Margaret Drake Elliott Park - Image 1
1 / 3

Margaret Drake Elliott Park

4.6
·323 reviews·Muskegon, United States

Enjoy scenic views of the SS Badger ferry, lighthouse, and USS Silversides. Features picnic areas, grills, and a playground.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Margaret Drake Elliott Park - Image 1

Margaret Drake Elliott Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Enjoy scenic views of the SS Badger ferry, lighthouse, and USS Silversides. Features picnic areas, grills, and a playground.

4.6
(323 reviews)

"Great spot to enjoy a coffee and scone and wave to the passengers as they leave the harbor."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Pass Info

Remember to purchase a parking pass between May 15-Sep 15. Daily passes start at $7. :ticket:

🎣 Fishing Hotspot

Great spot for fishing, though it's a bit of a walk to reach the most private areas. :fishingpoleand_வத:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

SS Badger Ferry Views

SS Badger Ferry Views

Waterfront

Watch the impressive SS Badger car ferry depart and arrive, a unique sight for all ages.

Lighthouse & USS Silversides

Lighthouse & USS Silversides

Waterfront

Enjoy picturesque views of the local lighthouse and the historic USS Silversides submarine.

Family BBQ & Picnic Spots

Family BBQ & Picnic Spots

Picnic Areas

Utilize the charcoal grills and picnic tables for a perfect family BBQ or a relaxing afternoon.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking Pass Essentials

A daily or seasonal parking pass is required from May 15th to September 15th. Weekday passes are $7, weekend passes are $10, and seasonal passes are $20. Passes are valid from 9 AM to 9 PM. Parking is free outside these dates.

Best Views & Amenities

This park offers fantastic views of the SS Badger car ferry, lighthouses, and the USS Silversides submarine. It's equipped with charcoal grills, picnic tables, a playground, and rentable pavilions, making it ideal for family outings and fishing.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
Medium
When
May 15 - Sep 15
Why
Full amenities & ferry activity
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

more days like this at @TheDeckMKG please, please, please 🙏 this beach-front restaurant at #peremarquette park in 📍 Muskegon, MI features: 🍴 delicious BBQ in addition to apps, fresh salads, sliders, tacos + more! 🍹 adult + kid-friendly drinks 🎶 live music along the lakeshore #thedeck #thedeckmuskegon #thedeckmkg #muskegon #muskegonmichigan #muskegonmi #visitmuskegon #lakemichigan #michiganfoo...
@midwestlocal
35K likes • 493.3K views

🚗 Parking Pass Info

Remember to purchase a parking pass between May 15-Sep 15. Daily passes start at $7. :ticket:

🎣 Fishing Hotspot

Great spot for fishing, though it's a bit of a walk to reach the most private areas. :fishingpoleand_வத:

Local food review! Mr. Scribb’s Pizza, Muskegon Michigan #foodreview #supportlocal #eatingshow #pizzalover
@cibsandibus
21.4K likes • 355.1K views
Michigan Summer Hotspot - @TheDeckMKG in Muskegon 🩴Best Day Ever - spend the day at Pere Marquette beach, grab dinner & drinks at The Deck & end the night listening to live music & watching a Lake MI sunset with your toes in the sand! You'll love ⛱️ Beachy vibes 🌊 Lake MI views 🎵 Live music 🎲 Yard games 🥰 Swings as seating 😋 Yummy food 🍹 Frozen beverages
@heymichigan
3.3K likes • 159.9K views

🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along, but remember to bring your own waste bags. :dog:

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of the SS Badger, lighthouse, and USS Silversides. :camerawithflash:

Come to Muskegon Bike time with us! #muskegon #biketime #michigan
@cibsandibus
3K likes • 29.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Pass Info

Remember to purchase a parking pass between May 15-Sep 15. Daily passes start at $7. :ticket:

🎣 Fishing Hotspot

Great spot for fishing, though it's a bit of a walk to reach the most private areas. :fishingpoleand_வத:

🐶 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along, but remember to bring your own waste bags. :dog:

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning shots of the SS Badger, lighthouse, and USS Silversides. :camerawithflash:

🍽️ BBQ & Picnic Ready

Pack your picnic basket and use the available charcoal grills for a delightful meal. :hamburger:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(323 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Margaret Drake Elliott Park for its excellent views of the SS Badger ferry, lighthouse, and USS Silversides. It's a popular spot for family BBQs and fishing, with good amenities like grills and picnic tables. Some note that reaching the most private fishing spots requires a walk. Parking passes are required during peak season.

"If you are looking to view the SS Badger this is the location. This is my go to spot to enjoy a nice coffee and scone and wave to the passengers as they leave the harbor."

Stone Iron and Flame

"Had a great family bbq Sunday funday l."

Chyrstal Marble

"DJ'd for my father's 70th birthday party.
#cdshawn
All the city workers were great!!"

CD SHAWN

What People Like

Great boat views
Family-friendly amenities
Good fishing spot

What People Dislike

Parking pass required
Walk to private fishing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Margaret Drake Elliott Park is located in Muskegon, Michigan. It's accessible by car, and parking is available on-site. Specific directions can be found using GPS navigation.

Information on public transportation routes to Margaret Drake Elliott Park can be found on the Muskegon public transit website. It's advisable to check schedules in advance.

To avoid crowds, visiting on weekday mornings is recommended. Weekend afternoons tend to be more popular, especially during peak season. Reddit

Yes, the park is noted as being wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all visitors to enjoy the amenities and views. Reddit

Using a GPS device or a mapping app on your smartphone is the easiest way to navigate to Margaret Drake Elliott Park. Search for 'Margaret Drake Elliott Park, Muskegon, MI'.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a daily or seasonal parking pass is required from May 15th to September 15th. Daily passes are $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends. Seasonal passes are $20. Reddit

Parking passes are valid from 9 AM to 9 PM daily during the required season. Reddit

There is no separate entrance fee for the park itself, but a parking pass is required during the specified dates and times. Reddit

Parking is free outside of the period of May 15th to September 15th, and also outside of the 9 AM to 9 PM daily hours. Reddit

Yes, pavilions and gazebos are available for rent, making them ideal for events and gatherings. Inquire about rental availability and fees.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers excellent views of the SS Badger car ferry, lighthouses, and the USS Silversides submarine. It also features a playground, picnic areas, and grills. Reddit

While there are no restaurants within the park, it is well-equipped with charcoal grills and picnic tables, perfect for enjoying a meal you bring. Reddit

Leashed dogs are welcome in Margaret Drake Elliott Park. However, visitors are reminded to bring their own dog waste bags. Reddit

Families will appreciate the playground equipment, picnic tables, and charcoal grills. The views of the boats and submarines also add to the family fun. Reddit

Yes, it's considered a good place to fish, though some of the more private spots might require a bit of a walk. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The park is a prime location for photographing the SS Badger car ferry as it enters or leaves the harbor. You'll also get great shots of the local lighthouse and the USS Silversides submarine. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, often provides the most beautiful lighting for landscape and boat photography. However, the ferry's schedule dictates some of the best action shots.

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Margaret Drake Elliott Park. However, always be mindful of other visitors and private property.

Yes, the USS Silversides is a prominent feature and a popular subject for photography within the park. Reddit

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide-angle views and closer shots of the boats. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing the ferry from a distance. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Margaret Drake Elliott Park is a great choice for families. The playground equipment ensures kids have a place to play, while the picnic tables and charcoal grills make it easy to enjoy a family meal outdoors. Reddit Don't miss the chance to see the SS Badger car ferry – it's a big hit with children! Remember to bring your own food and drinks, and dog waste bags if you're bringing a pet. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. The park's accessibility also makes it easier for families with strollers or young children to navigate. The views of the lighthouse and submarine add an educational element to the fun.

🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy fishing, Margaret Drake Elliott Park offers a good opportunity. While some of the most secluded fishing spots might require a bit of a walk, the park provides a pleasant environment for casting a line. Reddit The scenic views of the lake and the maritime activity, like the SS Badger, add to the tranquil atmosphere. It's a peaceful spot to connect with nature and enjoy some quiet time by the water. Reddit

Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before your visit. The park's amenities, like picnic tables, also allow for a relaxed day spent enjoying the outdoors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Parking and Access

Planning your visit to Margaret Drake Elliott Park involves understanding its parking regulations. From May 15th to September 15th, a parking pass is mandatory between 9 AM and 9 PM. Daily passes are priced at $7 for weekdays and $10 for weekends, while a seasonal pass costs $20. Reddit This system helps manage the influx of visitors during the warmer months. Outside of these dates and times, parking is free, offering flexibility for off-season visits. The park is also noted for its wheelchair accessibility, ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests. Reddit

Beyond parking, the park's location offers unique viewing opportunities. It's a prime spot to witness the impressive SS Badger car ferry, a sight that draws many visitors. You can also enjoy views of the local lighthouse and the historic USS Silversides submarine, adding a layer of maritime interest to your visit. Reddit These features make it a destination for both leisure and education.

Family Fun and Amenities

Margaret Drake Elliott Park is a fantastic destination for families, offering a range of amenities designed for enjoyment. The park features a playground, providing a space for children to play and burn energy. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are readily available, making it an ideal location for family barbecues and outdoor meals. Reddit Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and supplies to take full advantage of these facilities.

Leashed dogs are also welcome, allowing families to bring their furry companions along for the outing. However, it's important to note that dog waste bags are not provided, so owners must come prepared. Reddit The combination of play areas, picnic spots, and pet-friendly policies makes Margaret Drake Elliott Park a well-rounded choice for a family day out in Muskegon.

You may also like

1 of 2