6 Old Lighthouses in New York State Worth Visiting

New York State’s waterways have long depended on lighthouses for safe navigation. From the Atlantic coastline to the Great Lakes and the Hudson River, these historic beacons have guided countless mariners over the centuries. Many of these structures have been preserved, offering visitors a chance to experience both maritime history and scenic day trips in one visit. Some lighthouses continue to serve as active aids to navigation, while others have found new life as museums or local landmarks.

We take a look at six of the oldest lighthouses in New York State that the public can still explore today. Each one offers a unique perspective on history, architecture, and the natural beauty of their surroundings.

1. Montauk Point Lighthouse

Perched at the very tip of Long Island, Montauk Point Lighthouse commands attention with its iconic profile against the Atlantic horizon. Commissioned by President George Washington and completed in 1796, it is the oldest lighthouse in New York State and the fourth-oldest active lighthouse in the United States.

Visitors frequently remark on the panoramic ocean views from the top, which are clear on most days and stretch out to meet the sky. The on-site museum preserves an impressive collection of maritime artifacts, including documents and relics detailing the region’s nautical past.

Montauk Point Lighthouse remains operational, continuing its centuries-old mission of guiding ships safely around the point. The light still shines nightly, serving as both a practical beacon and a living piece of history for the region.

2. Fire Island Lighthouse

Standing tall since 1858, the black-and-white bands of Fire Island Lighthouse are instantly recognizable to anyone approaching from the sea. Not only is it the tallest lighthouse on Long Island at 168 feet, but it also offers a rewarding climb up 192 steps to a sweeping view of the Atlantic and the New York City skyline on clear days.

The adjacent museum provides insight into the evolving role of the lighthouse, including its part in facilitating safer passage for ships along the often-treacherous coast. Volunteers and staff share stories of its construction, restoration, and continuous operation.

Fire Island Lighthouse is a focal point for those exploring the barrier island’s beaches and trails, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Seasonal events and guided tours add further opportunities for discovery.

3. Saugerties Lighthouse

Hidden at the end of a tranquil trail, Saugerties Lighthouse offers a peaceful retreat beside the Hudson River. Built in 1869, this red-brick structure blends Victorian charm with the ruggedness of riverside life. The location is accessible only by a half-mile walk through the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve.

Today, the lighthouse doubles as a small museum and a bed-and-breakfast, making overnight stays possible for those seeking a truly immersive experience. The well-preserved interiors showcase period furnishings and artifacts connected to the area’s river traffic.

Saugerties Lighthouse’s unique setting makes it a favorite for birdwatchers, artists, and anyone drawn to the quieter side of Hudson Valley history. The river’s shifting tides provide a different view with every visit.

4. Dunkirk Lighthouse

Overlooking the southern shore of Lake Erie, Dunkirk Lighthouse is an enduring symbol of the region’s maritime history. Built in 1875, the structure features a classic white tower connected to a red-roofed keeper’s house. Its location has long played an important role in guiding vessels through this challenging stretch of lake.

The site includes a museum with maritime and military exhibits, attracting visitors interested in the area’s dual heritage. Highlights include period navigation equipment, local artifacts, and stories of shipwrecks that shaped the community.

Maintained by a local preservation group, Dunkirk Lighthouse continues to serve as a navigational aid while welcoming the public for tours and events. The lakefront grounds offer space for reflection and lakeside walks.

5. Horton Point Lighthouse

Nestled on a Southold bluff, Horton Point Lighthouse has quietly watched over Long Island Sound since 1857. Its distinctive square tower, painted white with a black lantern, stands amid a seaside park that invites leisurely exploration. The lighthouse’s elevated setting gives visitors sweeping views over the water and shoreline.

Within the lighthouse, a modest maritime museum showcases historical documents, navigational tools, and photographs chronicling the evolution of the area’s shipping activity. Picnic areas and trails around the site encourage families and day trippers to linger and enjoy the coastal landscape.

Interpretive signs provide additional context, making it easy for visitors to connect with the lighthouse’s history and its ongoing preservation. Horton Point is a favorite stop for those exploring the quieter stretches of eastern Long Island.

6. Oswego West Pierhead Lighthouse

Situated at the entrance to Oswego Harbor, the West Pierhead Lighthouse is a striking presence on Lake Ontario. Built in 1934 to replace earlier lights, it features a steel frame and red-roofed cupola, designed to withstand the lake’s harsh weather. The lighthouse is only accessible by boat, adding a sense of adventure to any visit.

Seasonal tours allow guests to explore the tower’s interior and learn about its role in guiding commercial and recreational traffic into the harbor. The panoramic water views from the deck offer a firsthand look at the bustle of port activity.

Managed by a partnership between local organizations and the city, the lighthouse remains active, continuing to assist navigation while also serving as a living museum for the community. Its unique setting makes it a memorable destination.