Muskegon, MI

Travel Guide

A rocky shoreline with a lighthouse, trees, and boats on the water.
A Victorian-style building with multiple towers and a large porch.
An exhibition with historical displays, including a large circular diagram and various informational panels.
A beach with dunes, a tree, and the ocean.
A complex control panel with various gauges, dials, and mechanical components.

On the East Shore of Lake Michigan, enjoy rich history, golden sandy beaches and year-round adventure activities.

Originally inhabited by the American Indians and transformed by the fur and lumber trade, Muskegon County has a fascinating past. Learn all about it at the Lakeshore Museum Center and see some examples of the former lumber trade at the Hackley and Hume Historic Site, which features restored 19th-century mansions. Another grand wooden structure is The Blockhouse which gives wonderful views of Lake Michigan.

With several state and county parks and over 60 miles (97 kilometers) of trails, Muskegon County is an outdoor playground. Venture to Muskegon State Park, where you can explore miles of wooded trails through the park and over the signature sand dunes. The park is bordered by the famous Lake Michigan and the local Muskegon Lake. Muskegon Lake is a great spot for boating and fishing while the shores of Lake Michigan boast gorgeous beaches, including pristine Pere Marquette Beach. This beach is a favorite among both locals and visitors for a variety of recreational activities.

Go from sand to ice at Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, where you can slide down the luge tracks. You have the option of a traditional ice track or a wheeled summer track, the only one of its kind in the United States. The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex also features skiing, ice skating and ice fishing. Continue the adrenaline rush on the roller coasters and rides of Michigan’s Adventure Amusement and Water Park.

Muskegon is accessible by several major highways, or you can fly in through the Muskegon County Airport or Gerald R. Ford airport, which is located in Grand Rapids. Alternatively you can go for the scenic route and travel from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on the Lake Express High Speed Car Ferry. When you get to Muskegon the best way to travel between sights is by car, though it is possible to travel some places by bus.

Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a family getaway, come and discover the “lake effect” in Muskegon County.

Where to stay in Muskegon

Find the best Muskegon areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Muskegon
Learn more about Muskegon
A pier extending into a body of water with a lighthouse at the end, surrounded by tall grass.

Nims

While visiting Nims, you might make a stop by sights like Lakeshore Bike Trail and Muskegon Lake.

A sunset over a calm sea with a lighthouse and several boats.
Photo by thetaptramp
Open Photo by thetaptramp

Beachwood-Bluffton

While visiting Beachwood-Bluffton, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Michigan and Pere Marquette Park Beach.

A red lighthouse on a pier with a sailboat in the water and a cloudy sky.

North Muskegon

If you're spending some time in North Muskegon, Bear Lake and Muskegon Lake are top sights worth seeing.

A river with a small island featuring a large house surrounded by greenery and docks.

Norton Shores

Travelers come to Norton Shores for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Lake Michigan and Hoffmaster State Park while you're in town.

A sandy beach with gentle waves, a boat in the water, and a forested hill in the background.

Laketon Township

If you're spending some time in Laketon Township, Lake Michigan and Muskegon State Park are top sights worth seeing.

Baymont by Wyndham Muskegon

Baymont by Wyndham Muskegon

2.5 out of 5
4677 South Harvey Street Muskegon MI
$84 nightly
The price is $93 total per night from Oct 18 to Oct 19
$93 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Muskegon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"The hotel was conveniently located with a long drive but plenty of parking. Breakfast was limited to continental and selections were minimal. The staff was helpful when we checked in. The hotel is a bit dated and needs some sprucing"

Reviewed on Oct 9, 2026

Baymont by Wyndham Muskegon
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Muskegon, MI

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Muskegon, MI

2.5 out of 5
1675 E Sherman Blvd Muskegon MI
$82 nightly
The price is $94 total per night from Nov 10 to Nov 11
$94 total
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Muskegon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
7/10 Good! (1,004 reviews)
"The room was nice, bed was comfortable, staff was nice, hot tub was great but my husband had to save a boy in the pool with no parent around. Breakfast Was yummy"

Reviewed on Oct 11, 2026

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Muskegon, MI
Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, an Ascend Collection Hotel

3 out of 5
750 Terrace Point Blvd Muskegon MI
$125 nightly
The price is $143 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$143 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Muskegon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,003 reviews)
"Probably my mistake I may have sign up for disability access room I better double check next time because I do not like rooms next to elevator. Noise of people and elevator up an down could hear the pulleys but I may have clicked on that type of room shower was more suited for disable also no hooks ..."

Reviewed on Oct 10, 2026

Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, an Ascend Collection Hotel
See all 801 properties in Muskegon
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Lakeside Micro Apartment

The Lakeside Micro Apartment

Muskegon MI
Stay at this apartment in Muskegon. Enjoy free WiFi, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Lake Express Ferry Terminal and Lakeshore ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (52 reviews)
"Perfect for what we needed; a clean comfortable affordable place to crash for one night"

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2026

The Lakeside Micro Apartment
Cape Coral FL | King bed

Cape Coral FL | King bed

Muskegon MI MI
Stay at this apartment in Muskegon. Enjoy cable/satellite TV service and air conditioning. Popular attractions Lake Express Ferry Terminal and Mona Lake are ...
10/10 Exceptional! (250 reviews)
"Basic room, would rarely 3/5."

Reviewed on Sep 9, 2026

Cape Coral FL | King bed
Palmer House Retreat: Minutes from Downtown Muskegon & Lake Michigan

Palmer House Retreat: Minutes from Downtown Muskegon & Lake Michigan

Muskegon MI
Stay at this vacation home in Muskegon. Enjoy a water park, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Lake Express Ferry Terminal and Lakeshore Bike ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (26 reviews)
"Beautiful clean house. Worked perfectly for our family. Excellent host"

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2026

Palmer House Retreat: Minutes from Downtown Muskegon & Lake Michigan
See all properties in Muskegon
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Muskegon attractions

A swan-shaped boat on a lake with roller coasters in the background.
Photo by Steve Ignowski
Open Photo by Steve Ignowski

Michigan's Adventure

8.6/10 (306 reviews)
Bring your family to Michigan's Adventure and enjoy this exciting theme park in Muskegon. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or seek out the adventure tours.
See properties

Frequently asked questions

Is Muskegon worth visiting?
Muskegon is worth visiting for its standout attractions like Michigan's Adventure and Muskegon Beach. Travelers can also enjoy a diverse food scene with North American and Italian cuisine, and explore distinct neighborhoods such as Beachwood-Bluffton and Laketon Township.
When is the best time to visit Muskegon?
The best time to visit Muskegon is from May through September, when the weather is generally warm and pleasant. For fewer crowds and better value, the cooler months of December through March are a good bet, offering a different experience for travelers.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Muskegon?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Muskegon depend on what you want to see:

  • Beachwood-Bluffton offers attractions like the USS Silversides, Pere Marquette Park Beach, and Muskegon Beach.
  • Laketon Township is known for its various beaches, including those near Horton Park, North Scenic Drive, and Trail access.
  • Nelson features historical sites like the USS LST 393 and Hackley and Hume Historic Site, plus the Muskegon Museum of Art.
  • Norton Shores provides access to beaches near Ross Park and Mona Lake Park, as well as Mona Lake itself.

What is Muskegon known for?
Muskegon is known for Michigan's Adventure, a popular amusement park. Travelers can also explore the natural beauty of Muskegon Beach and Muskegon State Park. The destination offers a North American food culture, providing a variety of dining options.
What is a good itinerary length for Muskegon?
A good itinerary length for Muskegon is two to three days to enjoy attractions like Michigan's Adventure, Muskegon Beach, and Muskegon State Park. For an extended stay of four to five days, you can explore more of the area's neighborhoods like Beachwood-Bluffton or Laketon Township, and spend more time relaxing by the lake.
What are the top things to do in and around Muskegon?
Muskegon offers outdoor fun, historic sites, and family entertainment for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Muskegon?
When planning your trip to Muskegon, search for places to stay in areas like Beachwood-Bluffton or Nelson. Book your flights, hotels, and rental car early, especially if visiting attractions such as Michigan's Adventure or Muskegon State Park. Always pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Muskegon?
In Muskegon, travelers can find Italian cuisine, with dishes like pasta, pizza, and lasagna. You can also enjoy North American comfort food, as well as Asian options such as Chinese dishes, and Latin American choices like Mexican food. Mediterranean flavors are also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Muskegon?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Muskegon by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Muskegon with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Muskegon trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Muskegon?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Muskegon can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Muskegon trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Muskegon trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Muskegon trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Muskegon trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Muskegon?
If it's your first trip to Muskegon, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Muskegon hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Muskegon hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Muskegon

A lighthouse with a red tower and a pier with street lamps.

Whitehall

A red lighthouse on a pier with calm water and a clear sky.

Spring Lake

A calm lake with boats, a swan, and houses along the shore.

Fruitport

A calm lake with reflections of trees and houses, surrounded by a forested area.

Twin Lake

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