Stonington Lighthouse Museum: A Beacon of History

Explore Connecticut's maritime history at Stonington Lighthouse Museum, offering panoramic views and fascinating exhibits for all ages.

4.6

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Connecticut
The Gold Coast
The Stonington Lighthouse Museum

Climb to the top of Stonington's historic 1840 lighthouse for panoramic views of three states. This museum, the first of its kind in the U.S., showcases the town's rich maritime past with exhibits on local sailors, sea captains, and the War of 1812.

A brief summary to The Stonington Lighthouse Museum

7 Water St, Stonington, Stonington, Connecticut, 06378, US
+1860-535-1440
Visit website

Monday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot is small and can be tricky to navigate.
Check the museum's website for current hours and special events before visiting.
Admission includes access to both the Lighthouse Museum and the Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House.
Enjoy a picnic on the grassy lighthouse grounds with views of Little Narragansett Bay.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Stonington Borough, proceed south on Water Street towards the end of the peninsula. The Lighthouse Museum will be on your left at 7 Water Street. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes.
Driving

From I-95, take Exit 91 and follow Route 234 east toward Stonington Borough. Continue onto Water Street and follow it to the end of the peninsula. The Lighthouse Museum will be on your left at 7 Water Street. Parking is free on-site, but the lot is small and can be tricky to navigate. There are no tolls on this route.
Taxi

From Mystic, CT, taxi services like Rose City Taxi and AAA Cab and Livery offer rides to the Stonington Lighthouse Museum. The trip is approximately 4.5 miles and takes about 7 minutes, costing an estimated $15-$18.

Discover more about The Stonington Lighthouse Museum

The Stonington Lighthouse Museum, a sentinel on Stonington Point, offers a captivating glimpse into Connecticut's maritime history. Built in 1840, the lighthouse stands as a testament to the town's seafaring legacy, replacing an earlier light that was threatened by coastal erosion. Its unique stone architecture, complete with ornamental cornices and granite lintels, distinguishes it from other lighthouses of the era. Visitors can ascend the 29 circular steps and a short ladder to reach the top of the tower, where breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and three states await. The museum's collection reflects Stonington's diverse history, featuring artifacts from the China trade, locally made stoneware, and relics from the War of 1812, including a cannonball and a Congreve rocket. The Stonington Historical Society acquired the lighthouse in 1925 and opened it as a museum in 1927, making it the first lighthouse museum in the nation. Today, the museum continues to educate and inspire visitors with its rich collection and stunning views. The lighthouse grounds also host various events, including concerts and weddings. Admission to the Lighthouse Museum also includes access to the Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House, providing a comprehensive look at Stonington's history.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mystic Seaport Express

6.0 km

Discover Mystic's maritime heritage with unforgettable boat tours at Mystic Seaport Express, where adventure meets history along the scenic waterways.

Mystic Seaport Gift Shop

6.0 km

Discover a nautical paradise at the Mystic Seaport Gift Shop, your go-to destination for unique maritime-themed gifts and souvenirs in Mystic, Connecticut.

Mystic River Bascule Bridge

6.0 km

Discover the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, a blend of breathtaking views and rich maritime history in the charming town of Mystic, Connecticut.

Mystic Seaport Museum Research Library

6.2 km

Explore America's maritime heritage at the Mystic Seaport Museum Research Library in Mystic, Connecticut, a rich resource for history enthusiasts and researchers.

Royal Westerly

7.4 km

Experience the serene charm of Royal Westerly, a nursing home in Rhode Island, where compassionate care meets the beauty of coastal living.

Margin Street Inn

7.6 km

Experience the charm of Westerly, RI, at Margin Street Inn, your cozy home away from home, surrounded by beautiful beaches and local attractions.

Moorewoods

7.7 km

Experience nature's serenity at Moorewoods Park in Westerly, RI – a perfect escape for relaxation, recreation, and family fun.

SeeWesterly

7.9 km

Experience the vibrant local culture and services at SeeWesterly, a charming coastal hub for tourists and businesses alike.

Main Street Historic District

8.0 km

Experience the historic charm of Westerly's Main Street Historic District, where rich heritage meets vibrant local culture and delightful shopping.

Westerly Revolving Fund

8.3 km

Discover the Westerly Revolving Fund, where community development meets local culture in picturesque Westerly, Rhode Island.

Westerly Downtown Historic District

8.3 km

Discover the historical charm of Westerly Downtown Historic District, where rich heritage meets vibrant culture in the heart of Rhode Island.

Westerly Library and Wilcox Park

8.3 km

Explore the harmonious blend of literature and nature at Westerly Library and Wilcox Park, a serene oasis in Rhode Island.

Audubon Lathrop Wildlife Refuge

8.4 km

Explore the natural beauty of Audubon Lathrop Wildlife Refuge in Westerly, Rhode Island, a haven for wildlife and nature lovers alike.

Granite Theatre

8.4 km

Discover the enchanting performances and intimate atmosphere at Granite Theatre in Westerly, Rhode Island, a must-visit for arts lovers.

Playwell

8.4 km

Discover Playwell in Westerly, RI – the ultimate indoor playground offering fun, creativity, and unforgettable experiences for children and families.

Unmissable attractions to see

Stonington Point

0.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stonington Point, a scenic coastal destination perfect for relaxation, adventure, and stunning views in Connecticut.

Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve

0.5 km

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve, a serene oasis in Stonington, Connecticut, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.

Stonington Lobster Trap Tree

0.8 km

Explore the Stonington Lobster Trap Tree, a stunning tribute to maritime culture showcasing the unique charm of New England and its coastal heritage.

Wadawanuck Square

0.9 km

Discover the serene beauty of Wadawanuck Square, a lovely park in Stonington, Connecticut, perfect for relaxation and community engagement.

Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House Museum

1.6 km

Discover the maritime legacy of Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer at his historic home in Stonington, Connecticut. A journey into 19th-century exploration awaits.

Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House Museum

Avalonia Land Conservancy, Sandy Point Nature Preserve

2.2 km

Explore the serene beauty of Sandy Point Nature Preserve, a coastal haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts in Westerly, Rhode Island.

Avalonia Land Conservancy, Sandy Point Nature Preserve

Saltwater Farm Vineyard

2.7 km

Explore the scenic Saltwater Farm Vineyard in Stonington, CT, where breathtaking views meet exquisite wines in a perfect getaway for wine lovers.

Fort Mansfield

3.0 km

Explore the rich military heritage and stunning coastal views at Fort Mansfield, a historic landmark in Rhode Island.

Napatree Point

3.0 km

Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Napatree Point, a premier park in Rhode Island perfect for bird watching and peaceful coastal walks.

Knox Preserve - Avalonia Land Conservancy

3.1 km

Discover Knox Preserve: A serene wildlife refuge in Stonington, Connecticut, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and immersing in nature's beauty.

Knox Preserve - Avalonia Land Conservancy

Barn Island Wildlife Management Area

3.2 km

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, a must-visit wildlife refuge in Pawcatuck, Connecticut for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Napatree Point Conservation Area

3.2 km

Discover the breathtaking Napatree Point Conservation Area, a serene coastal escape in Rhode Island perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Bank Square Books

4.2 km

Explore the heart of Mystic's literary scene at Bank Square Books, a charming independent bookstore with a unique selection and inviting atmosphere.

Watch Hill Harbor

4.5 km

Explore the stunning beauty of Watch Hill Harbor, a serene coastal escape in Rhode Island, perfect for relaxation, photography, and experiencing vibrant marine life.

Watch Hill Gazebo

4.5 km

Discover the picturesque Watch Hill Gazebo, a serene park offering stunning ocean views and a perfect escape in Rhode Island's coastal beauty.

Essential places to dine

Olympia Tea Room

4.5 km

Discover exceptional American cuisine and seafood at Olympia Tea Room in Westerly, RI - where every meal is a seaside delight.

Bay Street Deli & Catering

4.5 km

Discover the flavors of Westerly at Bay Street Deli & Catering - where fresh ingredients meet friendly service.

COAST

4.8 km

Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Coast in Watch Hill, Rhode Island.

The Bistro

4.8 km

Experience fine dining at The Bistro in Watch Hill, where fresh local flavors meet stunning ocean views for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Mystic Royal Restaurant

5.0 km

Explore the vibrant fusion of Indian and Mediterranean cuisines at Mystic Royal Restaurant in charming Mystic, Connecticut.

Sea Swirl

5.0 km

Experience the best of Mystic with fresh seafood and creamy ice cream at Sea Swirl - where coastal flavors meet family-friendly fun.

Rocks 21

5.2 km

Experience the best of seafood and chicken cuisine at Rocks 21 in Mystic - where great food meets live music!

Kitchen Little

5.7 km

Experience delightful American breakfasts at Kitchen Little in Mystic – where every meal is a culinary adventure.

Bravo Bravo

5.9 km

Experience the elegance of Italian cuisine at Bravo Bravo in Mystic - where fine dining meets culinary excellence.

Engine Room

5.9 km

Experience the best of American cuisine at The Engine Room in Mystic - where delightful dishes meet vibrant cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.

The Shipwright's Daughter

5.9 km

Discover exquisite New American cuisine at The Shipwright's Daughter in Mystic, CT—where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

Anthony J's Bistro

5.9 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Mystic at Anthony J's Bistro - where every dish tells a story.

Red 36

6.0 km

Experience exquisite American seafood dining at Red 36 in Mystic, CT - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking waterfront views.

S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar

6.0 km

Experience fresh seafood delights at S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar in Mystic - where fine dining meets stunning waterfront views.

Captain Daniel Packer Inne

6.1 km

Discover the historic charm and delicious American fare at Captain Daniel Packer Inne in Mystic, Connecticut—a true gem for food lovers.

Explore Small Axe Productions in Watch Hill, RI for unique clothing that captures the coastal charm of New England.

Experience seaside dining at Paddy's Beach Club, where American flavors meet the freshest seafood amidst stunning ocean views.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover The Stonington Lighthouse Museum with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Stonington Lighthouse Museum: A Beacon of History

A brief summary to The Stonington Lighthouse Museum

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Driving

Taxi

Unlock the Best of The Stonington Lighthouse Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Stonington Lighthouse Museum

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mystic Seaport Express

Mystic Seaport Gift Shop

Mystic River Bascule Bridge

Mystic Seaport Museum Research Library

Royal Westerly

Margin Street Inn

Moorewoods

SeeWesterly

Main Street Historic District

Westerly Revolving Fund

Westerly Downtown Historic District

Westerly Library and Wilcox Park

Audubon Lathrop Wildlife Refuge

Granite Theatre

Playwell

Unmissable attractions to see

Stonington Point

Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve

Stonington Lobster Trap Tree

Wadawanuck Square

Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House Museum

Avalonia Land Conservancy, Sandy Point Nature Preserve

Saltwater Farm Vineyard

Fort Mansfield

Napatree Point

Knox Preserve - Avalonia Land Conservancy

Barn Island Wildlife Management Area

Napatree Point Conservation Area

Bank Square Books

Watch Hill Harbor

Watch Hill Gazebo

Essential places to dine

Olympia Tea Room

Bay Street Deli & Catering

COAST

The Bistro

Mystic Royal Restaurant

Sea Swirl

Rocks 21

Kitchen Little

Bravo Bravo

Engine Room

The Shipwright's Daughter

Anthony J's Bistro

Red 36

S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar

Captain Daniel Packer Inne

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Velvet Mill

Nest

Gabrielle's Originals

The Candy Box

Coppola’s Boutique

Jan's Boutique

Three Islands

Coco and Lala Watch Hill

Lilly Pulitzer

Rochelle's of Watch Hill

Tami-Anns

Breezy's

Mama's Gardens Holistic Boutique

Perfect Pineapple

Small Axe Productions

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

St Clair Annex Inc

Ten Sandwiches

Verandah Raw Bar