Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Art can be complicated to explain, due to the diverse range of activities that are involved, including painting, photography, music, dance, theater, and more. Ludington is alive with an array of cultural events that take place throughout the year. Combined with the beauty of lake views and richly forested land, this area has emerged as a venue for those who truly love all kinds of art. There are additional opportunities to enjoy the arts throughout West Michigan, as well!
A group of local residents had a vision a few years back to create a “hub” in Ludington where all the arts could come together and the Ludington Area Center for the Arts was born. Housed in the former historic United Methodist Church building, it is now the home for theater presentations, concerts, writer’s forums, speakers, and gallery exhibitions. Arts and crafts studios are located on the second floor and in the lower level.
Nothing brings people together more than music, and there is certainly no shortage of concerts and performances in the Ludington area. Summer music fills the air with events such as the Thursday night concert series in downtown Ludington along with performances on Friday in conjunction with the weekly farmer’s market, Many of the local bars and restaurants host live music throughout the summer, as well. Not a week goes by that you can’t find a musical performance somewhere in Ludington. The Ludington Area Center for the Arts hosts live music performances throughout the year, as does West Shore Community College in nearby Scottville that has various musical acts and musical theater shows as part of their annual performing arts series.
A movie is a nice escape from life, but a good live performance is hard to beat. The Ludington Area Center for the Arts showcases local talent in their theater productions. Various theatre performances come alive not only at West Shore Community College but with shows produced by the Stage Left Theatre Company.
While shopping or dining in downtown Ludington, look around and be amazed at the murals that adorn the outside walls of many area businesses. Painted by various artists, these murals tell the story of the people and events that made Ludington what it is today.
Just two blocks from downtown is the beautiful Waterfront Park. Nestled between two marinas, you’ll find a playground, tables, paved walkways, and nine bronzed sculptures. As you walk the park, stop and admire these works of art that depict Ludington’s maritime, farming, and lumbering history.
Amateur and professional photographers love the beauty of the Ludington area and its spectacular scenery to create digital memories. Photo Workshops are held throughout the year by renowned local photographers, Todd & Brad Reed, to help people learn how to take the best possible picture. Our lighthouses, beaches, sunsets, and Ludington State Park provide the perfect backdrop for memorable vacation photos.
Small towns are known for arts and crafts fairs, and Ludington has two separate events during the summer. The first, the West Shore Art Fair, is a juried fine arts fair held in early July. The second event is the Gold Coast Artisan Fair held in mid-August. Pentwater has its Fine Arts Fair in mid-July on the Village Green, and other local communities such as Manistee also hold Art Fairs.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
Every year, local organizations offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
Todd and Brad Reed offer Photography Workshops throughout the year. These classes are great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals.
The Ludington Lake Jump takes place in spring at Stearns Park Beach. Participants raise funds for a non-profit and jump in the lake.
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There are so many things to see and do in Ludington! Don’t miss a single activity during your visit by exploring VisitLudington.com!
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
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.
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
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