Downtown Ludington Welcomes Wave of New Businesses and Events Ahead of a Busy Summer Season
A season full of live music, outdoor markets, and community events is about to kick off, bringing fresh energy and endless opportunities for fun. Whether you're looking to dance in the streets, browse local art, or simply soak up the sun, there's something for everyone this summer.
But that’s just the beginning – a wave of new restaurants and boutiques has arrived, offering exciting dining experiences and one-of-a-kind shopping finds for both locals and visitors.
Live Music, Markets & More
* NEW EVENT: A Night Aboard the S.S. Badger – As a prelude to Love Ludington Weekend, this event will blend the city’s finest culinary offerings, live entertainment, and historic charm with a purpose: to raise funds and awareness for the Lakeshore Children’s Advocacy Center. It is set for 7:30-10 p.m., and tickets are available on Eventbrite.
Love Ludington Weekend – June 6-8
This summer kickoff event will feature the Love Ludington Street Party on Friday, June 6 from 6-9 p.m. in downtown Ludington. Live music, kids’ activities, a car show, food fare, and more will be part of this lively event. Ludington Bed & Breakfast Tours and Blessing of the Boats return on Saturday as part of annual festivities.
*NEW EVENT: Love Ludington Art Crawl – 12-4 p.m. Saturday, June 7 – Celebrating the creative community that Ludington has to offer, this self-guided walking tour leads you to explore nine downtown Ludington art galleries and markets, as well as a handful of local restaurants and cafes that will be showcasing individual artists and musicians. Grab a coffee, a beer, or an ice cream and see the beauty our local artists create!
* NEW EVENT: Back to the Bricks Car Show – Monday, June 9
Approximately 400 people in 250 Back to the Bricks Sunset Promo Tour® cars will arrive in Ludington on Monday, June 9, participating in a car show open to the public on South James Street before spending the night in Ludington. The street will be open to pedestrian traffic only for this new event, which will run from 3-7 p.m. Free and open to the public, the show in Downtown Ludington will also include a live performance by Barely Devils.
Downtown Ludington Farmers Market – every Friday, May 23-Sept. 19
Fresh food and natural products will be available weekly at this downtown market at Legacy Plaza, 112 N. James St. Shoppers may find produce, meats, bread, fruit wine, food seasonings, coffee, goat-milk products and more. Market hours are 2-7 p.m.
Live in the Plaza – every Thursday and Friday
A full lineup of West Michigan musicians is set for live performances in Legacy Plaza this summer. These free concerts will be held from 6-8 p.m. every Thursday and Friday at 112 N. James Street. Bring a chair, get some takeout from a nearby restaurant, and enjoy a summer night in Downtown Ludington! Learn more – click here
Shop New Arrivals
Good Kids Tattoo – 100 E. Ludington Ave. – This cozy tattoo studio specializes in high-quality tattoos by James and Sierra. To book an appointment, email goodkidstattoo@email.com
*NEW LOCATION: House & Harbor Mercantile – 104 E. Ludington Ave. The rebranded candle boutique now offers an expanded line of unique items perfect for the home. Choose your favorite container and make an artisan soy candle or succulent, shop Coco & Carmen clothing & accessories, or create a charcuterie board featuring meats, dips, candy, nuts and more.
Pier Joy Art Gallery & Gifts – 222 W. Ludington Ave. – Located inside The Pier, this new business celebrates creativity, community, and family. Here, you will find vibrant and whimsical creations for your home or cottage.
Vince Rockwell Photography – 127 S. James Street - offering customized portraits with flavor and personality to tell your story. Find out more at vincerockwell.com or email info@vincerockwell.com
Fresh Flavors & Unique Finds
*COMING SUMMER 2025 – AndyS – 129 W. Ludington Ave. – Built on the former site of Michael’s Bar & Grill at the corner of Ludington and Rath avenues, the latest business endeavor by Dr. Andy Riemer will be a two-story sports bar and entertainment venue featuring upscale bar food, including wood-fired pizzas. Plans include a rooftop bar with a glass floor, a mezzanine for live music, a private dining area, and a section with indoor sports simulators.
Nectar Juice Co. – 225 W. Ludington Ave. – This small business specializing in 100% raw, cold-pressed juice is now serving at Wave Nutrition. Service will be offered outdoors and at the Downtown Ludington Farmers Market.
* NEW LOCATION – Pier to Pier Picnics – 222 W. Ludington Ave. – This popular sandwich and smoothie bar has a new home inside The Pier and is ready to serve tasty sandwiches, wraps, healthy sides, smoothies, and crepes to fuel your day.
*COMING SUMMER 2025 - The Side Room – 222 W. Ludington Ave. – This small lounge overlooking Ludington Avenue will feature signature high-end cocktails, Michigan craft beer, bottled domestic beer, cider, and more.
*NEW - The Ludington Outdoor Social District (LOSD) has recently been expanded, allowing for locals and visitors alike to enjoy alcoholic beverages in the downtown district as outlined. Simply purchase your beverage in a marked to-go cup from any of the 12 participating establishments. Hours are 12 p.m.-12 a.m.
On the Horizon
*NEW EVENT - Ludington Lumber Days – October 3-5 – This new event transforms Ludington Octoberfest’s popular elements into new, lumber-themed experiences with a downtown pub crawl, beer festival, historic home tours, guided hikes at Ludington State Park, and so much more!
