New York State offers some of the most unique lighthouses across the coastal regions of the state. The state is surrounded by several bodies of water, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes.
New York’s lighthouses serve an important purpose, serving to guide ships into the many busy ports throughout the state. Especially in inclement weather, lighthouses are important to help ships and boats navigate waterways and arrive safely.
Each of New York’s unique lighthouses holds a unique history, offering plenty to learn and explore for tourists. Many of the state’s lighthouses were built in the 18th and 19th centuries and still serve an important purpose today. During your next visit, be sure to explore these best historical lighthouses New York has to offer.
1. Fire Island Lighthouse
Fire Island Lighthouse is one of the best New York historic lighthouses to visit in the Long Island area. Built in 1982, this lighthouse is now known as the sixth-tallest lighthouse in the country. During your visit, learn about the unique history of this lighthouse, which served as an important landmark for ships entering New York’s harbor.
Visitors can climb 182 steps of this lighthouse, enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and can even experience views of the NYC skyline on a clear day.
Fire Island Lighthouse Details:
- Two floors of interactive exhibits
- Open daily
- 74 feet high, 182 steps to the top
- Adult tickets $10; Children tickets $5
2. Tibbetts Point Lighthouse
Located in the Northern part of New York State, Tibbetts Point Lighthouse has been an important historical lighthouse in New York since 1827. Located in Cape Vincent, this lighthouse stands about 69 feet tall and marks the point where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River. In the 1970s, the tower’s light became automated and the keeper’s house was transformed for use as a hostel.
The Tibbetts Point Lighthouse was initially fueled by whale oil. During your visit, be sure to use the telescopes to enjoy great views of the surrounding lake and river. This lighthouse offers plenty to learn and explore for visitors of all ages. In 1991, the town of Cape Vincent took control of the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, transforming it into a restored historical area.
Tibbetts Point Lighthouse Details:
- Constructed in 1827
- Open year-round
- No fee to enter
- Telescopes are fun for visitors with children
3. Dunkirk Lighthouse
The Dunkirk Lighthouse is located on Lake Erie and was first established in 1827. This lighthouse served an important purpose, guiding ships entering the Dunkirk Harbor safely. While the lighthouse was later automated for modern purposes in 1960, it is still fully operational today.
Visitors looking to learn more about the Dunkirk Lighthouse can try a guided tour, which includes a walk through the restored lighthouse keepers’ home. The tour also includes a steep climb up the spiral staircase, heading up to the upper observation deck.
Dunkirk Lighthouse Details:
- Tickets for tours are $10 for adults; $8 for students; $3 for children
- No fee to walk the grounds or take photos
- Gift shop on-site to explore
- Open May through October
- Fun for families
4. Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum
Add Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum as another must-visit on your list of historical lighthouses in New York. This famous lighthouse is situated in the eastern part of Long Island in Montauk, NY. Originally built in 1792, this lighthouse is the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in the nation. Visitors heading to this lighthouse museum can explore the rich history, dating back over 225 years.
The Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum has also been named a National Historic Landmark, making it one of the best New York historic lighthouses to visit.
Montauk Point Lighthouse Details:
- Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children under 12
- The height of the lighthouse is 110 feet
- Climb 137 steps to the top
- Light flashes every five seconds
- Light can be seen from 19 nautical miles away
5. Hudson-Athens Lighthouse
The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, also referred to as the Hudson City Light, is one of New York State’s two remaining lighthouses that sit in the middle of the Hudson River. Built in 1874, this lighthouse is a popular attraction for tourists visiting the Catskills in the summer. Every second Saturday from July through October, visitors can enjoy a 60-minute boat transportation tour that discusses the history of this landmark.
Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Details:
- 46 feet in height
- Built in 1874
- Tour tickets for adults are $25, $15 for children
- Used to keep boats traveling from danger
- Differs from other lighthouses in that it sits right in the middle of the water
6. Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse
Situated in the Northern Rochester area of New York State, the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse is a 40-foot high lighthouse that is also America’s oldest surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario. Built in 1822, this lighthouse is still in operation today! Visitors are free to climb the tower. However, be aware that the spiral staircase is steep! Once you reach the top of the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse, explore the 12-foot-high lantern room. This unique experience also offers plenty of learning opportunities, complete with knowledgeable tour guides who are passionate about the lighthouse’s history.
Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse Details:
- Open May through October
- Tickets $5 for adults and $2 for youth
- Nearby to other Rochester attractions
- Built in 1822
- Offers great views of nearby Lake Ontario, Genessee River and Ontario Beach Park
7. National Lighthouse Museum
While not a lighthouse itself, you won’t want to miss a chance to explore the National Lighthouse Museum, located in Staten Island. For visitors who find a deep interest in New York lighthouses, this 2,400-square-foot building offers so much to explore. Tourists can explore self-guided tours that highlight some of the state’s best lighthouses and learn in-depth history about each. In addition, visitors can also check out a rotating display of exhibits, offering something new to explore every time you visit.
Exploring New York State’s Unique Lighthouses
Throughout the entire state, there are plenty of historical lighthouses worth exploring, offering a rich history and stunning views of the state. During your next visit, schedule a tour to immerse yourself in the state’s history and climb one of these popular lighthouses.
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