Visit Muskegon | Official Visitors Guide 2026 by Grand Rapids Magazine

OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

Michigan’s All-Season Escape

& Visitors Bureaus www.visitmichigan.org

Michigan Beachtowns www.beachtowns.org

Michigan Tourist Association www.wmta.org

Circle Michigan www.circlemichigan.com

Pure Michigan Sports www.puremichigansports.org

Meetings Michigan www.meetingsmichigan.com Destination

PHOTO BY LILLIAN DOTZLAF

Where Adventure Begins

Welcome to Muskegon County, Michigan — where 27 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline are ready to greet you! Every year, my family discovers new reasons to love Muskegon. Summer brings sunlit beaches, Michigan’s Adventure, miles and miles of trails, and lively festivals, while winter offers ice-skating and luge runs at the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park or indoor activities at the Muskegon Museum of Art and the Frauenthal Center. But what really makes Muskegon County special are the people, who are eager to share hidden gems, local flavors, and unforgettable experiences. Muskegon County is where you and your family can find that special place to build lasting memories. Make your plans to visit Muskegon now at visitmuskegon.org!

—Bob Lukens, Director of Visit Muskegon

The CULTURE

““Muskegon is the only city on Lake Michigan’s western shore with a worldclass art museum, symphony orchestra, performing arts center, two civic theaters, and a major outdoor public art collection. Many cities with populations 10 times that of Muskegon can only dream of having these institutions. Having all this here gives Muskegon the rare blend of a small town with big-city quality of life.”

—Kirk Hallman, Executive Director of

the Muskegon Museum of Art and lifelong Muskegon resident

THE CULTURE

Museum Memories

DISCOVER THOUGHTFULLY CURATED COLLECTIONS THAT CELEBRATE CREATIVITY, INVENTION, AND THE REGION’S ROOTS

Muskegon’s arts and cultural scene is designed for people who love to explore. From bright, modern galleries to spaces filled with hands-on discovery, Muskegon makes culture feel fun and approachable. Staff members are genuinely welcoming and always ready to share local knowledge. Whether you’re here to admire great art or dive into the stories that shaped the lakeshore, these creative spaces make every visit feel like a memorable find.

Find a full list of museums in Muskegon.

Muskegon’s museums offer an easy, welcoming way for visitors to connect with Muskegon County’s stories — past and present. Each location is a family-friendly experience that’s approachable, engaging, and surprisingly varied for a lakeshore community. The centerpiece is the Muskegon Museum of Art, home to the newly constructed Steven Alan Bennett

collections. It’s the kind of place where first-time visitors expect a quick stop and end up staying far longer than planned.

Just a short walk away, the Lakeshore Museum Center greets guests with its unofficial mascot: Moxie the Mastodon, a towering public art favorite. A selfie with Moxie is a must-do for guests! Inside the Muskegon Museum of History & Science, families will find hands-on exhibits that make local history easy to understand and fun to explore. Before heading back outside, visitors can pick up a Mastodons on the Loose map and set out on

a mini-adventure through downtown Muskegon, tracking down the hidden “mini-Moxies” tucked into popular public spaces.

Once a well-known deep-water port during Michigan’s lumbering and industrial eras, the Muskegon Lake waterfront now hosts historic vessels that double as museums, including the World War II submarine USS Silversides, World War II USS LST 393, and passenger ship SS Milwaukee Clipper. Kids and adults alike can climb aboard, explore the decks, and imagine life on the water. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead for accessibility options.

and Dr. Elaine Melotti

Schmidt Pavilion, a gallery dedicated to celebrating the creative achievements of contemporary women artists from across the country and around the world. The museum’s permanent collection features works by John Steuart Curry, Edward Hopper, Winslow Homer, and Pierre Bonnard, along with one of the Midwest’s strongest studio glass

ON THE GO?

an up-to-date

Festival Fever

MUSKEGON’S CALENDAR KEEPS THE GOOD TIMES ROLLING YEAR-ROUND

Muskegon’s festivals turn every season into a celebration. From tasting local flavors to dancing along the lakeshore, there’s something for visitors of all ages. Families, friends, and solo travelers alike can enjoy live music, hands-on activities, and cultural experiences that showcase the community’s energy and creativity. Whether you’re sampling signature dishes, exploring art, or catching waves at the beach, Muskegon’s festival calendar is packed with opportunities to make memories — and maybe even plan your next trip back.

Heritage Landing, located along the Muskegon Lake shoreline and within walking distance of downtown, is home to several wellloved festivals. Families, friends, and first-time visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, local culture, and memorable experiences that capture the energy and spirit of the lakeshore.

The Michigan Irish Music Festival fills the air with Celtic music and offers Irish dance and storytelling. With kid-friendly activities, local food, and artisan vendors, the festival draws families and music lovers alike for a weekend celebrating Irish and Celtic culture. If pierogies and polkas are more your style, don’t miss the Muskegon Polish Festival, held every Labor Day weekend.

The Unity Christian Music Festival delivers four days of uplifting Christian music, community fellowship, and family-centered entertainment, creating an inspiring and welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.

The Burning Foot Beer Festival blends Michigan craft beers with live music and lakeside fun, making it a must-do summer experience for visitors and locals alike.

Other highlights throughout the year add flavor and variety. Taste of Muskegon showcases the shoreline’s food scene, with local restaurants, bakeries, and food trucks serving signature dishes alongside live music and fun activities.

The Lakeshore Art Festival turns downtown into an interactive open-air gallery, where artists, street performers, and family-friendly activities bring creativity to life.

For beach and water enthusiasts, the Great Lakes Surf Festival at Pere Marquette Beach offers paddleboarding, kayaking, beach yoga, and workshops, giving visitors a hands-on way to enjoy Muskegon’s shoreline.

Together, these festivals reflect Muskegon’s diverse community, lakeside energy, and welcoming spirit, offering first-time visitors and returning guests countless ways to experience all that Muskegon has to offer.

Here’s

calendar of events happening in Muskegon.

ADAM ALEXANDER

BAILEY EITNIEAR

TASTE OF MUSKEGON

MICHIGAN IRISH MUSIC FESTIVAL

THE CULTURE

Live & Local

MUSKEGON

KEEPS THE SPOTLIGHT SHINING ON THE PERFORMING ARTS

Muskegon’s performing arts scene blends smalltown warmth with big-city creativity, offering yearround entertainment where families, couples, and solo travelers can enjoy live music, theater, and community events that reflect the county’s creative soul.

At the heart of it all is the Frauenthal Center, originally a movie house, which feels both grand and welcoming. The Frauenthal hosts everything from touring productions to local performances, all staged with the kind of professional polish that signals you’ve stepped into a cultural hub — not a hidden gem.

The West Michigan Symphony performs here throughout the year, presenting concerts that range from classical masterworks to imaginative pops programming. The venue is also home to Muskegon

Civic Theatre, where community performers bring musicals, comedies, and contemporary plays to life with an energy that makes every show feel personal and memorable.

Visitors interested in live music will also enjoy the West Michigan Concert Winds, a community ensemble known for accessible, high-energy concerts that appeal to audiences of all ages.

North of Muskegon, The Playhouse at White Lake offers a relaxed lakeshore setting for concerts, theatrical productions, and family-friendly events. Its intimate scale makes it an easy stop for visitors exploring the White Lake area. Each summer, the White Lake Chamber Music Festival adds to the region’s creative energy with world-class chamber performances, workshops,

and community events that bring celebrated musicians to this scenic lakeshore community.

In downtown Muskegon, The Corner adds a modern edge to Muskegon’s arts scene with flexible programming that highlights emerging artists, smallscale theater productions, and creative collaborations.

For over 40 years, America’s Tallest Singing Christmas Tree — performed by the Mona Shores High School Choir — has delighted locals and guests alike with a holiday show like no other.

ON THE GO?

Bringing kids along? Find attractions for the whole family here.

The FLAVOR

““What I love about Muskegon’s food scene is that it’s full of family-owned, mom-and-pop restaurants. Walk in, and you might find the owners cooking, serving, or chatting with guests — the hospitality is real, and it carries through the entire staff. Eating and drinking local here isn’t just tasty; it’s meaningful: Your dollars stay in the community.”

—Alana

Matyas-Brower, Retail Director at Pigeon Hill Brewing Co.

THE FLAVOR

Local Staples

THOUGHTFULLY SOURCED BITES, CRAFT DRINKS, AND SOCIAL SPACES INVITE VISITORS TO SLOW DOWN AND SAVOR MUSKEGON TOGETHER

The Cheese Lady is a can’t-miss stop, featuring artisan cheeses from around the world along with curated vinegars, olive oils, and specialty accompaniments. With a knowledgeable staff eager to guide tastings and pairings, it’s an easy place for first-time visitors and cheese lovers alike to discover new favorites.

Aldea Coffee keeps things simple and meaningful. Its beans are roasted in Muskegon Heights and sourced directly from Honduran farmers at above fair-trade prices. Inside the downtown coffee house, baristas craft approachable drinks with care. For something lively, Socibowl by Pigeon Hill combines great food and drinks, duckpin bowling, and lawn games into one fun, familyfriendly hangout. Not far away, Lumberman’s Vault offers a bright, communal dining space featuring several local food vendors. Liquid Asset$ Cocktail & Wine Bar anchors the space with inventive cocktails, regional brews, and a welcoming, social vibe.

SWEET TREATS

Muskegon County’s dessert spots offer plenty of ways to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Hodgepodge Bake Shop crafts small-batch pastries, cookies, and bars with creative flavors that change daily. A local summer tradition, Norm’s Ice Cream serves generous scoops from a nostalgic walk-up window — perfect after a day at the beach. McDonald’s Candies adds a taste of Muskegon history with hand-dipped chocolates, buttery toffee, and gifts made from generations-old recipes. At Dockside Donuts, creative options like the Michigan Mermaid and Shipwrecked offer guests a sweet taste of Muskegon with every bite.

ON THE GO?

Here’s a directory of Muskegon restaurants.

LIQUID ASSET$ COCKTAIL & WINE BAR

Dine with a View

SETTLE IN BY THE WATER FOR MEALS SHAPED BY SUNSETS, FRESH AIR, AND MUSKEGON COUNTY’S LAID-BACK LAKESHORE CHARM

Muskegon County’s waterfront dining scene blends laid-back charm with unforgettable views. The Deck leads the lineup as one of the most iconic beachfront restaurants on Lake Michigan. Known for its smoked barbecue, signature cocktails, and live music, this sprawling, sand-level spot sits directly on Pere Marquette Beach — inviting visitors to kick back with their toes in the sand and a sunset on the horizon.

Muskegon County’s three Social Districts let visitors enjoy to-go drinks while strolling downtown and Lakeside. Though not waterfront, all three districts sit just a block from Muskegon Lake and White Lake, making it easy to sip responsibly while exploring nearby shops, parks, and public spaces.

Along Muskegon Lake, The Lake House Waterfront Grille brings polished dining to the marina with broad views of the lake and a menu of modern comfort dishes. Farther along the shoreline, Lake Bluff Grille pairs panoramic lake views with elevated American fare, offering a comfortable setting for both

laid-back evenings and special-occasion meals.

Continuing around Muskegon Lake, Bear Lake Tavern adds classic lakeside charm with perch, walleye, and traditional pub favorites served in a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. On the south side of Muskegon Lake, Fricano’s Muskegon Lake serves its legendary thin-crust pizzas in a bright dining room framed by wide water views — an easy pick for families and groups.

Heading to northern Muskegon County, White Lake welcomes visitors with classic lakeshore dining at Old Channel Inn, known for its timeless supperclub character and scenic sunset views. Nearby, Hanson Hill Waterfront Grill offers relaxed outdoor seating with burgers, baskets, and cold drinks — perfect for unwinding after a day on the water.

Whether you’re dining by the beach, at the marina, or along a peaceful inland lake, Muskegon County’s waterfront restaurants invite visitors to slow down, savor the view, and stay a little longer.

The OUTDOORS

““There are so many great places to enjoy nature in Muskegon. Duck Lake State Park, Muskegon State Park, Snug Harbor, and the Blockhouse are my favorite places to hike and walk my dogs along the beach of Lake Michigan. The combination of wooded hiking trails, sandy dunes, and scenic sunsets delivers countless breathtaking views. Together, they showcase Muskegon’s natural beauty and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.”

—Camille Jourden-Mark, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore and lifelong Muskegon resident

THE OUTDOORS

Beach Days

MUSKEGON COUNTY OFFERS SPACE TO EXPLORE, UNWIND, AND BREATHE EASY ALONG THE SANDY SHORE

Muskegon County’s beaches offer 27 miles of sugarsand shoreline, endless miles of peaceful trails, and wide-open spaces perfect for travelers wanting to stretch their legs. Whether you’re here to swim, paddle, hike, or watch the sun melt into Lake Michigan, Muskegon’s beaches make it easy to unwind and linger.

for everyone.

At Duck Lake State Park, visitors will find one of Muskegon County’s most distinctive landscapes: a calm inland lake connected to Lake Michigan by a winding channel. The warm, shallow water is perfect for Muskegon County’s shoreline offers a remarkable variety of beach experiences, from lively waterfronts to quiet stretches of dunes and forest. Pere Marquette Beach, one of Michigan’s most spacious public beaches, is a favorite for swimming, volleyball, and long walks along the pier. Visitors of all abilities can enjoy the waterfront thanks to accessible parking, modern restrooms, and an extended beach walkway that provides easier access to the sand and water. Beach wheelchairs are also available seasonally, making the lakeshore more welcoming

Adjacent to Pere Marquette Beach, Kruse Park offers a relaxed, dog-friendly beach where travelers can enjoy bluff-top overlooks, sandy paths, and designated off-leash areas for four-legged companions. It’s a laid-back option for pet owners or anyone looking for a quieter alternative along the shoreline.

ON THE GO?

Here’s a full list of public beaches in Muskegon.

casual beachgoers, while the surrounding dunes and wooded trails create opportunities for exploration and scenic photography.

Farther north, Muskegon

State Park showcases a dramatic mix of dunes, forest, and shoreline along both Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake. Two miles of sandy beachfront pair with miles of hiking trails, numerous scenic overlooks, and year-round recreation. The park also offers adaptive equipment, including track chairs and beach wheelchairs, allowing visitors with restricted mobility to comfortably navigate trails and reach the shoreline.

On the county’s southern end, Lake Harbor Park provides a peaceful escape with winding wooded trails, dune overlooks, and a quieter stretch of beachfront. It’s a favorite for sunset watchers, birders, and travelers seeking a more secluded lakeshore experience.

Together, these beaches highlight Muskegon County’s natural beauty and welcoming spirit — inviting visitors to relax, explore, and stay a little longer.

On the Water

FROM CALM RIVER PADDLES TO BOATING, FISHING, AND SUNSET CRUISES, MUSKEGON COUNTY’S WATERWAYS INVITE EASY EXPLORATION

Here’s a list of

ON THE GO?

and

Muskegon County’s waterways offer endless ways to explore the lakeshore from a new perspective. Paddlers can drift along the gently curving Muskegon River or the scenic White River, both known for calm stretches ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. These routes wind through forests, wetlands, and quiet bends that feel far removed from everyday life — perfect for families and first-time visitors.

Boaters will find easy access to Muskegon Lake, White Lake, and Lake Michigan, where marinas, public launches, and rental options make it simple to spend a day on the water. Anglers can enjoy year-round opportunities for salmon, steelhead, bass, and panfish across the county’s rivers and inland lakes.

For a memorable experience, Aquastar Cruises offers narrated cruises on Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan. Sunset sails, themed trips, and private charters give visitors a relaxing way to enjoy the beauty of the lakeshore.

cruises

charters on both Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan.

THE OUTDOORS

Outdoor adventure comes naturally in Muskegon County, where classic attractions and scenic recreation areas create endless opportunities for fun. Michigan’s Adventure, Michigan’s largest amusement park, is a must-do for families and thrill-seekers. The park features towering coasters, kid-friendly rides, and plenty of midday treats, while WildWater Adventure adds water slides, a wave pool, and shaded cabanas perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. With two parks for one admission, it’s a convenient full-day experience for visitors of all ages.

For year-round excitement, the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park offers something truly unique: an Olympic-design

luge track open to the public.

In winter, visitors can try luge, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and skating through a forested ice trail.

In warmer months, the park becomes an outdoor adventure hub with wheel luge runs, archery, a dual zipline, a climbing wall, and miles of scenic trails. Adaptive sport options and equipment accommodations help make outdoor fun more accessible.

Sports fans can take in a game at Marsh Field, one of Michigan’s oldest and most historic ballparks. Opened in 1916, it has hosted minor league teams, the Muskegon Lassies of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, and today’s Muskegon Clippers of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League.

Play Outside

ADVENTURE, HISTORY, AND OUTDOOR FUN AWAIT IN MUSKEGON COUNTY

Muskegon County offers a diverse lineup of outdoor activities that make it easy to fill your itinerary with fun. Visitors can dive into high-energy adventures, explore historic sites, or enjoy the simple pleasure of being outside along the lakeshore. Whether you’re riding coasters, trying a new sport, discovering lighthouses, or taking in a ballgame, these activities showcase the best of Muskegon’s natural beauty and welcoming character.

History and scenic views meet at the Muskegon South Breakwater Light and South Pierhead Light. These iconic beacons mark the entrance to Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan, offering fantastic photo spots and a chance to step into the working maritime heritage of the Great Lakes. Nearby, the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center provides interactive exhibits about the dunes and local ecology — a perfect stop before heading out into P.J. Hoffmaster State Park’s many shoreline trails.

Golfers will find plenty to explore across Muskegon County, from traditional courses with lake breezes to sprawling disc golf layouts nestled in wooded fairways.

Accessible tee times and diverse play styles make golf and disc golf easy additions to any itinerary.

Whether you’re chasing thrills, exploring history, or enjoying a relaxed day outdoors, Muskegon County’s activities offer countless ways to play, explore, and create lasting memories.

MLASP

Hit the Trails

MORE THAN 65 MILES OF PATHS LEAD THROUGH EVERY KIND OF SCENERY ACROSS MUSKEGON COUNTY

Muskegon County’s trail system offers endless ways to explore the lakeshore, with more than 65 miles of recreational paths that wind through forests, dunes, waterfronts, and charming lakeside communities.

Close to the shoreline, the Muskegon Lakeshore Trail follows a 12-mile paved route

for visitors to pair a bike ride with a beach stop, museum visit, or lakeside meal. Accessible pathways at Pere Marquette Park further enhance the experience, creating a welcoming environment for walkers, wheelchair users, and cyclists of varying abilities.

Muskegon’s parks also

access to the beach. It’s a peaceful spot for stretching your legs between lakeside views. South of Muskegon, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park offers 3 miles of pristine shoreline and miles of forested trails, including the popular Dune Overlook Trail — a short climb rewarded with sweeping

walkers. Its smooth surface and gentle grades make it an easy, scenic ride for families and experienced cyclists alike.

For a more technical adventure, Mosquito Creek Trails offers 550 acres of wooded terrain with beginner, intermediate, and advanced single-track routes

Find a list of state parks and public gardens to explore here.

The COMPASS

““Western Avenue is a perfect example of how downtown Muskegon welcomes everyone. This vibrant street is lined with an eclectic mix of restaurants, boutique shops, and entertainment venues, making it easy to find something for every taste and interest. Its energy reflects the inclusive, communityfocused spirit of downtown, where families, friends, and visitors can come together to shop, dine, explore, and celebrate Muskegon’s culture and creativity.”

—Rachel Gorman,

former At-Large Commissioner for the City of Muskegon

AUSTIN FEKKEN

THE COMPASS

Visit 7 Days a Week

Opening Day to Labor Day

Mondays: 1-5 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday: 10-5 p.m.

Sept 10 to Closing Day

Thursday-Sunday: 10-5 p.m.

White River Light Station

Whitehall, MI

May 12 - Oct 25

Little Sable Point Mears, MI

May 11 - Sept 27

Ludington North Breakwater

Ludington, MI

May 19 - Sept 27

Big Sable Point

Ludington, MI

May 4 - Oct 25

Manistee North Pierhead

Manistee, MI

May 25 - Sept 20

The FINDS

““No matter the season, when my family has an open Saturday, you’ll find us at the Muskegon Farmers Market. We love to walk or bike there along the Lakeshore Trail, grab coffee from Overgrown Coffee Co., and browse more than 100 local vendors. The vibe is unmatched — live music, friendly faces, and favorites like The Flower Farmer and The Cheese Lady make it pure Muskegon magic.”

—Deborah Sweet,

Community Engagement Manager for the City of Muskegon

MUSKEGON FARMER’S MARKET

THE FINDS

Makers & Artisans

SHOP HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY, CERAMICS, ART, AND LOCALLY MADE GIFTS AT STUDIOS, GALLERIES, AND SEASONAL MARKETS

Muskegon County’s creative spirit shines through its makers, artists, and independent studios. From handcrafted jewelry and ceramics to glasswork, paintings, and locally inspired gifts, the region’s artisan community offers visitors a chance to connect with the people behind the craft. Whether you’re browsing a curated gallery, meeting makers at seasonal markets, or discovering one-of-a-kind pieces in unexpected spaces, Muskegon’s artists bring the lakeshore’s personality and creativity to life in memorable, meaningful ways.

Muskegon County’s maker scene is rooted in outdoor markets, main street storefronts, and public spaces where creativity feels personal and accessible. In the Lakeside District, Art

Cats Gallery showcases local and regional artists through ceramics, jewelry, paintings, sculpture, and playful home décor — an

easy place to wander and discover something unexpected.

Downtown, the Museum Store at the Muskegon Museum of Art offers artist-made jewelry, textiles, prints, glasswork, and gifts inspired by the museum’s creative energy.

Nearby, dooGallery highlights contemporary Michigan artists through

rotating exhibitions, and its attached Art

BNB offers a unique overnight stay immersed in creative spaces.

North in Whitehall, the Arts Council of White Lake Nuveen Center invites visitors into the local arts community with public exhibitions, classes, and workshops. Beyond storefronts,

murals and sculptures appear throughout downtown and along trails, adding character to everyday walks. Each summer, the Lakeshore Art Festival fills Hackley Park with juried artists, hands-on activities, and live performances.

Makers also gather at the Muskegon Farmers Market , Western Market ,

and Artisan Market Village , offering handmade goods in open-air settings.

Together, these galleries, markets, and creative spaces give visitors a genuine connection to Muskegon County’s artistic character.

Find must-stop shops throughout Muskegon County in this directory.

MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART

THE FINDS

Shop Local

EXPLORE ECLECTIC GOODS AND ANTIQUE TREASURES ACROSS THE LAKESHORE

Muskegon County’s shopping scene mirrors the personality of the lakeshore — creative, a little eclectic, and full of unexpected finds. Visitors can can stroll historic streets and explore neighborhood shops where owners greet you like an old friend. From vintage treasures along Pine Street to handcrafted goods and Muskegonthemed gifts in downtown and Lakeside, each stop feels personal and distinctly Muskegon.

ON THE GO?

Here’s a list of vintage and antique shops in Muskegon.

Shopping in Muskegon County feels personal, rooted in neighborhoods with their own rhythm and stories. The Vintage Row on Pine Street is a perfect example — an entire stretch of the city known for treasure hunting. Here, visitors move between character-filled shops offering retro décor, midcentury furniture, glassware, vinyl, curiosities, and the kinds of “How did I live without this?” finds that only come from vintage browsing. Larger stops like Airport Antique Mall, Four Corners Antique & Artisan Market Place, and The Porch & Co. build on that experience with expansive vendor spaces that blend antiques, repurposed goods, and handmade items from local artisans.

Downtown Muskegon adds its own creative flair. Along Western Avenue and the surrounding blocks, visitors can explore shops that reflect the city’s artistic energy and growing boutique scene. Clove & Crown pairs modern home décor with thoughtful gifts and accessories, while Polka Dot Paisley offers fashion-forward apparel in a warm, welcoming space. Music lovers can flip through new releases and vintage gems at Third Coast Vinyl, and those drawn to creative collections will find inspiration at Vintage Redefined, known for its creative displays and repurposed décor.

In the nearby Lakeside District, Muskegon Inspired celebrates the community with apparel, gifts, and keepsakes designed by local artists — perfect for visitors wanting a meaningful reminder of their trip.

Together, these retail districts reflect Muskegon County’s personality: creative, welcoming, and full of surprises. Whether you’re browsing antiques, supporting local makers, or discovering a new favorite boutique, shopping here feels like part of the Muskegon experience — not just a stop along the way.

THE FINDS

The Muskegon Farmers Market is one of the county’s most inviting community spaces, offering fresh food and locally made goods in a lively downtown setting. From May through November, the open-air pavilion comes alive as visitors browse seasonal produce — spring greens, summer berries, and crisp fall apples — brick-oven bakery bread, artisan cheese, and fresh flowers from West Michigan. From December through April, the market moves indoors, continuing to provide produce, baked goods, and locally crafted items throughout the winter months.

Fresh Finds

BROWSE SEASONAL PRODUCE AND LOCALLY MADE GOODS AT FARMERS MARKETS YEAR-ROUND

In northern Muskegon County, the Montague Farmers Market offers another relaxed shopping experience. Located just a short walk from White Lake, it features fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made products in a friendly, walkable setting alongside the nearby marina and shops.

Together, these markets give travelers an authentic look at Muskegon County’s agricultural roots and creative spirit.

Take full advantage of the summer season in Muskegon with these recommendations.

MICHIGAN’S LARGEST OUTDOOR MARKET

The PLAN

““My perfect warmseason weekend in Muskegon starts with a bike ride taking in the sunrise over Muskegon Lake and coffee at The Coffee Factory. A day on the water, whether it’s at the beach or on a boat, is followed by lunch at Hamburger Mikey with a stop at Pigeon Hill for a cold one. Dinner at Hearthstone or the Bear Lake Tavern, ice cream at Norm’s, and a sunset over Muskegon Lake or Lake Michigan complete the day. Muskegon’s amazing reinvention, mixing old and new, paired with its people, trails, and deep connections to the water, makes it an unforgettable place to call home.”

—Jim Rudicil, Executive Director of the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park

THE PLAN

Stay Awhile

Muskegon County offers a wide range of accommodations, making it easy for visitors to find the right fit for their travel style and budget. From well-known national hotel brands to locally owned, family-run motels, lodging options span beachfront locations, downtown districts, and quieter lakeside settings. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay, you’ll find comfortable, convenient places to stay that put you close to the county’s beaches, attractions, and outdoor adventures.

HOTELS AND MOTELS

Airline Motel

Alpine Motel

Baymont by Wyndham Muskegon wyndhamhotels.com/ baymont/muskegonmichigan/baymont-inn-andsuites-muskegon/overview

Bel-Aire Motel

Comfort Inn Whitehall

choicehotels.com/michigan/ whitehall/comfort-inn-hotels

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson choicehotels.com/michigan/ muskegon/quality-inn-hotels/ mi073

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Norton Shores/Muskegon

Delta by Marriott & VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center

Drift on Inn

Econo Lodge

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Muskegon Norton Shores

Hampton Inn

Heights Motel

wyndhamhotels.com/daysinn/muskegon-michigan/ days-inn-and-suitesmuskegon/overview

marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ mkgde-delta-hotelsmuskegon-convention-center

4344 Airline Rd., Norton Shores

4262 Airline Rd., Muskegon

4677 S. Harvey St., Muskegon

4240 Airline Rd., Muskegon

2822 Durham Rd., Whitehall

1675 E. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon

150 E. Seaway Dr., Norton Shores

939 Third St., Muskegon

driftoninn.net 440 N. Whitehall Rd., Muskegon

choicehotels.com/michigan/ whitehall/econo-lodgehotels/mi572

marriott.com/hotels/travel/ mkgns-fairfield-inn-andsuites-muskegon-nortonshores

2865 E. Colby Rd., Whitehall

1520 E. Mt. Garfield Rd., Muskegon

hilton.com/en/hotels/ mkgmihx-hampton-muskegon 1401 E. Ellis Rd., Muskegon

231-799-8333

3300 Hoyt St., Muskegon Heights 231-739-6414

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Muskegon ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/ hotels/us/en/muskegon/ mkgme/hoteldetail 1744 Patriot Dr., Muskegon

Lake Land Getaway bookdreamstay.com/dreamstay 1002 E. Colby St., Whitehall 231-894-5644

Mona Lake Inn Muskegon oyorooms.com/us/100789 3450 Hoyt St., Muskegon

Northside Motel 1145 Whitehall Rd., Muskegon 231-744-2293

Norton Shores Inn 631 W. Norton Ave., Muskegon 231-733-1220

The Pidge Inn thepidgeinn.com 3425 Fulton Ave., Muskegon

Rodeway Inn Muskegon Airport choicehotels.com/michigan/ muskegon/rodeway-innhotels 4620 Airline Rd., Muskegon 231-733-2511

Rodeway Inn Whitehall choicehotels.com/michigan/ whitehall/rodeway-inn-hotels 3080 Colby Rd., Whitehall

Shoreline Inn & Conference Center shorelineinn.com

Travelodge by Wyndham Muskegon wyndhamhotels.com/ travelodge/muskegon-michigan/ travelodge-muskegon

750 Terrace Point Dr., Muskegon

3380 Hoyt St., Muskegon 231-733-0088

Weathervane Inn theweathervaneinn.net 4527 Dowling St., Montague

INNS, B&BS, AND RESORTS

The Lewis House thelewishousemi.com 324 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall 844-854-6424

Inn themapletreeinn.com

Maranatha Bible Missionary Conference maranathamichigan.org 4759 Lake Harbor Rd., Muskegon 231-798-2161

Michillinda Lodge michillindalodge.com 5207 Scenic Dr., Whitehall

Montgomery Inn & Suites montgomery-inn.com 4245 Fruitvale Rd., Montague

Scenic Drive Resort bookdreamstay.com/ scenic-drive-resort 1519 Scenic Dr., Muskegon

South Shore Resort & Retreats southshorerandr.com 2928 Middle Lake Rd., Twin Lake 231-828-6802

White Lake Log Cabin Resort whitelakelogcabins.com 6901 Hill Rd., Whitehall 616-272-0152

WELCOMETO THEBEAUTYOFSIMPLICITY™

WELCOMETO

Astayyou cancounton. Guaranteed.

WELCOMETO

THEBEAUTYOFSIMPLICITY™

WELCOMETO

THEBEAUTYOFSIMPLICITY™

WELCOMETO THEBEAUTYOFSIMPLICITY™

Whethertravelingforbusinessorleisure,youcancountonusforaconsistentlyfriendly, relaxedandcomfortablestay.FromourmoderndécortoourwelcomingstafftoThe FairfieldGuarantee,™* weensurethatyouexperiencewarmhospitalityandtrusted amenitieswitheachandeverystay.

WELCOMETO THEBEAUTYOFSIMPLICITY™

FROM$99/NIGHT*