings representing late 19th- and early 20th-century life in Mason County. It’s family-friendly and educational, with enough variety to keep kids curious and adults intrigued by local history. Open seasonally from early May through October, White Pine Village makes for a memorable Ludington stop, especially for families wanting something interactive, enriching, and photo-worthy.
Pere Marquette Memorial Cross
If you’re looking for a meaningful but quick historic stop, don’t skip the Pere Marquette Memorial Cross. It’s one of those places you can easily miss if you’re not watching for it, but once you spot the state historical marker, it’s worth pulling over and climbing the steps to the top. The site honors Father Jacques Marquette, one of the earliest European explorers to travel through Michigan, who passed away near this memorial over 350 years ago.
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum
If you think museums are boring, the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum will absolutely change your mind. Housed in the former 1934 U.S. Coast Guard Station overlooking the harbor, this three-story museum is packed with hands-on exhibits that make Ludington’s maritime past come alive. Our favorite part as a family was taking turns piloting the historic Pere Marquette 22 at the ship simulator—way harder (and more fun) than expected! And for younger kids with shorter attention spans? They’ll love pulling the big ship whistle and climbing the model of the Ludington North Breakwater Lighthouse.
Every corner of this museum has something to discover, from the miniature cargo ship where kids can load and unload goods to the incredible lighthouse exhibit that showcases Michigan’s place as the state with the most lighthouses in the country. I was especially drawn to the exhibit on the Armistice Day Storm of 1940—through sound, lighting, and immersive storytelling, you experience what it was like on the lake during one of the most tragic maritime disasters in Great Lakes history. It’s both moving and fascinating, and the interactivity makes it stick.
Watch the SS Badger Depart or Come Back to Port
The SS Badger, the last coal-fired steamship in operation in the United States, still sails daily in the summer season at 9 a.m., and you can watch it come back to port around 7 p.m. Watching it return, when it blows its whistle is a can’t-miss moment in town.Â
Growing up, I took the Badger across to Wisconsin with my family and felt like I was on a mini cruise ship. I still remember the deck chairs, bingo games, and that exhilarating sense of adventure as we crossed Lake Michigan.
Ludington North Breakwater Light
A visit to Ludington wouldn’t be complete without a walk out to the Ludington North Breakwater Light, one of the most iconic sights on Michigan’s west coast. But a quick tip from experience—save this adventure for a calm day. The long breakwall extends far into Lake Michigan and doesn’t have rails, so it’s best tackled when the water’s still and the wind’s light. Once you reach the lighthouse, the real fun begins. Families can explore the small gift shop inside and climb the winding stairs to the top—provided your little ones meet the 40-inch height requirement.
My son proudly pointed out that the lighthouse looked like it was leaning slightly—and sure enough, when we reached the top, the docent demonstrated how a ball rolled across the floor to prove it!
The climb itself is fascinating, with interpretive exhibits on each level that tell the story of this operational light station. First lit in 1924 and still active today, the lighthouse was automated in 1972 and opened to the public in 2006 under the care of the Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association (now called the Lakeshore Keepers). If your family is up for more lighthouse fun, consider the All Access Pass, which includes entry to nearby Big Sable Point Light, Little Sable Point Light, and the White River Light Station—each offering its own unique experience and breathtaking views.
Fun Family Adventures in Ludington
Ludington State Park
No family trip to Ludington is complete without spending time at Ludington State Park—a true crown jewel of Michigan’s state park system. With seven miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline, miles of wooded trails, inland lakes, and access to Big Sable Point Lighthouse, this park is the ultimate natural playground. Even the drive there, along scenic M-116, is breathtaking. The park has been temporarily closed for major upgrades, but it reopens July 1, 2025, after a $3.2 million renovation. Three miles of beach at the southern end have remained open, and we caught a gorgeous sunset there this trip.
In past years, we’ve biked and hiked out to Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and I’m beyond excited to do that again once it reopens! At 112 feet, Big Sable is the tallest lighthouse on Lake Michigan and a favorite for many who take the 1.8-mile trail out to it through sand and forest. Families can enjoy wildlife sightings along the trail, ranger programs, and relaxing beach picnics. Whether you’re looking to burn off energy or just stretch out in the sand, Ludington State Park delivers the perfect mix of adventure and calm for kids and adults alike. Bookmark this one for July—it’s a must-visit summer highlight.
Waterfront Park
Tucked between the marina and downtown, Waterfront Park is one of Ludington’s most family-friendly gems. We love strolling the paved trails here and admiring the nine bronze sculptures that are part of the Mason County Sculpture Trail, each one telling a story about the area’s rich maritime and logging history.
At the heart of the park is a huge playground that kids gravitate to—it’s truly one of the best we’ve seen along the lakeshore. With scenic views of the harbor and the SS Badger dock, it’s easy to see why this park is a local favorite. It’s also a lovely place to stop if you’re looking for a low-key, shaded area with benches, art, and a breeze off the water.
Stearns Park Beach
Stearns Park Beach is more than just a beach—it’s Ludington’s summer gathering place. With 2,500 feet of shoreline, free parking, and every amenity a beachgoing family could ask for, it’s no surprise it’s regularly ranked among the top beaches in the state. You’ll find accessible walkways that make it easy for strollers, wheelchairs, and beach wagons to get to the water’s edge, plus a shaded picnic area, a playground right on the sand, shuffleboard courts, and even a skatepark nearby.
The concession stand here is a personal favorite of ours—think food-truck-style eats like gourmet hot dogs and crazy milkshakes, and a nearby hut selling beach gear and cute souvenirs. It’s also the perfect starting point for a walk out to the Ludington North Breakwater Light, especially around 9 a.m. or 7 p.m. to catch the Badger arriving or departing. With no entry fee, scenic views, and so much to do, Stearns Park is the ideal mix of relaxation and recreation for families looking to spend the whole day by the lake.
Ludington Area Jaycee’s’ Mini-Golf Course
This might be the cutest and most locally-themed mini golf course we’ve ever visited—seriously, I’m obsessed with its “Landmarks of Ludington” theme! Each of the 18 holes features a different iconic Ludington location or feature, from the SS Badger to the North Breakwater Light to hydro power turbines, all complete with fun facts and sponsored by local businesses.
Winston’s favorite hole was the one with the DTE/Consumers Energy turbines, while I loved the SS Badger replica—such a fun nod to Ludington’s lakefront legacy. And it’s not just fun: the Jaycees Mini Golf Course has donated nearly $500,000 to local causes since opening in 1967.
Open daily during the summer, it’s an easy add-on to your Stearns Park or beach day, and great for kids, date nights, or just a casual evening activity downtown.
Shopping and Browsing the Downtown District
Downtown Ludington is full of nostalgic charm and new surprises. I loved seeing stores I remember from my childhood—Gordy’s Skate Shop and Evergreen Naturals are still going strong—and discovering a bunch of new spots too. The main strip is packed with boutiques, souvenir shops, bookstores, home goods, and cafes, and in the evenings it really comes to life.
Legacy Plaza is a pedestrian-only hangout zone in the center of downtown where the street is closed to traffic. Picture cozy bonfire pits, Adirondack chairs and café tables, and cornhole boards set out for anyone to enjoy. On Thursday and Friday nights, there’s even live music—the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring, with ice cream or a drink in hand.
Whether you’re shopping, strolling, or simply soaking up the summer vibes, Ludington’s downtown makes it easy to enjoy the small-town charm that families fall in love with.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
If you’re looking for a place where kids can let their imagination run wild—indoors—this is it! Sandcastles Children’s Museum is full of interactive, multi-level fun that’s perfect for younger kids. With over 30 hands-on exhibits, there’s something here for every interest—from art and science to building and pretend play.
Winston’s favorite part? The real airplane cockpit he could climb into and pretend to fly, complete with an air traffic control tower nearby to complete the scene. Whether they’re playing vet, digging for fossils, or learning about music and motion, kids are engaged, active, and learning the whole time.
It’s a great way to break up a beach day or have a memorable rainy-day adventure right in the heart of downtown Ludington.
Amber Elk Ranch
This was such a surprisingly magical stop! Just a short drive outside of town, Amber Elk Ranch gives you the chance to get up close and personal with elk, the largest deer species in North America—once found in Michigan’s northern landscapes.
We kicked things off with a guided wagon tour through the 130-acre ranch. It runs hourly (on the half-hour), and lasts nearly an hour. Along the way, the guide shares fun and fascinating facts about elk while you meet the herd up close. We got to see and feed by hand cows, calves, and bulls—including a brand new baby elk that was literally just born minutes before our visit!
There’s also a petting zoo at the front of the ranch with guinea fowl, donkeys, and the friendliest ranch cat you’ll ever meet. Winston was all smiles the entire time.
Restaurants We Recommend in Ludington
STIX
More than just a restaurant—Stix is an entire evening out. What started as a quick dinner before sunset turned into an unexpected night of food, games, and live music.
Stix sits on a sprawling property and offers way more than food. After our meal, we discovered their modern bowling alley, which was inspired by the town’s original bowling alley previously on the property. We couldn’t resist giving it a try—and ended up loving the Spark Immersive Bowling experience. Winston had a blast playing animated games like Angry Birds and a spooky one-toss challenge where each person gets just one throw. They have bumpers, ball ramps, and super-lightweight balls for younger kids, making it an easy choice for families.
And just when we thought we were calling it a night, we walked outside to find a live concert happening in the beer garden—complete with games like cornhole, giant Jenga, and Connect 4. It was such a fun surprise!
House of Flavors
This is an absolute Ludington classic, and a place that’s deeply personal for me. I’ve been visiting House of Flavors every summer since childhood—and I still remember devouring the Original Pig Dinner sundae with my best friends. Since then, it’s become a place I love sharing with people I care about—from bringing my husband after we moved back from Kenya to treating a visiting friend from Kenya because it’s that special.
This colorful, retro-style diner is open year-round and brings the charm every time. On this trip, we stopped in for Saturday morning breakfast, enjoying eggs, pancakes, and breakfast meats—and yes, we absolutely grabbed a scoop of ice cream before we left, even though it was still early. When in Ludington, right?
Their ice cream legacy is serious. The House of Flavors factory makes over 28 million gallons of ice cream annually, and it even holds a Guinness World Record for the Longest Ice Cream Dessert. The restaurant side is family-owned and still going strong in its third generation.
Whether you’re in it for a sundae, scoop, or a full meal, House of Flavors is a must-stop in Ludington.
The Sandbox
You know how most beach concessions are forgettable? The Sandbox is the total opposite.
We visited the South location, and were so impressed by its creative food truck-style menu—think flavorful, inventive craft sliders inspired by beach towns across the U.S. We split a couple of sliders, and each one was packed with bold, unique flavor. They also serve ice cream, beach-themed milkshakes with fun toppings, and even homemade slushies—perfect for a treat after a sunny beach day.
The outdoor seating area is a vibe: vibrant hot pink and teal picnic tables behind the building, with a separate accessible walkway leading to more seating by the water—complete with tables, a bench, and a cornhole setup.
They’ve truly nailed the “vacation food” experience with high-quality ingredients, creative flavor, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend stopping here if you want to upgrade your typical beach meal.
Blu Moon Bistro
Looking for sushi in Ludington? Blu Moon Bistro is the spot. Located right downtown, this stylish bistro blends French and Japanese fusion cuisine with a creative, laid-back vibe that’s great for both casual dinners and special nights out.
On our visit, I ordered a couple of items off the Chef’s Features menu—a delicious local asparagus soup and rib tips with tangy BBQ sauce—along with a plate of tempura veggie sushi. Everything was thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor. Winston even got a non-alcoholic daiquiri, which made his night! Service was quick, warm, and incredibly attentive.
They cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners, too, making it a very inclusive spot. Whether you’re here for sushi, cocktails, or just something a little more elevated, Blu Moon delivers with fresh ingredients and a chic, welcoming atmosphere.
The 10 Spot
We wrapped up our trip with brunch at The 10 Spot, and I can’t imagine a better sendoff. This spot is such a brilliant concept—a permanent food truck park where everyone can find something they love, no matter what they’re craving. It’s a fantastic solution for families, especially when no one can agree on what to eat.
I went for Brunch Babes and ordered the best of both worlds:
• The Sweet Cheeks Waffle Tots (cinnamon sugar Belgian waffle bites with strawberry and chocolate toppings)
• A Chorizo & Egg Taco topped with pineapple salsa, lime crema, and queso fresco (a combo I didn’t expect to love as much as I did!)
• And to top it all off: a Rose Shaken Cold Brew garnished with dried rose petals—just dreamy.
My husband and son split a pizza from the Wooden Paddle food truck, and we both enjoyed our meals while relaxing at the picnic tables. The vibe here is all about community and fun—there’s a stage for live music, outdoor games, and plenty of shaded seating.
Started by local food truck owners who wanted to support other small businesses, The 10 Spot has grown into a must-visit destination that highlights the best of Ludington’s creative food scene. The food is fresh, high-quality, and locally inspired—served with heart and hustle.
Copy Our Three Day Trip Itinerary to LudingtonÂ
If you’re looking for a quick itinerary so you can repeat our same adventure, you’re in the right place! Here’s how you can fit in most of these recommended attractions found in the ultimate family guide to visiting Ludington in summer.
Day One:
- 3:00pm: Historic White Pine Village
- 4:30pm: Pere Marquette Memorial Cross
- 5:00pm: Check into Nader’s Motel and unpack
- 6:00pm: Stix for dinner & a round of bowling
- 8:00pm: Hike the Skyline Trail at Ludington State Park then watch the sunset
Day Two:
- 9:00am: Watch the SS Badger departÂ
- 9:15am: Breakfast at the House of Flavors
- 10:00am: Interact with the fascinating and fun exhibits at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum
- 11:00am: Head back to Nader’s Motel for a little pool time or backyard games
- 1:00pm: Grab some lunch from The Sandbox at Stearns Park Beach then follow that up by relaxing and playing in Lake Michigan at the beach
- 4:00pm: Enjoy a round of mini golf at the Ludington Area Jaycee’s’ Mini-Golf Course
- 5:00pm: Shop and browse the many fantastic boutiques and shops downtown.
- 6:30pm: Hang out on the rooftop of the Blu Moon Bistro where you can enjoy a variety of dinner options as well as relaxing frozen beverages.Â
- 8:00pm: End your day relaxing on your balcony or around the fire at Nader’s Motel
Final Day in Ludington:
- 10:00am: Walk the Ludington North Breakwall to the Ludington North Breakwater Light for a tour
- 11:00am: Enjoy a tasty lunch or brunch at The 10 Spot, which has options for every taste!
- 12:00pm: Visit Sandcastles Children’s Museum to allow your kids to burn off some of that energy after lunch.
- 2:30pm: Conclude your adventurous 3- day weekend at the Amber Elk Ranch, where you can enjoy a leisurely guided tour around the farm to meet and feed elk.
Map of the Ultimate Family Guide to Visiting Ludington in Summer
Ludington is one of those rare Michigan beach towns that manages to grow and change while still feeling like home. And that’s what makes it such a perfect place for families—familiar enough to be comforting, fresh enough to be exciting.
Whether you’re indulging in an old-school ice cream treat at House of Flavors, relaxing at a cozy family-friendly motel, or checking out new attractions, there’s something here for every age and interest.
I hope The Ultimate Family Guide to Visiting Ludington in Summer helps you feel confident in planning your trip—and maybe even inspires you to start a new family tradition of your own. Because once you experience Ludington in summer, chances are… you’ll want to keep coming back too.
From Michigan with Love,
Jackie
Pine this Post for Later: The Ultimate Family Guide to Visiting Ludington, Michigan in Summer
