Pure Ludington Accolades

Recognition and Awards

In Ludington, we’re surrounded by natural beauty, vibrant community events, and a rich history that makes our community truly special. For those who call Ludington home, it is a point of pride when we get to hear how others feel about Ludington and Mason County. Here’s a list of accolades and rankings that Ludington has received over the past few years, showcasing the exceptional experiences and quality of life we offer.

USA Today 10Best – named Ludington Best Historic Small Town (2024)
Travel Addicts – named Stearns Park Beach one of the best beaches in the world (2021, 2020)
Forbes – “Top 5 U.S. Destination to Visit in the Off-Season” (2021)
Metro Parent – “Best Vacation Spot for Families with Toddlers” (2019)
U.S. News & World Reporting named the Ludington State Park as one of the “20 Best Michigan State Parks” (2019)
CarRentals.com named Ludington one of “5 Hidden Gems” (2018)
Thrillist named the Mitten Bar one of the 31 Best Beer Bars in America (2018) and one of the 10 Best Michigan Bars Outside of Detroit (2014)
OUTSIDE Magazine named Ludington Best Beach Town and a semifinalist as America’s Best Town (2016)
DRAFT Magazine named the Mitten Bar to its Top 100 Beer Bars in America (2012-2016)
Detroit Free Press named Stearns Park Beach one of the Top 10 Michigan Beaches to Explore (2015)
Off Grid Quest ranked Ludington State Park number 2 among the Top 100 Campgrounds in the United States (2015)
Yahoo! Travel named the Mitten Bar to its “Better Than The Ball Drop: 8 Great New Years Eve Party Bars (2013)
BBC Travel named the Mitten Bar one of America’s Best Beer Bars (2012)
Detroit Free Press has designated Ludington as Michigan’s #1 Best Beach (2007)
Midwest Living has recognized Ludington as one of its Top 25 Favorite Places in the Midwest (2003)
AAA Michigan has rated Ludington as the third most-popular driving destination in Michigan (2002)
Michigan Living has awarded Ludington with its #1 Public Beach designation (2001)
“Scenic dunes, sunsets on the water, and soft sand that ‘sings’ to you when you walk. It’s addictive.” – Midwest Living
“Despite its lumber legacy, its lighthouse and its famous car ferry, this Michigan resort town is still an undiscovered jewel.” – Home & Away (AAA)
“Ludington, Michigan, loved for its lighthouses and home to one of Michigan’s most spectacular state parks.” – Kansas City Star
“If the sunsets don’t get you, the dunes will, as well as some new lodging options in this coastal town.” – Michigan Meetings & Events
“Dunes, beaches and history lure travelers to Ludington, Michigan.” – Daily Herald
“The town’s a charmer too, with homey diners, brewpubs, ice-cream parlors, and an overall 1950’s Maineet-U.S.A. feel.” – Budget Travel
“We love the beach at Ludington on the Lower Peninsula’s central shore.” – Midwest Living
“Generations of families return year after year. The highlight for us has more to do with spending time together than with trying to see and do it all.” – Family Fun
“Beach-lined Ludington State Park reigns serene on Lake Michigan.” – Country Discoveries Magazine