Michigan Lighthouse Road Trip Guide
Explore Michigan’s historic lighthouses by region, discover which ones are open to visitors, and learn the best ways to experience each lighthouse—from scenic drives and hiking trails to boat tours and museum visits.
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Passage Island Lighthouse | Isle Royale National Park | 1882 | ❌ Not open to public | View by private boat or Isle Royale sightseeing cruise |
| 2. Rock Harbor Lighthouse | Isle Royale National Park | 1855 | ✅ Open seasonally | Ferry access, hiking, and guided tours through Isle Royale National Park |
| 3. Isle Royale (Menagerie Island) Lighthouse | Isle Royale National Park | 1875 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat tours around Isle Royale |
| 4. Rock of Ages Lighthouse | Western Isle Royale | 1910 | ⚠️ Limited access | Preservation tours when available or view by boat |
| 5. Ontonagon West Pierhead Lighthouse | Ontonagon | 1901 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the harbor pier and waterfront |
| 6. Ontonagon Lighthouse | Ontonagon | 1866 | ✅ Open seasonally | Museum tours and local historic site visits |
| 7. Fourteen Mile Point Lighthouse | Keweenaw Peninsula | 1894 | ⚠️ Limited access | Scenic hike and exterior viewing |
| 8. Keweenaw Upper Entrance Lighthouse | Keweenaw Waterway | 1856 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | View from nearby roads and waterfront |
| 9. Sand Hills Lighthouse | Ahmeek / Keweenaw | 1917 | ⚠️ Limited access | Stay as a guest or visit during scheduled events |
| 10. Eagle River Lighthouse | Eagle River | 1855 | ❌ Not open to public | Exterior viewing from nearby shoreline |
| 11. Eagle Harbor Lighthouse | Eagle Harbor | 1871 | ✅ Open seasonally | Museum tours and Keweenaw lighthouse visits |
| 12. Eagle Harbor Rear Range Lighthouse | Eagle Harbor | 1869 | ❌ Not open to public | Exterior viewing from nearby areas |
| 13. Copper Harbor Rear Range Lighthouse | Copper Harbor | 1869 | ❌ Not open to public | View from surrounding roads |
| 14. Copper Harbor Front Range Lighthouse | Copper Harbor | 1869 | ❌ Not open to public | View from waterfront areas |
| 15. Copper Harbor Lighthouse | Copper Harbor | 1848 / rebuilt 1866 | ⚠️ Limited access | Boat tours from Fort Wilkins Historic State Park |
| 16. Gull Rock Lighthouse | Lake Superior near Copper Harbor | 1867 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat |
| 17. Manitou Island Lighthouse | Keweenaw Peninsula | 1861 | ❌ Not open to public | Boat viewing only |
| 18. Mendota (Bete Gris) Lighthouse | Bete Gris Bay | 1895 | ❌ Private property | Exterior viewing from nearby areas |
| 19. Portage River (Jacobsville) Lighthouse | Jacobsville | 1856 | ❌ Not open to public | View from nearby roads |
| 20. Keweenaw Lower Entrance Lighthouse | Keweenaw Waterway | 1866 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Waterfront viewing |
| 21. Sand Point Lighthouse | Baraga | 1878 | ✅ Open seasonally | Museum tours |
| 22. Huron Island Lighthouse | Huron Islands | 1868 | ❌ Not open to public | Boat viewing only |
| 23. Big Bay Point Lighthouse | Big Bay | 1896 | ⚠️ Limited access | Lighthouse inn guests and special events |
| 24. Stannard Rock Lighthouse | Lake Superior offshore | 1882 | ❌ Not open to public | Boat tours and offshore viewing |
Marquette to Whitefish Point Lighthouses
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25. Granite Island Lighthouse | Marquette / Lake Superior | 1868 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat, kayak, or shoreline sightseeing cruise |
| 26. Presque Isle Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse | Marquette | 1941 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the Presque Isle Harbor breakwater when conditions allow |
| 27. Marquette Harbor Lighthouse | Marquette | 1866 | ✅ Open seasonally | Guided tours through the Marquette Maritime Museum |
| 28. Grand Island Harbor Rear Range Lighthouse | Grand Island / Munising | 1856 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat tours around Grand Island |
| 29. Grand Island North Lighthouse | Grand Island | 1856 | ❌ Not open to public | Boat viewing and sightseeing cruises |
| 30. Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse | Grand Island / Munising Bay | 1868 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat tours or shoreline areas |
| 31. Munising Rear Range Lighthouse | Munising | 1905 | ❌ Not open to public | Exterior viewing from nearby roads and harbor areas |
| 32. Munising Front Range Lighthouse | Munising | 1905 | ❌ Not open to public | View from the Munising waterfront |
| 33. Au Sable Point Lighthouse | Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | 1874 | ✅ Open seasonally | Scenic hike along the Lake Superior shoreline with guided tours |
| 34. Grand Marais Rear Range Lighthouse | Grand Marais | 1870 | ❌ Not open to public | View from the harbor and nearby streets |
| 35. Grand Marais Front Range Lighthouse | Grand Marais | 1908 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the harbor area and breakwater |
| 36. Crisp Point Lighthouse | Near Newberry / Lake Superior | 1903 | ✅ Open seasonally | Drive the remote lighthouse road and visit the museum grounds |
| 37. Whitefish Point Lighthouse | Paradise | 1849 | ✅ Open to public | Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and lighthouse grounds |
| 38. Point Iroquois Lighthouse | Brimley | 1857 | ✅ Open seasonally | Museum visit, tower climb, and scenic St. Marys River views |
| 39. Frying Pan Island Lighthouse | St. Marys River | 1929 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat |
| 40. Lower Nicolet Range Lighthouse | St. Marys River | 1885 | ❌ Not open to public | View from passing boats or shoreline areas |
| 41. Round Island Lighthouse (St. Marys River) | Near Sault Ste. Marie | 1895 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or Great Lakes sightseeing cruise |
| 42. Pipe Island Lighthouse | St. Marys River | 1884 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat |
| 43. DeTour Reef Lighthouse | DeTour Village | 1931 | ⚠️ Limited access | Scheduled boat tours through preservation organization |
| 44. Spectacle Reef Lighthouse | Northern Lake Huron | 1874 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or lighthouse cruise |
| 45. Martin Reef Lighthouse | Northern Lake Huron | 1927 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat |
Best Visitor Stops in This Region
If someone only has a few days to explore this section of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, these are the standout stops:
⭐ Whitefish Point Lighthouse
Best for history and shipwreck stories
- Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
- Lake Superior shoreline views
- One of Michigan’s most important maritime locations
⭐ Point Iroquois Lighthouse
Best scenic lighthouse visit
- Beautiful views of Lake Superior and the St. Marys River
- Family-friendly stop near Sault Ste. Marie
⭐ Au Sable Point Lighthouse
Best adventure lighthouse
- Located inside Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Requires a scenic hike along the shoreline
- Combines lighthouse history with some of Michigan’s best scenery
⭐ Crisp Point Lighthouse
Best remote lighthouse experience
- One of Michigan’s most isolated lighthouse destinations
- Popular with photographers and Lake Superior explorers
⭐ Marquette Harbor Lighthouse
Best city lighthouse visit
- Easy access
- Museum experience
- Great addition to a Lake Superior shoreline road trip
Straits of Mackinac & Northern Lake Michigan Lighthouses
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 46. Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse | Bois Blanc Island / Straits of Mackinac | 1867 | ❌ Not open to public | View by private boat or island sightseeing excursion |
| 47. Round Island Lighthouse (Mackinac) | Near Mackinac Island | 1895 | ❌ Not open to public | View from Mackinac Island ferries, cruises, or kayak tours |
| 48. Round Island Passage Lighthouse | Straits of Mackinac | 1948 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat tours and Mackinac Island cruises |
| 49. Wawatam Lighthouse | Mackinaw City | 1998 | ✅ Open to public | Visit the waterfront, walk the pier, and enjoy views of the Straits of Mackinac |
| 50. St. Helena Island Lighthouse | St. Helena Island / Lake Michigan | 1873 | ⚠️ Limited access | Special preservation trips, volunteer events, or boat tours |
| 51. Lansing Shoal Lighthouse | Northern Lake Michigan | 1928 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or Great Lakes lighthouse cruise |
| 52. Squaw Island Lighthouse (Harbor Island Light) | Big Bay de Noc | 1891 | ❌ Not open to public | View by private boat |
| 53. Seul Choix Point Lighthouse | Gulliver | 1895 | ✅ Open seasonally | Museum tours, lighthouse climb, and shoreline visit |
| 54. Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse | Manistique | 1916 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the public breakwater when weather permits |
| 55. St. Martin Island Lighthouse | St. Martin Island / Green Bay | 1875 | ⚠️ Limited access | Private boat access or occasional preservation tours |
| 56. Poverty Island Lighthouse | Northern Lake Michigan | 1874 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat |
| 57. Minneapolis Shoal Lighthouse | Lake Michigan near Big Bay de Noc | 1934 | ❌ Not open to public | Offshore viewing by boat |
| 58. Point Peninsula Lighthouse | Garden Peninsula | 1865 | ❌ Not open to public | Exterior viewing from nearby areas |
| 59. Escanaba Crib Lighthouse | Escanaba Harbor | 1934 | ❌ Not open to public | View from Ludington Park shoreline or by boat |
| 60. Sand Point Lighthouse (Escanaba) | Escanaba | 1867 | ✅ Open seasonally | Museum tours and waterfront visit |
| 61. Menominee North Pierhead Lighthouse | Menominee | 1927 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the harbor pier and waterfront |
Best Visitor Stops in This Region
⭐ Seul Choix Point Lighthouse
Best historic lighthouse experience
- Fully restored keeper’s quarters
- Museum exhibits
- Tower climb available
- Great stop along Michigan’s northern Lake Michigan shoreline
⭐ Sand Point Lighthouse (Escanaba)
Best Upper Peninsula accessible lighthouse
- Easy waterfront location
- Family-friendly museum
- Great addition to an Escanaba or Delta County trip
⭐ Wawatam Lighthouse
Best quick roadside lighthouse stop
- Located in downtown Mackinaw City
- Easy access without a hike or boat trip
- Beautiful views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac
⭐ Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse
Best walkable pier lighthouse
- One of the easiest lighthouses to experience
- Great sunset photography location
- Located near downtown Manistique attractions
⭐ St. Helena Island Lighthouse
Best preservation story
- Saved through volunteer restoration efforts
- Offers a glimpse into Michigan’s remote island lighthouse history
Suggested Road Trip Route
Northern Lake Michigan Lighthouse Loop
Mackinaw City → St. Ignace → Manistique → Escanaba → Menominee
Recommended stops:
- Wawatam Lighthouse
- Mackinaw City waterfront
- Seul Choix Point Lighthouse
- Historic tower and museum
- Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse
- Scenic harbor walk
- Sand Point Lighthouse
- Escanaba waterfront museum
- Menominee North Pierhead Lighthouse
- Harbor views near the Wisconsin border
Hidden Gem Stops
St. Martin Island Lighthouse
One of Michigan’s most remote lighthouse locations, requiring a boat trip but rewarding visitors with a true wilderness Great Lakes experience.
Poverty Island Lighthouse
A fascinating offshore lighthouse that represents the challenges faced by Great Lakes mariners, but it can only realistically be experienced from the water.
Lansing Shoal Lighthouse
A classic offshore “sparkplug” lighthouse that photographers and lighthouse enthusiasts often seek out during Lake Michigan cruises.
Southwest Michigan Lake Michigan Shore Lighthouses
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 62. St. Joseph North Pier Outer Lighthouse | St. Joseph | 1907 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the north pier for views of the lighthouse, harbor, and Lake Michigan sunsets |
| 63. St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse | St. Joseph | 1907 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit the pier and waterfront parks for close-up views |
| 64. South Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse | South Haven | 1903 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the pier to photograph the iconic red lighthouse |
| 65. Holland Harbor Lighthouse (“Big Red”) | Holland | 1907 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | View from Holland State Park and Mt. Pisgah overlooks; tower is private |
| 66. Grand Haven Pier Outer Lighthouse | Grand Haven | 1922 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the boardwalk and pier for harbor and Lake Michigan views |
| 67. Grand Haven Pier Inner Lighthouse | Grand Haven | 1905 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit the pier and lighthouse walkway for photos |
| 68. Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse | Muskegon | 1903 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the pier and enjoy views of Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan |
| 69. Muskegon South Breakwater Lighthouse | Muskegon | 1931 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit Pere Marquette Park and walk the breakwater when conditions allow |
| 70. White River Lighthouse | Whitehall | 1875 | ✅ Open seasonally | Tour the museum and climb the tower for Lake Michigan views |
| 71. Little Sable Point Lighthouse | Silver Lake State Park | 1874 | ✅ Open seasonally | Hike the short trail from the state park and climb the tower |
| 72. Ludington North Breakwater Lighthouse | Ludington | 1924 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the breakwater from Stearns Park for harbor views |
| 73. Big Sable Point Lighthouse | Ludington State Park | 1876 | ✅ Open seasonally | Take the scenic hike through Ludington State Park and climb the tower |
| 74. Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse | Manistee | 1927 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the pier and enjoy views of the Manistee River channel |
| 75. Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse | Frankfort | 1932 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the breakwater from the harbor for lighthouse photos |
| 76. Point Betsie Lighthouse | Frankfort | 1858 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the museum, keeper’s quarters, and climb the tower |
| 77. Manning Memorial Lighthouse | Empire | 1990 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit the Empire waterfront and enjoy the scenic harbor area |
| 78. South Manitou Island Lighthouse | Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore | 1871 | ✅ Open seasonally | Take the ferry to South Manitou Island and join ranger-led tours |
| 79. North Manitou Shoal Lighthouse | Lake Michigan | 1935 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or lighthouse sightseeing cruise |
| 80. Grand Traverse Lighthouse | Leelanau State Park | 1858 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the museum, climb the tower, and explore the state park |
| 81. Old Mission Lighthouse | Old Mission Peninsula | 1870 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the museum and scenic shoreline park at the peninsula tip |
Best Visitor Stops in This Region
⭐ Point Betsie Lighthouse
Best overall Lake Michigan lighthouse experience
- One of Michigan’s most photographed lighthouses
- Beautiful beach setting
- Restored keeper’s quarters
- Tower climbs and museum exhibits
⭐ Big Sable Point Lighthouse
Best adventure lighthouse
- Located inside Ludington State Park
- Scenic forest and dune hike
- Tower climb offers spectacular Lake Michigan views
⭐ Little Sable Point Lighthouse
Best family-friendly lighthouse
- Easy access from Silver Lake State Park
- Short walk from parking area
- One of the easiest towers to climb
⭐ Grand Haven Pier Lighthouses
Best waterfront lighthouse visit
- Easy access
- Restaurants, beaches, and boardwalk nearby
- Excellent sunset photography location
⭐ White River Lighthouse
Best small-town lighthouse museum
- Historic keeper’s quarters
- Family-friendly stop
- Great addition to a West Michigan road trip
⭐ South Manitou Island Lighthouse
Best island lighthouse adventure
- Requires ferry transportation
- Located within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Combines lighthouse history with wilderness exploration
Suggested Road Trip Route
West Michigan Lighthouse Trail
St. Joseph → South Haven → Holland → Grand Haven → Muskegon → Ludington → Manistee → Frankfort → Sleeping Bear Dunes → Traverse City
Recommended stops:
Southern Lake Michigan Shore
- St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse
- South Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse
- Holland Harbor Lighthouse (Big Red)
Central West Michigan
- Grand Haven Pier Lighthouses
- Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse
- White River Lighthouse
Northern West Michigan
- Little Sable Point Lighthouse
- Big Sable Point Lighthouse
- Point Betsie Lighthouse
- Grand Traverse Lighthouse
- Old Mission Lighthouse
Lighthouse Photography Highlights
📸 Best sunset locations
- Holland Harbor (“Big Red”)
- Grand Haven Pier
- South Haven Pier
- St. Joseph Pier
📸 Best scenic landscapes
- Point Betsie Lighthouse
- Big Sable Point Lighthouse
- South Manitou Island Lighthouse
- Grand Traverse Lighthouse
📸 Best lighthouse climbs
- Little Sable Point
- Big Sable Point
- Point Betsie
- Grand Traverse
- Old Mission
Beaver Island, Charlevoix & Straits of Mackinac Lighthouses
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 82. South Fox Island New Lighthouse | South Fox Island / Lake Michigan | 1934 | ❌ Not open to public | View by private boat or lighthouse sightseeing cruise |
| 83. South Fox Island Old Lighthouse | South Fox Island / Lake Michigan | 1867 | ❌ Not open to public | View from the water; island access is limited |
| 84. Charlevoix South Pierhead Lighthouse | Charlevoix | 1948 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the pier and enjoy views of Lake Michigan and Round Lake |
| 85. Petoskey Pierhead Lighthouse | Petoskey | 2003 (current structure) | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Walk the waterfront pier and Bayfront Park area |
| 86. Little Traverse Lighthouse | Harbor Springs / Little Traverse Bay | 1884 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or from Little Traverse Bay |
| 87. Beaver Island Lighthouse (St. James Lighthouse) | Beaver Island | 1856 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the museum and historic lighthouse grounds |
| 88. St. James Harbor Lighthouse | Beaver Island | 1870 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | View from the harbor, shoreline, or boat tours |
| 89. Ile Aux Galets (Skillagalee) Lighthouse | Skillagalee Island / Lake Michigan | 1850 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or lighthouse cruise |
| 90. Grays Reef Lighthouse | Northern Lake Michigan | 1936 | ❌ Not open to public | Offshore viewing by boat |
| 91. White Shoal Lighthouse | Straits of Mackinac | 1910 | ⚠️ Limited access | View by boat or occasional preservation tours |
| 92. Waugoshance Lighthouse | Straits of Mackinac | 1851 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat; one of Michigan’s most historic offshore ruins |
| 93. McGulpin Point Lighthouse | Mackinaw City | 1869 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the museum, grounds, and tower |
| 94. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse | Mackinaw City | 1892 | ✅ Open seasonally | Tour the museum, climb the tower, and enjoy Mackinac Bridge views |
| 95. Cheboygan Front Range Lighthouse | Cheboygan | 1880 | ❌ Not open to public | Exterior viewing from nearby waterfront areas |
| 96. Cheboygan Crib Lighthouse | Cheboygan Harbor | 1884 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or shoreline locations |
| 97. Fourteen Foot Shoal Lighthouse | Cheboygan / Lake Huron | 1929 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or lighthouse cruise |
| 98. Cheboygan Main Lighthouse (Ruins) | Cheboygan | 1859 | ⚠️ Limited access | View historic remains from nearby areas |
| 99. Poe Reef Lighthouse | Straits of Mackinac | 1929 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat |
Best Visitor Stops in This Region
⭐ Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
Best lighthouse near the Mackinac Bridge
- Located at the entrance to the Straits of Mackinac
- Excellent views of the Mackinac Bridge
- Historic museum and tower climb
- Easy stop for families visiting Mackinaw City
⭐ McGulpin Point Lighthouse
Best hidden gem near Mackinaw City
- Less crowded than Old Mackinac Point
- Beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline setting
- Historic keeper’s quarters
- Great sunset location
⭐ Beaver Island Lighthouse
Best island lighthouse adventure
- Requires ferry or private boat access
- Combines lighthouse history with Beaver Island exploration
- Great destination for travelers looking for a quieter Great Lakes experience
⭐ Charlevoix South Pierhead Lighthouse
Best easy-access lighthouse stop
- Located near downtown Charlevoix
- Scenic harbor walk
- Restaurants and shops nearby
- Great photography location
⭐ White Shoal Lighthouse
Best offshore lighthouse landmark
- Famous red-and-white striped tower
- One of Michigan’s most recognizable offshore lights
- Best experienced by boat tour
Suggested Road Trip Route
Northern Lower Peninsula Lighthouse Loop
Traverse City → Charlevoix → Petoskey → Mackinaw City → Cheboygan
Recommended stops:
Charlevoix Area
- Charlevoix South Pierhead Lighthouse
- Petoskey Pierhead Lighthouse
Mackinac Region
- McGulpin Point Lighthouse
- Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
- Wawatam Lighthouse (from Part 3)
Cheboygan Area
- Cheboygan waterfront lights
- View offshore lights including Poe Reef and Fourteen Foot Shoal
Offshore Lighthouse Highlights
🌊 White Shoal Lighthouse
Perhaps the most visually recognizable offshore lighthouse in Michigan, White Shoal’s candy-striped tower has become an icon of the Straits of Mackinac.
🌊 Waugoshance Lighthouse
One of the oldest and most historically important Great Lakes lighthouses, Waugoshance represents the early challenges of navigation before modern lighthouse technology.
🌊 Skillagalee Lighthouse
Built on a dangerous reef northwest of Beaver Island, Skillagalee helped protect ships traveling one of Lake Michigan’s busiest routes.
🌊 Grays Reef Lighthouse
A remote offshore beacon built to protect vessels near a dangerous reef system north of the Straits of Mackinac.
Best Lighthouse Experiences in This Region
| Experience | Recommended Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| Easy family visit | Old Mackinac Point |
| Historic tower climb | McGulpin Point |
| Island adventure | Beaver Island Lighthouse |
| Bridge photography | Old Mackinac Point |
| Offshore lighthouse viewing | White Shoal |
| Quiet scenic stop | Charlevoix South Pierhead |
| Great Lakes history | Waugoshance |
Northeast Lower Peninsula & Lake Huron Lighthouses
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100. Forty Mile Point Lighthouse | Rogers City | 1896 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the museum, keeper’s quarters, and climb the tower during open hours |
| 101. Presque Isle New Lighthouse | Presque Isle | 1870 | ✅ Open seasonally | Tour the museum, climb Michigan’s tallest accessible lighthouse tower, and explore the grounds |
| 102. Presque Isle Old Lighthouse | Presque Isle | 1840 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit the historic museum and climb the oldest surviving lighthouse tower in Michigan |
| 103. Presque Isle Front Range Lighthouse | Presque Isle Harbor | 1897 | ❌ Not open to public | View from nearby roads, harbor areas, or by boat |
| 104. Presque Isle Rear Range Lighthouse | Presque Isle Harbor | 1897 | ❌ Not open to public | View from surrounding areas; not accessible for tours |
| 105. Middle Island Lighthouse | Lake Huron near Alpena | 1885 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or lighthouse cruise |
| 106. Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse | Alpena | 1832 | ⚠️ Limited access | Visit through scheduled boat tours and preservation events |
| 107. Alpena Harbor Lighthouse | Alpena | 1914 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | View from the Alpena waterfront and harbor area |
| 108. Sturgeon Point Lighthouse | Harrisville | 1870 | ✅ Open seasonally | Tour the museum, keeper’s quarters, and climb the tower |
| 109. Tawas Point Lighthouse | East Tawas | 1876 | ✅ Open seasonally | Visit Tawas Point State Park, tour the lighthouse, and climb the tower |
| 110. Gravelly Shoal Lighthouse | Saginaw Bay | 1939 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or lighthouse cruise |
| 111. Charity Island Lighthouse | Charity Island / Saginaw Bay | 1857 | ⚠️ Limited access | Reach by private boat or occasional organized tours |
| 112. Saginaw River Rear Range Lighthouse | Bay City area | 1875 | ❌ Not open to public | View from nearby waterways and shoreline areas |
| 113. Port Austin Reef Lighthouse | Port Austin | 1878 | ⚠️ Limited access | View by kayak, boat tour, or special lighthouse excursions |
| 114. Point Aux Barques Lighthouse | Port Hope | 1857 | ✅ Open seasonally | Tour the museum, keeper’s quarters, and lighthouse grounds |
| 115. Harbor Beach Lighthouse | Harbor Beach | 1885 | ⚠️ Limited access | Visit through scheduled boat tours and special events |
| 116. Port Sanilac Lighthouse | Port Sanilac | 1886 | ✅ Open seasonally | Guided tours of the lighthouse and historic grounds |
| 117. Fort Gratiot Lighthouse | Port Huron | 1829 | ✅ Open seasonally | Guided tours, museum visit, and tower climb |
| 118. Huron Lightship | Port Huron | 1921 | ✅ Open seasonally | Tour the historic lightship museum at Pine Grove Park |
Best Visitor Stops in This Region
⭐ Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
Best historic lighthouse visit in Michigan
- Michigan’s oldest operating lighthouse
- Beautiful Lake Huron shoreline setting
- Museum exhibits and guided tours
- Excellent stop near the Blue Water Bridge
⭐ Presque Isle Lighthouse Pair
Best lighthouse history experience
Presque Isle offers two remarkable lighthouse visits within a short drive:
Old Presque Isle Lighthouse
- Built in 1840
- Michigan’s oldest surviving lighthouse tower
- Short tower climb with great Lake Huron views
New Presque Isle Lighthouse
- Built in 1870
- One of Michigan’s tallest lighthouse towers
- Keeper’s quarters museum
- Excellent panoramic views
⭐ Tawas Point Lighthouse
Best family lighthouse destination
- Located inside Tawas Point State Park
- Sandy beaches nearby
- Tower climbs
- Great birdwatching and Lake Huron scenery
⭐ Forty Mile Point Lighthouse
Best preserved lighthouse experience
- Historic keeper’s quarters
- Original furnishings
- Museum exhibits
- Beautiful rocky Lake Huron shoreline
⭐ Point Aux Barques Lighthouse
Best Thumb region lighthouse
- Remote coastal setting
- Historic museum
- Scenic Lake Huron views
Suggested Road Trip Route
Sunrise Coast Lighthouse Trail
Port Huron → Harbor Beach → Port Austin → Tawas → Alpena → Presque Isle → Rogers City
Recommended stops:
Southern Lake Huron
- Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
- Huron Lightship
- Port Sanilac Lighthouse
- Harbor Beach Lighthouse
Michigan Thumb
- Point Aux Barques Lighthouse
- Port Austin Reef Lighthouse
Northeast Michigan
- Tawas Point Lighthouse
- Sturgeon Point Lighthouse
- Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse
- Presque Isle Old Lighthouse
- Presque Isle New Lighthouse
- Forty Mile Point Lighthouse
Lighthouse Highlights
🌅 Best Sunrise Photography
- Tawas Point Lighthouse
- Sturgeon Point Lighthouse
- Presque Isle New Lighthouse
- Forty Mile Point Lighthouse
🏛 Best Historic Architecture
- Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
- Old Presque Isle Lighthouse
- Point Aux Barques Lighthouse
🚢 Best Maritime History
- Huron Lightship
- Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse
- Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
🥾 Best Lighthouse + Outdoor Adventure
- Tawas Point State Park
- Presque Isle County Lighthouse Park
- Forty Mile Point Lighthouse
Interesting Facts From This Region
- Fort Gratiot Lighthouse (1829) is the oldest lighthouse still operating in Michigan.
- Old Presque Isle Lighthouse (1840) is one of the oldest surviving lighthouse towers in the Great Lakes.
- Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse (1832) helped protect ships entering one of Lake Huron’s most dangerous shipping areas.
- Huron Lightship is unique because it is a floating lighthouse rather than a traditional shore or tower lighthouse.
Detroit River, Lake St. Clair & Southern Michigan Lighthouses
| Lighthouse | Location / Region | Year Built | Public Access | Best Way to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 119. Peche Island Rear Range Lighthouse | Detroit River / Lake St. Clair | 1908 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat tours, waterfront parks, or the river |
| 120. St. Clair Flats Canal Range Front Lighthouse | St. Clair Flats / Lake St. Clair | 1859 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat while exploring the St. Clair River delta |
| 121. Lake St. Clair Old South Channel Rear Range Lighthouse | Lake St. Clair | 1874 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat or shoreline locations |
| 122. Lake St. Clair Old South Channel Front Range Lighthouse | Lake St. Clair | 1874 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat; no public access |
| 123. Lake St. Clair Light | Lake St. Clair | 1930 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or Great Lakes lighthouse cruise |
| 124. Windmill Point Lighthouse | Detroit River / Lake Erie Entrance | 1933 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat or Detroit waterfront areas |
| 125. William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse | Belle Isle / Detroit River | 1929 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit Belle Isle Park and view the lighthouse from nearby paths |
| 126. Tri-Centennial State Park Light | Belle Isle / Detroit River | 1976 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit Belle Isle State Park waterfront areas |
| 127. Mariners Memorial Light | Belle Isle / Detroit River | 1955 | ✅ Exterior viewing only | Visit Belle Isle and view the memorial lighthouse from the park |
| 128. Grosse Ile North Channel Front Range Lighthouse | Detroit River | 1906 | ❌ Not open to public | View from boat or nearby shoreline |
| 129. Detroit River Lighthouse | Detroit River / Lake Erie | 1885 | ❌ Not open to public | View by boat or Great Lakes lighthouse cruise |
Best Visitor Stops in This Region
⭐ William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse
Best architectural lighthouse near Detroit
- Located on Belle Isle
- Built in an ornate Art Deco style
- Honors William Livingstone, a major figure in Great Lakes shipping
- Easy stop when visiting Detroit’s riverfront attractions
⭐ Belle Isle Lighthouse Area
Best lighthouse viewing without a boat
The Belle Isle area provides the easiest access to lighthouse-related sightseeing in southeast Michigan:
- William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse
- Mariners Memorial Light
- Tri-Centennial State Park Light
- Detroit River views
- Detroit skyline views
⭐ Detroit River Lighthouse
Best offshore lighthouse viewing experience
- Located in the busy shipping waters between Lake Erie and the Detroit River
- Represents the importance of Detroit’s maritime history
- Best viewed from boat tours
Suggested Road Trip Route
Southeast Michigan Lighthouse Trail
Detroit → Belle Isle → Grosse Ile → Lake St. Clair Waterfront
Recommended stops:
Detroit River Area
- William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse
- Tri-Centennial State Park Light
- Mariners Memorial Light
Waterfront Viewing
- Windmill Point Lighthouse
- Grosse Ile North Channel Front Range Lighthouse
- Detroit River Lighthouse
Lighthouse Highlights
📸 Best Photography Locations
- William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse
- Belle Isle waterfront
- Detroit River skyline views
🚤 Best Boat Viewing Opportunities
- Detroit River Lighthouse
- Lake St. Clair Light
- Peche Island Rear Range Lighthouse
- Grosse Ile North Channel Light
🏙 Best Urban Lighthouse Experience
- Belle Isle lighthouse area