Ludlow’s After Dark

Once the sun sets and we tuck away the water toys, Ludlow’s Island Resort transforms, coming alive with the warm glow of bonfires, cozy nights with family and friends, and breathtaking lakeside views that make every night one to remember.

So, stay up a little later because we share all the amazing experiences you can enjoy on the Island after dark!

Gather ‘Round the Campfire

Bonfire and s’mores? Yes, please.

Our beach campfires on the Island are for everyone to enjoy. We’ll start up a bonfire upon request, where you and your favorite people can enjoy each other’s company, reconnect, and slow down with a glass of wine or sip on hot cocoa.

We also break out the s’mores on Sunday nights to create even more special and extra-sweet moments with family and friends. 

Stargazing

Ludlow’s is one of the best places you’ll ever stargaze. Far from city lights and excessive light pollution, the night sky opens up in full spectacle, shining bright with millions of stars glittering overhead.

Curl up with a blanket, get cozy, and take it all in. You’ll see plenty with the naked eye, but if you have binoculars or a small telescope, definitely toss them in your bag — you won’t regret it!
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Apps

If you’re curious about what you’re looking at, there are a bunch of great phone apps like Night Sky and Star Walk that identify which constellations you’re looking at in real time.

Staying on the Island also offers the rare opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. Without having to book a ticket to Iceland, guests have caught spectacular shows of swirling greens, purples, pinks, and blues dancing across the night sky at Ludlow’s.

The app Aurora is also a great one to add to your phone. It tracks when the Northern Lights are likely to appear, perfect for planning a stay that includes both a relaxing getaway and a one-of-a-kind celestial show.

Moonlit Lakeside

Catch the lake at its most magical. Illuminated by the moon and stars, the lake is the perfect spot for a romantic evening with your favorite person.

Cuddle up on one of the many island swings, relax on the North Dock lounge chairs, or settle in on the deck lounge chairs above the main dock to soak in the sunset and then stay to watch the stars come out.

Not only is dusk on the lake great for couples who already found their catch, but also for anglers who are hoping to still reel in their big catch!

The fish like to come out when the light is low to not only catch their dinner, but also because the low light offers more protection from fish-eating birds and other predators. This makes twilight prime time for anglers to make their move.

Cast off the dock or take your boat out on the water to hook a nighttime trophy.

Island Movie Nights

Upgrade your usual movie nights and head to our game room, complete with couches, a large television, and a library stocked with loads of movies.

Bring a tub of popcorn, cozy up with blankets, stock up on goodies from local spots like a stack of pastries from Rose Cottage Baking Co. or ice cream treats from Moosebirds, and then throw on some classic family-friendly flicks like Camp Nowhere or The Parent Trap. 

Plus, the game room is also kitted out with a Wii and other games if you want to up your entertainment level even more!

Nighttime Nature Walks

Grab your flashlight and your walking shoes to experience a whole other world on the island. Once the sun sets, nocturnal animals come out to play, and you have a chance to see some really unique creatures.

You might spot bats, owls, raccoons, porcupines, red foxes, and mink. You may catch loons calling from Lake Vermilion, and if you’re lucky, hear the howl of wolves in the distance!

Fun and Games

The party gets started at sundown. One of our favorite nighttime games is glow-in-the-dark ring toss. Perfect for families or your best buddies, bring along some glow stick bracelets, set up a few bottles on the beach, and have a blast. 

Beach pong is another great game that keeps the fun going. Pack a glow-in-the-dark ping pong ball and set up a few cups — it’s like beer pong but for all ages. Fill the cups with water, soda, or, if your party is all 21+, your favorite adult beverage!

Each cabin is also equipped with poker chips, playing cards, and cribbage boards, making it easy for every night to be a game night.

Nighttime on the Island truly has its own kind of magic. From chasing constellations to movie nights on the beach with the family, come discover a whole new side of Ludlow’s after dark!