• Great Lakes History

Port of Ludington Maritime Museum

Step inside Ludington’s historic U.S. Coast Guard Station and experience three floors of interactive exhibits, shipwreck stories, car ferry history, and Great Lakes heritage.

HOURS

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

ADMISSION

Adults $17, Youth $13

SEASON

May 3rd  - October 18th

PARKING

Free, On-site

HOURS

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

ADMISSION

Adults $17, Youth $13

SEASON

May 9th - October 17th

PARKING

Free, On-site

A Maritime Museum Like No Other

The Port of Ludington Maritime Museum brings the rich history of Lake Michigan shipping, shipwrecks, lighthouses, and car ferries to life through immersive storytelling, rare artifacts, historic photography, and interactive displays.

Located inside Ludington’s former U.S. Coast Guard Station, the museum connects visitors to the people, vessels, and industries that shaped Michigan’s Great Lakes coastline.

  • Authentic Coast Guard Station
  • Interactive Exhibits
  • Family-friendly experience
  • Shipwreck and Rescue Stories
  • Great Lakes Shipping History

Explore the Great Lakes

SHIPWRECK MYSTERIES

Boat Models

Dive into dramatic stories of vessels lost to Lake Michigan storms and the mysteries beneath the waves.

INTERACTIVE DISCOVERY

Pilot the Carferry

Take the wheel, explore digital storytelling exhibits, and experience maritime history in new ways.

COAST GUARD RESCUE HISTORY

Armistice Day Storm

Learn how the Life Saving Service and Coast Guard protected sailors and vessels along Michigan’s shoreline.

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation

Monday Closed
Tuesday - Saturday 10:00pm - 5:00pm
Sunday Noon - 5:00pm


Open seasonally: Memorial Day weekend through October. Extended hours for special events.

Admission

Adults $10
Seniors $8
Children under 5 Free
MCHS Members Free
Group rates (10+) Contact Us

 

Getting There

Located at 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington, MI 49431, just 2 miles south of downtown. Free parking is available on site. Accessible via US-10 west to Business-31 south.

Accessibility

Paved pathways connect all major buildings. Wheelchairs and strollers welcome. Contact us in advance for accommodations for visitors with hearing or visual impairments.

Port of Ludington Maritime Museum

217 S Lakeshore Dr.
Ludington, MI 49431

Get Directions

Museum Discovery Pass

See it all and save. One pass grants admission to Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum — the best way to experience Mason County's full story.

Best Value

Save $8
a person!

BRING YOUR GROUP

Group Trips at the Maritime Museum

The Port of Ludington Maritime Museum offers engaging group tours designed to bring the area’s rich maritime history to life. Explore stories of Great Lakes shipping, coastal life, and the region’s industrial heritage through interactive exhibits and guided experiences. Groups of 25 or more receive special rates and personalized tour options.

Support History.
Enjoy Free Admission Forever.

Historical Society members receive unlimited free admission to Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, discounted rates for special events, access to Mason Memories history articles, and the opportunity to explore the archives for research by appointment.