Muskegon is a lakeside city in West Michigan sitting right on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is part of Muskegon County and is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, rich history, and a growing arts and food scene. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this city has something waiting for you at every turn.
Here is the thing about Muskegon that surprises most people. It is not just a summer destination. It is a city that comes alive all year long. From golden sandy beaches in July to an Olympic-style luge track in January, the things to do in Muskegon stretch across every season and every type of traveler. That is what makes it such a special and underrated gem in the Midwest.
In this guide, we are going to walk you through the best things to do in Muskegon MI, covering outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, unique experiences, nightlife, winter fun, and so much more. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of every moment.
Hit the Beach at Pere Marquette Park
When it comes to things to do in Muskegon MI in summer, the beach is always the top answer. Pere Marquette Park is the crown jewel of the Muskegon shoreline. It is located just minutes from downtown and sits right where Muskegon Lake meets the mighty Lake Michigan.
The beach here is everything you could want. Soft golden sand stretches for miles. The water is clean and refreshing. You will find volleyball nets, shower facilities, and easy parking nearby. Families love it because there is plenty of space for kids to run, play, and splash around without feeling crowded. In the evenings, the sunsets over Lake Michigan are truly something else. The sky turns shades of orange and pink that you simply have to see to believe.
Just a short stroll from the beach, you can walk the famous pier out to the Muskegon South Breakwater Lighthouse. It is one of the most iconic spots in the entire city. Many visitors also enjoy watching boats cruise through the Muskegon Channel as they move between the small inland lake and the big open water of Lake Michigan.
Explore the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex
If you are searching for things to do in Muskegon MI in winter, look no further than the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. This is one of the most unique attractions in the entire state of Michigan and honestly one of the most exciting things to do in Muskegon no matter what time of year you visit.
The complex is home to an 850-foot luge track, and yes, it is the real deal. This is the same kind of luge track used in Olympic training. You ride a sled down the icy track at thrilling speeds. It is an experience that most people never forget. Beyond the luge, the complex also offers outdoor ice skating, cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing paths, snow tubing on the dunes, and even hockey rinks for those who want to skate with a puck.
What makes this place even more special is that during the summer months, the fun does not stop. You can take the luge on roller sleds, try archery, hike the trails, and zip line through the treetops. It is one of the most genuinely unique things to do in Muskegon no matter the season.
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Visit Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park
For families looking for things to do in Muskegon for kids, Michigan’s Adventure is the number one stop. It is the largest amusement park in the state of Michigan, and it delivers big thrills, fun, and family memories.
The park is packed with roller coasters, family rides, and classic carnival-style attractions that kids of all ages will love. There is something for the little ones who want gentle spins and something for the thrill-seekers who want to go fast and high. The park also includes WildWater Adventure, a full water park that is included with park admission. Slides, wave pools, and splash zones make it a perfect full-day experience during the warmer months.
Michigan’s Adventure is genuinely one of the best things to do in Muskegon MI in summer with kids. I plan to spend a full day here. Bring sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a day the whole family will talk about for years.
Discover History at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum
If you want something a little different and truly memorable, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Muskegon that visitors often overlook. Docked right along the Muskegon Channel near Pere Marquette Beach, the USS Silversides is one of the most decorated and well-preserved submarines from World War II.
You can actually go inside and explore the submarine. Walk through the tight corridors, see the torpedo rooms, and get a real feel for what life was like aboard a military submarine during wartime. It is fascinating for adults and kids alike. History becomes very real when you are standing inside a vessel that actually served in battle.
The museum also includes exhibits, artifacts, and educational displays that give you deeper context about the submarine’s history and the role it played in the Pacific Theater. This is one of those places that reminds you why travel is such a powerful way to learn. It is without question one of the best things to do in Muskegon for anyone with even a passing interest in history or military heritage.
Enjoy the Outdoors with Hiking, Biking, and Paddling
Muskegon is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The area has an incredible network of trails, parks, and waterways that make it easy to explore nature at your own pace. If you love being outside, you will find no shortage of things to do in Muskegon that will get your blood pumping and your spirits soaring.
Muskegon State Park is one of the top outdoor destinations in the area. It sits on the other side of the channel from Pere Marquette and offers miles of beautiful hiking trails that wind through the dunes right along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The hikes here are not technical, but climbing up and down sand dunes gives your legs a real workout. P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is another gem worth visiting, with wooded trails, a nature center, and gorgeous beaches.
For cyclists, the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail connects Muskegon to Hart and runs along the scenic shores of Muskegon Lake. It is a beautiful and mostly flat ride perfect for families or casual riders. On the water, you can rent kayaks and canoes to paddle down the White River or explore Muskegon Lake. Paddleboarding on Lake Michigan on a calm morning is an experience that feels almost magical. These outdoor activities are some of the best things to do in Muskegon MI in summer and a big reason why so many travelers keep coming back.
Experience the Local Arts, Culture, and Museums
Muskegon has a surprisingly rich arts and cultural scene that is well worth exploring. The Muskegon Museum of Art is a standout. It is home to an impressive permanent collection that includes works by American and European masters. The museum is welcoming, well-curated, and a genuinely enjoyable visit even for people who do not typically spend time in art museums.
Downtown Muskegon itself is a walkable cultural destination. You can stroll past colorful murals painted on building walls throughout the city. Outdoor sculptures dot the streets and public spaces. The historic Hackley and Hume Houses are beautifully preserved Victorian mansions that offer tours and a glimpse into the lives of Muskegon’s lumber barons from the late 1800s. The Muskegon Museum of History and Science is another great option, especially for families with curious kids.
The Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts brings theater, concerts, and live performances to the heart of downtown. If you are visiting and want to spend an evening enjoying live culture, checking what is on at the Frauenthal is always a good idea. When it comes to things to do in Muskegon at night, combining dinner downtown with a performance here makes for a perfect evening out.
Explore Craft Breweries and Muskegon’s Nightlife Scene
When the sun goes down, Muskegon has a growing and exciting scene for those looking for things to do in Muskegon at night. The city has developed a fantastic craft brewery culture over the past several years, giving visitors and locals alike plenty of options for a great evening out.
Pigeon Hill Brewing Company is one of the most beloved spots in the city. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers a rotating lineup of creative and well-crafted beers in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Unruly Brewing, Rake Beer Project, and Salty Pecker Brewing are also popular stops for craft beer enthusiasts. For something a little different, Bardic Wells Meadery offers mead made from honey, which is a drink with an ancient history and a surprisingly modern fan base.
Beyond the breweries, downtown Muskegon has live music venues, cocktail bars, and waterfront spots where you can enjoy a drink with a view. Heritage Landing hosts outdoor concerts and festivals throughout the summer, bringing live music and community energy to the waterfront. The Deck at Pere Marquette Beach is another beloved spot for evening hangs, with open-air seating, local brews, and live music as the backdrop for a stunning Lake Michigan sunset. These spots make Muskegon’s nightlife warm, local, and genuinely fun.
Attend Festivals and Annual Events
One of the most exciting things to do in Muskegon is to plan your visit around one of its many beloved festivals and events. The city has a strong tradition of community celebrations that bring people together and showcase everything that makes this place special.
The Michigan Irish Music Festival draws thousands of visitors each year with live Celtic music, dancing, and Irish culture. The Unity Christian Music Festival is a massive outdoor music event that brings big-name performers to the lakeshore. The Lakeshore Art Festival fills the downtown streets with the work of talented artists and makers from across the region. The Burning Foot Beach Festival is a quirky, beloved end-of-summer celebration that takes place right on the beach. There is also Taste of Muskegon, a food-focused event that lets you sample the best flavors from local restaurants all in one place.
These festivals are not just events. They are experiences. They give you a real sense of the community spirit and culture that makes Muskegon such a welcoming and memorable destination. If you are trying to plan the best things to do in Muskegon MI in summer, timing your trip around one of these festivals is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Final Thoughts
Muskegon is the kind of place that surprises you. You might arrive expecting a quiet lakeside town and leave having had one of your most memorable travel experiences in years. The things to do in Muskegon are wide-ranging, genuinely exciting, and built for every kind of traveler.
From the golden shores of Lake Michigan and the thrill of the luge track to the creative energy of downtown and the warmth of its festivals, Muskegon delivers in every season. Families, couples, solo adventurers, and groups of friends all find something here worth coming back for.
If you have not yet added Muskegon to your travel list, now is the perfect time to do it. Start planning your trip and get ready to fall in love with one of Michigan’s most underrated and rewarding destinations.
FAQs
1. What is Muskegon best known for?
Muskegon is best known for its Lake Michigan beaches, outdoor adventures, and the Winter Sports Complex.
2. When is the best time to visit Muskegon?
Summer is great for beaches and festivals, while winter is perfect for snow sports and the luge track.
3. Is Muskegon good for families?
Yes, families love places like Michigan’s Adventure, parks, museums, and the beach.
4. Are there things to do in Muskegon at night?
Yes, you can enjoy local breweries, live music, waterfront dining, and events downtown.
5. How many days do you need in Muskegon?
A weekend is enough to see the highlights, but 3 to 4 days lets you explore at a relaxed pace.
