To get there you can take the 6 tenths of a mile hike over the bridge and through a trail. It's the only caisson-style lighthouse in Maine that can be toured. The first light was located on the top of the keepers house. In the town of Owls Head, you can also swing by the harbor, which is a working fishing dock, and very small, but if you love coastal New England scenes like this, its worth a stop. Once you arrive in Bar Harbor, I recommend getting settled, and exploring the town first. Drive to Camden Hills State Park, and take the auto road to the summit of Mt. 2022 Maine Open Lighthouse Day Information This popular annual event, which is sponsored by the United States Coast Guard, the Maine Office of Tourism and the American Lighthouse Foundation, attracts between 15,000 to 18,000 visitors each year and offers the general public the rare opportunity to climb and learn about more than a dozen historic Maine lights. The walk to the light on the breakwater is beautiful. There are 7 lighthouses in Maine that offer overnight stays. . Ken Black Exhibition Hall. We are York's original sea kayak tour company and are entering our 12th season. The metered parking is only about $2/hr, or a max of $10 for the day, so its not expensive. The Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park is run and maintained by the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department. It was deactivated in 1934 but reactivated in 1987. Originally called Robinson Point, this light was constructed in 1907. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse 351 Lighthouses Free parking and continental breakfast are included. Ashley Brown, Nothing is more essential in boat construction and repair than, It really doesnt matter if you are an accomplished sailor, By Best Inbound Day Tour Operator Travel & Tourism Award. I also personally love visiting Maine in late May just before Memorial Weekend, the first week of June (right after Memorial Weekend), or in September after Labor Day. Established in 1804, the current light dates from 1852 and was automated in 1982. It was automated in 1972 and is currently solar-powered. Not only was it affordable, it was stylish, clean and welcoming. This is a longer driving day, but broken up with lots of stops. Tom Hanks character concluded his cross country run on the runway of Marshall Point lighthouse. Passengers will remain on the boat for the length of the cruise. During the presidency of George H. W. Bush, Secret Service officers often used the island to watch the Bush Compound. Click here to book your e-bike rental and explore Acadia National Park by e-bike on your own schedule! to spend your last night in a gorgeous coastal town. The lighthouse is part of the park. The original lights were erected in 1828, but the current conical towers were built of cast iron in 1874 and stand 67 feet tall on Staples Point. Our guide was so informative. BURNT ISLAND LIGHT. Added bonus, a cliff walk with gorgeous views! The island isnt open to the public but can be viewed from Sohier Park. Spend 2 nights to also explore the park and Bar Harbor. Please come prepared with extra layers. Also called Bug Light, this 26-foot, cast-iron lighthouse is located at the entrance to Portland Harbor. $17.71. You dont have to be spiritual, religious, or have any hippy dippy ideals to observe Summer Solstice. Then head back to your hotel to get ready for your next day of sightseeing! Once you arrive in Ogunquit, almost everything will be walkable, making it really easy to explore a lot of things with a short amount of time. Click the link below for all my suggestions on hiking in Lubec, and the best things to do, eat and where to stay while here. Portland Head Light was first lit in 1791. 4 hours | $65 per person. It was actually inspired by Greek architecture, so this is a great one to stop by and see in person. Portland Head Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, and is definitely a must-see during your Maine lighthouse driving tour. This tour starts and ends in Portland, Maine, and covers the region south to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and north to Owls Head in Maine's . Boston to New York City: New England Road Trip! The Town of Islesboro maintains a Sailors Memorial Museum in the keepers house. Cape Neddick Lighthouse or Nubble Light as it has become known because of its location on the summit of Cape Neddick Bubble is located just a few hundred feet offYork Beachand attracts many photographers and visitors because of its picturesque beauty. The wooden pyramidal bell tower is one of the few left in New England. Its light was established in 1836, and the current 25-foot cylindrical brick tower dates to 1896. Nubble Light (Cape Neddick Light) is located in York, Maine. Merrymeetingis a56 motor vessel with a covered lower deck and open upper deck. Nestled at the western entrance of Boothbay Harbor, Burnt Island Light is one of the oldest lighthouses in Maine. Timing is for one 4-hour shift during the week or on weekends (8:30 to 12:30 or 12:30 to 4:30). Rockland Breakwater Light: Rockland. You can move forward or backward with the Left Arrow, Right Arrow, Page Up and Page Down keys. Genre. Seguin Light is the 2nd oldest lighthouse on Maines coast and the only lighthouse with a first order Fresnel Lens in the state. Constructed in 1852, the light was automated in 1989. Bean store (and take a picture with the giant boot! The Light was constructed in 1835 to a height of 38ft. Once you park, youll walk a short distance to the lighthouse. All prices are displayed per age group or reduced rate group. Grab some mouth watering lobster from The Lobster Shack just next door, here you will find tables overlooking the sea and some great seafood! If you choose to stop in South Portland, visit Spring Point Ledge and the Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, aka Bug Light. Product . Click here to book your e-bike rental and. For the sake of this post, Im going to suggest Ogunquit because I think its easier to do with a 1-night stay, but I love Kennebunkport equally as much, and both are a great choice. Explore the Kennebec River where shipbuilding began more than 400 years ago and continues today. It is located in Vinalhaven, Maine, on the southern side of the Fox Island Thoroughfare. You can also directly book your discounted online ticket for the Maine Lighthouse Museum here, if available. Directions - Option One: Follow directions to Cape . On your drive to Ogunquit, you can stop in Freeport to see the flagship L.L. Like many Maine lighthouses, its privately owned, so you cant visit or even get close to it. One thing to note is that many of the seafood shacks in Maine are very seasonal, and they dont usually begin to open until mid-May at the earliest some not even until June. Tours offer views from the water. When I visited in May, there was no one else there, and it was so beautiful. The Owls Head Light is an 30 foot active aid to navigation owned by the U.S Coast guard. Tours in July and August. Tips & Best Things To Do When Visiting Schoodic Peninsula: Once youre done in Schoodic, drive to Camden, which is just under 2 hours. Free shipping. Maine Lighthouses There are 65 lighthouses all along Maine's coast, inlets, and islands. Today, the 1858 construction consists of granite and stands at 47 feet. The current light from 1857 is granite stone. The lighthouse was erected in 1839 and completely rebuilt in 1889. Related Read: 11 Best Family Beaches in Maine. Accessibility: The lighthouse grounds and the Monhegan Historical and Cultural Museum in the keeper's house are open to the public. Owls Head Lighthouse, located in Owls Head State Park at the entrance of Rockland Harbor on Penobscot Bay, is owned and operated by the Coast Guard. Its one, By The drive to Ogunquit will be about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Bailey Island, and you can also choose to stay in Kennebunkport, which would be about the same distance. This post will be all about the best Maine lighthouses to see during your driving tour, and give you all the information you need to plan your trip. Located on a naval installation, it was automated in 1931. The structure was commissioned by George Washington himself and built in 1791. Here are a few awesome things to do in Camden: Click here to book your sunset Windjammer sail tour in Camden! . Box 238 Port Clyde, Maine 04855 Tel: (207) 372-8848 Fax: (207) 372-8547 Visitors to Mid Coast Maine will find lighthouses in more remote, scenic locations. User Guide: Simply Click the +/- buttons to zoom in & out, Click on a favourite attraction, and click directions symbol to give you the driving or walking route directly there! Portland Head Light, the. Portland, Maine is a charming city found nestled in the, By The Islandport Guide to Lighthouses in Maine. I loved my stay here! Ive personally been on the puffin cruise and had a blast! Maine lighthouses are generally not open for visitors to go inside. New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Maine Lighthouses by Boat. The Maine Lighthouse Museum (MLM) in Rockland offers the largest collection of Fresnel lighthouse lenses and the most important landmark collection of lighthouse artifacts and Coast Guard memorabilia in the United States. Come with Champlain Tours to visit majestic beacons and hear the salty tales of Maine's maritime history. It stands 49 feet tall and was fully automated in 1988. The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. Spring Point Ledge Light is at the end of a breakwater, so its definitely fun to walk out to the end, and see the lighthouse up close. Merrymeeting Cruise Schedule 2022 You can find the light house station at the entrance of the primary shipping channel which flows into Portland Harbor. It stand proud at 75 feet tall on a rocky outcrop offshore southwest of Fort Foster. Its a 30-foot cylindrical brick tower attached to a 1.5-story keepers house. One is now a private home. Squirrel Point Light is an 1898 lighthouse marking the southwestern point of Arrowsic Island on the Kennebec River. The lighthouse is at the end of a breakwater thats just less than a mile long, so be prepared for a bit of a walk! The tower was established in 1856 and is constructed from brick and asphalt. I love this little lighthouse so much! Its design was inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens, Greece. A park pass will be required to stop here. Maine has a whopping 65 lighthouses total. Lighthouse tours can include: Rockland Breakwater Light, Pemaquid Point Light, and Owl's Head Light. There seems to be some dispute on this subject. Maine, the northeasternmost U.S. state, is known for its rocky coastline, maritime history and nature areas like the granite and spruce islands of Acadia National Park. Located in Quoddy Head State Park in Lubec Maine, West Quoddy Head Light looks like a barbers pole or a candy cane. 4. Youll also drive down a long, dirt road to get to the trailhead. However, you cant access the lighthouse. Harbor Adventures offers sea kayak and bike adventures along the coast of southern Maine and the seacoast of New Hampshire. Cruisesmay becancelled in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions or unmet minimum ticket sales, andcancellations aremade by the Captain on the day of the cruise. Starting on Memorial Day, they're open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the museum taking an admission fee of just $2 for adults and $1 for kids. Click here to check out the lighthouse cruise from Bar Harbor! The museum opened in 1992. Maine Maritime Museum 243 Washington Street Bath, ME 04530 (207) 443-1316. The tour begins in the immersive exhibit BIW: Building Americas Navy where youll get a high-tech look at the people, processes, and ships of Bath Iron Works and discover why Bath Built is Best Built. From there youll board the trolley for a ride past the yard. ), How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic? 799-2661. There are great views of the Kennebec River from here, too. The current 1855 construction is brick, round in design, and 45 feet tall. This is a great photo opportunity. Owned and operated by the town of Bristol (with the help of volunteers), the site includes a Fisherman's Museum. (off Rt. Some of Maine's lighthouses may only be approached by sea. Large grounds with picnic facilities and museum on the premises. If you dont want to rack up the miles on your own car, you should definitely rent a car. This is also when hotel prices and crowds will be at their highest, so its a bit of a trade off. (Things You cant travel without!). You may also like:The best New England gifts to scout out during your trip! Also known as Two Lights, the east tower has an identical west tower 300 feet away. It was dubbed "Bug Light" due to its small size. The current light was built in 1874 from brick and stands 39 feet. Experience the full Bath Iron Works package! Day 4-5: Drive to Acadia National Park to see Bass Harbor Light. Rockland is an official Coast Guard City and all members of the U.S. Coast Guard, active and retired are admitted Free. This lighthouse punctuates the mouth of the Piscataqua River between New Castle, New Hampshire and Kittery, Maine. Youll be able to explore this beautiful area, and add another lighthouse notch in your belt, which is Head Harbor Light. Let us create your unique private tour itinerary today. Take the Seguin Island Ferry, owned and operated by Capt. Standing 35 feet tall, this cylindrical tower is constructed with a granite foundation, a brick middle, and a cast-iron lantern. It was commissioned by President George Washington. The U.S. Coast Guard owns the property, so only the grounds are open to the public. Finally, the trolley will drop you off to board the museums cruise boat Merrymeeting for a one hour cruise featuring spectacular views of modern shipbuilding construction and a close-up look at naval destroyers in the water. The Kennebec River Range is the only range of lights in Maine & the first U.S Coast guard district. Experience the beautiful coastal region on your bus trip to Maine. Map of Maine Lighthouse Road Trip: 1. Currently, its solar operated. To explore Acadia National Park, youll need to purchase a park pass, which you can buy online here. Your email address will not be published. You can see it across the water while standing on Ocean Point in Boothbay. Although the lighthouses are not open to the public, they strike a pretty pose. The 30-foot round brick tower is open for visits, and the Keepers House is an Interpretive Center for the American Lighthouse Foundation. I chose Bailey Island because I wanted to explore the Harpswell area, and wanted to stay in a smaller, lesser-known town. Whether youre looking for a history lesson or just a beautiful view, Maine lighthouses are a great attraction for visitors of all ages. At the northern end of the main channel into Portland Harbor, this lighthouse is located on a quarter-mile rocky finger of land. . If ever a lighthouse in Maine might be haunted, Boon Island certainly has a history that would account for it. Bass Harbor cruises pass by the lighthouse, and it is visible. The 52-foot tower is 180 feet above water level, making it the highest in the state. The former assistant keepers bedroom is now a museum. Once you get to the lighthouse, youll likely either be there by yourself, or only with a few other people since this is also a more off-the-beaten-path destination. The 35-foot lighthouse is one of two towers constructed in . These historic beacons direct maritime travelers to a safe harborand there's even one on Cobbosseecontee Lake, the only landlocked lighthouse in the state. A tour of some of Maines most famous lighthouses starts in York County, at one of the most famous lighthouses in the country. Jessica Langille. The current gray granite conical lighthouse was built in 1855 and stands 133 feet, making it Maines tallest. Marshall Point Lighthouse and the Owlshead Light Station are a few of the lighthouses to visit when you are in the Camden area. The facility: Active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation; property maintained by Maine Department of Parks . Grindle Point Sailors Museum/Lighthouse, 40 Best Things To Do Portland Maine (Family-Friendly! A walk through this facility will introduce the kids to significant European and American . Maine's 65 historic lighthouses beckon to visitors today just as they have drawn and guided ships into safe harbors for centuries along the state's rocky coastline. A skeletal solar-powered tower is now nearby and used as an active light. Cruises run in light rain and other moderate weather conditions. A unique opportunity to be at sea right in the middle of Maines famous fleet of Windjammers! The drive from Boothbay to Bar Harbor will about 2 hours and 45 minutes, and youll be in Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park for 2 nights. 13. In 1988, West Quoddy Head, which was one of the Coast Guards six remaining family-operated lighthouses. The 42-foot white cylindrical light can be viewed from a boat tour 19 miles south of the Cranberry Isles. The Whitlocks Mill Light is the northernmost lighthouse in Maine and the last lighthouse to be built in Maine. The drive to this lighthouse from Owls Head is about 35 minutes. Located about 1 mile offshore, The Cuckolds was automated in 1975 and is still an active light. All restaurants and shops will also be open during the summer. Bristol. Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, Maine, dates back to 1835. Dates and times will follow. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. Also, a lighthouse boat tour from Bar Harbor is the best way to see six lighthouses Egg Rock Light, Bass Harbor Light, Bakers Island Light, Great Duck Island Light, Mount Desert Rock Light, and Mark Island Light, also called Winter Harbor Light. The drive from Pemaquid Point to Bailey Island is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Enjoy your favorite beverage and spectacular on-the-river views of the annual Heritage Days fireworks! Fall is a great time to visit Maine, and the lighthouses are spectacular. It has a cast iron construction lined with brick, which is unusual but likely to stand up to the brutal Maine weather. But, The Museum of Portland Head Light is located in the former keepers quarters. The Maine Tour Connection 96 Ocean Street, Suite 3 South Portland, ME 04106 2014-2019 The Maine Tour Connection. Parking here is free street parking. Definitely stop at Ravens Nest, which is no longer on the park map because it could potentially be dangerous. Other great options for an overnight stay in this area would be Wiscasset (mentioned earlier in this post! Cruise along the Kennebec Rivers Long Reach and see Doubling Point Lighthouse, the historic Percy & Small Shipyard, and Baths colorful waterfront. Here you will find Maine's most famous lighthouse, the Cape Neddick Lighthouse, or Nubble Light, as it's commonly known. Its 31 feet tall and privately owned. And for those who really want . During this autumn cruise youll see up to six lighthouses:Doubling Point Light, Kennebec Range Lights, Squirrel Point Light, Perkins Island Light, Pond Island Light, and Seguin Island Light. The light was automated in 1959. A research room is also open for local area subjects. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine! 1 Lighthouse Hill Monhegan, ME, 04852 Phone: 207-596-7003. When I visited in mid-May, the people who lived in the adjacent house were there, so its best to be very respectful while visiting. Bailey Island is also home to the only cribstone bridge left in the world. The summer months are undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Maine in general because the weather is the warmest, and theres fewer chances of rain. In addition, some have small museums in the adjacent Keepers Quarters to explore and cost a few dollars for entry. Tour the elegant historic Victoria Mansion and enjoy free . Here are some other awesome things to do in Acadia National Park: The drive to Lubec is about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Bar Harbor, and I would suggest going straight to West Quoddy Lighthouse first, and budgeting time to see the actual lighthouse, and walking on some of the surrounding trails. Special arrangements can be made to visit the station. The present light, constructed in 1875 at 39 feet tall, was sold along with the entire peninsula after being deactivated in 1933. So if youre feeling tired from all the hiking youve just done so far on your Maine lighthouse driving tour, this is a good time to relax and do some easy activities. Maines oldest lighthouse, Portland Head Light, has been around since 1791 and is adjacent to the 90-acre Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth. PO Box 345. Your guide, a current or former BIW employee, will detail the history of the yard and highlight key elements of the shipyard. Board Merrymeeting for an up-close look at some of Maines most iconic lighthouses and abundant wildlife. Burnt Island can only be reached by boat or kayak. The square 31-foot brick tower, with a square lantern house ringed by a catwalk, was erected in 1875 and isnt open to the public. In the research room you can look through many historic documents & photos outlining the history of the lighthouse & the area. This light tower is a photogenic attraction for tourists and is widely regarded as one of the most photographed lighthouses in America. Standing at the end of St. George Peninsula in Port Clyde Harbor, a seasonal museum and gift shop are located in the former keepers house and summer kitchen at Marshall Point Lighthouse. With 65 historical lighthouses still standing and spread out along 5,000 miles of coastline, inlets, and islands, Maine is commonly referred to as The Lighthouse State. Its situated in the most eastern spot in the United States. We enjoyed the whole day. Norm Forgey, Founder, 2007-2022 Some of the towers are easy to view, others are very remote, and you may even be able to sleep in one! But with so many to choose from, which is the best way to see them?? Living History Lighthouse Tour Keepers of Burnt Island Lighthouse are offering living history tours during . Constructed in 1898, you will find the only range lights in Maine and features a few unique wooden lighthouses. Curtis Island marks the approach to Camden Harbor. Standing sentinel at the south entrance to Frenchman Bay, this 40-foot lighthouse in Maine is an architectural gem. I planned it so youre seeing about half of the stops on this list on the way to Lubec, and half on the way back. Lauren Abbott, Known for its jagged rocky coastlines, Maine is a charming, By MAINE DAY TRIP - A Maine Private Corporation - All Rights Reserved. It stands 40 feet tall and is a sparkplug lighthouse in Lubec, Maine. All cruise fees include admission. I'm Sam. If you dont have 10 days, you could do this itinerary in 7 days, and just not have as much down time. Of course, trying some of Maines famous seafood along the way is a must. Most participating sites are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for guided or self-guided tours of the keeper's houses and/or the light towers. The 20-foot brick light was commissioned in 1821 at the mouth of the Kennebec River, but the current tower was built in 1855. Youll also be able to eat at one of the best seafood shacks in Maine while here, Five Islands Lobster Co. Another option for a pitstop is Wiscasset, which is a charming little town with a great seafood shack, Reds Eats. Lights are the hope of seamen,Warning of rock and shoal,We are the danger-stations,We are the sea-patrol! Which means it can be very busy during the day at the lighthouse. I suggest you have a good breakfast and pack some snacks for the road, and leave early this day so you dont feel rushed at each lighthouse. Not all of them are accessible on land, and in fact, many of them you can only get to or see by boat. A lighted buoy replaced the beacon, and the tower cant be visited. He was polite and also a great and safe driver. Click here to watch my YouTube video on my Maine lighthouse driving tour, and see all these destinations in action! During your stay in Ogunquit, be sure to venture over to Cape Neddick, and see Nubble Lighthouse. To get the best prices check out:How to find the Best Hotel Deals?? See some of the Kennebecs most beautiful lighthouses in the splendor of fall! Permadquid Point lighthouse has a free mini museum adjacent, only 5 people can enter per time but its worth the wait. Maine Lighthouse Museum 1 Park Drive Rockland, ME 04831 Phone: 207-594-3301. Situated on the west side of Southport Island, this lighthouse guides the east side of the entrance to the Sheepscot River. Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour Itinerary Overview Day 1: Arrive in Portland, and see Portland Head Light, Bug Light & Spring Point Ledge Light. These lighthouses are all very close to each other, and you can see them all with just a few hours. My suggestion is to arrive in Portland around lunch time, grab a bite to eat, and then head out to Bug Light, then Spring Point Ledge Light, and then Portland Head Light closer to sunset. Information: The Tremont Historical Society conducts occasional tours of the lighthouse; call 207-244-9753. About this product. If youre coming from Canada, start in Lubec, and work your way down and back up. Explore Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor, and enjoy a private lighthouse tour . This unique lighthouse is located at the end of the 900-foot breakwater in Portland Harbor. Town and Tourist, Maine is known for lobster, harbors, whales, and small towns, Approximately 90% of Maine is covered in trees. It is considered the most easily recognized and the most charming one in the state. On the southern tip of Swans Island, at the entrance to Burnt Coat Harbor, this 35 -foot lighthouse is also known as Hammock Head. Passengers also get to enjoy views of the historic Percy and Small Shipyard and two of the Kennebecs famed lighthouses. Created in 1854, it was discontinued in 1933. Day 7-8: Drive to Camden, stopping at Schoodic Peninsula on the way. Entrance/parking is $5 per person but active military get in free. This is a bit of a long driving day, but I promise you, its loads of fun and absolutely worth it! The station also includes a keepers house, an oil house, and a fog signal building. At least two ghosts are said to reside there. NH, Ri, VT), Museums, Tours, Points of Interest, United States / Northeast / General. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, children 12 and under are free with an adult. Perhaps the most desolate of all the Maine lighthouses, Mount Desert Rock is tiny, only 600 yards by 200 yards. Standing 54 feet tall, the white brick and cast-iron light first shone in 1897 and still shines today. A historical timeline will guide your tour through the museum beginning with the origin of the lighthouse and the lives of the keepers, technology changes over the course of 200 years, the military activities at Ft. Williams, and ending with the decommissioning and automation of Portland Head Light in 1989. ), 11 Marine Plywood Alternatives (Durable & Budget-Friendly Choices! Whale watching is a much-beloved activity in Maine! The park rangers do not allow you make a U-turn and make your way back, so youll have no other choice but to wait if its full. Lots of space to explore and take pictures. Thank you for making our time so memorable! The lighthouse tower is not open to the public. This tour company offers cruises to see the Maine puffin colonies, whale watching, lighthouses and even lobster trap hauls. In the spring season, especially, youll find very few crowds and pleasant weather (with the occasional chance of rain). So Im sharing all of it with you in this post to help you plan the perfect road trip. Click here to read about my experience on the puffin cruise. Once youve created your own must-see list, I also suggest breaking up the stops by visiting half of them on your way to the furthest destination, and then visiting the other half on your way back. Celebrate Summer Solstice on Cadillac Mountain, Exploring Southwest Harbor Acadia National Park Mount Desert Island, Guide to Bethel Maine Hotels, Inns, and Lodging, Guide To Southern Maine Campgrounds and RV Parks. The facility: Active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation and Coast Guard housing. The tours are of varied length and area great way to see the local area. Standing 54 feet tall, the white brick and cast-iron light first shone in 1897 and still shines today. Its now solar-powered. Some lighthouses have museums on their oceanfront grounds that offer insight into the rich history of lighthouse keeping, while other Lighthouses are now quaint inns or part of large state park grounds. The current lighthouse dates from 1857 and was automated in 1988. The grounds are open, and overnight stays are allowed in the apartment in the keepers house. Located on the north side of the entrance road is a small rocky beach, Ship Cove, with a stunning view of Ram Island Ledge Light located in Casco Bay. The following overview lists the admission prices and various discounts and discount codes for a visit to Maine Lighthouse Museum in Rockland. Owned by the Town of Castine, this lighthouse (also spelled Dyce) has been guarding the east side of Penobscot Bay since 1828. The white tower with a black lantern stands 38 feet tall and matches the keepers house. Goat Island Light, in the Cape Porpoise area ofKennebunkport, can be viewed from Cape Porpoise Pier or by boat tour. Learn more about the Museum's boat tours. Today, the lighthouse is owned by the Bar Harbor College of the Atlantic, and the island is used for bird and marine research. ", "We had a great day with our guide. Your email address will not be published. Tickets to the Maine Lighthouse Museum are also provided. Swan's Island can be reached by ferry from Bass Harbor on Mt. Although many Maine lighthouses arent accessible on land, lighthouse boat tours are an ideal way to see these attractions and get the best photographs. Visit The Museum Take time to explore a range of rustic, upscale, and budget lodging choices in Rockland if you're visiting from out of town. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse Grounds open all year, 9 a.m. to sunset; free parking. The lighthouse tower that stands today was built in 1858. The walk is very scenic, and there are a few really cool photo spots along the way! Travel-sized dish soap to wash your reusable water bottle. Owned by the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse has limited hours but can be visited. Passengers also get to enjoy views of the historic Percy and Small Shipyard and two of the Kennebec's famed lighthouses. Located 5 miles southeast of Matinicus Island, this tower is also 5 miles off the coast of Rockland. The official website of Maine's oldest lighthouse, The Portland Head Light. The Lighthouses of Southern Maine. Tour Maine's most beautiful lighthouses along the coast from Kittery and York's Nubble Light to Portland's most famous lighthouse, Portland Head Light. - Norm Forgey, Founder Payments Accepted Visa MasterCard Amex PayPal Contact Info Email Us 1-207-536-5611 Our Friends Visit Maine Whaleback Light 2. Click here to read about my experience on the puffin cruise, and my detailed travel guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor! Youre on the right track to get there! In 1977, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. (Where To Cross! The gray granite conical tower isnt open to the public but can be viewed on a boat tour of the harbor. Situated on the spectacular shores of Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth, Maine. I found it much less dangerous than some areas in Acadia National Park, but if you have young children that might run away from you, you may want to skip this one. This station was built to withstand the wickedly bad weather it would be subject to. Since 2006, the museum collection has been displayed in the new Cmdr. Guided tours of the lighthouse tower are available in the summer. Open Every Day 9am to 5pm - Year Round Its also known for its unique red light, which still shines today. Portland Museum of Art. These lighthouses have acted as beacons of light for sailors for hundreds of years, guiding sailors and fishermen safely into harbors along the rocky Maine coastline. Click here to make your vehicle reservation, Best stops to make when driving from Boston to Portland, Maine, Best stops to make when driving from Portland to Acadia National Park, 7-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary (+5 & 10-Day Options), 15 Awesome Day Trips From Portland, Maine (2022), 41 Amazing & Unique New England Gifts For Everyone On Your List (2022). Considering how much coastline there is to navigate around Maine and its islands, 65 lighthouses doesnt seem like that many! There are also some great hiking trails inside this part of the park. The new Maine Lighthouse Museum offers the following volunteer opportunities: MUSEUM DOCENTS:As a docent, you will be available in the museum to interpret the exhibits and answer questions from visitors as you circulate around the collection. The lighthouse and the grounds are closed to the public. See the Fisherman's Museum in the Keeper's House. If youre looking to stop at some of the best seafood shacks during your Maine lighthouse driving tour, itll be best to plan your trip between June-Labor Day. Required fields are marked *. Constructed in 1890 with cast iron, its 51 feet tall and in the caisson style. Boon Island Light is located about 8 miles from the nearest land. Please check out the new dates. Tip: Jump down to the section about lighthouses you can stay overnight in, as many of them will offer opportunities to climb to the tower during your stay! Spent 2 nights in Camden. The light marks the entrance to the Two Bush Channel on Penobscot Bay. When visitingAcadia National Park on Mount Desert Islandduring your stay in Maine, take a drive to Bass Harbor Lighthouse on the southern end of Mount Desert Island along the rocky coastline. Optional Tours: You can do a whale watch or lighthouse boat cruise from downtown Bar Harbor, and with the lighthouse cruise option, youll get to see 4 additional lighthouses from the water that you can only see by boat, which are Winter Harbor, Egg Rock, Bear Island and Baker Island. Cruise comfortably with plenty of space to move around the open upper deck and enclosed lower deck. Number of Pages. Heron Neck Light is privately owned and closed to the public. Related Read: 20 Cabin & Treehouse Rentals in Maine. Apart from seeing the fantastic Portland head lighthouse, there are some fantastic landmarks to see nearby: The museum is located in the former keepers house which was constructed in 1891. Dive into our map of Maines lighthouses below! Spend the night on Bailey Island. and my detailed travel guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor! No visitors are allowed on the island, but boat tours pass by for a view of the lighthouse. Visit the Seashore Trolley Museum and take a ride through the Maine countryside on a streetcar. The tower is still an active Coast Guard navigation aid. You can also take a lighthouse cruise from Bar Harbor to see other nearby lighthouses like Egg Rock, Bear Island, Winter Harbor and Baker Island Lights. Little Fig Hotel Located within walking distance to downtown is this stylish little hotel, which is perfect if youre looking for more of a retreat with beautifully-decorated rooms. Number of Pages: 170 Pages. Lighthouse built in 1858 and automated in 1974. Museum & Gift Shop will open in the spring of 2023. 1-207-363-8466. Located 1 mile from Boothbay Harbor, the island is open seven days a week. Visit historic Wood Island Lighthouse! SEPTEMBER 13-17, 2021. Make a reservation today! The main attraction in Bailey Island is the Giants Stairs trail, which is a short cliff-walk that has huge rocks you can climb on for incredible views of the ocean. Youll also be spending a night in Lubec to explore the town, relax and hit up some of the hiking trails. The Voyager I spacecraft (1977), which carries photographs of Earth's prominent man-made structures and natural features, should it fall into the hands of intelligent extraterrestrials, includes a photo of Nubble Light with images of the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal. Many say this is the most photographed lighthouse in america! Spring Point Ledge Light: Rockland. Portland, Maine Lighthouse Tour -2 hour Land Tour 304 Recommended Bus Tours from C$70.96 per adult Windjammer Classic Sunset Sail 169 Recommended Day Cruises from C$88.63 per adult 2022 Windjammer Classic Day Sail 215 Recommended Day Cruises from C$81.80 per adult The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local 561 While you're on tour, don't forget to visit the Maine Lighthouse Museum in Rockland to learn about Maine maritime history, Maine lighthouses and their keepers, and to see America's largest collection of lighthouse artifacts and mementos. We would highly recommend Maine Day Trip Tours. Another option during your time in Bar Harbor is to explore Acadia National Park by e-bike! Adults: $55; Children 17 & under: $33 Members receive a 20% discount, register today! Constructed in 1890, it was one of the Maine lighthouses automated in 1986. The lighthouse and keepers house may be toured in July and August on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Whats unique is that it was rebuilt as a wooden structure and is one of the last remaining wooden towers in Maine. It stands at the western entrance to Muscle Ridge Channel on Penobscot Bay. We provide private and luxury sightseeing tours for individuals, couples and large groups starting in the Portland and Kennebunkport areas of Maine. Its located in Fort Williams Park, a popular place for picnics, hiking, and sunbathing in the summer while overlookingCasco Bay. Lightweight jacket or sweater for boat tours, since its always colder out on the water. P.O. Another of the Kennebec River lights, its closed to the public, but the grounds are open to the public. Let us provide you with the best lighthouse tour to one or more along the rocky coastline of Maine. The best things to do, great lodging, unique restaurants, and more. Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. Frequently they are located in public parks where visitors are free to wander around the outside. Optional Tour: If youd like to take a tour of the city of Portland, led by a local historian, click the link below for an awesome option, which also includes all 3 Portland lighthouses! They totally surprised me, and I found them to be just as awesome as some of the Acadia trails. He designed an artists studio at the base of the bell tower. The current 25-foot white cast-ire cylindrical light is automated. There is a short and scenic walk through the woods to get to the lighthouse, which is about 2/3 of a mile. Visiting Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and Fort Preble - MAINE DAY TRIP - A Maine Private Corporation - All Rights Reserved, "Yesterday was great! Portland Head Light 2,388 Lighthouses By Ranger0213 Beautiful lighthouse and historic park! The lighthouse isnt available to visit, but the grounds are. Daily, 12 pm and 2 pm, through October 23 Adults $38; 6 17 years, $21; under 6, $6 Members receive a 20% discount, register today! The light is perched atop a granite cliff to protect the entrance to Hurricane Sound. Ride on a Maine lobster boat and see the Maine coast from atop Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park. Goddard Mansion was build before the fort by the world renowned New York Architect Charles A. Alexander for a businessman John Goddard. Youll want to stay the night in Portland, and plan your arrival so that you have time to see three lighthouses: Portland Head Light, Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light, all of which are within a 15-minute drive from one another. Lastly, while it seems like the lighthouse is part of the private residence, know its okay to walk right up to it. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); VisitMaine.Net The unofficial guide to experiencing Maine. For this particular itinerary, you will visit 12 lighthouses, which doesnt even include ones seen from the water, so youll have opportunity to add on even more with optional boat tours along the way. The tower has limited hours for climbing (see below) and is only open weather permitting. The light is made of brick and asphalt and stands 41 feet tall. The road trip begins only a few miles over the Maine and New Hampshire boarder. I like this lighthouse because theres a long footbridge leading to the actual structure, and because its not one of the more popular lighthouses and a bit off-the-beaten-path, not many people visit. Spend 2 nights in Boothbay Harbor, including a boat tour to see Ram, Burnt & Pemaquid Lighthouses. For more information, please refer to ourPrivacy Policy. The 51-foot conical stonework tower was discontinued in 1937 and replaced with a skeleton tower only 475 feet away. Merrymeetingis wheelchair accessible, but the two small bathrooms on board are not. Monday Thursday, October 3 22 and Saturday, September 3 October 22, 3:30 pm Adults, $43; 6 17 years, $27; under 6, $6 Members receive a 20% discount, register today! You just park at Bug Light Park and enjoy yourself. Tours & Motor Coach Info; Motor Coach Reservations; Ceremonies; Gatherings; Museum & Shop; Contact; 1000 Shore Road Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107. p: (207) 799-2661. Next, youll want to make your way to Squirrel Point Lighthouse. You are purchasing a Good copy of 'The Lighthouses of Maine: Southern Maine and Casco Bay (Lighthouse Treasury)'. The Islandport Guide to Lighthouses in Maine (Paperback or Softback) $14.26. The drive here is about 20 minutes from Rockland Breakwater Light, and parking is free and easy. 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