International Travel Desk

Stroll down the quaint bustling streets of downtown, you are certain to find gems among the shops. Ludington offers everything from antiques, clothing stores, jewelry and rugged outdoor gear to mention a few. Who can stroll the streets of downtown with visiting some great local foods and cuisines, with local hospitality and friendliness included. Be sure to visit Maude's Garage, a 1930's era converted auto repair shop and Fort Daul, and truly unique gift shop with early American murals.

The Historic White Pine Village lets you experience Ludinton's history in real time. It consists of about 25 well-preserved buildings, featuring exhibits and themes such as sports, farm life, education, business, transportation and health - basically what life was in the late 1800s to the mid 1900s. After this nostalgic journey to the past, have some refreshments at the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor at the Village's Town Hall, or browse the Gift Shop for something of the past to bring back home with you. Your vacation to Ludington won't be complete without a visit to the famous lighthouses, which give you an insight of the city's deep maritime history. These well preserved lighthouses helped guide the boaters and their vessels from Lake Michigan to the harbor. Be sure to check out the North Breakwater Lighthouse at Stearns Beach, Big Sable Point Lighthouse, North Pierhead Light& South Pierhead Light, and the Little Sable Point Lighthouse. While you're contemplating about the historical significance of each lighthouse, you'll be delighted to learn that they are all excellent photographic subjects as well.

The historic S.S. Badger will take you across Lake Michigan the way people in the area have done since 1953. It is the only coal-fuelled steamship operating in North America, and the biggest car ferry ever to sail across Lake Michigan. Relax and enjoy the sights as well as the ship's history on the 4-hour trip which spans 60 miles. The cruise takes not only takes passengers, but also RVs, automobiles, bicycles, commercial trucks and commercial buses across Lake Michigan between Manitowoc, Wisconsin and Ludington, Michigan. Should you get tired of taking in the sights and the history, don't worry because you have the following facilities to choose from next: upper deck lounge, outside deck area, deli-style snack bar, buffet-style dining area, children's playroom, video arcade, gift shops, a quiet room/museum, free TV lounges and a free movie lounge! With all those activities and amenities to choose from, you might be surprised how fast time flies - you may already be at your journey's end!

If the call of the wild is more of your thing, visit the Amber Elk Ranch, a sprawling 130-acre farm where you can see hulking bull elks, yearling elks and cow elks while onboard a wagon pulled by a farm tractor. You'll also experience how it is to feed the elks, when the wagon pauses in the middle of the tour. Children will appreciate wildlife and animals more in the petting zoo, where they can see donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, turkey, pygmy goats and other animals - up close and personal. You can bring home part of your experience at the ranch- just check out their gift shop called the Antler Shed and choose from their array of stuffed animals, antler decor, rustic but well-crafted furniture and other antler products.

Ludington Michigan is located just 3 hours from Chicago and 1 hour from Grand Rapids. Consider Ludinton for next next cost effective Michigan Vacation.

Read more great Michigan Travel articles at Travel In Michigan or to submit our favorite Michigan travel article.