Michigan City Lighthouse
Built in 1858 at a cost of $8,000, this lighthouse, replaced an 1837 brick & stone light built at the edge of Lake Michigan. It was the second light at the site, and the predecessor to the Michigan City East Light, to which the lantern, lens and light were moved in 1904; it being the new light at the end of the newly extended pier.
It was remodeled in 1904. Seven Lighthouse keepers and fourteen assistant keepers served here from 1837-1940.
A different lighthouse keeper emerged in the contemporary era: the preservationists. By 1960, the US Government declared the Old Lighthouse government surplus and Michigan City bought the structure in 1963. In 1965 the Michigan City Historical Society entered into lease agreement to restore it and establish a museum. A replica of the lantern tower was placed on the roof in 1973.
The Old Lighthouse Museum opened on June 9, 1973.
In 1974, the Old Lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historical Places because of its historical significant architecture and association with lake transportation. The Pierhead Light was added to the Register in 1988 during the campaign to restore the structure. The Lantern Room was made accessible in 2007. These projects were made possible by the Questers, the Hoosier Lighthouse Club, the Lake Michigan Coastal Program, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Today, the light is still used as an aid to navigation, but the LED light is fully automated.
Where it is:
It is easily accessible by using Exits 34 and 40 on Interstate 94, and Exits 39 and 49 on the Indiana Interstate 80/90 Toll Road. Or enjoy the scenic byways that lead to LaPorte County by driving on beautiful, tree-lined roads like U.S. 12, U.S. 20, Ind. 2, and U.S. 421.
Interactive Google Map
Use the map + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views. Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.
Cost:
Adults · $10
Ages 14 & under · Free
Members · Free
U.S. Active Military, Veterans, Police, and Fire Personnel – Free Admission (valid ID required)
Links:
GPS:
41°43’21.87″ N 86°54’21.462″ W
Hours:
April through October 31, 2025, every Wednesday through Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM CT.
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More Photographic Destinations in Michigan
Interactive Google Map
Use the map + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views. Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page.