If you want a relaxed getaway, Muskegon Michigan blends natural beauty, lakeshore adventure, and local charm.
Enjoy sandy beaches, hiking, and lively events that make this lake town stand out.
Check out our quick guide to Muskegon’s best attractions, outdoor escapes, and local dining favorites.
Explore even more with our guide to things to do in Muskegon and outdoor adventures.
Muskegon Michigan offers endless ways to play outside, dive into history, and make family memories.
Start your day at Pere Marquette Park, where you can swim or walk the sandy shore.
Boaters and paddlers reach Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake with ease.
Nearby highlights:
- Top Attractions
- Outdoor Activities
- Dining and Local Food
Top Attractions in Muskegon Michigan
Muskegon Michigan bursts with charming spots that make every visit memorable. Tour the USS Silversides Submarine Museum or stroll through the Muskegon Museum of Art. In July, snap photos at the Muskegon South Pier Lighthouse or join the Lakeshore Art Festival downtown.- USS Silversides Submarine Museum
- Muskegon Museum of Art
- Lakeshore Art Festival
Outdoor Activities in Muskegon Michigan
Outdoor lovers of all ages find plenty to do in Muskegon Michigan. Walk 26 miles of beaches at Pere Marquette Park or bike scenic trails through the dunes. The Muskegon Lake Trail starts just off Shoreline Drive, perfect for a breezy day out.- Pere Marquette Park beach
- Multi-use biking trails
- Muskegon Lake waterfront
Dining and Local Food in Muskegon Michigan
Muskegon Michigan’s food scene serves everything from local seafood to classic pizza. Stop by Rootdown Yoga’s café for a treat or grab a burger at Hamburger Mikey on West Western Avenue. Summer farmers’ markets offer fresh produce and tasty snacks.- Rootdown Yoga café
- Hamburger Mikey
- Muskegon Farmers Market
Quick Snapshot of Muskegon Michigan
Muskegon Michigan sits on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan with about 38,000 residents. The city serves as the county seat and offers easy water access and outdoor fun. Boaters and anglers head to Muskegon Lake for fishing and festivals. Downtown, you can shop local or taste barbecue at Dr. Rolf’s on Western Avenue. Key quick facts:- Population: 38,318 (2020 census)
- Known as the “Shoreline City”
- Historic lumber town roots
Top Things to Do in Muskegon Michigan
Muskegon Michigan offers endless ways to play outside, dive into history, and make family memories.
Start your day at Pere Marquette Park, where you can swim or walk the sandy shore.
Boaters and paddlers reach Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake with ease.
Nearby highlights:
- USS Silversides Submarine Museum: Step inside a World War II submarine.
- Muskegon Museum of Art: See American and regional art.
- Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park: Try luge or ziplining in winter.
Where to Stay in Muskegon Michigan
Choosing where to stay in Muskegon Michigan helps you find your perfect fit. Pick from downtown hotels, lakefront resorts on Pere Marquette Drive, or cozy cottages near the water. For a local touch, Airbnb offers tiny homes and family-friendly rentals. Tips for your stay:- Stay near Muskegon Lake or Lake Michigan for quick beach access.
- Downtown hotels put you steps from shops and restaurants.
- Lakeside resorts offer dune views and hiking trails.
Best Restaurants & Cafés in Muskegon Michigan
Muskegon Michigan’s dining scene delivers flavor and fun. For lakeside dining, visit The Lake House Waterfront Grille on Lakeshore Drive for fresh perch and lake views. The Hearthstone Bistro serves American and international dishes in a welcoming spot. Other favorites:- Brunch House: Classic breakfast and coffee
- Capone’s Speakeasy & Restaurant: Old-school vibe and craft cocktails
- The Deck: BBQ and live music on Pere Marquette Beach
Weather by Season & Best Time to Visit Muskegon Michigan
Knowing the weather by season helps you plan your Muskegon Michigan adventure. Summer brings highs from 70°F to 80°F. Enjoy lively beaches, outdoor events, and the Dune Ridge Trail. Winter sees snow and temps between 19°F and 30°F. Try ice fishing on Muskegon Lake or stroll through festive downtown lights. Spring and Fall offer mild days, perfect for hiking and farmers’ markets. Crowds thin out and prices often drop. Top summer reasons:- Swim or relax on wide sandy beaches
- Attend the Coast Guard Festival
- Hike shaded trails in Lake Harbor Park
Getting to and Around Muskegon Michigan
You can reach Muskegon Michigan by car, bus, or plane. Major highways US-31 and I-96 offer direct routes from Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Chicago. Fly into Muskegon County Airport, just minutes from downtown. The Lake Express ferry on Lakeshore Drive brings visitors from Milwaukee. Getting around is simple with Muskegon Area Transit System (MATS) buses, Uber, taxis, and bike rentals. Downtown Muskegon stays walkable, especially near Western Avenue’s events and restaurants. Top transportation options:- MATS bus routes and schedules
- Rideshare for quick trips
- Bike the Muskegon Lakeshore Trail
Plan Your Art-Coast Escape in Muskegon Michigan
A trip to Muskegon Michigan opens the door to the Art Coast, famous for galleries, public art, and creative spaces. Visit the Lakeshore Art Festival on Western Avenue each summer to meet artists and makers. Explore these top Art Coast activities:- Local galleries like Muskegon Museum of Art
- Sculpture parks along the downtown waterfront
- Hands-on workshops at local studios
Frequently Asked Questions About Muskegon Michigan
Muskegon Michigan features Lake Michigan beaches, historic museums, and unique neighborhoods. The city’s local festivals, outdoor parks, and growing food scene add to its lakeshore vibe.What are the top attractions to visit in Muskegon?
Enjoy sandy beaches and sunsets at Pere Marquette Park. Step aboard a World War II submarine at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. The Muskegon Museum of Art displays regional and national works.- Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse
- Michigan’s Adventure amusement park
- Farmer’s Market on Western Ave (year-round)
What are some fun facts about the history of Muskegon?
Muskegon Michigan started as a lumber town in the 1800s. Early settlers shipped white pine on the Muskegon River. Hackley Park, built in 1890, honors lumber barons Charles Hackley and Thomas Hume.- Heritage Museum shares local railroad history
- Civil War cannons stand in Hackley Park
- Muskegon hosts the Michigan Irish Music Festival each September
How does the cost of living in Muskegon compare to neighboring cities?
Muskegon Michigan offers a lower cost of living than Grand Rapids or Holland. Housing prices are affordable and property taxes stay moderate. Most residents find groceries and services fit their budgets.- Rent for a two-bedroom averages less than Grand Rapids
- Utility costs remain steady
- Downtown stores on Third Street offer good deals
What residential areas are considered the best to live in around Muskegon?
Quiet neighborhoods like Lakeside and Glenside sit near Muskegon Michigan. Norton Shores, just south of the city, is popular with families. Downtown Muskegon has new apartments close to the Lakeshore Trail.- Bluffton offers homes by Pere Marquette Beach
- North Muskegon has top-rated schools
- Roosevelt Park sits close to shops and parks
What outdoor activities are available in Muskegon year-round?
In Muskegon Michigan, you can hike, bike, or ski the Lakeshore Trail. Winter brings snowshoeing at Muskegon State Park and ice skating at Mercy Health Arena. In summer, launch kayaks from Cottage Grove on Muskegon Lake.- Dune climbing at Hoffmaster State Park
- Fish for walleye at Fisherman’s Landing
- Attend the annual Burning Foot Beer Festival
Best Route to Muskegon from Nearby Cities
Ready to explore Muskegon’s breezy lakefront? Getting here is a breeze. Drive north on US-31 from Grand Haven or south from Ludington. If you start in Grand Rapids, follow I-96 west and take the downtown exit. Cruise down Shoreline Drive for a lake view right as you arrive. You’ll spot the water sparkling ahead.- Ride the Muskegon Area Transit System buses every day.
- Hop aboard the ferry from Milwaukee to Mart Dock.
- Park easily along Clay Avenue.