
Old Lighthouse Museum
Step back in time at this quaint 19th-century lighthouse, now a museum showcasing maritime history and keeper stories.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention

Old Lighthouse Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at this quaint 19th-century lighthouse, now a museum showcasing maritime history and keeper stories.
"Thoroughly enjoyed this small museum! Packed with information/history of the lighthouse and town."

🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Museum is volunteer-run with seasonal hours; verify online to avoid disappointment.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
Plenty of history packed into a few rooms; don't rush your visit.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Museum Exhibits
Inside the lighthouse
Explore three rooms on two floors packed with local maritime history and lighthouse keeper stories.

Lighthouse Exterior & Pier
Outside the museum
Admire the historic 1840 lighthouse and take a walk along the accessible pier for scenic lake views.

Knowledgeable Staff
Throughout the museum
Engage with friendly and informative guides who share fascinating local history and lighthouse anecdotes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Operating Hours
Accessibility & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Museum is volunteer-run with seasonal hours; verify online to avoid disappointment.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
Plenty of history packed into a few rooms; don't rush your visit.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Pier
Enjoy scenic lake views and access to the lighthouse base after your museum visit.
💰 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking can be costly, especially on busy days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Museum is volunteer-run with seasonal hours; verify online to avoid disappointment.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
Plenty of history packed into a few rooms; don't rush your visit.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Pier
Enjoy scenic lake views and access to the lighthouse base after your museum visit.
💰 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking can be costly, especially on busy days.
📚 Support the Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs and support the museum's upkeep.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Lighthouse Museum for its rich local history and the friendly, knowledgeable staff who bring the stories to life. Many enjoy the scenic views from the pier and the charming gift shop. However, some note the museum's small size and lack of full accessibility, along with potentially high parking fees.
"Definitely a must visit. The staff are nice and very knowledgeable about the lighthouse and history of the keeper and previous lake related incidents in the area. Nice small gift shop also. Give yourself about 1-2 hours to see the displays and learn some history. Make sure to cap off your visit by making a walk to the beach and then out to the pier/lighthouse if weather permitting (pier/lighthouse walk is handicap accessible, however there are a few steps from the beach sidewalk to the pier walk)."
Brad Fashbaugh
"Thoroughly enjoyed this small museum! 3 rooms on each of the two floors and packed with information/history of the lighthouse and town. The staff were super nice and provided us with additional information and answered our questions. I particularly enjoyed that each room had a button to push that provides you information on what is in the room. Need about 45 minutes to go through it. We visited on a Sunday afternoon and there were only 2 other couples. 1. It is not accessible. 2. Open Wednesday-Sunday 1-4 pm. 3. Don’t show up 30 minutes before closing."
N and C Farrell
"Staff were very friendly and informative. Really enjoyed the view from the top. Great experience and glad I added it to my vacation."
Gina Milburn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Lighthouse Museum is located at 100 Heisman Harbor in Michigan City, Indiana and also in Stonington, CT. Public transport options may vary by location. Driving is common, but be prepared for potential parking fees.
Yes, parking is available, but it can be expensive, especially during peak season or events. Consider arriving early or checking for alternative parking options nearby.
Many visitors combine a trip to the Old Lighthouse Museum in Stonington, CT with visits to local wineries or distilleries, making a car essential for exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $10 per person, though prices can vary. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing information.
The museum operates with seasonal hours, often Wednesday through Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM, and may close by the end of October. It's crucial to verify hours on their website as they are volunteer-run and can close for events.
While you can visit the base of the lighthouse and walk the pier, access to climb inside the lighthouse structure is generally not permitted.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's wise to check their website, especially for special events like 'Music at the Lighthouse'.
The museum itself is not fully accessible due to stairs. However, the pier leading to the lighthouse base is generally handicap accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 45 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the exhibits and learn about the history. Some may spend up to 1-2 hours if they also walk the pier and beach.
The museum features exhibits spread across two floors, detailing the history of the lighthouse, its keepers, and local maritime incidents. You can also enjoy views from the top of the lighthouse.
Yes, events like 'Music at the Lighthouse' are held, offering a unique experience combining music with the historic setting. Check their schedule for upcoming events.
Coastal weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for wind and changing conditions, especially when walking on the pier. Red flag days may prevent swimming at the beach.
Photography is generally allowed, and the lighthouse and surrounding area offer picturesque views, especially during sunset. Be mindful of any specific rules within the museum exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, especially in Stonington, CT, there are dining options like Tulli's Taphouse. Michigan City also offers various restaurants and eateries.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside museums to protect the exhibits. It's best to consume them before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic lighthouse exterior, the scenic pier, and the surrounding marina. The late afternoon sun can create beautiful lighting.
The lighthouse and pier offer a picturesque setting for sunset photography, with the water and sky providing a stunning backdrop.
While general photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be restricted to protect delicate exhibits. Always check for posted signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Old Lighthouse Museum
These museums offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the vital role lighthouses played in ensuring safe passage for sailors. The volunteer staff often bring these stories to life with personal anecdotes and deep knowledge, making the historical context even more engaging.
Visiting the Old Lighthouse Museum is more than just seeing an old building; it's an opportunity to learn about the dedication, the dangers, and the enduring legacy of those who guided ships through the darkness. It’s a chance to understand a significant piece of local history that shaped coastal communities.
Experiencing the Lighthouse Surroundings
For those visiting the Michigan City, IN location, a walk to the beach and out to the pier is highly recommended. The pier is accessible and offers great views of the lake and the lighthouse. The marina area also adds to the scenic appeal, with boats dotting the water.
These surrounding areas enhance the visit, offering a blend of history, natural beauty, and local attractions. Whether you're enjoying a picnic by the water, exploring local shops, or simply taking in the coastal air, the environment around the lighthouse complements the historical insights gained inside the museum.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit