Coastal Sites: 4 Lighthouses in Illinois
Despite being landlocked for the most part, Illinois is home to several notable lighthouses, thanks to its proximity to Lake Michigan. These lighthouses guided mariners safely along the lake’s treacherous waters, especially near Chicago, a major shipping hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Keep reading to discover some of the most significant lighthouses to check out from private boat lifts for rent or marinas in Illinois.
Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
The Chicago Harbor Lighthouse is one of the most iconic and well-known lighthouses in Illinois. Initially built in 1893 for the World’s Columbian Exposition, it was later moved to its current location at the entrance to Chicago Harbor. The lighthouse is situated east of Navy Pier at the mouth of the Chicago River, where it meets Lake Michigan.
It’s 48 feet tall with a white conical tower and a red-roofed lantern room. Still in operation, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been a symbol of Chicago’s maritime history for over a century.
Chicago Harbor Southeast Guidewall Lighthouse
Working in conjunction with the main Chicago harbor Lighthouse, the Chicago Harbor Southeast Guidewall Lighthouse protects Chicago Harbor from the southern end, at the southeast guidewall of the breakwater system. It’s slightly smaller than the main light. Built in 1938, it’s currently active and automated.
Grosse Point Lighthouse
Located in Evanston, just north of Chicago, Grosse Point Lighthouse is a historically significant lighthouse that was vital in navigating the waters near the often dangerous Grosse Point. The shallow waters off the point caused many shipwrecks, prompting the lighthouse's construction in 1873. It’s 113 feet tall with an octagonal brick tower and a light that’s visible for up to 21 miles. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1941. It’s now a museum and public park.
Grosse Point Lighthouse is also designated a National Historic Landmark. The lighthouse and its surrounding park are popular for visitors who want to learn about the area's maritime history or enjoy Lake Michigan's scenic beauty from private boat slips for rent or marina docks.
Waukegan Harbor Lighthouse
Situated at the end of a long breakwater extending into Lake Michigan, the Waukegan Harbor Lighthouse marks the entrance to Waukegan’s harbor. Though not as large or well-known as the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse or Grosse Point, it's an essential aid to navigation for ships traveling into this northeastern Illinois harbor.
Initially built in 1889, the current structure was built in 1906. It’s about 36 feet tall and features a cylindrical steel tower with a white and green exterior. The light is active and automated but not open to the public. It still makes a great photo op for those traveling from private boat dock rentals or marinas and piers.
