The Lighthouse Road Trip On The Michigan Coast That’s Dreamily Beautiful
Did you know that Michigan is home to more lighthouses than any other state? That’s an undeniable excuse to venture out and explore some of these special spots. Here’s the perfect driving tour of our beloved state’s most gorgeous lighthouses, which are rich with history and charm.
Driving time for this road trip is just over 18 hours, so if you want to stop and get out at each lighthouse you’ll probably want to plan on doing the trip over a long weekend. Access the interactive map here to make any adjustments to your route or to add or remove stops from your road trip.
In truly fitting form, begin your tour here at Michigan’s very first lighthouse. This awesome 85-foot structure on Lake Huron was first opened in 1825 and draws scores of visitors each year.
2. Sturgeon Point Light Station (6071 Point Rd, Harrisville)
Head to Harrisville and visit the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, which features a simple but utterly charming design. It’s easy to imagine this lighthouse in action — it’s been looking onto Lake Huron since 1869.
3. 40 Mile Point Lighthouse (County Park Rd, Rogers City)
This lovely brick lighthouse in Rogers City sits tucked among greenery and trees, giving it an almost ethereal appearance. You’ll want to snap a few photos of the picturesque building, which was constructed in 1896.
4. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse (526 N Huron Ave, Mackinaw City)
This lighthouse at the melding of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan was in operation from 1890 until 1957. Today, visitors can take a tour and enjoy panoramic views of the water from inside.
5. Old Mission Point Lighthouse (20500 Center Rd, Traverse City)
Take a walk to the top of this quaint lighthouse, which has been a popular attraction near Traverse City since its construction in 1870. It’s a perfect combination of history and charm.
6. Grand Traverse Lighthouse (15500 N Lighthouse Point Rd, Northport)
This lighthouse in Northport marks the Manitou Passage, which signifies the meeting of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. It's a must-see spot on your visit to the Leelanau Peninsula.
7. Point Betsie Lighthouse (3701 Point Betsie Rd, Frankfort)
This red-roofed lighthouse near Frankfort is another marker of the Manitou Passage, and it’s an absolutely stunning structure. The 36-foot tall building was completed in 1858.
8. Big Sable Point Lighthouse (5611 N Lighthouse, Ludington)
This still-active lighthouse in Ludington is a focal point within Ludington State Park. At 112 feet tall, it towers above Lake Michigan and is a true sight to behold.
9. Grand Haven Lighthouse (1001 Harbor Ave, Grand Haven)
Walk the pier for an up-close look at this marvelous lighthouse, which has been a Grand Haven landmark since 1905. There’s no better way to end a day on Lake Michigan than with a visit to this stately spot.
10. Big Red Lighthouse (2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland)
Holland’s iconic lighthouse is called Big Red for a reason — you simply can’t miss this bright and beautiful structure. Be sure to catch a sunset as you wander along the beach at Holland State Park.
Of course, this list only scratches the surface. There are scores of other lighthouses in Michigan just waiting to be explored. Share your favorites in the comment section below.
