Over the past few years we’ve been thrilled to see more and more Michigan lighthouse open up to the public for tours. On a recent trip through the Upper Peninsula, the timing finally worked out for us to be able to tour the Menominee North Pier Lighthouse. While we’ve been here a few times before and even walked the pier once or twice when weather allowed, this was our first chance to get inside and learn a little about this lighthouse’s history and see the restoration that has taken place to make tours available.

The bright red lighthouse at the end of the pier marks where the Menominee River meets Green Bay. Over the years this waterway has been important for shipping timber and other goods, though most of the traffic passing this lighthouse is now fishing boats and pleasure craft.

As you walk out to the lighthouse you will notice several spots that are painted red. These mark previous locations of the lighthouse before it was moved to its current location. The Menominee North Pier Lighthouse is a red octagonal tower that is 34 feet tall, resting on a concrete base that is painted white. Its overall focal height comes in at around 50 feet and its beacon can be seen for nine nautical miles.

The lighthouse has been open to the public for tours during summer months since 2018, from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year. On Thursday and Friday you can enter the lighthouse from noon to 3 p.m., on Saturday the hour are noon to 6 p.m., and on Sunday the lighthouse is open from 1 to 4 p.m.

Inside the lighthouse you will find a collection of historical photos showing what the lighthouse here looked like in the past. For many the highlight will be climbing to the top of the tower for some great views. This was my favorite part of our visit (even though rainy weather led to limited views) and it was cool to look back at the river, Marinette, the Menominee shoreline, and out into Lake Michigan.

If you’re going to be in the Menominee area this summer, make plans to add a lighthouse tour to your visit!