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Muskegon Keeps You Close to Culture and the Great Outdoors
People planning to relocate to West Michigan may wonder, is Muskegon a good place to live? The city doesnt receive as much attention as Holland or Grand Rapids, but it is truly a hidden jewel just minutes away from beautiful Lake Michigan beaches.
There are all of the standard urban amenities available throughout the city, from a host of incredible restaurants to a performing arts center and movie theaters. Residents can enjoy a lower cost of living than larger cities. There are also incredible features in Muskegon that you cant find anywhere else.
Muskegon is a unique amalgamation of the Midwest blue-collar spirit, artistic culture, and beach town energy. There are festivals year-round that bring in music, fine arts, and incredible foods, as well as popular Michigan-brewed beers. There are so many things to do in Muskegon, Michigan, that people never need to leave, although the city is a short drive from many other cultural hubs.
Muskegon’s Unique Community
Muskegon, Michigan’s population is around 37,000 according to the United State Census Bureau, although the greater metro area is home to more than 177,000 people. With so many people, there are plenty of stable jobs in Muskegon, MI.
Hardworking professionals can pursue competitive blue-collar jobs in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and defense. Muskegon is a national leader in advanced manufacturing, which attracts skilled professionals from around the Midwest.
The area also has major hospitals, agribusinesses, and many hospitality-related businesses that offer career opportunities for people of all ages and experience levels. There are also opportunities to pursue a degree, with Baker College and Muskegon Community College offering a host of competitive degree programs.
Muskegon's Rich Art Culture
The City of Muskegon has more culture than many people realize. The city is home to historic sites, such as the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, and many other museums and historical sites, including the Muskegon Museum of Art, with a permanent collection that includes sculptures by Debora Butterfield, glass art by Dave Chihuly, and paintings by many historic masters, such as William Louis Sonntag and Joos van Cleve.
For those looking to shop original works, there are also several well-known galleries in Muskegon. Art Cats Gallery offers works of fine art, jewelry, and many gifts made by local creators. dooGallery has a strong local presence as well, with a curated gallery and an art print clothing shop called Art Wear House. The business also rents both peddle and electric bicycles.
Muskegon's Foodie Scene
Muskegon offers plenty of resources for those who want to cook for themselves. During the warmer months, local farmers offer everything from West Michigan blueberries to farm-fresh eggs in a scenic environment. The Muskegon Farmers Market also hosts regular food truck rallies during the summer months.
The local restaurants in Muskegon offer dining experiences you can’t have anywhere else. The Deck, an outdoor restaurant seconds from the shoreline, offers beautiful views, incredible food, swing seating for some patrons, and even live music. Plenty of smaller local eateries fry up perch and other lake fish. There are also many restaurants that offer top-notch barbeque, including the locally-loved Dr. Rolf's Barbeque.
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, top options include Capone’s Speakeasy and Restaurant for Italian-inspired flavors, Lake Bluff Grille for New American cuisine, and Hearthstone Bistro, where Italian, French and American flavors blend perfectly.
Muskegon’s Beautiful Beaches
Pere Marquette Beach might be Muskegon’s most popular destination. Pere Marquette Beach is a certified clean beach recognized by the National Healthy Beaches Campaign and the Clean Beaches Council. With white sand, clear water, and more than 27 acres featuring grassy dunes, it is a top summertime destination. The attached Pere Marquette Charter Park has a playground, walkway, and restrooms.
Muskegon Beach at Muskegon State Park is located just four miles from North Muskegon. It boasts 1,233 acres and roughly three miles of shoreline, including two miles of sandy Lake Michigan beach frontage and a mile of beach access on Muskegon Lake. The park features a playground, a picnic area, and even a bar. There are also summer kiteboarding rentals for the adventurous.
Lake Michigan isn't the only place to take a dip or watch a sunset. There are also more than two dozen inland lakes in Muskegon County. Bear Lake is the largest, with more 415 acres of surface area. It connects to Lake Michigan via channels and is popular for waterskiing and tubing. Black Lake Park, Mona Lake, and Big Blue Lake are also all popular for fishing, swimming, and on-land excursions with beautiful views!
Muskegon's Best Parks
Living in Muskegon means you are minutes away from several beautiful parks that attract visitors from across West Michigan. P.J. Hoffmaster State Park and Campground are only a few miles away, and Black Lake Park is also nearby. For those who want to get lost in the woods, a trip north on US-31 provides access to the Manistee National Forest, an ideal location for weekend hiking or kayaking trips, as well as morel hunting in the spring.
Outdoor fun doesn’t end when temperatures drop! The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park offers year-round access to outdoor adventures, including a zip line. The Muskegon Luge is an 850 foot track, and it is the only luge track in the United States that is made from natural ice. Also known as the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, this sports park has a family skating rink, a hockey rink, cross-country skiing trails, a family sledding area, nighttime ski trails, and even adaptive sports opportunities for people who require accessible sports.
Harmony Lake Offers Convenience and Quiet Comfort
If you plan to move to Muskegon or already live here and want to upgrade your apartment, Harmony Lake might be the perfect place to call home. Not only is Harmony Lake close to the beach, the I-96 highway, and multiple parks, but it also offers proximity to the best features of urban living in Muskegon.
You don’t need to travel far to enjoy the outdoors. Take a walk on our nature trails, plan a picnic using our grilling stations, or put your green thumb to work in our community garden. Whether you plan to relocate to Muskegon or want to upgrade your home, Harmony Lake could be the place for you. Contact us today to schedule a viewing of your next home!