
ARTS & CULTURE
Mason County recognizes the importance of the arts & culture assets to our economic development and stability. Attracting creativity and innovation allows us to collectively shape and build the personality of our community. Having identified that our cultural assets set us apart, the business community, government entities, and community volunteers work together to create and expand the impact of arts in our area.
Economic Impact through the Arts & Culture Industry and Tourism in Mason County
That place is Ludington and Mason County, home to a thriving arts and culture scene.


With the formation of the Pure Michigan Campaign in the mid 2000s, the tourism traffic to the region has exponentially increased, therefore, demands for Art and Culture based businesses and projects has also increased. Arts and Culture programs are a primary attraction for visitors and locals looking to relocate to the region.  Combined with our diverse geographic landscape, Mason County is at a key location in the State of Michigan to support a vast cultural network.
With the formation of the Mason county Cultural Trails networks, Mason County has become a key travel destination for arts and culture activities. Â With that, these travelers require business and services support, creating economic and business demand in the region.


Tourist Destination
Mason County enjoys a thriving tourism economy. In 2014, an estimated $119 million in tourism dollars was injected into the local economy. In 2015, the Ludington Area Convention & Visitor Bureau reported a historic high of $12.3 million in lodging revenues. Our unique assets have created a cultural destination visitors and locals alike.
Arts & Culture Developments
Creative thinkers have shaped the expansion of cultural opportunities through the integration of the arts into our community planning and development.
Mason County Cultural Trails – Provides an interactive experience to celebrate the region’s heritage, culture, and environment in multiple ways. Utilizing technology, each of the trail stops allows visitors to scan a QR Code with their smartphone or dial a phone number to hear the stories at each stop along the trail.
Love Ludington – The interactive project engages people that visit and live in Mason County to share stories, snapshots, and ideas to improve the community they love. This is a prime example of the inspiration this growing community inspires with a rich history and an expanding cultural scene that people love to call home.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Arts & Culture contribute to:
- Strengthening cultural values and preserving heritage and history
- Building community character and sense of place
- Enhancing community engagement and participation
- Enhancing economic vitality

Mason County Looks to Grow and Continue its Rich Arts & Cultural History
Future expansion plans for Mason County cultural assets include:
- Public Library expansion
- Development of Maritime Museum
- Universally accessible trail at Ludington State Park
- The West End Development Project
- Permanent location for the The Mason County Sports Hall of Fame
- The Lumber Heritage Trail development
- Barn Quilt Trail expansion
Become a Supporting Business for the Arts & Culture Cluster in Mason County
Look to the Mason County Growth Alliance for assistance on how you can leverage the multi-million Arts and Culture Industry in Mason County and make a successful business and life for yourself here in this beautiful area.

