Standing along the Manistee River Channel in Manistee, Michigan, this historic lighthouse once guided vessels through one of Lake Michigan’s busiest lumber ports. The cast-iron tower, paired with an attached fog signal building, served mariners for decades before being deactivated. Though no longer an active aid to navigation, the structure remains a striking landmark against the Lake Michigan shoreline.

The lighthouse is not open to the public, but photographers can capture excellent shots from the Manistee North Pierhead walkway and nearby beaches. Golden hour provides the best light, particularly at sunset when the tower silhouettes against the western sky.

Nearby, visitors can explore the Manistee Riverwalk, the historic Victorian Port City downtown district, and Orchard Beach State Park.

Explore Nearby

• Orchard Beach State Park — State Park in Michigan
• Tippy Dam State Recreation Area — State Park in Michigan
• Historic Michigan Road Byway Alternate — Scenic Byway in Indiana
• Huron–Manistee National Forest — National Forest in Michigan
• Newport State Park — Dark Sky Site in Wisconsin