Did you know Michigan features more lighthouses than any other state? With National Lighthouse Day Aug. 7, there’s no better place to appreciate the history and beauty of these lighthouses than on family travel to Traverse City. This city features eight historic lighthouses. Here are some to add to your trip this August:
Point Betsie © Traverse City Tourism
Situated 40 miles southwest of Traverse City, this mid-19th-century lighthouse is one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the Great Lakes. Perched on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, the red lighthouse continues to operate today. Explore its grounds and tour inside during summer months. The lighthouse also hosts various community events, art exhibitions and educational activities throughout the year.
South Manitou Island Lighthouse
At 100 feet, this lighthouse is one of the tallest and is also visible from the mainland and the Great Lakes. Built in 1839 to commemorate the position of the only natural harbor between northern Michigan and Chicago, the lighthouse sits on an island accessible to the public by passenger ferries from nearby towns. Tours provide insight into the history of the lighthouse, the lives of lighthouse keepers and maritime stories.
Mission Point © Traverse City Tourism
Head 17 miles north of Traverse City to see Mission Point Lighthouse, built in 1870 to guide ships through the dangerous waters of Grand Traverse Bay. Mission Point offers visitors an interactive experience, in which visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy views from the observation deck. The keeper’s house is also open to visitors, now a museum exhibiting historical artifacts. Those interested in experiencing life as a lighthouse keeper can sign up for Mission Point’s Lighthouse Keeper Program, which allows participants to be in charge of the day-to-day tasks of maintaining the lighthouse while staying overnight in the newly updated keeper’s quarters.
Another one of the oldest operating lighthouses on the Great Lakes, this lighthouse sits within Leelanau State Park. The lighthouse underwent extensive restorations and is now open to the public. Within, visitors can see the restored keeper’s residence, functioning as a nautical museum. Throughout the year, the lighthouse hosts demonstrations on the foghorn. While in the state park, be sure to also visit its sandy beaches, wooded areas, hiking trails and picnic spots.
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