Lighthouses are a peculiar thing. What was primarily built as a functional necessity to guide mariners through perilous seas, fog, and storms has evolved to also be a piece of iconic scenery from which to behold its architectural beauty and historical significance. At the very least, many still serve as a provider of awesome vantage points. Michigan and the surrounding Great Lakes happen to be home to a long list of gorgeous lighthouses worth visiting, although choosing which to spend time visiting can be a task of its own. Here is a list of some of the most impressive lighthouse experiences available in Michigan and the Great Lakes.
10 Whitefish Point Light Station
The 80-foot Whitefish Point Light Station in Paradise, Michigan, is located at the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes," as a sign outside describes, with around 200 shipwreck remnants lying offshore. The old crew's headquarters dating back to 1923, have been converted into a hotel, and the site is also home to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, which gives guests a closer look at the historical plight of maritime operations in the Great Lakes along with salvaged artifacts.
9 Eagle River Lighthouse
This lighthouse dates back to 1855, when it was built during the Copper Boom to guide ships to the bustling Eagle River port. Although this lighthouse may not be as much of a picturesque, towering figure as other notable lighthouses, it compensates for this with its other features and its surroundings. Ample rooms are available to reserve an overnight stay in the historical building while visiting nearby Keweenaw National Historical Park, Eagle River Falls, or some of the other numerous landmarks on the Keweenaw Peninsula.
8 South Manitou Island Lighthouse
Visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore will not miss this 100-foot lighthouse upon their arrival by ferry from Leland. This lighthouse was established in 1839 to beckon sailors to refuge at the only natural harbor between northern Michigan and Chicago. It was decommissioned in 1958 and is now open for visitors to climb the spiral staircase up to the observation deck for some of the best views of Lake Michigan.
7 Beaver Island Harbor Lighthouse
Beaver Island, the largest island in Lake Michigan named for the many beavers once inhabiting it, is home to this lighthouse built in 1851. Travelers can make a unique day trip out of a visit to this lighthouse by spending some time relaxing amid this piece of history on a tranquil island while watching the ferries go by. Afterward, the quaint Beaver Island Toy Museum can be found just a short walk away.
6 McGulpin Point Lighthouse
This Norman Gothic-style lighthouse was built in 1869 to lead mariners through the Strait of Mackinac and is now open for self-guided tours. McGulpin Point is a popular destination that attracts thousands of visitors annually and can be explored as part of a larger outing, including the Village of Mackinaw City and Heritage village, after traversing the lighthouse's discovery trail, which tells the story of the building. Overnight lodging on site is also available.
5 Ludington North Breakwater Light
Built in 1929, this lighthouse towers over the pier in the heart of Ludington. It is open for visitors to climb to the top and take in some breezy coastal views throughout the summer and makes a great spot for a family outing as it is located on the beach with playgrounds nearby.
4 Big Red Lighthouse At Holland Harbor
This 1907 lighthouse, sometimes simply referred to as Big Red by the local population, provides aesthetically pleasing photo ops with its bright cherry red color amid the blue backdrop of Lake Michigan. The entrance to this lighthouse is not easily accessible to the public and reaching the surrounding grounds require access to a gated community, so it is best viewed as part of a visit to Holland State Park.
3 Crisp Point Lighthouse
Crisp Point is one of the more difficult lighthouses to gain access to, but travelers who make the trip are rewarded with a secluded scene that transports them back in time to 1903, when the lighthouse was built. The grounds are always open, and there is a visitors center with bathrooms operating at varying daytime hours. There is no trash service in the area, so be prepared to take any discarded items on the return journey.
2 Big Sable Point Lighthouse
Standing over 100 feet tall, Big Sable Point Lighthouse is a popular attraction in Ludington State Park that is open to visitors from May to October annually. This destination for immaculate sunset experiences can be reached after hiking less than 2 miles from its visitors center, and occasionally the park provides free buses for those unwilling or unable to make the walk to the lighthouse.
1 Presque Isle Lighthouses
Presque Isle is home to three historic lighthouses along the northeastern shores of Lake Huron, which are open for tours from spring to the end of fall, with the oldest dating back to 1840. The simply named New Presque Isle Lighthouse is the star of the 3. Standing tall at 113 feet, it is one of the tallest lighthouses accessible to the public and provides stunning panoramic views of the area.