If you’re a history buff, lighthouses in michigan are definitely worth a visit. From spectacular sunrises to breakfast delivered right to your room, you’ll love spending time in these landmarks. If you’re on a budget, you can always rent a car to explore the area and see the lighthouses in person.
About LightHouses In Michigan
Lighthouses in Michigan are not the only attractions to visit in the state. There are over 100 lighthouses in Michigan, and nearly half of them are on the Lake Superior shoreline. The state’s lighthouses are unique in their shape and history. Some of them even have keeper’s quarters, which are now used as lodging and museums. You can learn more about their unique history by visiting these landmarks.
But if you’re pressed for time, consider taking the scenic ferry ride from Detroit to Lake Michigan. Many of the lighthouses in Michigan were built in the late 1800s, and many of them still operate today. The state supports the preservation of lighthouses with an official state preservation society and the Great Lakes Keepers Association, both of which have extensive historical information. If you’re traveling by car, the McGulpin Point Lighthouse, built in 1868, is a good place to spend the night.
Best LightHouses In Michigan
=> The Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse
The Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse, built in 1868, is an old wood building with a square tower and a beautiful view of Lake Superior. The structure is backed by a forest of trees and resembles an old church. In addition to its historical significance, the lighthouses in Michigan are also popular tourist destinations.
Marquette Harbor Light, located in the city of Marquette, protected ships entering the city’s coal docks. From the 19th century until the late 1800s, it was the leading iron ore port in the Great Lakes. The site includes a maritime museum and offers tours. There’s a $5 admission fee for adults, and you can tour the lighthouse.
=> Point Aux Barques
Point Aux Barques is one of the oldest and most photographed lighthouses in Michigan. This three-story building is also home to the state’s first female lighthouse keeper, Catherine Shook. Her husband drowned in the lake, leaving her to take over the duties of keeping the lighthouse. Visitors can explore the grounds and playgrounds, which are right on Lake Huron. Unlike other lighthouses in Michigan, this one is open to the public only on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
=> Eagle River Lighthouse
The Eagle River Lighthouse is located in the town of Eagle River, Michigan. Completed in 1855, it is one of the oldest lighthouses in Michigan and one of the most photographed lighthouses in the state. The lighthouse is open to visitors during summer months and provides stunning views of Lake Superior.
=> Rock Harbor Lighthouse
Rock Harbor Lighthouse is one of the most iconic lighthouses in Michigan. Standing tall on a bluff overlooking the harbor, it is a popular tourist destination. The lighthouse was built in 1857 and has been in continuous use since then. The light can be seen for up to 20 miles out to sea and is still operational today.
=> Sleeping Bear Dunes Lighthouse
The Sleeping Bear Dunes Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the shore of Lake Michigan in the town of Empire in Sleeping Bear County, Michigan. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The lighthouse is open to the public for tours during the summer months.
=> Mackinac Island Lighthouse
Mackinac Island is a picturesque island located in the Straits of Mackinac, just south of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The island is home to the beautiful Mackinac Island Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in America. The lighthouse was built in 1855 and is a replica of an earlier lighthouse that was destroyed by a hurricane. Today, visitors can tour the lighthouse and see its beautiful architecture and stunning views.
=> St. Mary’s River Light Station
The St. Mary’s River Light Station is a lighthouse located in the town of Oscoda, Michigan. The light station was first established in 1835 and remained active until 1984. Today, the light station is operated as a museum by the Michigan Historical Society.
=> Sault Ste. Marie LightHouse Museum
The Sault Ste. Marie LightHouse Museum is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in lighthouses. The museum has exhibits on the history of lighthouses, as well as on the construction and operation of lighthouses. There are also displays on navigation and astronomy, and on the role of lighthouses in maritime commerce. The museum is open from mid-April to mid-November, and admission is free.
=> Beaver Island Harbor Lighthouse
Beaver Island Harbor Lighthouse is unique from other lights in Michigan because it’s situated on St. James, Beaver Island, 27 miles from the shores of Charlevoix. It’s possible to relax on the lighthouse’s deck and watch the Emerald Isle Ferry depart and come back from the harbor, which is filled with the smiles of those who visit the island.
In addition, right across the street is the well-known Beaver Island Toy Museum It’s a tiny shop that is filled with antiques and toys, as well as beads, jewelry, as well as an art gallery.
=> Big Sable Point Lighthouse
From May through the month of October Big Sable Point Lighthouse is accessible for tours and is in the keeper’s residence. With over 100 feet in height the lighthouse is a major draw to Ludington State Park. It’s possible to reach the lighthouse at the end of less than two miles of trail. It’s a stunning place to view the sunset. it’s the ideal spot to relax and peace.
Did you know that Ludington is also the home of the House of Flavors Ice Cream? After you’ve had enough of enjoying your time, you can treat yourself to their ice cream shop in the city’s downtown area with our top recommendation being The Chocolate Malt Sundae. Yummmm!
=> Muskegon Lights
There are two lighthouses located in Muskegon in the form of Muskegon South Pierhead Light as well as Muskegon South Breakwater Light. Under Coast Guard management, regular tours of the South Pierhead Light are available in the summer. During the winter, you can walk all the way up to South Breakwater Light. South Breakwater Light.
=> Grand Haven Lighthouses
As with Muskegon, Grand Haven has two lighthouses. They are both located on the south end of the pier and are painted red. There is a lit catwalk that connects the two together to Grand Haven State Park and the beach. The beach is popular for fishing and viewing the sunset.