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24 HOURS IN LUDINGTON by JUDY WINTER
realizing an impressive lodging vision. The result is a world-class bed and breakfast with six historic rooms, complete with period antiques and exquisite woodwork, and four modern suites that include heated bathroom floors, climate control and smart TVs in an adjacent Carriage House. The Edison Suite, named after Thomas Edison, a friend of the mansion’s original owners, offers a fully accessible room with an ADA compliant bathroom, including a roll-in shower and accessible sink. Complimentary bike rentals, beach chairs/towels and afternoon cocktails add a sweet and welcoming touch. BREAKFAST, THEN BEACHES
How to explore this bustling lakeside city like a local.
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s a longtime visitor turned resident and a former columnist for the Ludington Daily News, I’ve been lucky to spend years exploring this city. The stunning Lake Michigan sunsets, pristine beaches, epic salmon fishing and a popular state park make this a fantastic family-friendly destination. Here’s my take on how to spend a terrific 24 hours in Ludington.
top photo by Taylor Brown // inset photo by Dave Weidner
FIRST, DINNER
After a day on the road, kick off your 24-hour stay with dinner at The Blu Moon. This fusion restaurant offers a downstairs bistro (with its sushi and cool, open-to-theoutside vibes) or the rooftop deck with a more limited bar-food menu and a striking view of James Street. If you’re craving a mouth-watering steak or perfectly seared House salmon, Timbers Steak and Seafood is of Flavors known for just that. Satisfy your after-dinner sweet tooth at House of Flavors with a Paradise blueberry waffle cone. My personal fave is Eskimo Kisses with coconut ice cream, chocolate truffles, fudge chunks and hot fudge on top. Sweet summer perfection! HISTORIC LODGING
When it comes to lodging, there are several fabulous choices, but few as charming as Cartier Mansion, a neoclassical-style home turned B&B that was built at the turn of the century. Experienced innkeepers Jenna and Chris Simpler purchased the beautiful Ludington abode in 2020 and quickly set about
Once you’ve savored the mansion’s multicourse, gourmet breakfast—think ancient grains with cognac-braised pears or caramelized onion and shallot Gruyere strata—head to Stearns Park Beach and walk the pier (one mile roundtrip) to the Ludington North Breakwater Light. (Tip: It’s a great place to wave to the S.S. Badger car ferry as it departs on daily trips to Manitowoc, Wisconsin.) Climb 53 steps to the top of this 57-foot structure built in 1924 for a great beach view. Or drive/bike to nearby Ludington State Park and hike about two miles each way to the much-photographed, 112-foot Big Sable Point Lighthouse, built in 1867. When you’re ready for a post-hike cool down, take a dip in the Lake Michigan surf. Both Stearns Park and Ludington State Park, with its dog-friendly beach, are popular choices. Dogs can also swim at nearby Buttersville Park Beach. LUNCH & DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
Eat lunch outdoors at either Jamesport Brewing Company (the recently added beer garden has lake views and lawn games) or STIX—find corn hole, bocce, bowling and more at this family-friendly hangout. Afterward, wrap up your Ludington getaway by visiting downtown shops. Head to Snyder’s Shoes for cool footwear. Purchase lovely images of Michigan landscapes at Todd and Brad Reed Photography, and find upscale vintage goods at Maude’s Garage. Judy Winter is the author of “Breakthrough Parenting for Children with Special Needs.” judywinter.com Bonus Content on MyNorth.com Find Judy’s complete list of recommendations at link.mynorth.com/24hoursludington.
NORTHERN MICHIGAN'S MAGAZINE
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7/5/22 10:34 PM
