Early morning in downtown Ludington | Mark Steigenga
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events. Several downtown businesses have late night shopping hours on Fridays & Saturdays during the summer months; shop til 9pm!
Every town has their specialty shops, and Ludington is no different. Unique items can be found in various stores, as well as clothing that features the “Ludington” name. Jewelry, gift shops, photo galleries, and consignment shops are just a sampling of the businesses that are eager to serve you. You’ll enjoy the personal, friendly service that Ludington area shopkeepers are known for. There’s parking in front, or use the large lots behind the businesses on the north side of Ludington Avenue.
Shopping can make one hungry, so take a break from the heat and pop into a downtown Ludington restaurant. Homestyle cooking, bistros, ice cream, Italian, sports bars…whatever your preference, you’ll find just the place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Head down south James Street for even more restaurants. North James Street Plaza is closed to traffic, and has tables set up for eating alfresco. Outdoor dining is also available in front of several downtown restaurants during the summer months.
Take a look at the menus of Ludington restaurants in our Lakeshore Menu Guide.
From May-October, Legacy Plaza (formerly James Street Plaza) is the venue for the Ludington Farmer’s Market, open Fridays from 3-8pm. Purchase some produce fresh from local farms, or pick up some baked goods, jewelry, or handmade craft items. Final Friday Experiences (formerly Friday Night Live) take place the last Friday of each month from May-September. Food vendors, music, kid’s games, and entertainment make this event very popular with visitors and residents alike. Other festivals that take place downtown throughout the year are the Ludington Area Jaycees July 4th Freedom Festival, Octoberfest, and the New Year’s Eve Lighted Ball Drop.
Need a bit of culture in your life? The Ludington Area Center for the Arts is located just off Ludington Avenue on South Harrison Street, and is the venue for concerts, writer’s forums, and theater productions. Ludington’s Waterfront Park has a collection of unique sculptures you won’t want to miss. There are also painted murals on the facades of nine downtown businesses, making for an interesting walking tour. Ludington is home to many galleries featuring the talents of local artists including photographers, painters, potters, jewelers, crafters, and more.
Three parks are within walking distance of the downtown area. Waterfront Park is nestled between our two marinas, and features a modern playground, sculptures, tables, and amphitheater. Rotary Park (formerly called Ludington City Park) is located between the beach and downtown, and is the home of the Arts & Crafts Fairs held twice during the summer. Stearns Park is at the west end of Ludington Avenue, and features an expansive beach, concessions, a grassy area with grills and tables, mini golf, shuffleboard, playground, and skate park.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum with it’s four floors of fun and a party room, is the perfect place to host your child’s next birthday party!
Ludington home & garden businesses can help beautify your indoor and outdoor spaces. Consult with one to create your dream home today!
Epworth is a summer resort with a 127-year history. This gated community has activities for both members and the public.
Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.
The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.
The Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.
Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
The Ludington Area Center for the Arts (LACA) is the gathering place for community expression through arts and cultural experiences.
Find all of your favorite drinks, snacks, and foods right next to the beach at Sunset Side Concessions at Stearns Park Beach!
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
There are many places for anglers to try their luck, and Ludington has such a great variety of fish. The area also has great charter captains.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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