Spend the Night in These 13 Amazing Michigan Lighthouses: A Must-See Guide
Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, with the sun rising over the Great Lakes. As a Michigan native, Ive been fascinated by out Great Lakes ligthouses for as long as I can remember. These 13 stunning Michigan lighthouses let you experience that magic and more.
13 Amazing Michigan Lighthouses You Can Spend the Night In
Did you know there are Michigan lighthouses that you can stay overnight in?
It’s true: from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan; from northern Lake Huron to Port Huron, there are 13 Michigan lighthouses where you stay overnight. There is an air of mystery, intrigue, and fascination that surrounds Michigan lighthouses. Perhaps it’s because of their historic significance, or because we know lighthouses are found near massive bodies of water, which have a foreboding and awe-inspiring presence.
Use the Interactive Map of Michigan Lighthouses that You Can Spend the Night In
With over 100 Great Lakes lighthouses to see, visit, tour and explore, it’s really no wonder we love them so much, but did you know that some Michigan lighthouses offer the chance to stay overnight? Whether through B&B operations, rental opportunities, or the chance to become a volunteer keeper, staying overnight in a lighthouse on the Great Lakes should be on everyone’s Michigan bucket list. Click anywhere on the map above to start pannilng your road trip today.
Big Bay Point Lighthouse: A Romantic Escape on Lake Superior
Where: Big Bay Point Lighthouse B&B
Address: 4674 Co Rd KCB, Big Bay, MI 49808
Nestled on the shore of Lake Superior about 25 miles north of Marquette, Big Bay Point Lighthouse in Big Bay, Michigan, served as a crucial guide for mariners.
Today, the light is automated, but it still shines bright with enigmatic beauty, charm, and romance, making it the perfect couples getaway in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Now functioning as a Bed and Breakfast, Big Bay Point Lighthouse welcomes guests to stay in any of its seven guest rooms, starting at $205 per night.
Why You’ll Love It: There’s a rich history here: this lighthouse is listed on National Register of Historic Places. Open for the 2025 season from May 10 through November 5, 2025.
Nearby Attraction: Presque Isle State Park, juts northwest of Marquette, is home to famed “Black Rock Cliffs.” These towering cliffs overlooking Lake Superior provide dramatic vistas of one of Michigan’s most fabled Great Lakes.
Stay at Eagle River Lighthouse: A Cozy Retreat in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula
Where: Eagle River Lighthouse
Address: Mohawk, MI 49950
The Eagle River Lighthouse sits at the mouth of the Eagle River on Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Eagle River Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1908 after 51 years in service. In the 1990s, it was sold to historic preservationist Edward “Bud” Cole, whose family now runs the property as a vacation rental.
You can visit late spring through fall, and it makes perfect jumping off spot for exploring the Keweenaw Peninsula or home base for a fall color tour.
Why You’ll Love It: This carefully restored 1850’s lighthouse boasts 3000 sf of living space including gourmet kitchen, library, 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. Interior opens onto 1200 sf of gorgeous deck and a four season sunroom. Easily move from indoor comfort to the beauty of the outdoors on Lake Superior’s shore.
Nearby Attraction: Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, a stunning Lake Superior Lighthouse
Stay at Point Betsie Lighthouse: Iconic Views of Lake Michigan
Where: Point Betsie Lighthouse
address: 3701 Point Betsie Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635
Since 1858, Point Betsie Lighthouse in Frankfort, Michigan, has stood on the picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline, making it the oldest structure in Benzie County.
It still operates today, serving as a navigational aid to the US Coast Guard and a treasured landmark in northern Michigan. Visitors are welcome to tour the lighthouse, but guests are also able to stay at Point Betsie Lighthouse, with rentals available on a weekly basis during the tourism season.
Why You’ll Love It: This a is gorgeous stretch of Lake Michigan coastline, and great spot to do some Michigan rock-hounding.
Nearby Attraction: Crystal Lake and charming downtown Frankfort, MI. This is one of Michigan’s top vacation destinations, and with good reason. This cute town at the foothills of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore is home to stunning Lake Michigan beaches and a fun, walkabale downtown with tons of cute shops, cafes and breweries to explore.
Stay at McGulpin Point Lighthouse: A Historic Gem Near Mackinaw City
Where: McGulpin Point Lighthouse
Address: 500 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
In Mackinaw City, the McGulpin Point Lighthouse began operation in 1896 to protect ships traveling through the Straits of Mackinac, making it one of the oldest lighthouses still on the Straits today. Visitors can become guests with overnight accommodations that sleep four people.
A two-night minimum stay is required, but trust us, you’ll want to stay longer. Its close location to Mackinaw City means easy access to shops, restaurants, and even Mackinac Island, but there’s more to explore around the area as well, especially for avid hikers.
Why You’ll Love It: This is quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island, and you’ll find stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge from the nearby Lake Michigan beach.
Nearby Attraction: Headlands International Dark Sky Park, one of Michigan’s designated dark sky parks. These parks are a fabulous spot for viewing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis.
Stay at Crisp Point Lighthouse: A Remote Escape on Lake Superior’s Shore
Where: Crisp Point Lighthouse
Address: 1944 Co Hwy 412, Newberry, MI 49868
Crisp Point Lighthouse, named for one of its brave keepers, Christopher Crisp, is a U.S. Life-Saving Station located near Whitefish Point.
Built in 1875 and beginning operations the following year, Crisp Point Lighthouse was a crucial aid on Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast for over 100 years before being decommissioned and falling into disrepair in the 90’s. Today, volunteer keepers stay on premises and help maintain and restore Crisp Point Lighthouse to its former glory.
Why You’ll Love It: This is a quiet and wild stretch of coastline with stunning vistas of Lake Superior.
Nearby Attraction: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, featuring the bell recovered from the wreck of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. The ill-fated ship sank in Lake Superior about 17 miles (27 km) northeast of Crisp Point.
Stay at Mission Point Lighthouse: A Scenic Getaway on the Grand Traverse Bay
Where: Mission Point
Address: Traverse City, MI 49686
At the end of Old Mission Peninsula, near Traverse City, Mission Point Lighthouse is an iconic landmark between the east and west arms of the Grand Traverse Bay.
Built in 1870, this lighthouse is located on the 45th parallel, meaning it is situated exactly halfway between the North Pole and the Equator and in the heart of Michigan wine country. The keeper program at Mission Point Lighthouse is massively popular, offering the chance to temporarily reside in a historic landmark with breathtaking views of the water. The cost is $200 for the week and $370 for 2 consecutive weeks if qualified.
Why You’ll Love It: The keepers’ quarters area is well equipped with all the essentials needed to have a comfortable stay, with kitchen appliances, dishes, cooking utensils, small appliances (coffee maker, toaster, microwave, crock pot, gas grill, etc.), ironing board and iron, all cleaning supplies, and even a washer and a dryer. There is free WIFI, a television with cable service, central air conditioning, a generator and plenty of space. We have a locked storage building for keepers bikes or other recreational equipment. Keepers provide their own bed sheets, pillows, blankets, towels, and food. The living quarters has a modern furnace and central air-conditioner.
Nearby Attraction: Traverse City and the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail.
Stay at Tawas Point Lighthouse: A Peaceful Retreat on Lake Huron’s Sunrise Coast
Where: Tawas Point Lighthouse
Address: Tawas, Michigan
On Lake Huron, Tawas Point Lighthouse has been in operation on Lake Huron since 1876, which makes it a popular destination among those with maritime interests.
However, because of its scenic natural location, outdoorsy people of all kinds come to enjoy all kinds of activities, from birdwatching to simply enjoying the spectacular sunrises on Michigan’s aptly named “Sunrise Coast.” Volunteer keepers stay for around two weeks at a time and help maintain the facility while enjoying a bit of a getaway on Tawas Point.
Why You’ll Love It: The grounds surrounding the Tawas Point Lighthouse are beautiful to explore, surrrounded by Lake Huron on three sides (on the Tawas Point peninsula). You can swim in the shallow waters in the warmer months and catch a glimpse of the piping plovers on beach walks.
Nearby Attraction: Tawas Point-Sandy Hood Nature Trail and downtown East Tawas.
Stay at Cheboygan River Front Range Light: A Charming Historic Stay Along the Straits of Mackinac
Cheboygan River Front Range Light
606 Water St, Cheboygan, MI 49721
The Cheboygan River Front Range Light offers a unique setting for volunteer keepers to enjoy while they work. Instead of the more isolated parts of the Great Lakes coastline, volunteer keepers can enjoy being in the heart of Cheboygan on the riverfront.
Here, volunteer keepers manage the operation of tours and gift shop duties as well as general maintenance and groundskeeping. Being a volunteer keeper at the Cheboygan Riverfront Lighthouse offers the unique benefits of both staying in a historic building and the access to a bustling downtown. There is a small fee to stay overnight and yu must be a member of the Great Lakes Lightkeepers Association.
Why You’ll Love It: Located centrally in downtown Cheboygan, the experience of serving as a weekend volunteer keeper at the Cheboygan River Front Range light offers a unique combination of staying in a historic riverfront lighthouse while enjoying all the amenities of a bustling downtown area.
Nearby Attraction: Aloha State Park and historic downtown Cheboygan
Stay at the St. helena Island Lighthouse
Where: St. Helena Island Lighthouse
Two miles offshore from the Upper Peninsula, St. Helena Island sits in the Straits of Mackinac. Once upon a time the island housed a small community, but now it sits uninhabited, only receiving a couple hundred visitors a year, starkly contrasting nearby Mackinac Island, which sits ten miles to the east.
Volunteer keepers work hard to maintain the St. Helena Island Lighthouse by doing work like painting, sanding, cleaning and more. Stays for keepers can range from a few days to a couple months.
Why You’ll Love It: The entire lighthouse complex has been lovingly restored, including the installation of a new wood shingle roof, rebuilding of the boat house and assistant keepers dwelling, installation of new lantern and chimney, and the replacement of thousands of bricks in the tower.
Nearby Attractions: Mackinac Island and the Mackinac Bridge
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
Where: Grand Traverse Lighthouse
Address: 15500 N Lighthouse Point Rd, Northport, MI 49670
On the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, the Grand Traverse Lighthouse was built in 1852 and operated for exactly 120 years. Today it is a recognized location on the National Register of Historic Places and visitors come to see what makes it so special.
Volunteer keepers are invited to stay and maintain this property for week long shifts from April to December. Volunteers help run tours and operate the gift shop as well as participate in general maintenance and upkeep tasks in this special Northport Lighthouse.
Why You’ll Love It: You can climb the Lighthouse Tower for a magnificent view of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay.
Nearby Attraction: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the stunning Lake Michigan towns of Glen Arbor and Empire MI
Stay at Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse: A Historic Getaway on Michigan’s Thumb Coast
Where: Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse
Address: 7320 Lighthouse Road, Port Hope, MI 48468
There are many things that give the Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse its legendary status. From being among the top ten oldest lighthouses in the state, having been built in 1848, to being the home of the first female lighthouse keeper, Catherine Shook, there are countless things that make this spot so cool.
It’s no wonder that keepers love to participate in the restoration, preservation, and sharing of this lighthouse’s story. Located near the tip of Michigan’s thumb, this lighthouse offers keepers and visitors the chance to visit a more remote part of Lake Huron on Michigan’s Thumbcoast.
Why You’ll Love It: The Assistant Keeper Program provides a great opportunity for lighthouse enthusiasts. Your group of two to four adults can spend a week staying in the assistant keeper’s house overlooking the scenic shores of Lake Huron and helping us as a “Lighthouse Keeper.” The cost is $150 per person per week, plus your agreement to provide volunteer services. Applications for the 2025 season will be available November 1st, 2024.
Nearby Attraction: Turnip Rock and Port Austin, one of Michigan’s best-kept secret resort towns.
Stay at 40 Mile Point Lighthouse: A Unique RV Keeper Experience on Lake Huron
Where: 40 Mile Point Lighthouse
Address: 7323 US-23 N, Rogers City, MI 49779
Few lighthouses offer an experience quite like 40 Mile Point Lighthouse. Located on Michigan’s beautiful Lake Huron shoreline, this historic site offers a rare opportunity for RV travelers to become Guest Lighthouse Keepers. Imagine parking your RV just steps from the lighthouse, nestled in a serene campground equipped with modern amenities like 50-amp hookups, water, sewer, and a shared campfire ring. Volunteers get to live and work at the lighthouse for 2-4 weeks, serving as docents to greet visitors, share its rich history, and explore the grounds.
Why You’ll Love It: When you’re not volunteering, take advantage of miles of bike and hiking trails leading to nearby Rogers City, stroll to the lake just over the dunes, or relax by a campfire under the stars. Guests enjoy unique perks like access to a golf cart, an on-site washer and dryer, and the camaraderie of fellow lighthouse enthusiasts. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience for history lovers and RV travelers alike—plus, dogs are welcome at this peaceful park!
Group Stay Experiences in a Michigan Lighthouse
Where: Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
Address: 2802 Omar St, Port Huron, MI 48060
One of the more unique opportunities for staying overnight at a lighthouse can be found at the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse in Port Huron.
This is Michigan’s first and now oldest lighthouse, having been built in 1829, and you have the chance to stay overnight inside. This opportunity, called “Overnight at the Light” invites groups of 20 or more to spend the night, bunk-room style, in the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse.
The event also includes a tour, which may include a lighthouse tower climb if the weather permits. This opportunity is perfect for scouts or other youth or school groups.
Why You’ll Love It: This is a unique opportunity for 20 or more people to spend the night, bunk room style, in this notable building on a remarkable 5-acre campus.
Well-suited for scouts, youth groups, and school groups, this program includes a tour of the buildings and grounds, including a lighthouse tower climb (weather permitting). A program relating to the site will be presented, then a snack and lights out! Sleep in the newly-renovated duplex and have breakfast on your own the next day.
Cost is only $25 per person and a minimum payment of $500.00 is required. A non-refundable deposit of $250 is due within two weeks of booking and the balance of your account is due two weeks prior to your overnight. Groups of up to 42 people can be accommodated.
Why You’ll Love It: This is a unique opportunity for 20 or more people to spend the night, bunk room style, in this notable building on a remarkable 5-acre campus. A program relating to the site will be presented, then a snack and lights out! Sleep in the newly-renovated duplex and have breakfast on your own the next day. Cost is only $25 per person and a minimum payment of $500.00 is required. Groups of up to 42 people can be accommodated.
Nearby Attraction: Blue Water Bridge and Michigan’s Blue Tumb Coast
About the Author –
Bella DiMascio is a Content Editor for mymichiganbeach.com. She grew up in the Detroit suburb of Westland. She later attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo where she majored in Communication Studies and minored in English: Writing. Creative writing has been a hobby and interest of Bella’s since she was in elementary school. She is thrilled to be using her talents to highlight the Great Lakes State. Outside of writing, Bella enjoys getting outside with her two Australian Shepherds, playing video games, and binging shows on Netflix.