Grand Traverse Lighthouse

Fox Island Lighthouse sits on a tiny island just off the Leelanau Peninsula, and trust me, it's worth the short boat ride to get there. This charming 1930s lighthouse isn't your typical towering beacon - it's more like a cozy cottage with a light on top. The kids will love exploring the rocky shoreline while you soak up those incredible Lake Michigan views. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. The island itself is small enough to explore in an hour, but you'll want to linger just to watch the waves crash against the rocks.

Standing sentinel in Lake Michigan's waters since 1935, North Manitou Shoal Light marks one of the most treacherous shipping lanes in the Great Lakes. This steel-tower lighthouse replaced earlier structures that couldn't withstand the lake's fierce storms and ice. Located northwest of the Leelanau Peninsula, the light guided countless vessels through the narrow passage between North and South Manitou Islands. Families can spot this distinctive red-roofed beacon from various shoreline points, making it a favorite target for lighthouse enthusiasts and photographers exploring Michigan's maritime heritage.

The Robert Manning Memorial Lighthouse stands as a touching tribute along Michigan's stunning coastline in Benzie County. This accessible lighthouse draws families who appreciate both maritime history and Lake Michigan's natural beauty. Kids can explore the grounds safely while parents soak in panoramic water views that stretch to the horizon. The lighthouse's manageable size makes it an ideal stop during a longer coastal adventure. Unlike some towering lighthouses that intimidate young visitors, this memorial site welcomes children with open arms. The combination of historical significance and family-friendly atmosphere creates memorable experiences for all ages.

You know that perfect lighthouse photo everyone's chasing along the Michigan coast? This is it. The Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse sits at the end of a concrete pier jutting into Lake Michigan, and the walk out there is half the adventure. Kids love scrambling over the breakwater rocks while parents snap photos of the red-roofed beacon against those endless blue waters. The lighthouse itself is compact but photogenic, and on clear days you can see the Sleeping Bear Dunes stretching south. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it in Benzie County.

Standing sentinel on Lake Michigan's shoreline since 1858, Point Betsie Lighthouse cuts a striking figure against Benzie County's dramatic coastline. This classic white tower has weathered countless storms while guiding ships through the treacherous waters near Sleeping Bear Dunes. Kids love climbing the spiral staircase to peek out the lantern room windows, while parents appreciate the lighthouse keeper's quarters museum filled with maritime artifacts. The surrounding beach stretches for miles, perfect for beachcombing and watching spectacular sunsets paint the sky orange and pink over the endless blue horizon.

You'll need to catch a ferry from Leland to reach this stunning 1872 lighthouse on South Manitou Island, but trust me, it's worth every minute of the trip. The 104-foot tower stands tall against Lake Michigan's endless blue, and climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views that'll leave you speechless. Kids love exploring the keeper's quarters and learning about the shipwrecks that dot these waters. The island itself feels like stepping back in time - no cars, just hiking trails through old-growth cedar forests and pristine beaches. Pack a lunch and make it a full day adventure.