Today's economy forces all of us to keep a close eye on the money we spend. But that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. When you're surrounded by the beauty of the Ludington area, Mother Nature provides the good times for FREE!

Ludington's North Breakwater Light has just been ranked #1 in Michigan lighthouses to visit. In addition, this area is featured as an Affordable Family Destination, due the diversity of activities, at little or no charge.

Swimming at Stearns Beach is always fun and doesn't cost a dime. Located right at the end of Ludington Avenue, you’ll find your spot somewhere along the 2,500 feet of sandy shoreline. Dig your feet in the sand, make a sandcastle, or take a leisurely walk on the breakwall. Stop in at the North Breakwater Lighthouse, where tours are given during the summer for a donation of just $2. Stearns Park has a playground and Skate Plaza for the kids, which can keep them occupied for hours.

Evenings are a great time to visit Waterfront Park. Here you'll find another large playground, with plenty of tables to enjoy a picnic supper. Sit on one of the benches that overlook the harbor and watch the boats—and the S.S. Badger carferry as she sails into port. There are seven sculptures around the park—each one is unique and tells a story about Ludington's history. Make a picnic lunch, or purchase one from one of the local delis, and visit one of the ten other parks in the area. Situated near the water or within the woods, most have playgrounds, tables, and restrooms.

Summer offers many free concerts in the Ludington area. Whatever your taste in music, you’ll find it, from jazz to Christian to the wildly outrageous Scottville Clown Band! Other great summertime activities are Friday Night Live, Movies in the Park, the Freedom Festival, and Arts & Crafts Fairs—all free! Stroll downtown Ludington and admire the painted murals you’ll see on the face of many businesses. Local shops and antique stores offer many unique items. Enjoy a delicious ice cream cone and just watch the world pass you by.

Purchase an inexpensive day pass to the Ludington State Park, and you have hours of activities awaiting you. In 2009, the State Park had its best year since 1987. Take a hike on one of eight marked trails, offering different degrees of difficulty and length. Enjoy sand dunes, wildlife, marshes, and various aquatic creatures. Walk as fast or as slowly as you wish—no one here is in a hurry. The park features special programs all summer long all through the park. Swim in the cool waters of Lake Michigan, or tube down the Sable River.

Sandcastles Children's Museum is now at the corner of S. Robert and Ludington Avenue in the big blue building. For a small fee, kids can wile away the hours at the Bubble Table, Art Center, Giant Tree House, Discovery Bins, and Sandbox. There's even an Infant Center, where little ones can play safely, out of the way of the bigger kids.

The list goes on and on, but as you can see, good times don’t have to cost a thing when you’re in Ludington and the Lake Michigan area.