LUDINGTON, Mich. — A lakeshore community in West Michigan was named the Best Historic Small Town by USA Today.
The small town of Ludington, with just under 8,000 residents, has a big story to tell to anyone who visits.
Ludington is known for its beautiful beaches, shops and restaurants, and its history.
Named after James Ludington, a businessman who owned a lumber company in the town, Ludington was incorporated into a city in 1873. Despite having businesses in the city, Ludington never actually lived in the city named after him.
Ludington is home to the Historic White Pine Village, a 13-acre village with 30 buildings that depict Mason County's history.
The lakeshore town also has several museums, including the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, and two historic lighthouses.
Here's what USA Today had to say about why they chose Ludington as the best in the country:
Building its economy on the lumber industry, Ludington continued to thrive as a shipping port, both by water and by train. Today, visitors come to explore Ludington's small-town charm, take advantage of its waterfront location for swimming, boating, and more, and shop at its many specialty shops and art galleries. Explore the town's past at Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
Wickford, Rhode Island and Abilene, Kansas were named the second and third best, respectively.
You can see the complete list of the best historic small towns here.
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