Discover Wisconsin’s Most Popular Lighthouses

When you think of Wisconsin, lighthouses probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind. But with over 600 miles of freshwater coastline on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, the state is home to a rich maritime history, including over 50 lighthouses that have guided generations of mariners to safety. Today, they are also living history museums, with many open for tours and perfect for family photo-ops. Read on to get to know some of the popular lighthouses that have stood watch over Wisconsin shores.

Door County Lighthouses

With over 300 miles of peninsula and island shoreline, Door County is known for having one of the highest concentrations of lighthouses in the United States. Take a tour of these amazing lights and plan your visit around the county’s bi-annual lighthouse festival!

Pottawatomie Lighthouse - Rock Island

Visit Wisconsin’s first lighthouse! Established in 1836, it’s a true adventure getting to this historic landmark. Hop on the Rock Island Ferry to get to Rock Island State Park, where you and your crew will need to hike a little over a mile to the lighthouse. Then, take a tour that includes climbing up the winding stairs to the top for awe-inspiring, panoramic views. 

Cana Island Lighthouse - Baileys Harbor

Perhaps Door County’s most iconic lighthouse, Cana Island Lighthouse was built in 1869 and has stood watch over Lake Michigan’s shore for over 150 years. Take the complimentary tractor-drawn hay wagon across the island to reach the impressive tower and climb to the gallery deck for an incredible vista.

Eagle Bluff Lighthouse - Fish Creek

Step into history at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, located within Peninsula State Park. This landmark has guided sailors through the waters of Green Bay since 1868. Take a tour mid-May through mid-October to explore the beautifully restored rooms and hear captivating stories of maritime life.

Baileys Harbor Range Lights - Baileys Harbor

These unique lighthouses were considered a more effective way to keep ships off the treacherous reefs and shallows at the entrance to Baileys Harbor when they were built in 1869. Visit the Ridges Sanctuary Nature Center in the warmer months to see the lights and learn more about their fascinating history.

Apostle Island Lighthouses

Found near Wisconsin's Bayfield Peninsula, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to the highest concentration of lighthouses in North America. Plan to visit multiple lighthouses via an Apostle Island Cruise, or discover other ways to explore the islands. 

Raspberry Island Lighthouse 

The most readily accessible light on the Apostle Islands, Raspberry Island Lighthouse is close to the mainland and has been fully restored. Take a guided tour by a park ranger during the summer months to learn more about the structure’s storied past. 

Sand Island Lighthouse

Thought by many to be the most beautiful lighthouse on Lake Superior, Sand Island Lighthouse was built from sandstone from the island itself. This light is also closer to the mainland than the surrounding islands and can be reached by sea kayak or private boat. Stop for a tour in the summer!

Devils Island Lighthouse

Discover this lighthouse at the northernmost point in Wisconsin. Although Devils Island is relatively remote, the lighthouse is a popular destination for experienced boaters and sea kayakers and is staffed with a volunteer lightkeeper during the summer months.

Other Lighthouses in Wisconsin

Wind Point Lighthouse - Racine

Built in 1880, Wind Point Lighthouse stands 108 feet tall and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Plan to visit on a designated Sunday from June to October to climb the steps and enjoy an expansive view of Lake Michigan; bring a picnic along for an ideal summer adventure. 

North Point Lighthouse - Milwaukee

This scenic lighthouse has stood watch over Milwaukee since 1855. Stop for a guided tour of the restored structure and to explore Lake Park, a remarkable jewel designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of New York’s Central Park.

Manitowoc Breakwater Lighthouse - Manitowoc

Visit this iconic lighthouse at sunrise for a spectacular show over Lake Michigan. Schedule a tour ahead of time to explore five restoration stories and learn more about Manitowoc’s maritime history.

Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse - Kewaunee

Listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places, the Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse offers fog horn tours and walking tours around the harbor. Visit during Door Peninsula Lighthouse Passport Days in October to experience 11 area lighthouses in new and unique ways. 

Rawley Point Lighthouse - Two Rivers

Within the picturesque Point Beach State Forest, Rawley Point Lighthouse has been operated by the U.S. Coast Guard since 1853. Enjoy a hike through the park to view the tower, followed by a swim off the sandy beach or a memorable camping trip on the grounds.

Superior Entry Lighthouse - Superior

This charming lighthouse is located on Wisconsin Point, one of the largest freshwater sandbars in the world. While it is not open for tours, the structure is one of Superior’s most popular attractions and a favorite of photographers. 

Asylum Point Lighthouse - Oshkosh

A rare inland lighthouse located on Lake Winnebago, this lighthouse stands in scenic Asylum Point Park. While not available for tours, the lovely brick tower on the water makes for a perfect picnic spot. 

North Pier Lighthouse - Kenosha

This iconic 50-foot light on Lake Michigan is especially unique in that it has become a beacon for the local arts community as well as a favorite tourist destination. Purchased by Kenosha artist John Burhani in 2011, it is now owned by his wife, Heather McGee. In honor of her late husband's memory, McGee enlisted the help of other local artists to turn the lighthouse into a work of art. During the summer of 2016, an artist-in-residence program first hosted artists at the lighthouse to paint portions of the structure to create a mural of multiple works around the bottom 5 feet circumference. Visitors are welcome to approach the lighthouse to take photos with the brightly-colored structure.

Want to learn more stories behind Wisconsin’s lights? Discover Door County’s haunted lighthouses.