Michigan has beautiful beaches and beautiful shores, but some of those shores are dangerous for sailors. That is why Michigan has an abundance of amazing lighthouses all along its shores. There are different travel plans and road trips to see all the different lighthouses that Michigan offers. If you enjoy creating your own travel plans, however, you need to be well informed. Here are the top ten, must-see lighthouses of Michigan:
1. Fort Gratiot Lighthouse – Port Huron, MI: This is the oldest operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. You can still climb the tower and look out over Lake Huron.
2. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse – Mackinaw City, MI: This lighthouse overlooks the area where Lake Huron and Lake Michigan touch. This area is also known as the Straits of Mackinac. Mackinaw City is definitely a trip up north, but it is well worth the view of the lakes.
3. Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast – Big Bay, MI: You can’t actually climb this lighthouse, unfortunately. However, you are more than welcome to stay the night in the bed and breakfast that is attached.
4. Sturgeon Point Lighthouse – Harrisville, MI: After being restored in the 80s, this historic beauty is open again for visitors to climb, if you so wish. This lighthouse also overlooks Lake Huron.
5. Little Sable Point Lighthouse – Mears, MI: This lighthouse is open to the public for exploring. If you brave the 130 steps to the top, you can see a beautiful view of Lake Michigan and the dunes that grace its shore.
6. Au Sable Light Station – Grand Marais, MI: This lighthouse is only open for tours in the summer. However, the grounds are open all year round, weather permitting. It is currently in the process of being restored to its 1910 appearance.
7. Thunder Bay Island – Alpena, MI: Unfortunately, this one has to be enjoyed from afar as there is currently no access to the island or to the lighthouse for visitors. However, it is being restored and is still a beautifully historic view.
8. Petoskey Pierhead – Petoskey, MI: This lighthouse is Coast Guard owned, and is not open for visitors, however, you are more than welcome to walk the pier and enjoy the views.
9. Mission Point Lighthouse, Old Mission – Traverse City, MI: This lighthouse has a museum, gift shop, and is open daily for climbs up the tower. There is a fee for the tower climb, however, the park and beach in the surrounding area are open all day as well.
10. Muskegon South Pierhead – Muskegon, MI: This lighthouse is owned by the Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy and is not open to the public. The pier allows you to enjoy the historic view of the lighthouse and the amazing view of the lake.
If you are a history buff, or just like lighthouses, then your should visit these must-sees. Michigan’s lighthouses have a rich history and it is always interesting to go on tours and learn more. I hope you enjoy the trip around Michigan visiting these must-see lighthouses.
Similar Posts
