Lighthouses on Lake Erie

Lighthouses have safely guided vessels large and small along Lake Erie’s shoreline for over a century. And though their duties have diminished over the years as modern technology replaces them, these iconic structures remain important reminders of our region’s rich maritime history.

The oldest lighthouse on Lake Erie is Marblehead Lighthouse, located at the mouth of the Sandusky Bay entrance to the lake and within the Marblehead Lighthouse State Park. Designed to resemble the Italian Renaissance style of the time, this iconic structure is an architectural wonder that is also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can spend hours browsing the exhibits in the keeper’s home, taking tours of the tower, and climbing to the top for incredible views over the water.

For those who prefer to take a boat ride to see the lighthouse, the Sherman Memorial Lighthouse on Presque Isle State Park offers just that. Built in 1873, this circular and pyramidal-shaped lighthouse is one of the most well-known on the lake. For decades, a family of lighthouse keepers lived in the lighthouse’s attached living quarters, tending to its beacon and ensuring that its lights were fully operational at all times. Guests can explore the lighthouse and grounds, visit the museum in the tower’s keepers’ home, or take a tour of the fresnel lens (the lens is so large that it can be seen from more than 10 miles away).

For those who want to take a closer look at the most-photographed lighthouse on Lake Erie, the Lighthouse at Presque Isle is the perfect spot. Just a short drive from Beach #7, better known as Waterworks Beach, the lighthouse is accessible for all ages and abilities. During summer, you can enjoy tours of the lighthouse as well as picnicking on the beach and exploring the nearby historic buildings in the park.