Although the Grand Traverse Lighthouse in Michigan looks nothing like a typical lighthouse as far as the appearance is concerned (it is not a cylindrical tower but more like a modern rectangular house), it still manages to draw the crowds. The Michigan Grand Traverse Lighthouse is located in the interior of the Leelanau State Park, which is somewhere in Northern Michigan. Ever since it was constructed in 1852, the lighthouse has been acting as a guide for sailors and ships. On September 10, 2012 it turned a hundred and sixty years old!
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When you visit the Michigan Grand Traverse Lighthouse you’ll instantly notice that the lighthouse does not look anything similar to the pictures of it just after it was built. This is because in 1858 the original Grand Traverse Lighthouse was taken down and the present day one was built in a location that is easier for the ships to detect. The reason why the lighthouse is not a conventional cylinder-shaped tall building is because it was converted into a dwelling place for a maximum of two families in 1900. It was not until 1986 that the lighthouse became open for public viewing.
The Grand Traverse Lighthouse is generally open from noon to about four in the afternoon on all days. However the timings may change depending on the month, so it would be advisable to look up or enquire about the timings before making a visit. If you are interested in visiting the lighthouse then you need to first acquire a Recreation Passport in order to gain entry in the Leelanau State Park and it is going to cost you about USD 10 if you are a resident of Michigan and this is valid for a year. In case you aren’t a citizen of Michigan then you will need to pay USD 8 each time you want to enter the park.
One can take a tour of the lighthouse, which looks more or less like the house of a keeper during the 1920s or 1930s. Don’t miss out the opportunity to get a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan from the top of the tower, of course you’ll have to climb it first but it is completely worth it! Inside the lighthouse you will find exhibits on the lighthouse’s local history, shipwrecks, foghorns and other area lighthouses. Thus, you will feel enriched with knowledge after your visit to this not-so-regular lighthouse. It is a one-of-a-kind experience which is a must on the ‘To-visit’ list of all visiting Michigan.
