Muskegon MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Muskegon, Michigan.
1. Pere Marquette Park
PRISTINE LAKE MICHIGAN BEACH
Pere Marquette Park offers visitors the chance to relax on a broad stretch of soft sand along Lake Michigan in Muskegon. Known for its clean, family-friendly atmosphere, the park features volleyball courts, picnic areas, and clear waters perfect for swimming. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing, sunset watching, and breathtaking lake views, making it a quintessential Muskegon waterfront experience.
2. USS Silversides Submarine Museum
WORLD WAR II NAVAL HISTORY
The USS Silversides Submarine Museum gives guests a chance to step aboard a real World War II submarine and explore its preserved interior. The museum also features a historic Coast Guard Cutter and engaging exhibits on maritime and military history. This educational destination provides a memorable journey into naval heritage alongside Muskegon Lake.
3. Muskegon State Park
DUNES, FOREST, AND SHORELINE
Muskegon State Park spans miles of Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake shoreline, with sand dunes, wooded trails, and scenic picnic spots. Guests can explore swimming beaches, fishing piers, and winter sports like cross-country skiing and luge. The park's natural beauty provides year-round outdoor recreation for all ages.
4. PJ Hoffmaster State Park
SAND DUNES AND WILDLIFE
PJ Hoffmaster State Park is famed for its sweeping sand dunes and extensive hiking trails through forested landscapes. The park's nature center highlights local wildlife and plant life, making it a favorite for families and naturalists. Its broad beach on Lake Michigan offers ample room for swimming and sunbathing.
5. Michigan's Adventure
WEST MICHIGAN AMUSEMENT PARK
Michigan's Adventure is the largest amusement park in the state, offering visitors a diverse mix of roller coasters and water rides. Highlights include Thunderhawk, a looping coaster, and WildWater Adventure, a full water park with slides and lazy rivers. It's the ultimate destination for family fun and thrilling adventures in Muskegon.
6. Hackley and Hume Historic Site
VICTORIAN-ERA MANSIONS
The Hackley and Hume Historic Site invites visitors to step back in time within two exquisitely restored 19th-century lumber baron mansions. Guided tours reveal intricate woodwork, period furnishings, and stories of Muskegon's boom era. The site offers an immersive experience into the city's rich history and architectural legacy.
7. Muskegon Museum of Art
FINE ART COLLECTIONS
Muskegon Museum of Art showcases an impressive selection of American and European paintings, sculptures, and prints. Rotating exhibitions and educational programs engage visitors of all ages, fostering an appreciation for the visual arts. The museum is recognized as one of West Michigan's leading cultural institutions.
8. Muskegon Farmers Market
LOCAL FOODS AND FRESH FINDS
The Muskegon Farmers Market draws locals and tourists alike with its vibrant selection of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and crafts. Open seasonally, the market offers a lively atmosphere and a chance to sample the region's homegrown flavors. It's an essential stop for those seeking a taste of Muskegon's agricultural heritage.
9. Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR FUN
Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park provides thrilling activities from winter luge and ice skating to summer ziplining and mountain biking. The park's Olympic-style luge track is a unique feature, attracting both beginners and seasoned adventurers. With rentals and lessons available, it's a top destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
10. Lake Express Ferry
HIGH-SPEED CROSS-LAKE TRAVEL
The Lake Express Ferry links Muskegon to Milwaukee, providing a fast and scenic route across Lake Michigan. Passengers enjoy comfortable seating, modern amenities, and stunning lake vistas during the journey. The ferry terminal is a convenient point for travelers looking to explore both sides of the lake.
11. Shopping
DOWNTOWN RETAIL DISTRICTS
Shopping in Muskegon centers around the bustling downtown district, where visitors find a variety of boutique stores, gift shops, and local favorites. The area is walkable, blending historic architecture with modern retailers and unique specialty shops. Shoppers can discover everything from artisan goods to Michigan-made products in a welcoming urban setting.
12. Dining
ECLECTIC LOCAL EATERIES
Dining in Muskegon offers an exciting culinary scene, from fresh-caught Great Lakes fish to inventive farm-to-table fare. The city's restaurants range from family-friendly cafes to upscale bistros, with options for every palate. Many establishments highlight regional ingredients and waterfront views, making meals memorable.
13. Hiking
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS
Hiking in Muskegon means exploring miles of well-maintained trails through forests, along sand dunes, and around tranquil lakes. Popular paths wind through Muskegon State Park and Hoffmaster State Park, offering varied terrain and abundant wildlife viewing. Outdoor enthusiasts are rewarded with sweeping vistas and peaceful natural surroundings.
14. Fishing
GREAT LAKES ANGLING
Fishing in Muskegon is renowned for its access to Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, where anglers pursue salmon, trout, and walleye. Local charter services and public piers make it easy for beginners and experts to cast a line. The area's rich waters promise exciting catches year-round.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR STAYS IN NATURE
Camping in Muskegon allows adventurers to immerse themselves in the area's stunning natural environments, from lakeside campgrounds to wooded retreats. Campers can choose between state parks, private sites, and RV-friendly facilities, all close to top local attractions. Evenings bring stars overhead and the comforting sounds of Michigan's wilderness.