The Muskegon area was originally inhabited by tribes of Ottawa and Pottawatomi Indians. The earliest known white residents of the county were French Canadian fur trappers who had established trading posts as early as 1748. Settlement of Muskegon began in earnest in 1837 with the exploitation of the area's extensive timber resources.

The City of Muskegon has always been linked to the fresh river and Lake Michigan waters that fostered growth and provided its quality of life. The City of Chicago rebuilt itself with Muskegon timber, shipped via Lake Michigan after the great fire of 1871. During the height of the lumbering era, Muskegon had more millionaires than any other town in America. Today the region is a global leader in advanced manufacturing, specializing in metals, plastics, and alternative energy. Manufacturers serve the aerospace, automotive, office furniture, and defense industries amoung others.

Muskegon has a lot to offer: beautiful beaches, scenic forests, bountiful fishing, outdoor life and culture are here to be enjoyed. Several business and community initiatives have continued to promote growth in the area. The Muskegon Public School system continuously strives for improvement.

There is plenty to do in Muskegon. It is home to West Michigan’s Cherry County Playhouse, hosting professional performances. A newly renovated sports arena supports the professional hockey team, as part of the revitalized downtown area. Heritage Landing is a summer fun hot spot City planner have turned a former industrial scrap yard into a hub of community activity. For ten days and nights it provides a scenic lakeshore playground for the annual Summer Celebration bringing in national music acts of all backgrounds.