Calumet Harbor Light

Standing guard at the mouth of the Calumet River since 1851, this historic Chicago lighthouse has guided vessels through one of Lake Michigan’s busiest industrial corridors for over 170 years. The light remains active today, operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, marking the harbor entrance for commercial and recreational traffic alike.

The lighthouse is not open to the public and visitors cannot climb the tower, but it makes a striking photographic subject from the nearby shoreline. Golden hour and winter sunsets offer the most dramatic backdrops. While visiting, explore Calumet Park’s lakefront trails, the Pullman National Historic Park, and the emerging Big Marsh recreation area — all within a short drive.

Explore Nearby

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• Homer Glen, Illinois Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Illinois
• The Indiana Lincoln Highway Byway Alternate — Scenic Byway in Indiana
• Indiana Dunes State Park — State Park in Indiana
• James “Pate” Philip State Park — State Park in Illinois