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Grosse Point Lighthouse: A Beacon of Lake Michigan History

Historic lighthouse on Lake Michigan in Evanston, offering tours, stunning views, and a glimpse into maritime history.

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The Grosse Point Lighthouse, built in 1873 in Evanston, Illinois, guided ships safely into Chicago's harbor. Today, it stands as a National Historic Landmark, offering tours, stunning lake views, and a glimpse into maritime history.

A brief summary to Grosse Point Lighthouse

Local tips

  • Tours are only available on Saturdays and Sundays, June through September, and are subject to weather conditions.
  • Arrive early for tours as space is limited to 8 people per viewing, and children under 8 are not allowed in the tower.
  • Paid parking is available in the beach parking lot north of the lighthouse, but note that construction during the summer of 2025 may impact parking availability.
  • Explore the grounds and nearby Lighthouse Beach for scenic views and stargazing opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From central Evanston, walk east on Central Street towards the lake. Continue until you reach Sheridan Road, then turn left and walk north for about 0.3 miles. The lighthouse will be on your right. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Waukegan, take the Pace Bus Route 213 northbound. Get off at the Sheridan Rd & Church St stop. Walk south on Sheridan Rd for about 5 minutes to reach the lighthouse. A single ride on Pace Bus is $1.75.

  • Driving

    From I-94 north of Chicago, exit at 34A (US-41 / Skokie Road). Follow US-41 / Skokie Road south to Old Glenview Road. Follow Old Glenview Road to the Lighthouse. Paid parking is available in the beach parking lot north of the lighthouse. Note that construction in the summer of 2025 may impact parking. Parking costs approximately $8 per day.

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Discover more about Grosse Point Lighthouse

Standing proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan in Evanston, Illinois, the Grosse Point Lighthouse has a rich history of guiding ships and saving lives. Built in 1873, it became a crucial navigational aid for ships approaching Chicago's busy harbor. The lighthouse was constructed after several shipwrecks near Evanston highlighted the need for a reliable beacon in the area. One notable tragedy was the sinking of the Lady Elgin in 1860, which resulted in the loss of nearly 300 lives. The 113-foot tower was designed by Orlando Metcalfe Poe, Chief Engineer of the Upper Great Lakes Lighthouse District. The lighthouse features an Italianate architectural style and is constructed of brick with a concrete overlay added in 1914 to protect the original brickwork. The light emitted from its second-order Fresnel lens, one of the largest used on the Great Lakes, could be seen for up to 20 miles. In 1999, it earned the distinction of becoming the first lighthouse on the Great Lakes to be named a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds year-round. From June through September, the interpretive center and light tower are open for tours on Saturdays and Sundays at 2, 3, and 4 PM, weather permitting. During tours, climb the 141 steps to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The admission fee includes access to exhibits on the lighthouse's history and the Lady Elgin shipwreck. The Garden Club of Evanston maintains beautiful wildflower and butterfly gardens on the property. The lighthouse played a vital role in maritime safety for decades. In 1934, a photoelectric device was installed to automate the light, making it the first of its kind. Although the main light was extinguished in 1941, it was relit in 1946 as a private aid to navigation and continues to guide ships today.

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