While summer begins to wind down, the lakeshore’s lighthouses endure, offering visitors a look at beauty, history, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Read on to learn why August offers some of the best opportunities to climb lighthouse towers, explore the surrounding beaches, and create lasting memories at all five Lakeshore Keepers lighthouses along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
With the weather cooling down but remaining pleasant, it’s an ideal time to squeeze in that last trip summer trip to the lakeshore. Lakeshore Keepers—whose mission is to preserve, promote, educate the public, and make our lighthouses accessible to all—operates five historic lighthouse sites that are truly worth a spot on your last-minute summer trip radar:
- Manistee North Pierhead Light
- Big Sable Point Lighthouse
- Ludington North Breakwater Light
- Little Sable Point Lighthouse
- White River Light Station
All five locations are open throughout August on Mondays from 1 – 5 p.m. and Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visitors can climb lighthouse towers for a small fee, browse gift shops, and learn about the rich maritime history that helped shape Michigan's shoreline.
EVENTS TO KEEP IN MIND
The fun continues throughout August with special events at several lighthouse locations.
Music lovers can enjoy the remaining summer concerts at Little Sable Point Lighthouse on August 26 from 7-8 p.m. Visitors also have a remaining opportunity this season to take advantage of the popular Bus Days at Big Sable Point Lighthouse. This special event provides transportation to the lighthouse from Ludington State Park, making it easier for guests of all ages and abilities to experience one of Michigan's most iconic lighthouses without hiking the two-mile trail. The last Bus Day will take place on August 29. More information on lighthouse events can be found here.
CAN’T SWING AN IN-PERSON VISIT? EXPLORE VIRTUALLY
For those who can't make the trip, Lakeshore Keepers offers live webcams at all five lighthouse locations, allowing viewers to enjoy spectacular Lake Michigan views from anywhere in the world. This includes channel views and ship watches in Ludington and Manistee.
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
Image courtesy of Lighthouse Keepers.
