Some things were just made to be seen. 

This is Mackinac.

A point in the storm and a guiding beacon since 1889, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse helped passing ships navigate through the treacherous waters of the Straits of Mackinac. There’s just as much to see from the top of the tower as inside the original buildings. Authentically restored quarters and exhibits, including the original lens, a movie, Shipwrecks of the Straits, and the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum make this “Castle of the Straits” a true gem of the Great Lakes.

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Highlights

Exhibits

The Keepers’ Quarters contains three rooms restored to their 1910 appearance and a gallery exhibit on the history of the lighthouse featuring hands-on displays and original artifacts. New for 2018 is an exhibit devoted to optics and lenses as well as sound and fog signals.

Tower Tours

Tours of the lighthouse tower are given throughout the day, on a first-come, first served basis. Tours are provided at no additional charge and are not guaranteed with admission. For the safety of everyone special restrictions apply. Please consult the Tower Tour Rules to see if you can make the climb.

Movie

A fifteen-minute program, Shipwrecks of the Straits, is presented in the Barn. It repeats continuously.

Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum

Located in the reconstructed warehouse, this exhibit features audiovisual displays and a variety of original artifacts to tell the story of the numerous shipwrecks that dot the Straits of Mackinac.

Watch the video below to see all that Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse has to offer!

Hours of Operation

2018 Hours of Operation

May 4 – June 8
9:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
Last Admission 4:00pm

June 9 – September 2
9:00 a.m. 5:30 p.m.
Last Admission 5:00pm

September 3 – October 7
9:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
Last Admission 4:00pm

Admission Rates

Adult $8.00 – Online $7.50
Child (Age 5-12) $5.00 – Online $4.75

Click here for more information and to save on combination tickets and season passes.

Travel Information

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is located within the boundaries of Michilimackinac State Park on the shore of Lake Michigan, just off I-75 in Mackinaw City. It is just to the east of the Mackinac Bridge. The Fog Signal Building serves as the entrance to the site.

Street Address

526 N. Huron Ave.
Mackinaw City, MI 49701

Travel Directions

Click here to map your route to Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and for general travel information on your visit to the Straits of Mackinac.

Parking

Parking at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is free. The main lot is located adjacent to the site entrance. Additional parking is located along Huron Ave. and nearby at the Colonial Michilimackinac entrance.

Visitor Services

Refreshments and Picnic Area 

Beverage vending machines are located near the restroom. Picnic grounds are featured throughout Michilimackinac State Park.

Shopping

The Museum Store is located in the Fog Signal Building. It features a wide variety of unique gifts, mementos, apparel and publications.

Restrooms

Accessible restrooms are located just to the west of the lighthouse complex, adjacent to the parking lot.

Accessibility 

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse warmly welcomes guests with special needs. Learn more about how guests with limited mobility or other special needs can fully enjoy their visit. Click here for complete information about accessibility.

Visitation Tips & Courtesies

Getting Around

Please keep in mind that Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is very much an outdoor experience so prepare accordingly for various weather conditions. We recommend walking shoes and comfortable clothing. Please be sure to collect a Map & Schedule at the entrance. Please consult the Tower Tour Rules for special requirements to make the climb up the tower.

Touring Time

There is a lot to see and do at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. We recommend that you plan to spend a minimum of one hour at the site. Those meeting the Tower Tour requirements will be issued a timed ticket for their tour.

Pet Friendly

Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome.

Photography

Photography is permitted and encouraged in all areas. Professional or group photography must be approved in advance.

Electronic Devices

Please silence electronic devices during audiovisual presentation and during tours.

Smoking

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is a smoke-free site.