Muskegon, Michigan

{{Redirect|Muskegon}} {{Use mdy dates|date=January 2025}} {{Infobox settlement | name = Muskegon, Michigan | settlement_type = City | nicknames = Port City, Lumber Queen of the World, Skeetown, Midwest Riviera, Lumbertown | image_skyline = Muskegon skyline and lake.jpg | imagesize = | image_caption = Muskegon viewed from across Muskegon Lake | image_flag = | image_blank_emblem = Muskegon, MI logo.png | blank_emblem_type = Logo | blank_emblem_size = 200 | mapframe = yes | mapframe-point = none | pushpin_map = Michigan#USA | pushpin_relief = yes | pushpin_label = Muskegon | subdivision_type = Country | subdivision_type1 = State | subdivision_type2 = County | subdivision_name = United States | subdivision_name1 = Michigan | subdivision_name2 = Muskegon | government_type = Commission-Manager | leader_title = Mayor | leader_name = Ken Johnson<ref name="Mayor">{{cite web|title=City of Muskegon|url=https://www.muskegon-mi.gov/elected-officials/|access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> | leader_title1 = City Manager | leader_name1 = Jonathan Seyferth | established_date = | unit_pref = Imperial | area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2023">{{cite web |title=2023 U.S. Gazetteer Files: Michigan |url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2023_Gazetteer/2023_gaz_place_26.txt |publisher=United States Census Bureau |accessdate=December 13, 2023}}</ref> | area_total_sq_mi = 18.20 | area_land_sq_mi = 14.14 | area_water_sq_mi = 4.05 | area_water_percent = | area_total_km2 = 47.13 | area_land_km2 = 36.63 | area_water_km2 = 10.50 | population_footnotes = <ref name="Census 2020">{{Cite web| url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?q=&g=1600000US2656320&tid=DECENNIALPL2020.P1| title=P1. Race – Muskegon city, Michigan: 2020 DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171)| publisher=U.S. Census Bureau| access-date=December 13, 2023}}</ref> | population_as_of = 2020 | population_total = 38318 | pop_est_as_of = | pop_est_footnotes = | population_est = | population_note = | population_urban = | population_metro = 175824<ref name="Metro 2020"/> | population_density_sq_mi = 2709.33 | population_density_km2 = 1046.05 | timezone = EST | utc_offset = &minus;5 | timezone_DST = EDT | utc_offset_DST = &minus;4 | elevation_ft = 617 | coordinates = {{coord|43|14|03|N|86|14|54|W|region:US-MI_type:city_source:GNIS|display=inline}} | elevation_m = 191.4 | postal_code_type = ZIP codes | postal_code = 49440-49445 | area_code = 231 | blank_name = FIPS code | blank_info = 26-56320<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov |publisher=United States Census Bureau |access-date=2008-01-31 |title=U.S. Census website }}</ref> | blank1_name = GNIS feature ID | blank1_info = 1620963<ref>{{Cite GNIS|1620963|Muskegon}}</ref> | website = {{URL|www.muskegon-mi.gov}} | footnotes = }}

'''Muskegon''' ({{IPAc-en|m|ə|ˈ|s|k|iː|ɡ|ən}} {{respell|mə|SKEE|gən}}) is a city in and the county seat of Muskegon County, Michigan, United States.<ref name="GR6">{{cite web|title=Find a County|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110531210815/http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|archive-date=2011-05-31|access-date=2011-06-07|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> Situated around a harbor of Lake Michigan, Muskegon is known for fishing, sailing regattas, and boating. It is the most populous city along Lake Michigan's eastern shore. At the 2020 census, the city's population was 38,318.<ref name="Census 2020"/> The city is administratively autonomous from adjacent Muskegon Township, and several locations in Muskegon Township and other surrounding townships have Muskegon addresses.

Muskegon is the center of the Muskegon metropolitan statistical area, which is coextensive with Muskegon County and had a population of 175,824 as of the 2020 census.<ref name="Metro 2020">{{Cite web| url=https://data.census.gov/table/DECENNIALPL2020.P1?g=310XX00US34740| title=P1. Race – Muskegon, MI Metro Area: 2020 DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171)| publisher=U.S. Census Bureau| access-date=December 13, 2023}}</ref> It is also part of the larger Grand Rapids-Kentwood-Muskegon-combined statistical area.<ref>{{Cite web| url=https://data.census.gov/table/DECENNIALDHC2020.P1?g=340XX00US26266| title=P1. Total Population - Grand Rapids-Kentwood-Muskegon, MI CSA: 2020 DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171)| publisher=U.S. Census Bureau| access-date=December 13, 2023}}</ref>

==History== [[File:Muskegon Michigan harbor entrance.jpg|thumb|left|The entrance to Muskegon Lake from Lake Michigan]]

The name "Muskegon" is derived from the Ottawa {{lang|otw|mashkiigong}}, meaning "marshy river or swamp".<ref>{{cite book |last=Sherman |first=Elizabeth B. |year=2003 |title=Beyond the Windswept Dunes: The Story of Maritime Muskegon |page=2 |location=Detroit |publisher=Wayne State University Press |isbn=0-8143-3127-0}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://ojibwe.lib.umn.edu/main-entry/mashkiig-ni |title=Ojibwe People's Dictionary: mashkiig |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=Ojibwe People's Dictionary |publisher=University of Minnesota |access-date=February 5, 2022 |quote=}}</ref>

The "Masquigon" River (Muskegon River) was identified on French maps dating from the late 17th century, suggesting French explorers had reached Michigan's western coast by that time. Father Jacques Marquette traveled northward through the area on his fateful trip to St. Ignace in 1675, and a party of French soldiers under La Salle's lieutenant, Henry de Tonty, passed through the area in 1679.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |title=History of Muskegon |url=https://www.co.muskegon.mi.us/770/History-of-Muskegon |website=co.muskegon.mi.u |access-date=7 June 2019}}</ref>

The county's earliest known Euro-American resident was Edward Fitzgerald, a fur trader and trapper who came to the Muskegon area in 1748 and who died there, reportedly being buried in the vicinity of White Lake. Between 1790 and 1800, a French-Canadian trader named Joseph La Framboise established a fur-trading post at the mouth of Duck Lake. Between 1810 and 1820, several French-Canadian fur traders, including Lamar Andie, Jean Baptiste Recollect, and Pierre Constant, had established fur-trading posts around Muskegon Lake.<ref name=":0" />

Euro-American settlement of Muskegon began in earnest in 1837, which coincided with the beginning of the exploitation of the area's extensive timber resources. The explosion of the lumber industry in 1837 inaugurated what some regard as the most romantic era in the history of the region. Lumbering in the mid-19th century brought many settlers, particularly from Germany, Netherlands, and Sweden.<ref name="St Mary">{{cite web|title=History of the Churches of St. Mary's, Our Lady of Grace & St. Jean Baptiste|url=http://stmarysmuskegon.org/home/history|website=Our Lady of Grace & St Mary Catholic Parishes, Muskegon|access-date=9 July 2015}}</ref>

Some Muskegon neighborhoods began as separate villages. Bluffton was founded as a lumbering village in 1862 in Laketon Township. It had its own post office from 1868 until 1892. Muskegon annexed it in 1889.<ref>Walter Romig, ''Michigan Place Names'', p. 68</ref>

==Geography== Muskegon is in western Muskegon County, on the south side of Muskegon Lake, a harbor of Lake Michigan. The city is bordered to the north, across Muskegon Lake, by the city of North Muskegon and Laketon Township. It is bordered to the east by Muskegon Township, to the southeast by Fruitport Township, to the south by the cities of Muskegon Heights, Roosevelt Park, and Norton Shores, and to the west by Lake Michigan. It is {{convert|42|mi}} northwest of Grand Rapids, {{convert|36|mi}} north of Holland, and {{convert|58|mi}} south of Ludington.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has an area of {{convert|18.20|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, of which {{convert|4.05|sqmi|sqkm|2}}, or 22.3%, are covered by water.<ref name="CenPopGazetteer2023"/> The Muskegon River empties into Muskegon Lake at the city's northeast end.

In May 2022, local environmental groups announced cleanup efforts along Muskegon Lake officially have been completed, leading the Environmental Protection Agency to begin its study to remove Muskegon Lake from the EPA's list of "Areas of Concern", which was expected to be finalized by the end of 2022 and promised additional new economic activity in the downtown and nearby lakefront neighborhoods.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carlson |first=Kate |title=Muskegon Lake cleanup milestone creates 'greater energy' around future developments |url=https://mibiz.com/sections/economic-development/muskegon-lake-cleanup-milestone-creates-greater-energy-around-future-developments |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=mibiz.com |language=en-GB}}</ref>

===Climate=== Muskegon has a humid continental climate (''Dfa'') with hot summers and cold winters. Precipitation is consistent year-round. Muskegon receives heavy lake-effect snow from Lake Michigan during winter. {{Weather box |location = Muskegon, Michigan (Muskegon County Airport) 1991–2020 normals,{{efn|Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the highest and lowest temperature readings during an entire month or year) calculated based on data at said location from 1991 to 2020.}} extremes 1896–present |single line = Y |collapsed = Y |Jan record high F = 63 |Feb record high F = 67 |Mar record high F = 82 |Apr record high F = 86 |May record high F = 96 |Jun record high F = 98 |Jul record high F = 99 |Aug record high F = 99 |Sep record high F = 95 |Oct record high F = 86 |Nov record high F = 76 |Dec record high F = 66 |year record high F = 99 |Jan avg record high F = 50.3 |Feb avg record high F = 51.1 |Mar avg record high F = 65.6 |Apr avg record high F = 76.0 |May avg record high F = 83.6 |Jun avg record high F = 89.1 |Jul avg record high F = 89.8 |Aug avg record high F = 88.4 |Sep avg record high F = 85.8 |Oct avg record high F = 76.4 |Nov avg record high F = 63.4 |Dec avg record high F = 53.3 |year avg record high F = 91.6 |Jan high F = 32.5 |Feb high F = 34.5 |Mar high F = 44.3 |Apr high F = 56.6 |May high F = 68.4 |Jun high F = 77.7 |Jul high F = 81.6 |Aug high F = 80.2 |Sep high F = 73.4 |Oct high F = 60.6 |Nov high F = 47.8 |Dec high F = 37.4 |year high F = 57.9 |Jan mean F = 26.6 |Feb mean F = 27.7 |Mar mean F = 35.7 |Apr mean F = 46.8 |May mean F = 57.9 |Jun mean F = 67.4 |Jul mean F = 71.9 |Aug mean F = 70.8 |Sep mean F = 63.5 |Oct mean F = 51.9 |Nov mean F = 41.0 |Dec mean F = 31.9 |year mean F = 49.4 |Jan low F = 20.7 |Feb low F = 20.8 |Mar low F = 27.1 |Apr low F = 36.9 |May low F = 47.5 |Jun low F = 57.2 |Jul low F = 62.2 |Aug low F = 61.3 |Sep low F = 53.5 |Oct low F = 43.2 |Nov low F = 34.1 |Dec low F = 26.3 |year low F = 40.9 |Jan avg record low F = 0.7 |Feb avg record low F = 2.4 |Mar avg record low F = 8.3 |Apr avg record low F = 21.8 |May avg record low F = 32.2 |Jun avg record low F = 42.5 |Jul avg record low F = 49.3 |Aug avg record low F = 48.6 |Sep avg record low F = 38.3 |Oct avg record low F = 28.3 |Nov avg record low F = 20.7 |Dec avg record low F = 10.0 |year avg record low F = −2.7 |Jan record low F = −21 |Feb record low F = −30 |Mar record low F = −11 |Apr record low F = 1 |May record low F = 22 |Jun record low F = 31 |Jul record low F = 39 |Aug record low F = 36 |Sep record low F = 27 |Oct record low F = 19 |Nov record low F = −14 |Dec record low F = −15 |year record low F = -30 |precipitation colour = green |Jan precipitation inch = 2.42 |Feb precipitation inch = 2.11 |Mar precipitation inch = 2.40 |Apr precipitation inch = 3.47 |May precipitation inch = 3.38 |Jun precipitation inch = 3.05 |Jul precipitation inch = 2.75 |Aug precipitation inch = 3.10 |Sep precipitation inch = 3.26 |Oct precipitation inch = 3.80 |Nov precipitation inch = 2.92 |Dec precipitation inch = 2.42 |year precipitation inch = 35.08 |Jan snow inch = 29.1 |Feb snow inch = 20.0 |Mar snow inch = 7.5 |Apr snow inch = 1.8 |May snow inch = 0.0 |Jun snow inch = 0.0 |Jul snow inch = 0.0 |Aug snow inch = 0.0 |Sep snow inch = 0.0 |Oct snow inch = 0.0 |Nov snow inch = 6.5 |Dec snow inch = 22.3 |year snow inch = 87.2 |unit precipitation days = 0.01 in |Jan precipitation days = 16.3 |Feb precipitation days = 12.9 |Mar precipitation days = 10.9 |Apr precipitation days = 12.5 |May precipitation days = 11.3 |Jun precipitation days = 10.0 |Jul precipitation days = 9.1 |Aug precipitation days = 9.1 |Sep precipitation days = 9.4 |Oct precipitation days = 12.6 |Nov precipitation days = 13.5 |Dec precipitation days = 14.9 |year precipitation days = 142.5 |unit snow days = 0.1 in |Jan snow days = 14.4 |Feb snow days = 11.7 |Mar snow days = 5.4 |Apr snow days = 1.4 |May snow days = 0.0 |Jun snow days = 0.0 |Jul snow days = 0.0 |Aug snow days = 0.0 |Sep snow days = 0.0 |Oct snow days = 0.2 |Nov snow days = 4.1 |Dec snow days = 10.9 |year snow days = 48.1 |humidity colour = green |Jan humidity = 78.1 |Feb humidity = 75.2 |Mar humidity = 71.1 |Apr humidity = 65.4 |May humidity = 64.1 |Jun humidity = 68.2 |Jul humidity = 70.6 |Aug humidity = 74.5 |Sep humidity = 76.4 |Oct humidity = 74.3 |Nov humidity = 74.9 |Dec humidity = 78.6 |year humidity = 72.6 |Jan dew point C = -8.3 |Feb dew point C = -8.1 |Mar dew point C = -4.2 |Apr dew point C = 0.6 |May dew point C = 6.1 |Jun dew point C = 12.0 |Jul dew point C = 15.3 |Aug dew point C = 15.4 |Sep dew point C = 11.8 |Oct dew point C = 5.7 |Nov dew point C = -0.1 |Dec dew point C = -5.4 |source 1 = NOAA (relative humidity and dew point 1961–1990)<ref> {{cite web |url = https://w2.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=grr |title = NowData – NOAA Online Weather Data |publisher = National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |access-date = May 8, 2021}}</ref><ref> {{cite web |url = https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/services/data/v1?dataset=normals-monthly-1991-2020&startDate=0001-01-01&endDate=9996-12-31&stations=USW00014840&format=pdf |publisher = National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |title = Station: Muskegon CO AP, MI |work = U.S. Climate Normals 2020: U.S. Monthly Climate Normals (1991-2020) |access-date = May 8, 2021 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230915211236/https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/services/data/v1?dataset=normals-monthly-1991-2020&startDate=0001-01-01&endDate=9996-12-31&stations=USW00014840&format=pdf |archive-date = 2023-09-15}}</ref><ref name= NOAA2> {{cite web |title = WMO climate normals for MUSKEGON/COUNTY ARPT MI 1961–1990 |publisher = National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |url = ftp://ftp.atdd.noaa.gov/pub/GCOS/WMO-Normals/TABLES/REG_IV/US/GROUP4/72636.TXT |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230915210026/ftp://ftp.atdd.noaa.gov/pub/GCOS/WMO-Normals/TABLES/REG_IV/US/GROUP4/72636.TXT |archive-date = 2023-09-15 |url-status = dead |access-date = September 15, 2023 }}</ref> |source 2 = World Meteorological Organization<ref name=WMOCLINO> {{cite web | url = http://data.un.org/Data.aspx?d=CLINO&f=ElementCode:11;CountryCode:US;StatisticCode:94&c=2,5,6,7,10,15,18,19,20,22,24,26,28,30,32,34,36,38,40,42,44,46&s=CountryName:asc,WmoStationNumber:asc,StatisticCode:asc&v=4 | publisher = World Meteorological Organization | title = World Meteorological Organization Standard Normals 1961–1990 | access-date = May 22, 2021}}</ref> }}

==Demographics== {{US Census population |1860= 1450 |1870= 6002 |1880= 11262 |1890= 22702 |1900= 20818 |1910= 24062 |1920= 36570 |1930= 41390 |1940= 47697 |1950= 48429 |1960= 46485 |1970= 44631 |1980= 40823 |1990= 40283 |2000= 40105 |2010= 38401 |2020= 38318 |footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2016}}</ref> | align = right | align-fn = center }}

===2020 census=== As of the 2020 census, Muskegon had a population of 38,318. The median age was 38.0 years. 21.2% of residents were under the age of 18 and 15.3% of residents were 65 years of age or older. For every 100 females there were 109.9 males, and for every 100 females age 18 and over there were 112.6 males age 18 and over.<ref name="Census2020DP">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Demographic Profile (DP1)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/dp?get=NAME%2CDP1_0021P%2CDP1_0024P%2CDP1_0025C%2CDP1_0049C%2CDP1_0045C%2CDP1_0069C%2CDP1_0073C%2CDP1_0125P%2CDP1_0126P%2CDP1_0129P%2CDP1_0133P%2CDP1_0137P%2CDP1_0138P%2CDP1_0139P%2CDP1_0141P%2CDP1_0142P%2CDP1_0143P%2CDP1_0145P%2CDP1_0146P%2CDP1_0147C%2CDP1_0148C%2CDP1_0149C%2CDP1_0156C%2CDP1_0157C%2CDP1_0158C%2CDP1_0159P%2CDP1_0160P&for=place%3A56320&in=state%3A26|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2021|access-date=April 10, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref><ref name="Census2020PL">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Redistricting Data (Public Law 94-171)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/pl?get=NAME%2CP1_001N%2CP1_003N%2CP1_004N%2CP1_005N%2CP1_006N%2CP1_007N%2CP1_008N%2CP1_009N%2CP2_001N%2CP2_002N%2CH1_001N%2CH1_002N&for=place%3A56320&in=state%3A26|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2021|access-date=April 10, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref>

100.0% of residents lived in urban areas, while 0.0% lived in rural areas.<ref name="Census2020DHC">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Demographic and Housing Characteristics (DHC)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/dhc?get=NAME%2CP2_002N%2CP2_003N&for=place%3A56320&in=state%3A26|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2023|access-date=April 10, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref>

There were 14,616 households in Muskegon, of which 27.1% had children under the age of 18 living in them. Of all households, 25.4% were married-couple households, 24.6% were households with a male householder and no spouse or partner present, and 40.6% were households with a female householder and no spouse or partner present. About 39.5% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.<ref name="Census2020DP"/>

There were 16,184 housing units, of which 9.7% were vacant. The homeowner vacancy rate was 2.3% and the rental vacancy rate was 7.2%.<ref name="Census2020DP"/>

{| class="wikitable" |+ Racial composition as of the 2020 census<ref name="Census2020PL" /> ! Race !! Number !! Percent |- | White || 20,208 || 52.7% |- | Black or African American || 13,101 || 34.2% |- | American Indian and Alaska Native || 390 || 1.0% |- | Asian || 148 || 0.4% |- | Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander || 10 || 0.0% |- | Some other race || 1,570 || 4.1% |- | Two or more races || 2,891 || 7.5% |- | ''Hispanic or Latino (of any race)'' || 3,535 || 9.2% |}

===2010 census=== As of the census<ref name="wwwcensusgov">{{cite web|title=U.S. Census website|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=2012-11-25}}</ref> of 2010, 38,401 people, 13,967 households, and 7,895 families resided in the city. The population density was {{convert|2702.4|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|1}}. The 16,105 housing units had an average density of {{convert|1133.4|/sqmi|/km2|1}}. The racial makeup of the city was 57.0% White, 34.5% African American, 0.9% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 2.6% from other races, and 4.5% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 8.2% of the population.

Of the 13,967 households, 32.5% had children under 18 living with them, 27.9% were married couples living together, 22.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.5% were not families. About 36.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% had someone living alone who was 65 or older. The average household size was 2.38. and the average family size was 3.09.

The median age in the city was 34.1 years; the age distribution was 23.3% were under 18; 12.2% from 18 and 24; 28.8% from 25 to 44; 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% were 65 or older. The city's gender makeup was 52.1% male and 47.9% female.

===2000 census=== As of the census<ref name="GR2" /> of 2000,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.city-data.com/city/Muskegon-Michigan.html|title=Muskegon, Michigan|work=city-data.com}}</ref> 40,105 people, 14,569 households, and 8,537 families were residing in the city. The population density was {{convert|2,794.5|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The 15,999 housing units had an average density of {{convert|1,114.8|/sqmi|/km2|abbr=on}}. The racial makeup of the city was 57.9% White, 31.7% African American, 2.3% Native American, 0.46% Asian, 2.7% from other races, and 3.50% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any origins were 6.4% of the population.

Of the 14,569 households, 31.1% had children under 18 living with them, 33.2% were married couples living together, 20.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.4% were not families. About 34.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.9% had someone living alone who was 65 or older. The average household size was 2.42, and the average family size was 3.13.

In the city, the age distribution was 25.8% under 18, 11.6% from 18 to 24, 32.2% from 25 to 44, 18.0% from 45 to 64, and 12.4% who were 65 age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.6 males. For every 100 females 18 and over, there were 110.3 males.

The city's median income for a household was $27,929, and for a family was $32,640. Males had a median income of $29,114 versus $22,197 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,283. About 16.8% of families and 20.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.6% of those under age 18 and 14.3% of those 65 or over. ==Economy== thumb|VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center Downtown Muskegon serves as the hub for much of Muskegon County. Positioned along the southern shoreline of Muskegon Lake, it stretches for nearly two miles. Downtown is home to a number of hotels, a 25,000-square-foot convention center completed in 2021, and the Trinity Health Arena.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Muskegon MI |url=https://www.walkscore.com/score/meskegon-mi |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=Walk Score |language=en}}</ref> The Muskegon Farmer's Market welcomes more than 10,000 visitors every Saturday in the summer, and the boutique incubator shops and chalets on Western Avenue are a popular attraction for residents and tourists looking to support small businesses.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Marla R. |title=Smaller spaces, niche products move Muskegon's retail sector forward |url=https://mibiz.com/sections/real-estate-development/smaller-spaces-niche-products-move-muskegon-s-retail-sector-forward |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=mibiz.com |language=en-GB}}</ref>

==Arts and culture== [[File:Michigan Theater.jpg|thumb|Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts]]

Muskegon is home to several historical war ships and vessels. The USS Silversides Submarine Museum<ref>{{Cite web|title=USS Silversides Museum: Reliving Naval History. WW2 Submarine Museum|url=https://silversidesmuseum.org/|access-date=2023-01-01|website=USS Silversides Museum|language=en-US}}</ref> which features {{USS|Silversides|SS-236|6}}, a World War II submarine; {{USS|LST-393}}, a World War II tank landing ship; and USCGC ''McLane'', a Prohibition-era United States Coast Guard cutter. In addition, Muskegon also berths {{ship||Milwaukee Clipper}}, a former passenger ship built in 1904 that traveled the same route as Lake Express does today.

The Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts includes two theaters, the main historic Frauenthal house and the smaller Beardsley Theater in the adjoining Hilt Building.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://frauenthal.org/?page=home|title=Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts|work=frauenthal.org}}</ref> It was refurbished in 1998 and again in 2021, and hosts JAM Theatrical productions, Muskegon Civic Theatre productions, and is home of the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.muskegoncivictheatre.org/|title=Muskegon Civic Theatre|work=muskegoncivictheatre.org}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://westmichigansymphony.org/index.php |title=West Michigan Symphony Orchestra |work=westmichigansymphony.org |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130617144123/http://westmichigansymphony.org/index.php |archive-date=2013-06-17 }}</ref> The Frauenthal was originally built as the Michigan Theater in 1929.

The Muskegon Museum of Art opened in 1912. Among the highlights of its permanent collection is ''Tornado Over Kansas'', by John Steuart Curry.<ref>{{Cite web|title=History|url=https://muskegonartmuseum.org/history/|access-date=2020-12-24|website=Muskegon Art Museum|date=18 November 2008 }}</ref> Muskegon has a growing collection of publicly owned and displayed art pieces. More than two dozen pieces are on permanent display, predominately in the downtown area.

thumb|{{USS|Silversides|SS-236|6}} at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum

Lakeshore Museum Center and Hackley & Hume Historic Site, built by Muskegon's lumber barons, are restored and open to the public.<ref>[http://www.muskegonmuseum.org/about_us.html] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141021081458/http://www.muskegonmuseum.org/about_us.html|date=October 21, 2014}}</ref> The Hackley & Hume mansions are part of downtown Muskegon's Heritage Village—two blocks from Muskegon Lake, and a National Register Historic District. The mansions are operated with the Lakeshore Museum Center, which details the history of Muskegon County, from the Potawatomi and Odawa Native American tribes and lakeside fur traders to the Lumber Queen of the World to today.

===Festivals=== Events held in the town include: *Taste of Muskegon in June *Parties in the Park, every Friday from June to August at Hackley Park *The Lakeshore Art Festival in June *WeDiscover Festival in July, a two-day festival of electronic dance music, import and luxury cars, food, fireworks and family activities. *Motorcycle rally in July *Burning Foot Beer Festival held at Pere Marquette Beach *The Unity Christian Music Festival in August at Heritage Landing *The Michigan Irish Music Festival in September at Heritage Landing *The Muskegon Polish Festival on Labor Day weekend.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Muskegon Polish Festival|url=https://www.muskegonpolishfest.com/|access-date=2020-12-24|website=Muskegon Polish Festival|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Moose Fest 2019|url=https://www.wmta.org/event-detail/moose-fest-2019/|access-date=2020-12-24|website=West Michigan Tourist Association|language=en-US}}</ref> *The International Buster Keaton Society annual convention in October.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://busterkeaton.com/2014/|title=2014 Buster Keaton Convention|work=busterkeaton.com|access-date=2016-07-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160323214204/http://busterkeaton.com/2014/|archive-date=2016-03-23|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Fraternal Organizations=== Fraternal organizations are a vibrant part of life in Western Michigan. Clubs with active memberships include: * Independent Order of Vikings * Fraternal Order of Eagles * Knights of Columbus * Polish Falcons * Lithuanian Club * Muskegon Recreational Club * Lakeside Veterans Club

==Sports== {| class="wikitable" |- ! style="width:150px;"|'''Club''' ! style="width:125px;"|'''Sport''' ! style="width:270px;"| '''League''' ! style="width:180px;"| '''Venue''' |- |Muskegon Lumberjacks |Ice hockey |United States Hockey League |Trinity Health Arena |- |West Michigan Ironmen |Indoor football |American Arena League |Trinity Health Arena |- |Muskegon Risers SC |Soccer |UPSL & Premier Arena Soccer League |Trinity Health Arena and Kehern Stadium |}

Previous sports teams to play in Muskegon have included:

{| class="wikitable" |- " ! Club !! Sport !! Played from !! League !! Stadium |- |Muskegon Lumberjacks/Fury (1992–2010) |Hockey |1992−2010 |IHL, UHL |Mercy Health Arena |- |Muskegon Thunder |Indoor football |2007−2009 |IFL |Mercy Health Arena |- |Michigan Mayhem |Basketball |2004−2006 |CBA |Mercy Health Arena |- |Muskegon Lumberjacks (1984–1992) |Hockey |1984−1992 |IHL |Mercy Health Arena |- |Muskegon Mohawks |Hockey |1965−1984 |IHL |Mercy Health Arena |- |Muskegon Zephyrs |Hockey |1960−1965 |IHL |Mercy Health Arena |- |Muskegon Lassies |Baseball |1946−1949 |AAGPBL |Marsh Field |}

The Seaway Run is run every year in late June. It features a 15k race, 5k race, 5k walk for fun, 15k wheelchair race.

==Parks and recreation== thumb|upright|Muskegon Break Water Light on Lake Michigan

Pere Marquette Beach is the largest free public beach on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Windsurfing, kite boarding competitions, and professional volleyball tournaments are held there. Its quartz sand beach is expansive and bordered by large sand dunes. The beach area is popular with cyclists, runners, and hikers, and families. It faces to the west so sunsets are remarkable.

Muskegon Lakeshore Bike Trail allows for biking along the shores of Muskegon Lake to Lake Michigan, with two trails for bike paths, one on the east side of Muskegon and the other along the north side, which northerly connects to other trails, such as the Hart-Montague Bike Trail, making it possible to bike from Muskegon to Hart, Michigan, without ever leaving a bike trail.

Muskegon State Park has a Winter Sports Complex that features ice fishing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and a luge track. P.J. Hoffmaster State Park has many sand dunes as well as two campgrounds and a public beach.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/wildlife/viewingguide/slp/79Hoffmaster/index.htm|title=P.J. Hoffmaster State Park|work=michigandnr.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117023831/http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/wildlife/viewingguide/slp/79Hoffmaster/index.htm|archive-date=2015-11-17}}</ref>

Michigan's Adventure, the largest amusement park in the state, is in Muskegon County, a few miles north of the city of Muskegon. Michigan's Adventure features a midway with roller coasters, other rides, amusements, and a full water park.

Muskegon Country Club was founded in 1908 and features a course design by Tom Bendelow and a course redesign by Donald Ross.

==Government== {{see also|List of mayors of Muskegon, Michigan}} The city operates under a Commission-Manager form of local government. A seven-member city commission, comprising a mayor and six commissioners, serves as the legislative and executive branch. Four commissioners are elected from wards, while two commissioners are elected at large. The mayor is also elected at large and serves as chairman of the commission. The city commission hires a city manager to manage the daily operations of the city.{{citation needed|date=May 2024}}

==Education== [[File:Hackley Public Library.jpg|thumb|Hackley Library]]

Muskegon Public Schools was founded in 1860 and serves students from preschool through grade 12. Additionally, it runs the Muskegon Training and Education Center. Muskegon is also served by these private K-12 schools: Muskegon Catholic Central, Fruitport Calvary Christian, and Western Michigan Christian.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.muskegonpublicschools.org/administration/District_Information/|title=District Information|work=muskegonpublicschools.org|access-date=11 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151026012914/http://www.muskegonpublicschools.org/administration/District_Information/|archive-date=26 October 2015}}</ref>

Muskegon is also served by Muskegon Community College and Baker College. Western Michigan University, Ferris State University, and Grand Valley State University all operate programs out of the Stevenson Center for Higher Education on the Muskegon Community College campus.

==Media== Muskegon's leading newspaper is ''The Muskegon Chronicle''. ''The Chronicle'' is a daily newspaper owned by Booth Newspapers. It started publication in 1857.

Muskegon is served by the local television station WMKG-CD.

The Muskegon area is also served by several radio stations. WUVS-LP 103.7 is a popular urban (hip-hop/R&B) and gospel station with local programming as well as Sunday religious programming and local-based talk. Another local low-powered FM station is WUGM-LP 106.1, owned by the Muskegon Training and Education Center, which airs an Urban Oldies format dubbed "M-TEC 106 FM, Rock 'n' Soul." A Newer LP-FM Station WFFR-LP 100.9 also offers local programming along with a classic hits format. The station is based out of nearby Roosevelt Park. Other local FM stations include 90.3 WBLV-FM (classical/jazz/NPR), 91.7 WMCQ-FM (religious), WWSN FM 92.5 (adult contemporary), WGVS-FM 95.3 (public radio), WLAW-FM FM 97.5 (country), WLCS-FM 98.3 (oldies), WVIB-FM 100.1 (urban contemporary), WMRR-FM 101.7 (classic rock), WSNX-FM 104.5 (top 40, studios in Grand Rapids), WOOD-FM 106.9 (news/talk, simulcast of WOOD-AM 1300/Grand Rapids), and WMUS FM 107.9 (country). Other local AM stations aside from WKBZ include WSMZ 850, WLAW 1490 (country).

==Transportation== [[File:ISS067-E-174325 Muskegon, Michigan.jpg|thumb|Muskegon as seen from the International Space Station in 2022]]

Public transportation is provided by the Muskegon Area Transit System (MATS – "The Shore Line"), which operates nine bus routes, three trolley routes, and a paratransit system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.co.muskegon.mi.us/catchthewave/mats/mats_history.html|title=MATS History|website=www.co.muskegon.mi.us|access-date=2009-05-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071009182632/http://www.co.muskegon.mi.us/catchthewave/mats/mats_history.html|archive-date=2007-10-09|url-status=dead}}</ref> MATS serves the Herman Ivory Passenger Terminal.<ref>{{Cite web| last = sklooste@mlive.com| first = Stephen Kloosterman | title = Muskegon's new $2.8M downtown bus station to open Saturday| work = MLive.com| access-date = 2016-11-21| date = 2015-07-30| url = http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2015/07/muskegons_new_24m_downtown_bus.html}}</ref>

MATS operates the Muskegon Trolley Company. Three routes cover the north side, south side, and downtown; each trolley stops at 11 locations, including Hackley and Hume Historic Site, USS Silversides, and Muskegon State Park.

Greyhound Lines operated out of downtown Muskegon for many years as the end point of their cross-state route along I-96 to Detroit. Services were suspended during the severe downturn in travel during the COVID Pandemic of 2020. While regional bus carrier Indian Trails picked up the bulk of Greyhound’s former Michigan services, no intercity coach service has been restored to Muskegon as of 2025.

Commercial air service is currently provided by Denver Air Connection operating regional jet flights at Muskegon County Airport (MKG), with nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare Airport. Other airlines provide passenger service via the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids.

Muskegon is the eastern port of the Lake Express High-Speed Car Ferry that crosses Lake Michigan to Milwaukee, Wisconsin offering three roundtrips a day in the summer, and two roundtrips in the fall.

===Major roads=== Several major highways serve the city, including: {{Col-begin}} {{Col-break}} '''Interstates''' *{{jct|country=USA|I|96}} {{Col-break}} '''U.S. Highways''' *{{jct|state=MI|US|31}} *{{jct|state=MI|US-Bus|31|dab1=Muskegon}}, a business loop {{Col-break}} '''Other state highways''' *{{jct|state=MI|M|46}} *{{jct|state=MI|M|120}} {{col-end}}

===Rail=== [[File:Union Depot - Muskegon 01.jpg|thumb|Union Depot]]

The Michigan Shore Railway, provides freight rail service for many of Muskegon's industries. Rail passenger services ended in 1971 with the advent of Amtrak; the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad’s routes in Michigan were not included in the initial Amtrak system. The nearest passenger rail available is via Amtrak in nearby Holland or Grand Rapids. Until 1971, the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway (successor to the Pere Marquette Railway) operated day and night trains from Union Station to Holland and Chicago. The C&O became a unit of Chessie System in 1973 and subsequently CSX Transportation in 1987. CSX leased their Muskegon area lines to MS in 2005.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ctr.trains.com/~/media/import/files/pdf/f/7/7/passenger_trains_operating_on_the_eve_of_amtrak.pdf|title="Trains," "Passenger trains operating on the eve of Amtrak"}}</ref> The Grand Trunk Western and the Pennsylvania Railroad had earlier operated passenger trains out of another Muskegon station to various points in Michigan.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Index of Railroad Stations, 1430 |journal=Official Guide of the Railways |publisher=National Railway Publication Company |volume=71 |issue=3 |date=August 1938}}</ref>

===Ferries=== In 1937, the Grand Trunk Western began operating ferries that met up with train and carried passengers and automobiles across Lake Michigan to Milwaukee. Earlier, the GTW had operated the ferries out of Grand Haven. The GTW stopped operating the ferries in 1978. The last remaining ferries across the lake would be the ones launching from Ludington, Michigan<ref>{{cite journal |title=Canadian National Railway-Grand Trunk, Table 150 |journal=Official Guide of the Railways |publisher=National Railway Publication Company |volume=71 |issue=3 |date=August 1938}}</ref><ref>Hofsomer, Don. Grand Trunk Corporation, The Canadian National Railways in the United States 1971–1992. 1995. Michigan State University Press. {{ISBN|18790-94703}}</ref> until the Lake Express first came into service on June 1, 2004.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Stroud |first1=Toni |title=A new shortcut across the lake |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/travel/chi-0406130001jun13-story.html |website=Chicago Tribune |access-date=17 October 2021}}</ref>

==Notable people== {{More citations needed|date=July 2014}}

<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦---> * John Beyrle, son of Joseph Beyrle, U.S. ambassador to the Russian Federation; confirmed July 3, 2008 * Joseph Beyrle, only soldier to have served in both the US Army and the Soviet Army in World War II * Nancy Anne Fleming, Miss America 1961 * Seth Privacky, murderer<ref>{{cite web |title=Teen confessing to gunning down family |url=http://www.pub.umich.edu/daily/1998/dec/12-02-98/news/news10.html |website=The Michigan Daily Online |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060920010029/http://www.pub.umich.edu/daily/1998/dec/12-02-98/news/news10.html |accessdate=2022-08-04|archive-date=2006-09-20 }}</ref> * Vonda Kay Van Dyke, Miss America 1965 * Captain Jonathan Walker, "The Man With the Branded Hand" abolitionist

'''Business and politics''' * Margaret Bailey Chandler, community leader and member of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians * Tudor Dixon, politician<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/elections/2022/08/03/who-is-tudor-dixon-michigan-governor-race/10221347002/|title=Who is Tudor Dixon? 4 facts on Michigan governor candidate|website=freep.com}}</ref> * Charles Hackley (1837–1905), lumber baron, philanthropist (Hackley Hospital, Hackley Library, Hackley Administration Building, Hackley Avenue, Hackley Art Gallery, Hackley Park). After a gift of $12 million to the community, the city of Muskegon considered changing its name to "Hackleyville". thumb|right|Charles Hackley House * Richard Mell, politician

'''Religion''' * Jim Bakker, TV evangelist * Edmund Cardinal Szoka, cardinal, President Emeritus of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State

'''Science and technology''' * Heber Doust Curtis (1872-1942), astronomer * Clara H. Hasse (1880–1926), botanist * David Leestma, astronaut * W. Wesley Peterson, mathematician and computer scientist, invented the Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)

'''Artists''' * Haddon Sundblom, graphic artist, created popular images of Santa Claus for Coca-Cola

'''Authors''' * Laurie Keller, children's book writer and illustrator best known for ''The Scrambled States of America'' and ''Grandpa Gazillion's Number Yard'' * Douglas Malloch, the “lumberman’s poet” * John Frederick Nims, poet * Cathy O'Brien, conspiracy theorist and author * Lewis B. Smedes, theologian and author * Bob Wood, author of ''Dodger Dogs to Fenway Franks'' and ''Big Ten Country''

'''Music''' * Børns, singer and songwriter, born in Muskegon * Steve Gorman, drummer, Black Crowes, born in Muskegon * Rick Johnson, musician, bass player for Mustard Plug * Bettye LaVette, soul singer * Iggy Pop, punk rock icon *Louise Cooper Spindle, composer<ref>{{Cite book|last=Stern|first=Susan|title=Women composers : a handbook|date=1978|publisher=Scarecrow Press|isbn=0-8108-1138-3|location=Metuchen, N.J.|oclc=3844725}}</ref> <!-- * Rodney Schaub, musician, Pratt & McClain, born in Muskegon --> * Wayne Static, lead singer and guitarist for industrial metal band Static-X * Bill Szymczyk, music producer of the Eagles, The Who and others * Gerry Teifer, music publisher, songwriter, performer * Richard Versalle, opera singer

'''Stage''' * Carly Jibson, Broadway and television actress, played Tracy Turnblad in the first national tour company of ''Hairspray'' and originated the role of Pepper in the musical ''Cry Baby'' * Buster Keaton, iconic comedian and film director; born in Kansas and spent childhood summers in Muskegon with his family in the Muskegon Actors' Colony.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.actorscolony.com/|title=Muskegon Actors' Colony – Home Page|work=actorscolony.com}}</ref> A vaudevillian who traveled constantly except in summer, Keaton regarded Muskegon as his home town. * Kate Reinders, Broadway actress, played Glinda in ''Wicked'' and Caroline in ''Good Vibrations''

'''Television''' * Matt Crouch, film producer and CEO of TBN * Harry Morgan, versatile stage, film and TV actor, played Colonel Potter on the TV series ''M*A*S*H'' (1972–1983) * Frank Stanton, former president of CBS * Quincy Isaiah, actor and former football player, played Magic Johnson in the HBO series ''Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty'' * Beth Smith, fictional character from television series ''Rick and Morty''

'''Sports''' * Justin Abdelkader, NHL player, Detroit Red Wings * Curtis Adams, NFL player, San Diego Chargers * Beatrice Allard, All-American Girls Professional Baseball League player * Virginia Bell, served in the Women's Army Corps in Japan during World War II and later joined the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League<ref name=Madden>Madden, W. C. (2005) ''The Women of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League: A Biographical Dictionary'' (2005). {{ISBN|978-0-7864-2263-0}}</ref> * Donna Cook, AAGPBL player * Doris Cook, AAGPBL player * Deyonta Davis, NBA player, Memphis Grizzlies * Miss Dougal, AAGPBL player, 1953 Muskegon Belles * Tony Ferguson, winner of Ultimate Fighter Season 13 * Mike Garvey, racing driver * Bill Green, former United States and NCAA record holder in Track and Field, 5th place in 1984 Olympic Games in the hammer throw. His father William Hipkiss (1932-2008) was an attorney and resident of Muskegon for 40 years * Bobby Grich, MLB All-Star second baseman for the Baltimore Orioles and California Angels * Mark Grimmette, men's double luge, winner of Olympic silver (2002) and bronze (1998) medals * Mark Hughes, basketball player and coach * Ronald Johnson, University of Southern California and San Francisco 49ers wide receiver * Dasha Kovalova, professional bowler and five-time PWBA Tour champion (born in Ukraine and now resides in Muskegon)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/lakeshore/muskegon/a-chance-to-start-fresh-muskegon-community-steps-up-when-pro-bowlers-family-flees-war-in-ukraine|title='A chance to start fresh': Muskegon community steps up when pro bowler's family flees Ukraine |last=Monaghan|first=Remi|website=fox17online.com|date=30 July 2023|access-date=13 May 2024}}</ref> * Alta Little, AAGPBL player * Ruvell Martin, NFL player for the Seattle Seahawks * Nate McCrary, NFL running back for the Baltimore Ravens * Beulah McGillicutty, manager in Extreme Championship Wrestling * Nate McLouth, MLB player for the Washington Nationals * Earl Morrall, Michigan State and NFL quarterback, three-time Super Bowl champion * Robert Morse, NFL player for the New Orleans Saints * Drew Naymick, professional basketball player * Don Nelson, NBA player for Boston Celtics and coach in Basketball Hall of Fame, University of Iowa basketball player * Ray Newman, MLB pitcher * Bennie Oosterbaan, three-time University of Michigan All-American football player and head coach * Kalil Pimpleton, New York Giants wide receiver * Marley Shriver, Olympic swimmer * Terrance Taylor, Detroit Lions defensive tackle * Anthony Bradford, American football, Right Guard LSU, Seattle Seahawks

==Sister cities== *{{flagdeco|Japan}} Ōmuta, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan *{{flagdeco|UK}} Hartlepool, County Durham, United Kingdom *{{flagdeco|Turkey}} Antalya, Turkey

==See also== {{Portal|Michigan}} *Michigan Heritage Park

==Notes== {{notelist}}

==References== {{reflist|30em}}

==External links== {{Commons category|Muskegon, Michigan}} {{Wikivoyage|Muskegon}} * {{Official website|http://www.muskegon-mi.gov/ }} * [http://www.muskegon.org/ Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce]

{{Muskegon County, Michigan}} {{Michigan}} {{Great Lakes Megalopolis}} {{Michigan county seats}} {{Authority control}} {{Coord|43|14|03|N|86|14|54|W|region:US-MI_type:city_source:GNIS|display=title}}

Category:Muskegon, Michigan Category:Cities in Muskegon County, Michigan Category:County seats in Michigan Category:Michigan placenames of Native American origin Category:Michigan populated places on Lake Michigan Category:Michigan Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Category:Populated places in the United States established in 1837 Category:1837 establishments in Michigan