15 Historic Lighthouses to Visit in New York State

Credit: Photo by Lenny Catalanotto, Photo Courtesy of Discover Long Island

Lighthouses are more than just beacons of light to warn sailors of shallow waters and rocky shorelines. They are landmarks with storied pasts, towers from which you can take in stunning scenery, and some are even places you can spend the night! New York State happens to have a unique collection of historic lighthouses. You’ll find lighthouses along the ocean, lakes, in the middle of rivers, and in state parks—and many have become tourist destinations. Here are 15 beacons across the state to light up your travels! 

Updated: 7/16/25

Tibbetts Point Lighthouse (Thousand Islands-Seaway)

Built in 1827, Tibbetts Point Lighthouse marks the point where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River, and the Lighthouse features the only original working Fresnel lens in Lake Ontario. Since the Lighthouse is still actively used for navigation, the tower is inaccessible to visitors. However, visitors can wander the scenic and historic three-acre grounds all year-round! The Atrium to the Lighthouse and the Fog Horn building are also open, as well as a fully stocked Gift Shop and Museum, both located in the Visitor Center.

Dunkirk Historical Lighthouse and Veterans Park Museum (Chautauqua-Allegheny)

Credit: @Amityphotos.com

Built in 1857, this 61' tall lighthouse offers tours against a historical backdrop, near where the first shots of the War of 1812 were fired. On the tour, you’ll climb the lighthouse's spiral stairs to the upper observation level, walk through the restored 1800 lighthouse keepers home, and discover museum exhibits including Lake Erie nautical and US Veterans displays,a tank and torpedo. Bring a picnic lunch to have on the park grounds, all while soaking in the gorgeous views of Lake Erie. For those looking for a hauntingly good time, the lighthouse offers ghost hunts on select dates throughout the year (make sure to reserve your spot, they sell out quickly!)

Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum (Long Island)

The world-famous Montauk Lighthouse is the oldest in New York State and the fourth-oldest working lighthouse in the nation. Explore the grounds and discover magnificent views from the top of the tower, an iconic monument that has served a crucial role as a beacon to mariners for over 225 years. Marvel at panoramic vistas over the Block Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean, then check out nautical artifacts in the museum from when Long Island was a hot spot for whaling. The lighthouse even hosts major events like Norah Jones in concert, Lighting the Lighthouse, Santa at the Lighthouse, photographic exhibitions, aquatic creature encounters, and arts & craft fairs.

National Lighthouse Museum (New York City)

Yes, even New York City has an exciting lighthouse-related attraction! You can easily take the free Staten Island Ferry from downtown Manhattan to the St. George Ferry Terminal and walk to the National Lighthouse Museum. Find more than 180 lighthouse models and learn about how lighthouses work. In addition to self-guided exhibits, you can attend a monthly lecture, seasonal Lighthouse Boat Tours (May – October), and annual events like Lighthouse Weekend (August) and Lighthouse Point Fest (September). While in the borough, shop at Empire Outlets, catch a Staten Island FerryHawks game, or see the outdoor sculpture “Postcards” along the North Shore Waterfront Esplanade that honors September 11th victims.

Saugerties Lighthouse Conservancy (Hudson Valley)

Just five minutes outside of the Saugerties town center you’ll find the Saugerties Lighthouse, a 1869 landmark beacon on the Hudson River standing proudly as a Living Museum and a renowned Bed & Breakfast. Walk along the half-mile trail to the lighthouse, where you’ll traverse 15 acres of freshwater tidal wetland habitat in a remote, undeveloped area of the Esopus Estuary, among stands of willow and maple trees, along tidal pools, and through patches of wildflowers, eventually opening onto the middle of the majestic Hudson River at the lighthouse. Take a tour to learn more about the lighthouse's history and see the views from the tower. Elevate your experience and enjoy sunrise and sunset at the lighthouse when you stay overnight in the bed & breakfast. While you’re in the area, explore the nearby Opus 40 or Catskill Animal Sanctuary.

Hudson-Athens Lighthouse (Catskills)

Join the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society and Hudson Ferry Co. for a front-row view of the iconic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse during a narrated boat tour. Lighthouse historians and docents will tell stories of the lightkeepers and families who called it home, and dive into its vital role in river navigation, Westward Expansion, and the remarkable restoration work underway. Operating since 1874, the lighthouse still serves as an aid to navigation, guiding ships safely around Middle Ground Flats. After the tour, catch a live music performance at Park Theater or unwind with bites and brews at Hudson Brewing Company.

Champlain Memorial Lighthouse (Adirondacks)

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Where else can you find a lighthouse that’s also home to an impressive Rodin sculpture? On the shores of Lake Champlain right near the bridge to Vermont, you’ll find Champlain Memorial Lighthouse, part of the Crown Point State Historic Site The lighthouse features a bust called “La France," by the famous French sculptor best known for “The Thinker.”

Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse (Finger Lakes)

Embark on a tour of this 1822 structure, a monumental part of the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, and learn about how the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse monitored ship traffic. Climb the 40-foot tower to see sweeping views of Lake Ontario, the Genesee River, and Ontario Beach Park. Afterwards, head to nearby Rochester to play at the National Museum of Play at The Strong and snap a selfie at the George Eastman Museum, the world’s oldest photography museum.

Buffalo Main Light (Greater Niagara)

New York’s second-biggest city has plenty of attractions, but we bet you weren’t expecting one of them to be a lighthouse! Buffalo Main Light sits on the city harbor and was completed in 1833. It’s made of limestone, and from a 20-foot base, it tapers up to a 12-foot diameter at its lantern room. After your tour, get paddling with BFLO Harbor Kayak near Canalside and take in more sights of Buffalo, or take your little one to the Ralph C. Wilson Explore ‘n’ More Children’s Museum.

Fire Island Lighthouse (Long Island)

Credit: Sean Mills

Climb the 192 steps of Fire Island Lighthouse, the sixth tallest lighthouse in the country and tallest in New York! Stroll along the scenic boardwalk trail as you wind through coastal landscapes, observe local wildlife, and enjoy bay and ocean views. Open year-round, step into the past with visits to the Lighthouse Tower, Keeper’s Quarters, Lens Building, Boat House, and more engaging exhibits. On clear days you can even see the distant silhouette of the Manhattan skyline. From seasonal celebrations and family-friendly activities to unique tower tours and community fundraisers, the events at the lighthouse bring history to life and connect visitors of all ages to this beloved landmark.

Verona Beach Lighthouse (Central NY)

Three working lighthouses grace the shores of Oneida Lake, all of which helped navigators during the 1918 Barge Canal opening. The Verona Beach Lighthouse is still functioning, so while you can’t climb the tower, you can picnic at the lake, or enjoy the scenery and recreation at Verona Beach State Park.

Rock Island Lighthouse State Park (Thousand Islands-Seaway)

Tucked between the charming waterfront towns of Clayton and Alexandria Bay lies the historic Rock Island Lighthouse, perched on an island in the crystal-clear waters of the St. Lawrence River, one of the cleanest freshwater rivers in the world. Embark on an exciting adventure with Clayton Island Tours, offering the only public tour that brings you directly to Rock Island State Park. A glass-bottomed boat will guide you through the scenery and history of the Thousand Islands before bringing you to the landmark where you can ascend the historic 1847 lighthouse for an unparalleled panoramic view of the majestic St. Lawrence River. If you haven’t had your fill of aquatic adventure, on the way out visit Clayton’s Antique Boat Museum.

Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse (Greater Niagara)

Part of Golden Hill State Park, the Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse was never built to guide mariners to a safe harbor, but rather as a coastal light, warning mariners of shoals and guiding them along a portion of Lake Ontario. Built in 1875, the hand-carved stone lighthouse features historic structures, an original observation tower, educational exhibits, and a gift shop. If you’re sticking around to explore the region, you can even book a cozy stay on the second floor of the lighthouse which offers a full-service three-bedroom suite.

Rondout Lighthouse (Hudson Valley)

Embark on a boat tour on the Solaris to see sweeping views of the Rondout Creek and the Hudson River before heading to this brick lighthouse, constructed in 1915. Still fully operational as a navigational light, Rondout lighthouse is one of only seven remaining on the Hudson River. Guided tours of the interior of the lighthouse are available seasonally. While you’re in town, explore the Hudson River Maritime Museum and don’t forget to check out nearby Kingston. Once New York’s capital city, Kingston is home to the lively Downtown Rondout Waterfront district.

Old Fort Niagara Lighthouse (Greater Niagara)

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History buffs won’t want to miss out on a trip to Old Fort Niagara! The British seized this fort from the French in 1813, and the lighthouse was built on the grounds of the fort in 1872 to guide sailors traveling from Lake Ontario into the Niagara River. The site features special events and regular tours, including a Lantern and Lore Tour, War of 1812 Weekend, and Fall Frontier Days. You can even see Canada from the lighthouse!

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