The Beacon of History: Point Betsie Lighthouse
Explore the rich maritime history and stunning natural beauty at Point Betsie Lighthouse, a historical gem on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, the Point Betsie Lighthouse is a historical gem for tourists seeking to explore Michigan's maritime heritage. This iconic lighthouse, built in 1858, not only offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape but also serves as a gateway to the rich history of the region. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, explore the adjacent museum, and shop for unique souvenirs in the gift shop, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Frankfort.
A brief summary to Point Betsie Lighthouse
- 3701 Point Betsie Rd, Frankfort, Michigan, 49635, US
- +1231-352-7644
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for the most breathtaking views of the lighthouse against the colorful sky.
- Check the lighthouse's operating hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscape and unique architecture of the lighthouse.
- Explore the nearby trails for a more immersive experience of the area's natural beauty.
Getting There
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Car
From the city of Traverse City, head west on M-72 W for approximately 20 miles. When you reach the intersection with US-31, turn left (south) onto US-31. Continue on US-31 for about 15 miles until you see the exit for M-115. Take the exit and turn right onto M-115. Follow M-115 for about 5 miles until you reach the junction with Crystal Lake Road. Turn right onto Crystal Lake Road and continue until you reach the intersection with Point Betsie Road. Turn left onto Point Betsie Road and follow it for about 4 miles until you see the Point Betsie Lighthouse on your right. There is a small parking area available.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take the Michigan Flyer or another local bus service to Traverse City. Once in Traverse City, you will need to use a rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach Point Betsie Lighthouse as public transit options are limited in this area. The rideshare will take approximately 30-40 minutes and you should enter '3701 Point Betsie Rd, Frankfort, MI' as your destination. Be prepared for a fare that could range from $30 to $50 depending on the traffic and time of day.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, cycling from Traverse City to Point Betsie Lighthouse is an option. You can take the TART Trail (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) from Traverse City south towards Crystal Lake. Once you reach Crystal Lake, you will need to navigate using local roads to reach Point Betsie Road. This route is approximately 25 miles and can take around 2-3 hours depending on your cycling speed. Ensure you have proper cycling gear and check local trail maps for the best route.
Discover more about Point Betsie Lighthouse
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