If you are in the Great Lakes region, no matter which state (or province!!!), there is so much to see and do, some of which cost a lot of money, some of which are little to no cost. One thing about the Great Lakes Region is indeed: THE GREAT LAKES!! So much history in the use of these magnificent waterways – so many large (and small) freighters, locks, and especially lighthouses. Maritime culture and history play an important role in the lives of those who live and play here.  

The first lighthouse on the Great Lakes more than likely was established in 1815 on Fort Niagara on Lake Ontario (though there are some questions surrounding this claim). Most of the lighthouses in the Great Lakes were built within a small timeframe and in a similar manner (to withstand the storms on the Great Lakes). I highly recommend reading an article from Northern Michigan University that gives a good historical background regarding this aspect in our maritime history. Click here to read it.

I so far have only visited a handful of lighthouses which are located in the northwestern part of Michigan’s lower peninsula. Based on my experiences these are so very interesting and fascinating buildings that have played such an important role in the region’s maritime history. These lighthouses are spread out in basically all of the states and provinces on the shores of the Great Lakes. Usually they are low-cost when it comes to being allowed to climb into and up, but oftentimes you can explore the property and lower levels free of charge. Oftentimes there are volunteers who will give a little bit of the history of that lighthouse and its role in the area as well as answer any questions you may have. Also, many of these lighthouses have gift shops and a museum on the main level for you to explore at no cost. The lighthouses I have been to typically cost $5-$10 per person to be allowed to climb I have found a website that gives a list of lighthouses in the region, just click here.

Whether or not you are on a tight budget, this budget friendly option is great for the whole family – for a day trip or even to create a tour for yourself. Perhaps one year visit the ones in Minnesota, another year in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, etc. Make yourself a picnic to take along, bring your swimsuit as well as your hiking shoes and poles. Be prepared to spend some time not only admiring the beauty and history of the lighthouses but also be ready to explore the hiking trails and beaches that are usually accessible by the lighthouses.

What do you have to lose by exploring this part of the Great Lakes other than the stress of your daily life for some time? It is my hope that whether you live here or play here ~that you take some time to explore all that the area has to offer, especially the different unique things specific to our maritime culture and history. Though, obviously, lighthouses are not unique to the Great Lakes Region as there are so many throughout the world, but they do play a role in keeping this region’s culture unique.