35 Reasons you better take the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon TODAY!
During the lumber era, Muskegon Michigan was known as the Lumber Queen of the World and boasted more millionaires than any other town in America. Nowadays, Muskegon is a town that is rich in history, the arts, culture, outdoor adventures, and beautiful beaches. These are just a few of the reasons you should take the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon.
Even though Muskegon MI is not my hometown, it is just a short distance from where we live which makes it a great option for a day trip in Michigan. In this post, I am sharing some of our favorite things to do in Muskegon MI, from touring historic houses to zip lining through scenic forests.
Here are 35 reasons you should take the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon.
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A special thank you to Visit Muskegon for our family’s hosted stay. All opinions are my own.
Is Muskegon Michigan Worth Visiting?
YES!! If you have ever visited the beautiful state of Michigan, you know it is home to many amazing beach towns that line the shores of Lake Michigan. The city of Muskegon just so happens to be one of them. It is only three hours from both Chicago and Detroit, or a 2 hour ride on the Lake Express Ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon.
Muskegon County is known for its music, fine arts, festivals, museums, theaters, history, and plenty of outdoor activities. We’ve put together this list of some of our favorite things to do in Muskegon MI, and trust me, you won’t have a hard time finding something to do for everyone in the family.
1. The Visitors Center
After you arrive on the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon, and before you begin your adventure, stop by the Visit Muskegon Visitors Center (610 W Western Ave) located in a historic train depot. Inside you will find exhibits about the Union Depot and Muskegon’s railroad history, beautiful architecture, and friendly staff who are happy to help you plan your visit and answer your questions.
Art
2. Muskegon Museum of Art
The Muskegon Museum of Art was built in 1912 and is celebrating its 110th anniversary this year. It was originally known at the Hackley Ary Gallery due to most of their collection being purchased by Charles Hackley, a millionaire lumber baron from Muskegon.
The building itself is an incredible example of a Classical Revival building and it is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. Inside you will find beautiful artwork like paintings, sculptures, and glass art. There is an ever changing exhibition calendar that allows visitors to see art from all over the world. The Muskegon Museum of Art is currently adding an $11 million dollar expansion that will focus on art made by women.
Make sure you stop at their gift shop on the way out. The children’s section had some amazing practical gifts such as beeswax crayons and wooden blocks.
History
3. Hackley & Hume Historic Sites
Two of the most prominent families in Muskegon in the late 19th century were the Hackley and Hume families. Charles Hackley and Thomas Hume became millionaire lumber barons during Muskegon’s reign as Lumber Queen of the World. Not only were they business partners but they were also friends who just so happened to build their Queen Ann style homes right next to each other.
As amazing as they look from the outside, they are even more incredible on the inside where they have been lovingly restored back to what life was like in the 1890’s in the Hackley home, and the 1920’s in the Hume home. Both homes are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Admission to the Lakeshore Museum Center Historic Sites includes a guided, one hour tour of both houses and City Barn, and a self guided tour of the Fire Barn Museum and the Scolnik House of the Depression Era, both within walking distance. Tours are open from May to October.
If you love history, find out how you can be a part of Fort Mackinac history on Mackinac Island!
4. Fire Barn
The Fire Barn Museum is a museum dedicated the history of firefighting in Muskegon County. Inside a guide will give you a quick explanation of the building, but the rest of your visit will be a self-guided tour. The building is a re-creation of the original Hackley Hose Company fire house that was originally constructed in 1875. Inside you will find historic firefighting equipment, see how firefighters lived inside the fire house, and a timeline of fires that shaped Muskegon into what you see today. The Fire Barn Museum is also a living memorial to remember all the brave men and women who have served as firefighters in Muskegon County.
5. Scolnik House of Depression Era
Step inside the Scolnik House to get a better understanding of what life was like in the Depression Era for the family of Herman and Ida Scolnik. Decorated with period appropriate decor, this “gentle touch” museum gives you an up close look at how an average family coped during one of the most difficult times in history.
Both the Fire Barn and Scolnik House are located right next to each other on the street behind the Hackley & Hume homes.
6. S.S. Milwaukee Clipper
What was once a passenger ship marvel, is now a restoration museum dedicated to when people traveled the Great Lakes on ships instead of planes. Built in 1909, and formerly known as the Juniata, the Milwaukee Clipper was how the first class traveled the Great Lakes from places like New York and Minnesota. At 361 feet long, and carrying 350 passengers, guest would be entertained on board with air conditioned staterooms, a movie theatre, ice cream parlor, and a dance floor with live entertainment. It’s unknown how many people and automobiles she carried across the Great Lakes over the years.
The Milwaukee Clipper would not only change owners, names, and locations multiple times, but she would later be saved in 1997 by the Great Lakes Clipper Preservation Association. You will pass the Milwaukee Clipper if you arrive on the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon. Tours of the Milwaukee Clipper are Thursday to Sunday from 1pm-5pm during their season. All money raised is used toward the restoration of this amazing passenger ship.
Music & Theater
7. Frauenthal Center
Located in the heart of downtown Muskegon, The Frauenthal first opened in 1930 and was originally known as the Michigan Theater. It was “the place to be” up until the 1970’s when it was boarded up. Thanks to the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, and a substantial gift from a local industrialist – Mr. A. Harold Frauenthal, the theater and surrounding buildings were saved from the wrecking ball.
In the 1990’s The Frauenthal went through a major $7.5 million dollar restoration to restore it to its original grandeur including intricate plasterwork, stunning ornamental light fixtures, and dramatic red curtains framing the stage. When you visit Muskegon, make sure you experience a performance at The Frauenthal.
8. Getty 4
If a movie is more your thing, stop by the Getty 4 and experience one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in Michigan. Originally opened as a single screen theater in 1948, the Getty 4 would later expand to four screens in 1979 making it one of the largest drive-in theaters in the Midwest. It’s a blast to load up the car and catch two movies for the price of one. They also have concessions and a playground.
Museums
9. Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Since it first opened in 1937, the Muskegon Museum of History & Science has been immersing people in the history of Muskegon County for over 80 years. There are two levels and both are filled with multiple interactive areas such as the hands-on activities in the Science Center and Body Works.
Some of their permanent exhibits go back over 400 million years to when mastodons roamed around Michigan. Get up close to a life-sized mastodon and real mastodon bones that were discovered in the nearby town of Rothbury. Don’t forget to take a picture with Moxie the Mastodon located by the main entrance.
10. Muskegon Heritage Museum
The Muskegon Heritage Museum of Business & Industry is devoted to the businesses and industries that helped grow Muskegon into what it is today. Learn all about what Muskegon has overcome, the incredible people who have had a hand in its success, and the products and companies that have been created there. Make sure you check out the Corliss Valve Steam Engine, built in 1893, with a 10 foot diameter flywheel weighing 6 tons.
Farm To Table
11. Muskegon Farmers Market
The Muskegon Farmers Market has been going strong for almost 100 years. Here you will find local farmers, performers, Food Truck Rallies, a Retro Expo, and even a community kitchen, complete with cooking classes. In my opinion, there is nothing better than fresh produce grown by local farmers. Check out their website for current dates and times.
Water Activities – Ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon
12. Boat Cruise
As an ode to Muskegon’s rich maritime history, the Aquastar Lake Cruises offers a variety of different cruising options on Muskegon Lake. The two most popular cruises they offer are the Afternoon Cruise and the Sunset Cruise, which we took part in. The two hour Sunset Cruise takes you through Muskegon Lake and all the way out to Lake Michigan just in time to catch the sun setting. Make sure you dress accordingly as it can get chilly after the sun goes down.
Veterans
13. USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum
The moment you walk through the massive doorway and onto LST 393 you know you are in for an incredible adventure! LST 393 bravely served during the D-Day invasion and earned a battle star for her heroic efforts. LST stands for “Landing Ship, Tank,” and these ships were responsible for delivering troops, tanks and amphibious assault vehicles to shorelines during WWII. Because of its size, the LST earned the nickname, “Large Stationary Target.”
On board the ship you can explore the various levels and sections where the sailors lived and worked, while serving our nation. The sheer size of this vessel is almost as impressive as the stories and history of those who walked her decks. Every inch of LST 393 is full of fascinating WWII artifacts, memorabilia, history and honor. Be prepared to spend a few hours immersed in amazement at the numerous exhibits and beautiful restoration of LST 393.
14. Hackley Park
Hackley Park, located in Downtown Muskegon, is a National Historic Designated Park filled with statues like Abraham Lincoln, General Ulysses S. Grant, and a Sailors and Soldiers Monument. This 75 foot tall granite Monument is engraved with the words:
“To the soldiers and sailors who fought and to all patriotic men and women who helped to preserve out nation in the war of the rebellion.”
15. USS Silversides Submarine Museum
Step onboard and tour a piece of WWII history, at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. The Silversides is a Gato-Class Submarine that is credited with sinking 23 enemy ships, the third-most of any allied WWII submarine. During the tour, you will go below deck to see how the crewmen lived and worked while serving our country on board the vessel. Explore the engine room, galley, sleeping quarters, and torpedo storage areas. There is also a military museum full of fascinating artifacts, models and interactive exhibits that give you a feel of what it’s like to be at the controls of a submarine.
16. Veteran’s Memorial Park
If there is one thing that sets Muskegon apart from any other town would be how they honor their military and veterans. The Veteran’s Memorial Park is a 50 acre park dedicated to the men and women who have died fighting for our country. Originally dedicated in 1934, the Veteran’s Memorial Park has several war memorials, a lagoon, a large fountain on the south end, and a Vietnam Memorial at the north end. A paved walkway throughout the park takes you past bronze plaques that commemorate friends and family members who have served in the armed forces. There are parking lot located at both the north and south end of the Park.
17. Memorial Day Parade
Another “must-see” in Muskegon is their Memorial Day Parade. If you are lucky enough to be visiting during Memorial Day, make sure you take time to watch their Parade. Every Parade entry must have a patriotic theme and you will literally leave with goosebump and a renewed loved for our country.
Hiking
18. Muskegon State Park
If you need to stretch your legs after riding the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon, inside the Muskegon State Park is 12 miles of marked and groomed trails. Venture through a variety of landscapes like flatlands, bogs, to scenic overlooks at the top of the sand dunes. Dogs are allowed on a 6 foot leash but please pick up after them.
Is Muskegon State Park free? No, you must either pay an entrance fee at the main office or have the recreational pass on your license plate if you are from Michigan.
Here are 7 things you need to know before hiking at Leelanau State Park!
19. Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve
Come explore this newly restored 17 acre Nature Preserve with trails, paved bike paths, and a boardwalk along the Muskegon River. It is a great spot for bird watching as well. There are educational QR codes throughout the Preserve which go into detail about the area that surrounds you. For instance, the one we scanned told us all about the vernal pools ecosystem. As a homeschooling parent, this was like a science class field trip! BONUS!
20. Heritage Landing
Located on the shores of Muskegon Lake, Heritage Landing is where many festivals take place and is also the site of the well-known Muskegon Summer Celebration. There is also a large playground for kids of all ages, a scenic walking bridge, access to the Lakeshore Trail bike path, and it’s a great spot to watch the sunset.
Family Attractions
21. Michigan’s Adventure
With over 60 rides and a water park, Michigan’s Adventure is the state’s largest amusement park. Plan on spending a whole day here as you ride roller coasters, visit Camp Snoopy, visit farm animals at the petting zoo, and cool off at WildWater Adventure Water Park. You will discover why Michigan’s Adventure has been a local family favorite place to visit for years.
22. Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo
Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo is a family-owned 700 acre farm in New Era, MI, which is about a 25 minute drive from downtown Muskegon. Here you will find your favorite farm animals like goats and donkeys, but they also have camels, lemurs, wallaby’s, sloths, and so many more exotic animals! Try your hand at the many attractions, games, and activities like the ropes course, giant slides, and ropes course. If you visit during the fall they also offer a corn maze and pumpkin picking.
23. Mastodons on the Loose
Take part in a scavenger hunt to find 20 miniature mastodons created by artists, Gillie and Marc, from Australia, that are hidden throughout downtown Muskegon. Stop by the Muskegon Museum of History & Science to pick up a pamphlet that includes clues as to where you can find each mini mastodon. This was a huge hit with my kids!
Outdoor Adventures
24. Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park is where you will find it! In the summer months you can try archery, zip line down a 1,400-foot dual zip line, try for your best time on the wheel luge, take part in Trail Quest which is a hiking trail mixed with problem solving and treasure hunting, and so much more!
Stop by during the winter and check out their Olympic-designed luge, the cross-coun8try ski trail that is illuminated and groomed, snowshoe trails, and three ice skating rinks.
25. Gilette Sand Dune Visitors Nature Center
The Gillette Sand Dune Visitors Nature Center is located at the south end of Muskegon County, bordering Ottawa County. This wonderful Nature Center is full of information about the plants and animals that you will find in the area as well as how Michigan’s sand dunes were formed. Before you leave take a hike on the Lake Michigan Trail that leads to a stunning overlook of Lake Michigan. The Gillette Sand Dune Visitors Nature Center makes for great rainy day activity as well.
If you love exploring Michigan’s great outdoors, check out these family-friendly waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula!
26. Biking
If biking is more your thing, you’re in luck! Muskegon Country offers both paved and rugged trails that take you through parks, downtown, and along the lakeshore. Some of the more popular trails are the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail, Hart-Montague Trail State Park, Musketawa Trail, and the Lakeshore Trail. There are multiple places where you can rent a bike if you didn’t bring one on the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon, or the city of Muskegon also has a bike share program.
27. Muskegon Astronomical Society
The Muskegon Astronomical Society is a non-profit organization who’s main goal is to promote, and encourage, amateur astronomy. Visitors are welcome to attend one of their scheduled open house events where you can learn about stargazing and view the vast galaxy above you. These open houses are free of charge but they do accept donations.
28. Historic Marsh Baseball Field
This historic baseball field was the idea of Charles W. Marsh back in 1916. He created a first-class baseball facility that would host some of the greatest baseball players like Hall of Famer Bucky Harris. Muskegon has an amateur baseball league, the Muskegon Clippers, and you can catch one of their home games at this iconic field.
29. Monet Garden
The Monet Garden of Muskegon is a mini version of the Monet Garden in Giverny, France. What was once an abandoned city lot is now a beautiful garden that makes you feel like you are walking through one of Monet’s paintings. I highly recommend visiting during each season to see how the flowers change throughout the year.
There are quite a few other community gardens in Muskegon including another favorite, the Shakespeare Garden at the Hackley Public Library, which is just down the road from the Monet Garden.
Beaches
Muskegon is home to countless lakes (Bear Lake, Muskegon Lake, Mona Lake, and Muskegon Lake), the Muskegon River, three state parks, six county parks, and 26 miles of shoreline. There are plenty of places to take a swim, relax, or enjoy the sunset.
30. Pere Marquette Beach
Pere Marquette Beach is located at the south side of the Muskegon Lake channel and is a great spot to swim, watch the kite boarders, or catch a sunset. This nationally-certified clean beach is wide so there is plenty of space to spread out. There is also a playground, volleyball courts, picnic tables, restrooms, The Deck BBQ restaurant, and access to the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse.
31. Muskegon State Park Beach
Muskegon State Park Beach is located on the north side of the Muskegon Lake Channel and is our favorite beach in Muskegon. My kids love to climb the sand dunes and I love to take in the endless views of Lake Michigan. You can also watch the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon come and go throughout the day. There is plenty of parking and also two campgrounds if you plan on staying the night.
Lighthouse Tours
Throughout the state of Michigan there are 129 lighthouses, some of which you can tour. Muskegon County has two that you can tour: the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse and the White River Light Station.
32. Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse
Built in 1902, this lighthouse is open for tours Memorial Day through Labor Day. For a small fee you can climb the 54 steps to the top to see breathtaking views up and down the coast of Lake Michigan. This is the channel you will arrive in if you take the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon. All money raised is used towards the restoration of the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
33. White River Light Station
Built in 1876, this lighthouse is now a museum and is open to the public for self-guided tours for a small fee. Enjoy photographs and artifacts that tell all about the history of the lighthouse and Montague & Whitehall’s nautical history. Don’t forget to climb to the top for a views of White Lake and Lake Michigan.
Michigan Antique Trail
34. Four Corners Antique Shop
If you’re like me and love searching for lost treasures, plan on visiting some of the amazing antique shops on the Michigan Antique Trail. There are over 100 antique shops around the state of Michigan that participate in the Antique Trail. I highly recommend Four Corners Antique & Artisan Marketplace in North Muskegon for amazing treasures and great prices.
Muskegon Festivals
35. Irish Music Festival
Muskegon is home to some incredible summer festivals like the Irish Music Festival, the Lakeshore Art Festival, the Bright Lights Lighthouse Festival, and every hungry person’s favorite, the Taste of Muskegon. If you are visiting in the fall or winter, make sure you check out the Pumpkinfest and Festival of the Wreaths Walk.
Where To Stay In Muskegon MI
After the ride across Lake Michigan on the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon, and all the exploring you will do, you will need a place to lay your head. Muskegon offers a few hotels in downtown Muskegon, like the Delta Hotel by Marriott (Pictured to the left.) and the Shoreline Inn, and you can’t go wrong with either of them! There are also multiple vacation rentals in Muskegon to fit your needs.
Will you be taking the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon MI anytime soon? Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions about planning your trip to Muskegon Michigan.
36 Comments
Alicia
My husband and I took our two dogs to Muskegon last year. It is such a cute little town! I didn’t realize you could take a ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon though!
Trisha
I’m happy to hear that you all loved Muskegon as well! The ferry is a game changer for those of us who live in Michigan but don’t want to drive through the Chicago traffic to get to Wisconsin.
Sandi
An Irish Music Festival. Bring it on! Looks like there are lots of things to do in Muskegon.
Trisha
My niece does Irish dance and she’s going to participate in their Irish Festival this year. I can’t wait to go!
Lisa Manderino
Wow, there are so many reasons to visit Muskegon! So cool! What a fun place to visit.
Trisha
Muskegon is a great beach town to visit! There is talks about adding an aquarium there too. My kids would love that!
Whitney
Wow! Sounds like so much fun. Thanks for sharing!
Trisha
You’re so welcome! Thank you!
Cindy
Muskegon looks like such a fun place to visit! I’d love to explore there.
Trisha
There is so much to do for everyone! Muskegon is a great destination for the whole family.
kmf
I just drove by Milwaukee last week. Looks like I missed the boat (or ferry) to Muskegon, Michigan. I really need to visit your great state – so much to do.
Trisha
The ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon would be such a great option for you! We’d love to have you!
Barbara
These are all great reasons to enjoy the ferry from Muskegon to Milwaukee! Great fun!
Trisha
Thank you, Barbara! Muskegon has so many things to do, and we haven’t even tried them all yet! 😉
Suzan
That’s a lot of reasons to take the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon! The Hackley home looks like an amazing, historical stop for sure!
Trisha
The Hackley & Hume houses are one of my favorite historical sites. They’re incredible to see in person.
Stacey Billingsley
What a charming place! I’d love to check out the historic homes. And that beach in your photo looks fun. I’ll keep this one in mind!
Trisha
That’s great to hear! I hope you get the chance to visit Muskegon soon!
Missy
I love all your resons to take the ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon. We like taking ferries. We get to see so much of the area
Trisha
It’s such a great option for us because we don’t have to drive through Chicago at all! 😉
Michele
I’m not familiar with this part of the United States. It sounds like there is so much to do. Taking a ferry there sounds like the beginning of a great vacation too.
Trisha
The Great Lakes is such a beautiful part of the United States. Muskegon would make a great first time place to stop.
Theresa Bailey
The Hackley Home looks amazing. I love places with historic character. There really are so many reasons to visit this area!
Trisha
I totally agree! We love the area because there is so much to do for the entire family.
Gallivanting Laura
I’ve never heard of this place before but it has so much going on! You’ve definitely convinced me to catch the ferry!
Trisha
That’s wonderful! Hope to see you soon in Muskegon!
Lisa
So much helpful info! I think we often forget about ferries as a mode of transport!
Trisha
It’s such a fun way to get somewhere! There just so happens to be another ferry just north of Muskegon, in Ludington, that also takes you across Lake Michigan to and from Wisconsin.
Jessica L
This is such a FANTASTIC list of places that I can’t imagine getting bored here! I especially love the Hackley & Hume homes- talk about beautiful architecture and detailing, WOW!! I definitely need to visit, I absolutely love historic houses.
Trisha
You’re in great company then! No matter where I visit, I’m always checking to see if there is a historic house tour near by. If there is, I’m there! 😉
Karen
These are 35 fabulous reasons why I need to get on that ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon, Michigan. Thanks for this epic guide on what to do and see.
Trisha
Thank you, Karen! Muskegon is a great place to visit no matter what season it is!
Lisa, Casey, Barrett Dog
Muskegon looks amazing! The ferry from Milwaukee sounds like so much fun. We have traveled a short distance on a ferry so the longer adventure would be fun.
Trisha
It’s a great option to skip the Chicago traffic and then you get bragging rights to say you crossed Lake Michigan. 😉
LaShelle Mikesell
I live here…and YOU make ME want to visit! LOL! Thanks for the wonderful roundup of fun things to do in Msukegon!
Trisha
Thank you for your kind words, LaShelle! How lucky you are to live there! Muskegon is an incredible place for the whole family. As you know, you’ll run out of time long before you run out of things to do! 😉