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Point Abino Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Discover a beautifully restored, historic lighthouse on Lake Erie's shore, offering guided tours and a glimpse into Canada's maritime past.

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The Point Abino Lighthouse, a National Historic Site on the shores of Lake Erie in Fort Erie, Ontario, has guided ships since 1917. With its unique neoclassical design, it stands as a testament to maritime history and architectural ingenuity.

A brief summary to Point Abino Lighthouse National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Book your tour or site visit in advance, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as the site is exposed to the elements.
  • Note that there are limited washroom facilities on-site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the parking lot at 1010 Point Abino Road South, proceed to the gatehouse to check in for your site visit. Follow the main road, walking approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 1 mile) to the lighthouse. Note that access beyond the lighthouse on the main road is prohibited. Site visits are available weekdays 3-6pm and weekends 10am-6pm. There is no cost for site visits, but pre-reserved tickets are required.

  • Public Transport

    Take Niagara Region Transit bus route 24 to the stop closest to Point Abino Road. From there, walk approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) to the lighthouse. Check the Niagara Region Transit website for the latest schedules and fare information. Single fares typically cost around CAD 3-4.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    From anywhere in the Niagara Peninsula, a taxi or rideshare service like Uber can take you to Point Abino Lighthouse. The ride typically takes 25-30 minutes from central Niagara Falls and costs approximately CAD 25-50. Note that there may be limited availability of taxis/rideshares in the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse.

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Discover more about Point Abino Lighthouse National Historic Site

Point Abino Lighthouse, situated on the rocky northern shore of Lake Erie in Fort Erie, Ontario, is a significant landmark with a rich history. Constructed in 1917 by the Department of Marine and Fisheries, the lighthouse addressed increased traffic at the eastern end of Lake Erie. Its location on the Point Abino peninsula, characterized by rocky and shallow waters, posed a navigational hazard, earning Lake Erie the ominous title of 'graveyard of ships'. Before the lighthouse, lightships served as guides, but the tragic loss of Lightship No. 82 and its crew in a 1913 storm highlighted the need for a more robust navigational aid. William P. Anderson designed the lighthouse in a Classical Revival style, an aesthetic choice intended to complement the nearby American-owned summer homes. This design makes it one of Canada's most beautiful lighthouses. The lighthouse operated for nearly eight decades until its decommissioning in 1995. In 1998, it was declared a National Historic Site of Canada, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. The Town of Fort Erie acquired the lighthouse in 2003 and has since worked to preserve and restore it. Today, visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds through guided tours and site visits, learning about its history and the lives of its keepers. A recent addition is a working replica of a third-order Fresnel lens, offering a glimpse into the technology that once guided ships on the Great Lakes.

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