4 Beautiful Lighthouses in Michigan to Visit

Did you know Michigan has the most lighthouses in the United States?

Most people immediately think of Florida or California, but the truth is the Great Lake State tops them all with over 150 active and inactive lighthouses. If you're planning a trip that way, don't forget to see a few of the most beautiful lighthouses in Michigan!

1. Grand Traverse Lighthouse in Northport, Michigan

Travel back in time to a lighthouse from the 1920s - 1930s.

Located on the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula is the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse! Dating back to the early 1900s, this active lighthouse has been restored to a museum dedicated to showing visitors what life was like as a lighthouse keeper and family almost 100 years ago.

If you'd like to visit the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, you must have a Michigan State Park Passport.

Where To Stay Near Northport, Michigan

Only 35 minutes from the Grand Traverse Lighthouse is the rustic Inn at Black Star Farms! This is a unique agricultural destination with two winery production facilities, wine tasting rooms, a distillery, and an equestrian facility.

It's also less than 45 minutes from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Noted for its pristine blue waters, this lakeshore was voted the Most Beautiful Place in America by viewers of ABC's Good Morning America!

2. Holland Harbor Lighthouse in Holland, Michigan

​Visit Michigan's most photographed lighthouse.

Also known as "Big Red," the Holland Harbor Lighthouse guards the entrance of a channel between Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa in Ottawa County, Michigan.

If you want the best view of Big Red, visit Holland State Park and stroll down the boardwalk to the north pier! Or for the fearless, view it from the dune staircase at Mount Pisgah that will take you 157 feet above sea level.

Where To Stay Near Holland, Michigan

Less than half an hour away is the elegant Belvedere Inn & Restaurant in Saugatuck, Michigan. One of the rare European-styled bed and breakfasts in the state, it is often called the "Mini Versailles." From its European charm and exceptional service to its award-winning restaurant, the Belvedere exudes excellence!

Another lodging option near Holland, Michigan is the romantic Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast Inn in Allegan! Just under an hour away from Big Red, this Michigan bed and breakfast is the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy an enchanting getaway. With 65 peaceful acres, you'll never tire of Castle in the Country's endless amount of outdoor activities.

3. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse in Mackinaw City, Michigan

Tour a restored lighthouse from the late 1800s.

Since 1889, the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse has guided ships through the perilous waters of the Straits of Mackinac. This is one of the most exciting Michigan lighthouses because there's so much for visitors to see!

Tour the three rooms of the keeper's quarters and a gallery exhibit demonstrating the lighthouse's history with hands-on displays and original artifacts. There's also daily tower tours and an interesting audiovisual program playing continuously in the barn!

Where To Stay Near Mackinaw City, Michigan

Just under 45 minutes from the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is Stafford's Bay View Inn in Petoskey! When you stay here, you'll always enjoy exceptional service, country style dining, and luxurious accommodations.

Inspiring visitors for over 130 years, Stafford's Bay View Inn is an elegant Victorian home dating back to 1886. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan's Little Traverse Bay, this Petoskey bed and breakfast is near exciting historic landmarks, casinos, shopping, and natural wonders!

4. Sturgeon Point Lighthouse in Harrisville, Michigan

See a Cape Cod style lighthouse on one of the great lakes.

Built in 1870, the active Sturgeon Point Lighthouse is something you'd expect to see in Cape Cod! Now managed by the U.S. Coast Guard, the keeper's house today is a maritime museum that you can visit from Memorial Day to mid-September.The green grounds are beautiful during the summer months! After exploring the lighthouse and the museum, enjoy lunch at one of picnic tables on the large lawn.

Where To Stay Near Harrisville, Michigan

Only 37 minutes away from the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse is the peaceful Huron House Luxury Bed & Breakfast in Oscoda! Located on the shores of Lake Huron, this Michigan bed and breakfast is an award-winning experience.

Each morning, wake up to a colorful sunrise over the lake, enjoy a delicious breakfast delivered to your room, and then stroll along the beach while the waves crash gently against the shores!

Which one of these beautiful lighthouses in Michigan do you want to see first? Do you have any you'd like to add to our list?